Come with me to explore the spectacular museums and sites dedicated to the artists who lived and loved on the Côte d’Azur… And eat superbly well along the way. (or as I might say, like a local).

See why so many artists made the Côte d’Azur their home: Picasso, Matisse, Chagall, Renoir, Bonnard, Léger, Cocteau… T here is so much to see and it’s even better up close.

We’ll stay in a five bedroom house in the picturesque hill town of Biot, with views of the Mediterranean below. We’ll visit the prettiest of the outdoor markets to gather supplies for future meals and picnics, and treat ourselves to little gifts. I’ve planned an exquisite cooking class inside the walled city of St Paul de Vence at the famed L’Amandier restaurant.

Each day will be an adventure - exploring the tiny, curving streets of a walled cities - those perched on steep hills, and those by the water - , perusing markets, learning about an artist’s work and life, viewing the dramatic coastline from the gunnels of a boat, discovering new cooking techniques, or simply taking in the age and majesty of monasteries and chapels.

We’ll pace ourselves, making time for tea, coffee and cocktail stops. And we’ll be sure to include some downtime to enjoy the beautiful pool, house, and walks in the hills nearby.

A guided tour by a local (and truly delightful!) guide to the old city of Antibes and the Picasso museum;
An introduction/discussion with a local art specialist about the artists who chose this region as their home;
Nice and the museums devoted to Marc Chagall and Matisse;
A visit by boat to the Île St Honorat and the Monastery there;
A chance to discover (and purchase) Glassworks of Biot (Verrerie)
Le Cannet & the intimate museum devoted to Pierre Bonnard
The Matisse Chapel in Vence;
A visit to the dramatic sculpture garden and fascinating building that is the Fondation Maeght.
A boat excursion to view Ville-Franche sur Mer and the fascinating coast line and dramatic views of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat by sea.
A chance to explore the gastronomic city and stunning perched village of Eze.
An introduction to the olive oil production in the region - and chance to view the harvest - , in an ancient orchard of centuries old trees.

Do bring good walking shoes as each day will include a good bit, be it through markets, over old cobble streets, or moving slowly over the marble floors of museums. There may also be an optional 5 km descent from Eze to the sea.

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