France: Provence
The Region
Provence and surrounding environs Nice, Cannes, Monte Carlo, Avignon, Antibes , Arles and Chateauneuf Du Pape – magical names of the rich and famous and iconic artists, royalty, movie stars and starlets so why not live a couple days like them or at least where they lived! We’ll pick you up at the Nice Airport and your “limo” driver will take you to your 5 Star hotel.
In the South of France over the past several decades there are many regions now producing really fine wines. Production remains at 60% for light Roses made from the Carignan and Grenache grapes with more emphasis on reducing the amount of Carignan giving the wines more depth. . What would summer be without a Rose from Provence!
However, the remaining 40% is focused on reds like Mourvedre, with more Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah in the blend. The well-known Cotes de Provence is legally restricted to a blend of 40% Carignan with Cab and Syrah – and now is left longer in oak barrels for a smoother finish. You’ll really like what you find here! And you’ll love what you find in Bandol where the legally established blend is 50% Mourvedre combined with Grenache and Cinsault
Must-See and Must-Do:
More than lavender fields, pink sunsets, jagged mountains, incredibly dramatic scenery and scantily clad beaches, Provence and the Cote d’ Azure offer medieval towns like St Paul De Vence – that locals call the “The Most Beautiful Village in the World” and architecture dating back to Roman times like the highly preserved Roman amphitheater Les Arenes and near the Petit Palais in Avignon architecture representing almost every period and style dating back to the 1200s.
For art lovers, the area is a treasure trove: Musee Matisse in Nice; Musee Picasso in Antibes; Musee Renoir in Cagnes-sur-Mer and Arles to see where Van Gogh worked and lived! And for a truly special experience you’ll visit Verrerie de Biot where you’ll see the beautiful and ingenious works of their famous glass blowers.
Want some delicious action: There’s the chocolate and olive oil tastings in the ringed medieval city of Remy-de-Provence. Or for action of another kind: the casino in Monte Carlo when the Grand Prix isn’t running and ‘star gazing’ at the Cannes Film Festival. And don’t forget, you’ll spend some time ‘blending’ your own perfume. We won’t!
But what you’ll find most delicious is the wine tasting in and around Chateauneuf-Du Pape which by the way, started its wine industry at the request of Pope John XXII who was living nearby in the massive Palais des Popes in Avignon and wanted to compete with the wines of Bordeaux and Burgundy.
Accommodation
The incomparable Le Palais de la Mediterraneen in Nice, Art Deco palace of the Hôtel Belles Rives in Antibes situated right on the waterfront with its own private beac, the lovely country house of Villa Gallici overlooking Aix-en Provence, and set amidst an elegant Florentine garden and, for friends visiting Chez Bruno, the comfortable, beautifully appointed rooms, pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, lovely gardens… of the family home of a true romantic and “The Emperor of Truffles”.
Wineries
Your adventure may include winery visits and tasting at Chateau de Bellet, Chateau de Cremat, the Abbey of Lerins on St Honore Island, and the incomparable Domaine Ott, Bandol and Mas de Gourgonnier.
Suggested Tour:
5-Star Deluxe Nice and Provence 7 Nights, 8 Days
Inclusions
- 7 nights Deluxe hotel accommodation for two in shared room
- Airport/hotel/airport transfers
- 6 days chauffeur bi-lingual wine expert guide with commentary, insider info, local wine history and introductions.
- 7 breakfasts
- 2 lunches
- 3 dinners including 1 with Michelin star status
- 2 tours: Monte Carlo at Night and 1/2 day of Cannes & St Paul de Vence
- 2 artisan visits: Perfume maker for personalized perfume and glass blower
- 1 cooking school experience
- 1 visit, dinner & accommodation at Emperor of Truffles residence
- 7 wineries & tastings
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Meals and wine not stated as included.
- Personal items: tips, taxes, laundry /dry cleaning, and liquor not stated as included.
Pricing
Price Per Person $6,750.00 double occupancy.Can be as low as $5,249.00 per person with 6 travelers (e.g. 3 couples) traveling together.
The Fine Print
Prices are per person double occupancy and subject to change due to currency fluctuations until offer purchased.
N.B. Restaurants, Hotels and Winery Owner/Wine Consultant Lunches may change based on availability of seats, rooms, or individuals. Substitutes will be of equal or greater value and interest.