"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.
Guided Tours of Provence
Welcome to my site showcasing my personal guided tours of Provence.
Provence is a land of warm-hearted people, delicious cuisine, and spectacular structures built over its 2500-year history as one of the major centers of trade on the Mediterranean. It has been my home for over 15 years now, and I love sharing the special corners and treasures I've discovered here.
As I drive and walk with you through Provence on your customized, we will pass through orchards of olive trees and fruit, vine-covered hill sides and plateaus, and rows of vegetables that will show up at the plentiful market stalls. You can see a preview of what will be in season during your visit on my Gourmand's Calendar to Provence.
I specialize in intimate behind-the-scenes visits to food artisans, hikes through the countryside that end with a visit at a local winery, or with some of the best fried calamari you've ever had, and personalized multi-generational outings. My friends the beekeeper, the baker, the vintner(s), the chocolatier, the pastry-maker, the potter, the cheesemaker, the olive oil miller and more will welcome you into their workshops, and occasionally into their homes and gardens to share a special moment (and often lunch) together.
For those of you who wish to work on your French, my friends are patient and will encourage you with smiles and carefully spoken responses. For those who feel the French language is beyond them, not to worry, I'm here to interpret for any and sundry possibilities. You can see some of the possible day trips I can organize for you on my Classic Provence Tours page.
In putting together this website, I've tried to anticipate most every need with directions, descriptions of my day-trip possibilities, an easy to fill out reservation form, links to colleagues and friends, ... If we've missed something, do let me know or simply send an email and I'll answer right away.
I send out email missives every three months or so, with recipes, notes on the seasonal changes, news of Provence and more. If you would like to receive them, please send me an email: madeleine@cuisineprovencale.com
Madeleine Hill Vedel
