Enchanting Provence

I’ve been enchanted since my first visit to Provence in 2017. It’s hard not to be completely beguiled by this glorious region of France. I wrapped up my first ATOP trip back to Paris, only a few days ago, and I’m already back at it, putting the finishing touches on my trip to Saint-Remy-de-Provence, that will be held this September.

The question was recently posed to me…why Provence? Of course, everyone has heard of Paris, the glitz, glamor, and allure, but it occurred to me that many may not know why some of us love Provence so much. So, I thought I’d do a series on my favorite attributes of this place that has so completely stolen my heart and if you’ll read to the end, you’ll see some great tips for a favorite product from this region.

The Provençal countryside of rolling hills, olive groves, pine forests and lavender fields are peppered with Roman relics, ancient abbeys and elegant churches giving it a storybook quality. The land is fertile and dotted with produce, including grapes, that will soon land on local tables.

Stone fortresses wind their way around and through charming villages like sandcastles.

Provence- where sparkling seascapes, fiery sunsets, and a striking variety of scenery make travelers feel like they are stepping into a French Impressionist painting.

That’s one reason I fell in love with the south of France!

Village Itinerary for ATOP Provence 2023

• Saint-Remy-de-Provence
• Avignon
• Aix en Provence
• Gordes
• L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
• Cassis
• Les Baux
• Chateauneuf de Pape, and so much more!

I have only 1 double occupancy room left for this amazing trip of a lifetime!

Travel dates for Provence 2023, are September 2-9th, if you’d like more information or to join the waitlist for Provence in 2024, Click HERE

Just for fun, I want to share one of the most beautiful products from the Provencal region and it’s many natural uses, Lavender Oil:

• Calming- reduces stress
• Sleep aid
• Soothes bee sting and insect bites
• Disinfects cuts and abrasions
• Calms nasuea
• Heals chapped lips and skin

Using lavender is a great way to move to more natural remedies!

Want to learn to cook dishes from the Provencal region of France? Join me for tons of cooking class fun this spring and summer!

Provençal Luncheon 4-Courses We will explore the south of France at its best with a menu that reflects the sunshine and the hospitality that this region is known for.  Our Starter will be scrumptious Gruyere and Piquant Pepper Souffles that will rise to amazing heights.  Followed by our main course, Salmon Provencal, delicately prepared in a spicy tomato sauce with olives and capers and plenty of Fresh Crusty Loaves to enjoy alongside. Of course, a Green Salad will also be served.  We will enjoy a Cheese Course after crafting a few delectable varieties as they do in the gorgeous fromageries of France.  We will understand the phrase Rosé–All-Day in this class filled with beautiful wines that make the world look rosy! And our dessert will be Pastry Cream stuffed Raspberry Tart.  Each guest will also make and take lovely Lavender Sable Cookies. Register NOW

An Evening of French Provencal Foods and Wine We will explore the south of France at its best with a menu that reflects the sunshine and hospitality the region is known for.  Our 5-Couse dinner will begin with Green Olive Tapenade and Eggplant Caviar served with our gorgeous freshly made Herbs de Provence Fougasse.  This pre-starter will be served with French sparkling wine.  Our starter will be a stunning Heirloom Tomato Farcie, stuffed with beef and rice and served with Provencal Rose.  Our main course will be a favorite I am sure, Shrimp Provencal is a pasta dish stuffed with shrimp and fruits from the earth and accompanied by French red wine.  For dessert will make irresistible Berries and cream Crepes with a drizzle of Berry Coulis.  Each guest will take Chocolate Almond Twice Baked Cookies to enjoy at home as a  reminder of the warmth of Provence. Register NOW

XOXO Lorie