Many of you came back with questions related to Wedding Gifts, Travel, and the Things-to-do. Hence, we have updated these sections accordingly, please check them out. We are excited and looking forward to celebrating with you!!
Mark Copley
Nurani Tupajka
Mark Copley
Nurani Tupajka
September 3, 2024
How 'Oh la la' happens...
---------------------------------------------------------- The pandemic may have torpedoed many a relationship, but a lucky few like us managed to find each other amid the global madness. How we met isn't a romantic story rather a real-life romance that began once-upon-a-post-COVID lockdown in 2021... We connected online, when the coronavirus era made dating extra challenging and social distancing were still implemented. This digital way of socializing and meeting new people were something new for both of us, and we could admit we were both not really good in communicating online. Indeed, we failed many times to respond timely with our busy agendas... After three tentatives, we agreed to meet eventually for a glass of wine and Mark set our first date at the LQV, a French wine bar in Singapore. Our connection was really instant and literal. Our conversation was easy and fluid. Everything just 'clicked' - even our mutual hatred for cheese! Five hours have passed when the manager of the wine bar had to call it a night and showed us the exit door. Et voilà! the magic happened and that's pretty much when we thought, 'Oh la la! This could be something'... Since that first date, we have adopted from Japan a fox-liked baby fur we named Takoyaki, moved country to down under, travelled the world together, ran few marathons, cooked thousands of dishes, watched our favourite movies and TV shows, called each other with cheesy nicknames, learnt and accepted our differences, supported each other through challenges, laugh and made fun of each other weirdness and habits... and the rest is history but we still hate cheese hahaha! Then comes one summer day in Capri, during our vacations: while we were admiring the Faraglioni Rocks from our boat Mark dropped the anchor, got down on one knee and popped the most romantic proposal out of the blue! This has been one of the most dreamy and unforgettable moment of us... Who knew how a small talk in a wine bar could lead to a lifelong conversation? Three lines messages, one heartfelt conversation, and now intertwined forever. --------------------------------- Countdown to "Pour Toujours": On 3rd of September 2024, surrounded by family and friends, we'll exchange vows to bond us in marriage at the beautiful Château de Robernier in the sumptuous region of Provence! "Pour Toujours" begins soon, we look forward to raising a toast with champagne glasses to celebrate with you this happy occasion! - Let's be jolly and bring the curtain down on the summer on a sweet note! Love, Mark & Nurani -----------------
Schedule
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
The Wedding
Tue, Sep 3, 2024, 4:00 pm - Wed, Sep 4, 2024, 3:00 am
Robernier, Montfort-sur-Argens, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 83570, France
>> WE DRESS! -- Formal & Cocktail Attire. Tuxes and gowns are welcome, and so are suits and cocktail dresses, a dressy jumpsuits, or a dashing jackets and slacks! It is not a Black and White reception: please refrain wearing full black and needless to mention, any full white/beige/ivory/cream attire.
>> So here is the plan. We think. - 03:30 pm: WE ARRIVE! Get some refreshments. - 04:00 pm: WE "DO"! The ceremony will commence promptly at 4pm. - 05:00 pm: WE DRINK! Le Vin d'Honneur coupled with delicious canapés. - 07:30 pm: WE EAT! Dinner time. - 10:00 pm: WE CROQUEMBOUCHE! The traditional wedding French pâtisserie "la pièce montée". - 10:30 pm: WE DANCE! The shindig starts. Moves like Jagger, all night long. - 04:00 am: WE SLEEP!
Wednesday, September 4, 2024
Last Hurray BBQ
12:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Robernier, Montfort-sur-Argens, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur 83570, France
>> WE DRESS! -- Summer garden, casual and comfy!
>> Should you are still in the area the day after the wedding, we would love to invite you for a post-wedding recovery BBQ brunch at the Château de Robernier. There is a pool so make sure you bring your swimwear, a towel and your sunnies if you fancy a dip!
