Paris and Provence

A Closer Look

From city chic to pastoral serenity, this trip will take you through some of the most intriguing areas of France. Romance, excellent dining, history, and cultural and artistic diversions will be part of your experience here.

In Paris, you will be whisked away by...

private transfer to Hotel D'Aubusson, an upscale and luxurious property in the Bohemian Left Bank district of St. Germain. Its spacious rooms, historic courtyard and access to charming restaurants and cafes will make your immersion to the Parisian lifestyle all the more enjoyable.

As you wander through Paris, you'll discover that...

there is more to this romantic "City of Light" than its most celebrated landmark, the Eiffel Tower. Surrounding Hotel D'Aubusson is the Latin Quarter, the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, and not to mention local bistros, galleries and nightclubs. In the cosmopolitan Right Bank (north bank of the Seine River), you can find the Champs Elysees, the Louvre and excellent city views from the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Take a walk through the cobblestone streets of Montmarte or stroll through the trendy area near the Bastille, where you will find numerous cafes, clubs and restaurants. The surrounding environs are also worth a visit - the lavish Palace at Versailles and its gardens; Monet's home in Giverny; or the castle at Fountainebleau.

It will be difficult to leave such a...

captivating and romantic city, but there is more in store for you as you make your way south through France. The high-speed TGV train from Paris will take you to the lush Loire River valley. This architecturally intriguing region was once the playground of the French nobility. There are rolling hills, vineyards and extravagant chateaux, which were built as palaces and regional residences for royalty.

Your private transfer from the town of Tours will lead you to...

Chateau de Marcay, a lovely 15th-century castle-hotel in medieval Chinon. Its fine selection of wines and refined cuisine can be enjoyed in the lovely garden terrace or restaurant. The vineyard-embraced grounds are a perfect setting for country walks and its attentive staff will make you feel like royalty.

Touring the valley on bike, drifting above the countryside in a hot air balloon, or taking a leisurely cruise down the river are just some of the activities that you can partake of in this scenic region. In addition, the largest and most lavish Chateau in Chambord is a sight not to be missed.

Further south of the Loire is...

the Provence region, where its slow pace of life inspired the impressionists in the late 1800s. The charming towns and pastoral scenery still endure today. Your base for exploration will be Hotel de la Mirande in Avignon, which occupies a former 18th-century cardinal's palace that faces the Palace of the Popes. You'll enjoy spending time in your lavishly appointed room, complete with hand-printed upholstery and wall coverings, antique accents, and luxurious marble baths. Enjoy a romantic dinner at the restaurant or learn the art of French cooking at their cooking school.

There is much to see and do in town - visit a local market, take a boat ride along the Rhone, or meander through the narrow streets and medieval alleys and observe the protective ring of towers.

Along with Avignon, the towns of Arles and Aix should not be missed. Arles, the former capital of Roman Gaul, is home to wonderful churches, museums and Roman ruins. Its olive groves and limestone hills inspired the artist Van Gogh. Aix offers thriving markets, a vibrant café culture and a world-class music festival.

As you leave on your return flight home from Marseille, you will leave with a deeper understanding of France and all that its diverse regions have to offer.

Who will enjoy this trip:

Those with an interest in French culture and history. If you are lovers of food and wine, you won't be disappointed here. Those interested in a metropolitan and rural experience.

Who should avoid this trip:

Those who wish to relax without covering a lot of ground Travelers without willingness to brush up their basic French skills in some friendly but more provincial areas of the country.