"Thank you again for making it such an amazing trip. It was so much more than a cooking course - it was a sensory experience of note, with a cultural and history tour included - so much more than what I bargained for."
—Mary K.
Regional & Artisan Tours
Lavender -
The Purple Waves of Provence Lavender... the word alone brings to mind a heady perfume, fields of blue, purple rows rolling with the landscape. A perfume,
a delicate flower, sachets, bath bubbles... Pictures of lavender adorn many a guide to Provence. From late June through mid- August, these fields draw
us from afar.
The Chocolate Maker - Though chocolate comes from the new world, no one can deny that the French (and the Suiss and the Belgians) have taken it to a new level. I have a couple marvelous chocolatiers locally – chic, generous, and talented. Come visit the shop(s), taste, go behind-the-scenes, and perhaps learn a few tricks.
Truffles: the Black Diamond - When living in Provence, how can one not be tempted by the winter diversion of truffle hunting, nor be left unaffected by the dramatic shift at the top restaurants to menus featuring these treasures?
Olive Oil les Baux de Provence - Though some attribute the use of olive oil to an Italian influence, in fact, olive oil has been a main source of cooking oil in Provence -- as well as oil for light and lubricating wheels -- for over two millennia now. We have a special blend in the Valley des Baux de Provence. Come and taste it with me.
The Goatcheese Maker - One of the many delights of Provence is tasting the many varieties and qualities of goat cheese. I've a number
of different cheese-makers who each have a slightly different and personalized way of making their cheese, marketing, and caring for their goats.
Flavors, affection, hard-work. It all comes together in a little "crotin"!
Romana Taverna - Provence is named thus through its historical role as the Provincia Romana, or the Province of Rome. And there is a wonderful Roman restaurant nestled in the ruins of Glanum. Should you be tempted by the exotic delicacies amidst a glorious view, I'll take you there with pleasure.
The Beekeeper - There are artisanal honeys available on all the markets of Provence. Each stand offers at least 4 or 5 varieties, if not more. It is a magical activity, working with the bees to collect and share the transformed nectar of the many flowers of our region. And what about a cooking class specializing in dishes enhanced by these different succulent flavors? If Sophie is available, I can arrange one for you (75E/person for 4 or more, or 100E/person for 2-3).
The Potter's Shop - When we go to visit we are invited back into the potting room, where they throw the pots on the wheel and form other dishes
in molds. Véronique gives us a detailed tour through the many steps in making her beautiful wares.
The Baker - The Fassy family have run the bakery in Maillane in a direct line for 6 generations. Jean-Pascal has only recently taken over the bakery from his father, alongside whom he worked for the past 25 years! He carries his knowledge and expertise with grace and generosity, sharing recipes and tips with pleasure.