Wedding Party
Mark
Groom
Nurani
Bride
Ayden
Pageboy
Adysti
Matron of Honor
Delphine
Bridesmaid
Justine
Bridesmaid
Noel
Best Man
Wedding Gifts
Travel
Flight
Marseille Airport (MRS)
Marseille is the largest airport of the region, therefore have more flights options. >> How to get to the Chateau from Marseille airport? Marseille Provence airport is around a 1h 10m drive from the venue and surrounding villages. On exit from the Car Hire Pickup take the D20. Keep right at the fork, following signs for 'A7/Marseille/Aix-en-Provence/Fos-sur-Mer' and merge onto D20. 2.5 km later merge onto D9. Travel for 17 km then keep right on to slip road for A51. Use the middle lane to keep left at the fork and stay on A51. Take the exit onto A8/E80 towards 'Toulon/Nice/Aix-Fenouillères'. Travel for 55 km along A8 and take exit 35 for 'Brignoles towards Brignoles/Le Val'. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit to the left and at the second roundabout take the 3rd exit to the left again on D554. Continue for approx 8 min until you arrive in 'Le Val', go straight on at the little roundabout in the direction of 'Carcès/Montfort-sur-Argens' D554. When you get to 'Montfort-sur-Argens' keep on the D22 and carry straight on. The road is known to be windy. Once it gets straight you will notice a very big tree on your left. This is the entrance to the Chateau which you will see set back in the hills. At the fork keep right and follow the road up to the Chateau parking lot.
Flight
Nice Airport (NCE)
Nice is one of largest airport in the area with few flights from Paris or from other big cities in France, Europe and UK. >> How to get to the Chateau from Nice airport? Nice airport is around a 1h 30m drive from the venue and surrounding villages. From Nice, get on the A8 motorway in the direction of 'Cannes/Aix en Provence'. At junction after exit 36 'Le Muy', keep on A8 motorway in the direction of 'Aix-en-Provence/Marseille' (do not take the exit in the direction of Toulon when the motorway forks). Take exit 35 for 'Brignoles/Le Val', this will bring you off the motorway to the right and swing you back underneath it. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit to the left and at the second roundabout take the 3rd exit to the left again on to the D554. Continue for approx. 8 minutes until you arrive in 'Le Val', go straight on at the little roundabout in the direction of 'Carcès/Montfort-sur-Argens' D554. When you get to 'Montfort-sur-Argens' keep on the D22 and carry straight on. The road is known to be windy. Once it gets straight you will notice a very big tree on your left. This is the entrance to the Chateau which you will see set back in the hills. At the fork keep right and follow the road up to the Chateau parking lot.
Train
TGV & Train
You can take the Eurostar or TGV to Aix en Provence. It's a large train station and has direct train route to Lyon, Paris, and Marseille and located about one hour away by car/taxi or to 'Les Arcs Draguignan' (the closest train station) which is 45 mins away by car/taxi. You can book train tickets from SNCF and Eurostar/TGV websites.
Rental Car
Chateau de Robernier
The wedding venue is in the countryside, so the easiest way to get from the airport to the venue and surrounding towns is by car. We recommend you rent a car for convenience, especially if you intend on sightseeing before/after the wedding. There are several car rental companies located at both airports such as Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, Avis, Budget etc. Here are the links for car rental options at both airports: - Marseille airport: https://www.marseille-airport.com/access-car-parks/access/car-rental - Nice airport: https://www.nice.aeroport.fr/en/services/car-rental Important note: for those driving on the wedding day, there is a large parking space at the venue (located on the left side right before the start of the château gardens) and you are welcome to leave your car at the venue overnight after the wedding and collect it the next day after brunch.
