Vibrant colour, abundant sunlight, open-air markets, and an easy, unhurried way of life — Provence has drawn travellers, artists, and dreamers for centuries. This storied region in southern France offers a rare balance of natural beauty, deep history, and everyday pleasures rooted in tradition.
From the monumental legacy of the Romans — including the Pont du Gard, the Arena of Arles, the Colosseum in Nîmes, and the Amphitheatre of Orange — to the refined villages and vineyard landscapes of today, Provence reveals itself slowly and richly. To the north, Mont Ventoux rises above the Rhône Valley, while the dramatic Dentelles de Montmirail overlook renowned wine appellations such as Gigondas, Beaumes-de-Venise, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Further south, the sculpted limestone hills of the Alpilles frame villages like Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy, where visitors can walk through landscapes immortalised in Vincent van Gogh’s paintings. Cultural centres including Avignon, Arles, and Aix-en-Provence offer world-class museums, historic architecture, celebrated cuisine, and a vibrant café culture — with Avignon’s Palais des Papes standing as one of Europe’s most significant Gothic landmarks.
To the east, the Luberon Valley, made famous by A Year in Provence, is defined by hilltop villages such as Gordes, Ménerbes, and Roussillon, where daily markets, artisan shops, and seasonal produce shape everyday life. Whether you’re visiting during apricot blossom season in spring, lavender harvest in summer, or fig season in early autumn, Provence offers a year-round feast for the senses.
This guide outlines a balanced week designed to immerse you in Provençal life — combining cultural discovery, outdoor experiences, regional cuisine, and unstructured time at your private villa. Each day can be adapted to your pace and interests with the support of HV Experience Managers and Local Hosts.
For your enjoyment this evening, a light arrival buffet will be laid out for you by your Local Host, composed of regional favourites and delicacies that have been chosen with you and your guests’ tastes in mind. Enjoy this buffet of food while you settle into your home away from home and start to fall into life in France!
Begin the day with a visit to the renowned L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue market, one of Provence’s most vibrant and atmospheric. Stop first for a café crème at a local café, then wander through stalls filled with fresh produce, cheeses, olives, flowers, and antiques.
We recommend taking an initial walk through the market before making purchases — get your bearings, then return for the items that catch your eye. Vendors are happy to share cooking tips, offer tastings, and recommend local favourites.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in town before returning to the villa for an afternoon swim, a nap in the garden, or time to read and relax. In the evening, enjoy cocktails on the terrace followed by dinner either at home or at one of the Local Host’s recommended nearby restaurants.
Set out on a guided cycling tour through the Alpilles, riding quiet country roads framed by olive groves, vineyards, and garrigue. Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll explore some of the region’s most scenic routes before enjoying a relaxed picnic at Domaine de Lauzières.
Prefer a slower pace? Join a professional trufficulteur and trained dog for a truffle hunt in the Provençal countryside. Afterwards, enjoy a truffle-infused lunch and wine tasting at the Maison de la Truffe et du Vin in Ménerbes.
Return to the villa for a restorative massage arranged by HV, then enjoy a private chef dinner prepared in your home. Sip an aperitif on the terrace as the aromas of Provençal cooking fill the air.
Begin the day with a visit to the renowned L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue market, one of Provence’s most vibrant and atmospheric. Stop first for a café crème at a local café, then wander through stalls filled with fresh produce, cheeses, olives, flowers, and antiques.
We recommend taking an initial walk through the market before making purchases — get your bearings, then return for the items that catch your eye. Vendors are happy to share cooking tips, offer tastings, and recommend local favourites.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in town before returning to the villa for an afternoon swim, a nap in the garden, or time to read and relax. In the evening, enjoy cocktails on the terrace followed by dinner either at home or at one of the Local Host’s recommended nearby restaurants.
Spend the morning at the Saint-Rémy-de-Provence market, browsing gourmet foods, artisanal goods, and Provençal souvenirs. Explore the old town’s winding streets, fountains, and boutiques, or visit Glanum, the nearby Roman ruins. Art lovers may wish to trace the landscapes that inspired Van Gogh during his time in Saint-Rémy.
In the afternoon, a pastry chef joins you at the villa for a hands-on lesson in French baking. Learn to create both sweet and savoury treats — a memorable experience and a delicious souvenir to take home.
Travel to Uzès and the iconic Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct built nearly 2,000 years ago and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the surrounding paths and learn about this extraordinary feat of engineering before strolling through Uzès’ historic centre.
In the evening, enjoy a reserved dinner at L’Oustau de Baumanière in Les Baux-de-Provence — one of France’s most celebrated Michelin-starred restaurants. Reservations are essential and arranged in advance by your Local Host.
Choose between two classic Provençal cities:
Explore the Palais des Papes, wander through medieval streets, browse boutiques and antique shops, and enjoy an aperitif in Place de l’Horloge beneath the plane trees.
Stroll elegant boulevards, discover historic fountains, visit Cézanne-related sites, and explore Vieil Aix and the Mazarin quarter. The city’s relaxed pace and refined atmosphere make it a favourite for lingering afternoons.
Say au revoir to Provence as your Local Host sees you off. Whether heading home or continuing your journey, chances are you’ll already be planning a return.
This itinerary is a starting point — not a script. With HV, every stay is shaped around your interests, pace, and travel style. From private chefs and wine tours to cycling routes, wellness experiences, and cultural excursions, our Experience Managers and Local Hosts handle every detail.
Explore our collection of luxury villas in Provence and begin planning a bespoke French escape designed entirely around you.
