Colors of Provence A cultural and epicurean journey through the south of France

Highlights
Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Wine Tasting, Cheese Tasting, French Cooking Class, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Gordes, St. Remy-de-Provence , Les Baux-de-Provence, Olive Oil Tasting, Train des Pignes, Nice

Collette Experience

  • Experience a cooking demonstration in one of Avignon's famed restaurants.
  • Follow the fascinating Cezanne Trail in Aix-en-Provence, visiting areas immortalized by the famous artist.
  • Enjoy a two night stay in Nice, capital of the Cote d'Azur.
  • Visit the charming village of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and shop for local crafts and specialty foods at their local market.

    • Details

    Tour Operator
    Collette Vacations
    Offer
    Offer valid through 12/31/2009
    Duration
    10 Days
    DayDestinationDescription
    Air 1Overnight Flight Overnight Flight :
    Day 2Aix-en-Provence Aix-en-Provence - Tour Begins : Bienvenue! Your tour begins in historic Aix-en-Provence. This evening, meet your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a popular country restaurant.
    Day 3Avignon Aix-en-Provence - Avignon : Embark on a morning walking tour through "the footsteps of Cezanne" - featuring the markets and monuments of Aix-en-Provence's old city. In the afternoon, embrace the local culture when you visit the famed vineyards of Provence, where you'll be treated to a tour and tasting at a local winery. Then, journey to the "Papal City" of Avignon to a "Provencal Mas" - a cozy, restored farmhouse that is your home for the next three nights.
    Day 4Avignon Avignon : Discover the gems of Avignon, the city the Popes moved to in 1309. For 70 years, Avignon was the center of European religion and art. A walking tour through this walled city reveals its fascinating history and culture. Stroll the local markets of the city, stopping at a specialty cheese shop to sample some of their artisanal cheeses. Partake in a truly French tradition as you choose between hundreds of varieties of fine cheeses. Your afternoon is at leisure to explore the quaint streets, cafes and specialty boutiques that comprise Avignon's charm. This evening, meet the Chef at one of Avignon's most popular restaurants for a cooking demonstration that teaches you about authentic Provencal cooking. Relax and enjoy the sumptuous dinner you have created, expertly paired with regional wines.
    Day 5Avignon Avignon : With a day at leisure, embark on your own explorations, soaking up the essence of Provence and admiring its beautiful backdrop and rich culture. Or, partake in an optional excursion to the nearby towns of Arles and the Camargue region - which includes lunch in a rustic farmhouse.
    Day 6St. Remy-de-Provence Avignon - L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue - Gordes - St. Remy-de-Provence : Start your day with a visit to a colorful open air market in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, filled with traditional crafts, hand-made ceramics, linens, and local foods like sausages, breads and a vibrant bounty of fresh grown produce. Then, visit the Lavender Museum and learn about this precious plant, its unique distillation process and its various uses throughout history. Make your way through the Luberon National Park before arriving in the picturesque hilltop village of Gordes. Gaze upon the 16th century chateau and cobblestone streets that paint Gordes' canvas. Finally, arrive in St. Remy-de-Provence - the inspiringly beautiful town where Van Gogh painted "Starry Night."
    Day 7St. Remy-de-Provence St. Remy-de-Provence - Les Baux-de-Provence - St. Remy-de-Provence : Embark on an excursion this morning, traveling scenic country roads that take you to the hilltop town of Les-Baux-de-Provence. Its winding medieval streets reveal stunning views of the Alpilles mountain chain. Next, visit a local olive oil estate for a comprehensive explanation of the process of making olive oil, followed by a tasting. This eventful day concludes with a visit to the historic Roman monuments of St. Remy-de-Provence. From the gates to the mausoleum, these monuments depict stories of Roman warriors, fallen heroes and legendary empires.
    Day 8Nice St. Remy-de-Provence - Train des Pignes - Nice : This morning, drive towards the Haute-Provence to the little town of Digne-les-Bains and climb aboard a panoramic train called the "Train des Pignes." A picturesque journey past rushing rivers, plunging mountain valleys and charming Provencal towns brings you to Nice's city center - the world-renowned French Riviera. Your evening is at leisure to enjoy a meal in one of the wonderful restaurants of this coastal city.
    Day 9Nice Nice : The scent of fragrant flowers fills the air during a morning stroll through the local Flower Market. Admire the narrow streets and cheerful colors of Nice's old town. Embark on a scenic boat ride that whisks you along the breathtaking coast; sail past the Promenade des Anglais, posh villas, lush gardens and rocky cliffs set against the azure waters of the famous Cote d'Azur. Visit the Marc Chagall Museum which houses religious lithographs and articles that depict family life in the 19th century. During a free afternoon, wander Nice's bustling streets and sample outdoor cafes, boutiques and museums and soak in the atmosphere. This evening, join your fellow travelers at a local restaurant to bid farewell to Provence and the French Riviera.
    Day 10Tour ends Nice - Tour Ends :
    Dates/Pricing

    Click Quote or call us to get additional information on your chosen travel date. Special offers or competitive pricing may be available!

    DatePrice / DescriptionQuote
    June 05, 2010$2,699.00* (USD) / Land OnlyQuote
    September 18, 2010$2,699.00* (USD) / Land OnlyQuote
    October 23, 2010$2,699.00* (USD) / Land OnlyQuote
    November 06, 2010$2,599.00* (USD) / Land OnlyQuote
    March 12, 2011$2,599.00* (USD) / Land OnlyQuote
    April 09, 2011$2,649.00* (USD) / Land OnlyQuote
    Lodging
    Best Western Hotel Le Galice
    Hotel La Magnaneraie
    Hostellerie du Vallon de Valrugues
    Nice Hotel
    Disclaimer
    Note
    Tour prices are Land Only rates based on per person double occupancy. Please call your Travel Agent for triple or child occupancy rates. Taxes and fees are additional for tours that feature a cruise; port taxes are not included in the prices shown. Some dates may feature various changes in hotels, sightseeing and inclusions. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking.
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