Travel Note
Taxis
To pre-booking a taxi, you must book the taxi a few days in advance. While some taxis are accepting credit cards, several of them could refuse them, so make sure you have some cash on hand. Here a list of few Taxis companies in Cotignac: - Uber: book a car via your app (waiting time can take longer) - Taxi Correns Fabien: +33 6 12 69 43 57 www.taxi-fabien.fr - VP Taxi Services: +33 6 42 43 87 87 www.vp-taxi-services-var.com - Taxi Cotignac Olivier: +33 6 70 61 10 82 - Taxis Cledana: +33 6 70 61 10 82 - Taxi Cotignac: +33 4 94 04 71 06 - Taxi De Cotignac: +33 6 79 62 12 76 - Taxi Carcès: +33 4 94 04 54 06 - Gauvault Gilles: +33 9 52 33 87 46 - Taxi Dylan: + 33 6 67 15 16 62 - Taxi 2 Cotignac: +33 6 84 90 43 72 - Taxi Laurent Mauvet: +33 6 32 43 93 98 - Mendez Sylvain: +33 6 72 03 01 34 - Gardiol Nicolas: +33 6 72 03 01 34 - Barier Nadege: +33 6 63 09 00 77 - Herbreard Jean Pierre: +33 6 08 42 71 33 - Taxi Paillat Christian: +33 6 09 97 80 49 - Taxi Isabelle: +33 4 94 04 54 06 - Taxi Frederique: +33 6 79 62 12 76
Shuttle
From Chateau de Robernier to Cotignac
September 4, 2024 12:00 am - 3:00 am
The château is a 10 min drive from the village of Cotignac. We have arranged a free shuttle service (a 7 seaters van) to operate back and forth after the wedding: departing from Château de Robernier to the village of Cotignac between 12:00-03:00 am. However, guests will need to make their own way to the ceremony. For those who wish to drive, safety comes first! If you are feeling tired or have got too few extra drinks: there is a large parking space at the château (located on the left side right before the start of the castle gardens) and you are welcome to leave your car at the chateau overnight and collect it the next day after brunch.
Travel Note
Accomodations
Chateau de Robernier is located near the Villages of Cotignac, Montfort-sur-Argens, Carcès and Brignoles in Southern Central Provence. It is roughly halfway between Marseille and Nice on the French Riviera. We recommend you try and stay in Cotignac or around the above-mentioned villages, which are all roughly from 10 to 20 minutes from the chateau. There are lots of small hotels, guesthouses and farmhouses which can be booked online. Prices tend to range from around $100-$500 Per Room/Per Night (£80-£400) . For those that are familiar with AirBnb, we highly recommend using this to book your accommodation (there are lots of options for group but also single and couple). You could also use booking platforms such as: - www.booking.com - www.hotels.com - www.agoda.com - www.kayak.com
Hotel
Maison Sumiane
Hotel
Hotel Lou Calen
Hotel
La Bastide Des Anges Cotignac
Hotel
Maison Gonzagues
Hotel
Mas de l'Olivette
Hotel
Clos de l'Ours
Hotel
La Bergerie Du Moulin
Hotel
Domaine de Nestuby
Hotel
Domaine Monte Verdi
Hotel
Chateau La Martinette
Hotel
Le Mas de Cotignac
Hotel
Bastide de Tourtour
Hotel
Hotel Mercure Brignoles Golf de Barbaroux
Hotel
ibis budget Brignoles Provence Verte
Hotel
Chambre d'hotes la campagne de la source St Martin
Hotel
La Licorne - Bed & Breakfast
Hotel
Tivoli en Provence Haut Var Cotignac
Hotel
Hostellerie de L'Abbaye de La Celle
Questions
Question
When should I RSVP by?
Answer
Deadline for RSVP is 1st of July 2024.
Question
Are you registered? Where?
Answer
You can RSVP on the RSVP page. Let us know if you encounter any problems.
Question
Are kids welcome?
