Expedition Details

Settle into an 18th-century manor house in Aix-en-Provence and discover the wonders of southern France. Delve into vibrant Avignon at the height of a renowned festival, step into Paul Cézanne's workshop, and cruise along dramatic fjords on the Côte d'Azur. Then head to Paris on one of France's fast trains and explore the magnificent City of Light.

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Trip Highlights

• Experience the enchantment of medieval Avignon during the annual theater festival.
• Swim in turquoise coves along the rugged limestone cliffs of the Calanques.
• Visit a private working ranch in the Camargue, France’s cowboy country.
• Learn to play boules, a traditional French ball game.
• Cruise the Seine past the famous sites of Paris, and dine at the Eiffel Tower.

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Itinerary - 9 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Marseille, France/Aix-en-Provence

Depart on an overnight flight. Arrive in Marseille and travel to Aix-en-Provence. Settle into our delightful boutique hotel, set in an 18th-century manor house amid lush gardens near the heart of "Aix." Gather for a festive welcome dinner tonight.
Hotel Pigonnet (D)

Day 3 — Avignon

Every summer since 1947, the great medieval city of Avignon has come alive during the fantastic Festival d’Avignon, a celebration of theater, dance, and film. The streets teem with actors, clowns, and dancers as the entire old town becomes a stage. Set out for Avignon and delve into the excitement of the festival. Meander through the open-air markets and witness theatrical performances on street corners and in parks. Explore the fortified turrets of the Palais des Papes, home to the Pope for most of the 14th century. Return to the hotel for dinner.
Hotel Pigonnet (B,D)

Day 4 — Aix-en-Provence

Explore Aix, a pastel-hued town built around bubbling fountains and walking streets. Step into the studio of Paul Cézanne, preserved exactly as the artist left it. Then visit Montagne Sainte-Victoire, one of his favorite subjects. Stop by a private vineyard for a wine tasting and a lesson in boules. Enjoy a crepe dinner in Aix tonight.
Hotel Pigonnet (B,D)

Day 5 — Côte d’Azur/Calanques

Travel south to the idyllic fishing village of Cassis on the Cote d’Azur, and set sail from its harbor on a local boat. Cruise to the Calanques, tiny fjords carved out of jagged limestone cliffs. Go swimming in pristine turquoise waters, hike along the rocky coast, and enjoy other activities for the whole family.
Hotel Pigonnet (B,D)

Day 6 — Arles/La Camargue

Head to Arles this morning for a visit to an ancient Roman amphitheater. Then venture into the Camargue, a vast wetland known as France’s Wild West for its native breeds of horses and cattle and its untamed landscape. Take your ringside seat at a local ranch for a demonstration of horsemanship and a traditional Provençal "bullfight." Watch nimble cowboys try to outmaneuver bulls in a lively competition in which the bulls remain unharmed. Enjoy a dinner of homemade paella and listen to gypsy music at the ranch tonight.
Hotel Pigonnet (B,D)

Day 7 — Aix-en-Provence/Paris

Zip up to Paris at 185 miles per hour on the high-speed TGV train. Check into our comfortable, centrally located hotel and take advantage of an evening at leisure to explore the City of Light on your own.
Hotel du Louvre (B,L)

Day 8 — Paris

Immerse yourself in France’s greatest collection of Impressionist art at the Musée d’Orsay, a magnificently restored train station. Examine masterpieces by Monet and Renoir as well as artists like Cézanne and van Gogh who captured Provence in paint. Then cruise past famous landmarks on a bâteau mouche. Gather for a festive farewell dinner at the Eiffel Tower tonight.
Hotel du Louvre (B,D)

Day 9 — Paris/U.S.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight.
(B)

Additional nights in Paris can be arranged upon request.

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