Provence is a remarkably diverse region in southeastern France, stretching from the Rhône River Valley to the Italian border, and from the southern Alps down to the glittering Mediterranean Sea. For a small country like France (smaller than the state of Texas), it offers an astonishing range of natural beauty, history, and culture to explore.
Today, I’m sharing one of my very favorite spots in all of Provence, Cassis. I’ve been visiting this charming fishing village for over a decade, always with A Taste of Paris travelers in tow—and every time, it takes my breath away.
This coastal gem is picture-perfect, with its colorful buildings hugging the harbor, dozens of beautiful boats swaying along the docks, and a quaint village center, easy to explore with just five or six streets of pretty shops. You’ll find all kinds of treasures here—a local perfumery, beautiful clothing, handmade soaps, and even a few home decorating items, an array of irresistible goodies to carry home.
Cassis may be small, but it’s been around for centuries and dates back to Roman times. The village was once a bustling port for the wine trade, olive oil, and coral. Over the years, it’s seen a mix of cultures come and go, each one leaving a little mark on the village. The name “Cassis” is thought to come from an old Latin word meaning “rocky place,” which makes perfect sense once you see the dramatic limestone cliffs.
These cliffs, called calanques, jut up out of the turquoise Mediterranean, creating inlets and dramatic scenery. You can explore these natural wonders in two ways: by hiking along the cliff tops for sweeping views, or, like we do on my A Taste of Paris trips, by boat. Gliding into the calanques by sea offers a breathtaking, up-close perspective of these unique formations that are found only in this part of the world.
The food in Cassis is everything you’d hope for from a village perched on the edge of the Mediterranean—fresh, flavorful, and full of coastal charm. You’ll find beautiful seafood everywhere: plump mussels, delicate local fish, and just-caught specialties served simply and perfectly.
One of the greatest pleasures is dining right on the water, where the sea breeze mixes with the scent of garlic and herbs wafting from the kitchens. And of course, no meal in Cassis is complete without a chilled glass of Provençal rosé. This is the village that taught me how to truly rosé all day—and I’ve never looked back!
This peaceful seaside town still holds onto its old-world charm, embodies the Provençal culture, and is magical.
When I’m here, I feel like I’m on top of the world, especially when I take travelers to my secret place for a champagne surprise.
When I talk about Provence, I always say: it’s the food, the people, and the light that draw you in—it sinks into your soul and keeps calling you back.
I have just one seat left for my A Taste of Paris trip to Provence this September. If this magical corner of France is calling your name, now’s the time. I’d love to have you along for the next adventure!
A Taste of Provence-September 13th – 21st, 2025
Provence – where sparkling seascapes, fiery sunsets, and the striking variety of scenery make visitors feel as though they are stepping into a French Impressionist painting. Sun-soaked flavors and a convivial spirit flourish in this region. Our magnificent base for this food and wine-centric trip of a lifetime is Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. YOU are invited to join A Taste of Paris! You will be personally guided by Lorie Fangio, French Food, Wine, and Culture Expert, for all the best sites, views, and tastes Provence has to offer. All classes & events are private & curated exclusively for ATOP.
- Private Wine Tasting with master Sommelier at Chateauneuf du Pape
- Cooking Class with a Culinary Genius – 4 course meal
- Experience the in-door market in a hands-on cooking class
- Delight in a chocolate demonstration and tasting!
- Taste fresh made cheese at a local Goat Farm/Cheese Producer
- Visit a working Olive Oil Mill and Tasting READ MORE
Join me to COOK this summer!!
Thursday, June 26th 6:30-8:30 Appetizers with French Flair – Join us for a lively and flavor-packed evening focused entirely on small bites that are bold enough to make a meal. We’ll kick things off with handcrafted Cosmopolitan Cocktails to set the tone for a night of cooking, creativity, and delicious fun. We’ll start by preparing Focaccia Bread from scratch, infused with herbs and olive oil, then turn it into the most darling Snacking Board you’ve ever seen. Almost too gorgeous to eat! Next, we’ll make Apricot Comte Palmiers by first whipping up a batch of fresh-made Apricot Jam, sweet and tart that will be used for the filling for our Palmiers READ MORE
Thursday, July 17th 6:30-9:00 An Evening of French Culinary Delights Join me for a festive, hands-on cooking class where laughter fills the kitchen and every dish tells a story. Whether you are a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this evening promises to be both entertaining and filled with delightful indulgence. We will begin the merriment by crafting the vibrant Piquillo Pepper Tapenade, smoky and sweet, served on crisp toasts. Our first course will be the oh so French, Creamed Leeks with Seared Scallops. The leeks will be sautéed until tender and topped with perfectly seared scallops that boast a golden crust with a rich, tender interior. For our main course we will prepare and savor Chicken Provencal, filled with garden vegetables READ MORE
See you soon!!!!!!
XO Lorie