Answer
Unfortunately while we adore your little ones, we are only able to accommodate the children in the wedding party as we have opted for an adult-only celebration. However, we recognise that some of you will be traveling with your kids and as we won't have babysitters at the venue we have identified some local babysitters based in Cotignac which can arranged through the following online platforms: >> Nounou Top: https://www.nounou-top.fr/annonce-gratuite/famille-cherche-garde-enfant/cotignac-83570 >> Babysits: https://www.babysits.fr/baby-sitter/cotignac/ >> Garder mes enfants: https://www.garder-mes-enfants.fr/nounou/cotignac.html >> Star of service: https://www.starofservice.com/annubis/provence-alpes-cote-d-azur/var/cotignac/baby-sitting Important: please note that these are only a few suggestions found online and you may want to verify their reliability before booking. We, the couple, shall not be responsible nor liable for any unforeseen events that may occur on this matter. We hope that you understand this decision and will still be able to join us on our special day!
Question
Can I bring a plus one?
Answer
To maintain the intimate nature of our celebration, our Save the Dates and formal invitations have been addressed to the specific individuals invited. While we won't be able to accommodate additional guests beyond those mentioned on your official invitations, we're truly grateful for your understanding and look forward to celebrating together. If you have any concerns or special circumstances, please don't hesitate to reach out to us directly.
Question
Is there a dress code?
Answer
On the wedding day, formal & cocktail attire is expected. Tuxes and gowns are welcome, and so are suits and cocktail dresses, a dressy jumpsuits, or a dashing jackets and slacks! It is not a Black and White reception: please refrain wearing full black and needless to mention, any full white/beige/ivory/cream attire. >> For Gentlemen, we request you to wear ties or bowties if possible. September is expected to be warm, linens might be a good option. >> Calling all Ladies! Do not wear stiletto heels. There are a bunch of gravels/grassy/dirt and uneven ground areas that you might have to walk in, so wear chunky heels, wedges. We can't have any of you ruining nice shoes or breaking any ankles! If for any reason this is not possible, a formal dress code is also acceptable. The next day at the BBQ brunch will be a casual gathering, so dress up for the sun and the pool if you fancy a dip!
Question
What time should I arrive at the ceremony?
Answer
Guests are expected to arrive at the château at 03:30 pm. The ceremony will commence promptly at 04:00 pm and be followed by le Vin d'Honneur and canapés, dinner and dancing well into the night!
Question
How do I get to the chateau?
Answer
The château is a 10 minute drive from the village of Cotignac. We will be arranging a free shuttle service to operate after the wedding departing from Château de Robernier to the village of Cotignac between 12:00-03:00 am. However, guests will need to make their own way to the ceremony. For those who wish to drive, there is a large parking space at the château. If you would like to book a taxi, you must arrange this ahead of time. Please find taxi contacts on our "Travel" page.
Question
Is there parking at the venue?
Answer
For those who wish to drive, there is a large parking space at the château (located on the left side right before the start of the castle gardens) and you are welcome to leave your car at the chateau overnight and collect it the next day after brunch.
Question
What are the closest airports?
Answer
You should look at either Marseille (MRS) or Nice (NCE). You can also refer to our "Travel" guide for ideas on how to plan your trip around our wedding.
Question
Should I rent a car?
Answer
The Wedding is in the countryside, so we do recommend you rent a car for convenience, especially if you intend on staying for sightseeing.
Question
Do you have any hotel recommendations?
Answer
There are plenty of options in the surroundings. You can refer to our recommendations in the "Travel" page.
Question
I have a food allergy, can I make a special request?
Answer
We will have a main dish/menu set, as well as canapes available throughout the reception. If you have any allergies or special dietary requirements, please do highlight them when you RSVP. however, while your allergies and special diets will be noted for the reception dinner, please make sure to ask the servers about the canapes and hors d'oeuvres during the cocktail hour!
Question
Are the ceremony and reception locations wheelchair accessible?
Answer
Yes, but not ADA regulation. There are no stairs where the reception and ceremony are, but there is a long driveway. Please let us know if you have any concerns.
Question
What the weather be like?
