Travel
My Lavender-Scented Dream in Provence
I’d been waiting for this moment for years….
I’d been waiting for this moment for years… This trip has been at the top of my bucket list for as long as I can remember. Finally, we were going to visit Provence. The land of endless lavender fields. A region filled with quaint towns at every turn. If it was possible, you could rename this region Perfection and it would fit like a glove. Driving from Lyon, as we started south on the road to Provence, I could hardly contain my excitement.
With my hubby in one of the many sunflower fields we passed as we entered into Provence
As we approached the Luberon region where we’d be staying, a sign on the highway highlighted that Châteauneuf du Pape was just a short drive off the highway. Despite my giddiness for reaching Provence, a pit stop in this famed wine region was the right call. As we drove curiously through the town, we noticed a biodynamic vineyard called Domaine De Beaurenard and stop for a quick tasting. After a few sips, I began to understand why wine drinkers around the globe go crazy for this stuff. We bought a couple of bottles and jumped back into the car to finish the last leg of our trip.
Tasting Domaine De Beaurenard wines in Châteauneuf du Pape, France
You don’t need signs to become fully aware that you’ve entered Provence. It sounds like a fib, but you can sense when your tires cross into the Luberon region. The air becomes sweet smelling. The color gets a bit more amber. I wasn’t dreaming it. My husband and our friends confirmed what I was experiencing. It felt magical, and I couldn’t wait to begin exploring…
Jennifer Hartmann
Curious about that biodynamic vineyard mentioned. But since it is quite a novel method, I assume there are not enough scientific studies or basis about that winemaking process yet. I’ll go for organic wines to be safe.
Ashley Thompson
I love the short distances to the water and to beautiful vistas. I love the architecture and endless examples of it. I like the climate- most of the time! I like the old-fashioned feel and variety of the neighborhoods. I love the number of cultural things to do and see. I love the proximity of good medical care. I love the incredible history that is here. I like the number of natural settings and parks and hiking and birding trails. I like the lack of industry and relatively low level of air pollution. I really like the overall convenience of Providence on a daily basis.
JUSTINE
I LOVE THE CLIMATE OF PROVIDENCE AS WELL. PERSONALLY, I THINK OCTOBER IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MONTHS IN PROVIDENCE. WEATHER SHOULD BE NICE, SUNSET IS GORGEOUS.
Justin Carter
Provence has so much to offer with breathtaking scenery, delicious cuisine, and the freshest produce. A rich cultural heritage, wonderful museums, and exhibitions, great shopping, without forgetting that lovely singing ‘provençal’ accent and a particularly addictive “art de Vivre”; all make the place so special.
Mary Jamieson
Now I know what’s next on my travel bucket list – Provence!!!
Janet Day
Wow! Written in detail yet very conversational. As If I was already transported to Provence while I was reading this article.
JURIK
Provence, one of the places that made a mark during the French Revolution is somehow, we can regard as a historical beauty. As the setting in the movie “My Summer in Provence,” I can visualize the experience of Hilary in this idyllic location. If you want to indulge in tranquility at its best, Provence is the place to be.
Maria Rapier
Lacoste and Bonnieux is a favorite and I would have ranked it on my 1st and 2nd. I’m not sure why, I guess I like things different.
Marjory Brooks
All the places that were listed are great. I would have ranked it all #1. ?
Oxi Harger
If you go to Verdon, it’s where you discover that Provence is wilder than you suspected. It’s not just lavenders and good tasting wines. From sunlit vineyards and pine forests around Lorgues and Brignoles, it swings north to a rockier, rougher country of gorges, ravines and sinuous roads which want you dead. Plus, it’s vertigo-inducing too.
Gregory Arsenault
In Aix, the studio is also the second best visit in town. The very best is the St. Sauveur Cathedral! ?
Jenni Wilson
Not only does this sound exciting, it seems to be one of the best places that you can go in your entire life!!