Sample Itinerary - Culinary Journey to Provence

My trips to Provence and stays at Blanche Fleur are always so memorable.  My friend Marie-Claude bought the ruins of what was a paper mill and has restored it to one of the most gorgeous estates - it is the epitome of relaxed elegance. I always look forward to a week there. After our cooking classes we'll sit at tables lining the pool and enjoy local rosé wines with the delicious lunch we prepared. The outdoor markets in Provence are some of the best in Europe, and I love taking my students to a couple during the week - especially the Saint Remy-de-Provence and Uzès markets, but I like to go to them all!  When we go to St. Remy, we always visit Joel Durand's chocolate shop - he makes the most mouth-watering chocolates infused with Provençal herbs, flowers, and fruit - caramel with salted butter and fresh verbena are two of my favorites! Of course we are in the Chateauneuf -du-Pape wine region and we must visit a few wineries - Chateau du Mont Redon, Chateau La Nerthe, and Le Vieux Telegraphe, just to name a few!

Day One

Our bus and my Provençal assistant meet everyone at the train station in Avignon in the late afternoon and transfer to the estate. Arrive at Blanche Fleur to a grand welcome aperitif poolside and a sumptuous dinner prepared by Joanne and her assistants.

Day Two

Morning hands-on cooking class with Joanne at the estate. Tour the grounds of the estate after lunch and relax by the pool. Afternoon tasting of local Cotes du Rhone wines. Prepare dinner together during afternoon class at the villa.

Day Three

Morning tour of St. Remy de Provence market followed by lunch at local bistro. Demonstration and tasting led by Joel Durand, one of France's top chocolatiers, known for his unique combinations of chocolate with Provençal herbs, fruits, and flowers! Afternoon cooking class using ingredients we bought at the market. We'll have tasting of local rosé wines, olive oils and sea salts from southern France at Blanche Fleur.

Day Four

Morning hands-on cooking class followed by al fresco lunch at the villa. Afternoon trip to Châteauneuf-du-Pape for several private wine tastings and tours. Food and wine pairing dinner at the Academy of Wine and Taste to complete our Rhone Valley wine discovery in the enchanting setting of the 18th century Château de Clary.

Day Five

Morning hands-on class at the villa. Afternoon excursion of Les Baux village—free time and shopping — I always stock up on linens at the outdoor markets! Tour and tasting at one of Les Baux famous local olive oil producers. Early picnic dinner under the olive trees where we will sample the wonderful local wine.

Day Six

All-day excursion to Uzès. Visit Uzès Producers' Market to shop for ingredients for final cooking class—free time and shopping in the afternoon. Lunch at one of Uzès’ best restaurants. Celebration dinner prepared by Joanne and her assistants!

Day Seven

Goodbye breakfast and farewells! Bus will transfer you to the Avignon train station mid-morning.

Questions? Contact us.