Answer
September in Provence starts with summer-like warmth, while the heat begins to soften. Average temperatures generally sit around 25ºC, while nights can cool down to 15ºC coupled with a nice breeze in the evening. As much as we would like sunny days and clear skies for our special day, there is always a risk for an unforeseen downpour at the end of the summer!
Question
Is the wedding indoors or outdoors?
Answer
Our wedding ceremony and dinner is outdoors. We will have a tent in case of rainfall!
Question
Am I allowed to take pictures with our phones and cameras during the wedding?
Answer
Yes! We would love for you to take photos and videos and share them later with us afterwards, however please be aware of other people during the ceremony. Kindly note we will have a professional photographer for the day, so do not feel like you must take pictures, he has got us covered!
Question
Whom should I call with questions?
Answer
Mark or Nurani.
Things To Do
1. Nissa La Bella
Nice or "Nissa la Bella", is a city full of beauty and lifestyle that one must discover. It is a glorious city that attracts worldwide visitors. Located between 'la Grande Bleue' (Mediterranean sea called by the French) and the Alps mountains, between France and Italy, not so far from Monaco, Nice is where the sun shines 300 days a year! A city where clouds are only tolerated to water just enough its sumptuous gardens downtown and around, on the side of the Citronneraie in Menton to the Villa Rothschild (between Beaulieu and Villefranche). It is easy to succumb to the light of Nice with its bright blue sky, the famous Baie des Anges and Promenade des Anglais, Jardin Botanique, its surrounding splendid hills especially the peaceful Cimiez, a luxurious bucolic vegetation with magnificent pine trees and exotic colourful flowers. The Matisse museum is a must for its walk uphill and the 36,000 square-meter 'Jardin des Arenes de Cimiez' replete with olive, pine, cypress and cabob trees.
Capital of French Riviera
Nice is well known for its markets (not only the famous one Cours Seleya) surrounded by rows of cafés, brasseries and restaurants on each side of the road where one can rest while watching the city's mouvements. Be amused by people heading to the beach that has no sand (alas!) but big pebbles and not much space, and hotels setting up lounge chairs to attract guests to spend a lazy day on the sexy stretch of La Côte d’Azur. Nice is a lovely mix of France and Italy with the best charms of both worlds in a way. Head to Place Masséna or Place Garibaldi where the buildings are ochre or dark red coloured, a reminiscent of Italian cities. The surroundings coffee shops and restaurants all lead for the passagieta concept, ditto the fountains and countless of stunning buildings and palazzi. The city is neighbouring small towns worth the detour on the east (Villefranche, Eze, Roquebrune, La Turbie, Cap Ferrat and Menton) and west (Vence, Cagnes, Antibes, Mougins, Vallauris, Le Cannet and Cannes).
Best of Nice Things to do
1. 'la Prom' as the locals call the Promenade des Anglais. Nice dedicated this stunning 8km promenade to the english in 1844 and made this place a special spot where the sea was no longer just a place to fish but a place to admire. 2. A climb to 'La Colline du Château', located between the port and the old town of Nice, on the site of an old fort, a 20 hectare park overseeing the Baie des Anges and offers a fabulous view of Nice and its beaches. 3. Old Nice and stroll along the port. Discover the roots of 'la vieille ville' with its colourful facades and charming labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets. It is the soul of "Cours Saleya", with its offbeat shops, bustling markets and its flower market. It's a lively place all year long with lot of small restaurants to taste Niçoises specialties. 4. Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Archaeological Museum and Matisse Museum. 5. Alfresco rosé aperitif at: the iconic 'Le Plongeoir', 'Bocca Nissa' and 'Café des Chineurs'.
Best of Nice Food to try
Taste Niçoises specialties: 1. The socca, a chickpea flatbread at 'Chez Pipo' 2. 'La pissaladière', a tart topped with caramelised onions, olives and anchovies at 'La Socca d'Or' 3. The famous 'salade Niçoise' 4. Fritters of zucchini flowers fritters called 'beignets de fleurs de courgettes' at 'La Merenda' 5. Pan bagnat sandwich 6. 'La Ratatouille', the French summer vegetable ragout 7. The daube of Nice, a beef or lamb local stew at 'Chez Davia' 8. 'Les petits farcis', the typical Appetizer of vegetables stuffed with sausage meat 9. The sweet chard pie
2. La Cote d’Azur
The sun-kissed sexy coastline stretching from St Tropez all the way up to the Italian border, where the French Alps spill into the cerulean blue of Mediterranean Sea, shows off the ideal harmony of splendour and tranquility. It’s no surprise 'La Côte d’Azur' became the place of predilection for artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, looking for inspiration and an escape from the mundane of home. From Nice, the see-and-be-seen beaches and promenade of Cannes and Monaco to the lavender fields of Grasse and the medieval villages of Èze and St Paul de Vence, there's an endless choices of places to explore. La Côte d'Azur needs no further introduction, but one will notice beneath its hype, glamour and wealth, it is a coastline sui generis that boasts about scenic views and a perfect palette of culture, art, gastronomy and festive enjoyment in a remarkable natural surrounding!
Best Urban Escape - Part 1
La Côte d’Azur is a spectacular place that promises you a plunge into pristine beaches, historic architecture, a unique art-de-vivre, a dazzling nature and bustling nightlife. 1. Nice: plunge into 'La Belle Époque' stroll in the multifaceted city. 2. Menton: a valley full of sunshine called “the country of lemon” and renowned for its citrus fruits next to Italy and the gates of Monaco, Menton is both an artistic and historic refinement ground and a little paradise by the sea. 3. Cannes: from the prestigious palaces of the Croisette to the charming streets of Suquet, admire the Old Port, stroll through the colorful halls of the Forville market and relax on its fine sandy beaches. 4. Monaco: soak into the glamorous Monegasque world with luxury hotels, starred restaurants, its Princely Palace and its famous Grand Prix. 5. St Tropez: a fishing village must-visit for celebrities, sea lovers, history and art enthusiasts, nestled in a gulf with clear waters.
Best Urban Escape - Part 2
6. Antibes: From Cap d'Antibes, soft sand beaches, underwater explorations, Picasso museum to a stroll in the old town, succumb to the sun-drenched peaceful Riviera gem. 7: Grasse: UNESCO heritage, recognized as the capital of flowers and perfumes. Find the secret of Coco Chanel N°5 and other fragrances at the International Perfume Museum. 8: Mandelieu: visit 'Le Château de La Napoule', hike to 'Mont San-Peyre' and take 'La Corniche d'Or'. 9: Saint-Raphaël: visit the historic center, relax at the 'Jardin Bonaparte' while viewing the bay and the authentic Old Port, walk on the coastal path, sail, paddle, dive in the 'Calanques de Estérel', hike on the red rocks of 'Estérel Massif', explore wild beaches. 10. Hyères: wander the steep streets of the medieval city on the 'Parcours des Arts', relax on the large white sand beaches and wild coves, explore 35km coastline of Giens Peninsula, cycle or walk between white sand beaches and trails in the pine forest on the island of Porquerolles.
Best Hilltop Towns - Part 1
They are seen from afar, perched atop of a hill, emerging from a forest, often overlooking a valley or the Mediterranean Sea. Absolute beauty, they are the unique character of the French riviera one cannot miss! 1. Èze: a hilltop Medieval village overlooking the French Riviera in craggy cliffs high above the sea. Roam around the middle age village or take a hike 'the Nietzsche path' trail (2hour trek). At the top, discover the (ie: Hitchcock's movie 'To Catch a Thief') 18th-century neoclassical church with a dramatic sea backdrop surrounded by a 'Jardin Exotique' brimming with cactus and exotic flowers. Èze is a 30min drive from Nice and worth doing a quick day trip. 2. St-Paul-de-Vence: A mecca for art and a pure cultural break within bastioned 16th century remparts. Marked by Henri Layet, Yves Montand, Simone Signoret, Marc Chagall, James Baldwin to name a few. Take a walk or a bike tour to discover its history and heritage, play pétanque and get an aperitif at 'Café de la Place'!
Best Hilltop Towns - Part 2
3. Tourrettes-sur-Loup: named as the 'city of the violet' (winter flower, commonly called “Victoria”), is a charming medieval village on the 'Côte d'Azur' is one of the most authentic in the region. Wander for a day around its old stone houses set up as ramparts, through its little streets (sometimes perfumed with violets during the season), its arched passages and staircases lined with flowers and its church St Grégoire, built in the 12th century. 4. Peillon: at 20min drive from Nice, from the top of its rocky spur, the village is occupied since prehistoric times. Discover its historical heritage treasures remain intact. absolutely worth discovering in half-day trip or a stopover. 5. Biot: capital of contemporary glass in France for nearly 60 years, observe the skills of artists/craftsmen (glassmakers, jewelers, ceramists, painters), explore the Musée National Fernand Léger and Museum of History and Ceramics, shop at 'La Creative' and 'L'Atelier des Potes'.
3. La Provence
Provence is an area composed of the departments of Bouches-du-Rhône (Marseille), Vaucluse (Avignon), Alpes de Haute Provence (Digne les Bains) and Var (Toulon). Its coast stretches from the 'Calanques de Cassis' fjords up to the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. It offers a palette of radiant colours, little ports, untouched beauty and hidden creeks and coves. A collection of seascapes treasures combining vast, wild and expanses of fjords, and golden sandy beaches. Ideal seasons to visit are in spring and autumn, but Provence charms in every season thanks to the mistral wind and mild temperatures in winter with record sunshine. Packed with culture and history, yet unwaveringly contemporary, Provence’s adorable towns and authentic villages are part of the treasure trove. By car or bike, one can explore picturesque landscapes, villages, flavours and the history of the region. The colourful frescoes of the Camargue, Verdon, the Alpilles or lush Provence are truely breathtaking!
Best of Provence - Part 1
1. Aix-en-provence: discover the city of thousand fountains! A visit to the city center of the little Versailles of Provence promises delightful surprises. Whether for a shopping spree, a gourmet break, or just to admire beautiful old houses! Go to the Cours Mirabeau, taste its local sweets 'calissons', visit l'atelier Paul Cezanne and hit the local antiques and flea markets (Thu and Sat). 2. Arles: a small but perfectly formed old town with plenty to do. Take a free Van Gogh walking tour to admire the spots depicted in the late artist’s work, visit the grand amphitheatre, take a walk through the underground Cryptoportiques. 3. Avignon: visit to the Palais des Papes, have a fun lunch at the open kitchen in Les Halles 'Cuisine Centr’Halles', go to the Pont d'Avignon and head to Avignon's elevated garden 'Rocher des Doms' for stunning views of the city, take a stroll at the UNESCO World Heritage site Pont du Gard aqueduct (30min drive from Avignon) and take a dip in the Gardon River.
Best of Provence - Part 2
4. Baux-de-Provence: a resolute must-do. Home to 22 monuments and harbouring a cultural heritage, the village is perched on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional des Alpilles. Start the visit with the ruined Château des Baux and its dungeon for a genuine plunge into daily life in Provence in medieval times. Don't miss the Eglise Saint-Vincent des Baux and Carrières de Lumières. 5. Camargue: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Regional Nature Reserve with marshy wetlands where the Rhone meets the sea. Traverse the coastline of the Camargue to discover the stunning wildlife and nature — more specifically, pink flamingos, wild white horses and pink salt flats. An absolute must-see. 6. Cassis: Pack your swimsuit and walking shoes to discover the stretch of coast between the pretty fishing village and Marseille boasts soaring sea cliffs and rocky inlets, known as 'les Calanques'. The inviting sparkling blue Med will beckon you to make the trek down to the water's edge!
Best of Provence - Part 3
7. Gordes: Built against a plateau, the village is the Acropolis of the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon. Don't miss the lavender fields of Abbaye de Sénanque, the fascinating Musée du Vitrail (stained glass museum) and the Caves du Palais Saint Firmin: a genuine subterranean museum set under the village, harbouring archaeological remains. 8. Gorges du Verdon: a must for adventure seekers! it is Europe's equivalent of the Grand Canyon. Almost 25 kilometres long, with a drop of more than 600 metres from top to bottom, the Verdon is a favourite of worldwide hikers. Bike along beautiful trails to scenic lookouts or take to the water in a canoe to discover prehistoric sites. 9. Marseille: go for a walk in the oldest city of France around the Panier district old streets and have best bouillabaisse at the Old Port, admire Notre dame de la Garde, the Saint Victor Abbey, visit to the extraordinary the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean.
Best of Provence - Part 4
10. Nimes: notable for its Roman monuments, many of which are among the most well-preserved in the world. Be sure to take a walk through the magnificent public gardens 'Jardins de la Fontaine'. 11. Orange: incredibly rich in history from its Celtic fortifications to its Roman monuments. See the Roman amphitheatre and the Triumphal Arch (UNESCO World Heritage Sites) and enjoy a play, music concert or an event at the Theatre Antique d'Orange (an exceptional venue due to the preservation of the stage wall that produces a sound of great purity and quality!) 12. Saint-Remy-de-Provence: take the Van Gogh walk and head to Saint-Paul de Mausole monastery, visit the Glanum archaeological site: an ancient Roman city from the 3rd century BC. St Rémy has loads of local boutiques and shops to explore plus, don't forget the local market on Wed morning. So if you're into shopping spend some time exploring this paradise. If you are a foodie, enjoy a cooking class to learn how to cook Provencal dishes.
Food and Wine in PACA region
Aperitif is a big part of local culture in Provence. Try a cold glass of pastis (anise-flavoured spirit) or have a glass of one of the local wines. Provence has a wide variety of vineyards, be it the Côtes de Provence, Côtes du Rhône, Coteaux d'Aix, Bandol, Cassis or Chateauneuf-du-Pape. On the wine roads, enjoy sipping aromatic rosés, delicately fruity whites and reds of strong French character. As for the Provencal cuisine, the contrast is striking between the hearty mountain dishes (gratins dauphinois, ravioles, rissoles) and the light perfumed dishes of Mediterranean cuisine (ratatouille, aioli, pesto, bouillabaisse, bourride) that put a healthy dose of sunshine onto the palette. A dish "a la Provençale" means they are prepared in a local style: featuring garlic, olive oil, olives, tomato-based, or chunky with vegetables and seasoned with zesty "herbes de Provence". On the sweet side, try the honey, calissons (almonds and melon sweets), chocolate mendiants and quince paste.
Drink the local drop!
Rosé wine is more than half of all wine produced in Provence and a perennial crowd pleaser at bars and restaurants throughout France. Some red wine varieties are also produced in Provence, full-flavoured Mourvedres and Grenaches. The area around Cassis is known for turning out good white wine, namely Clairette, Marsanne and Sauvignon Blanc. Vineyards to visit in the region: - Chateauneuf-du-Pape: Beaucastel, Chateau la Nerthe, Domaine Beaurenard, Les Caves St Charles. - Luberon: Chateau de Milles, Domaine de La Verrière, Domaine Citadelle, Domaine La Tuillière, Domaine de Marie. - South Luberon: Domaine La Cavale (Cucuron), Chateau La Coste, Château de Beaupré (Saint Cannat), Chateau Fontvert: (Lourmarin) - Alpilles Region: Château Romanin, Domaine des Lauzieres, Domaine D’Estoublon, Mas Sainte Berthe, Domaine de la Vallongue. Santé !
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