My travels to Provence were completely unexpected. During a week-long stay in Paris, I was having lunch with a lifelong friend when he casually asked, “What are you doing next week? We’re heading down to our house in Provence, and we would love for you to join us.”
Within minutes, I texted my boss, extended my time off, and booked a train ticket. I had always loved Provence, but this trip changed something. I didn’t simply enjoy Provence—I fell in love with it.
What was supposed to be a week in Paris unexpectedly transformed into a true vacation in the French countryside. Arriving at my friends’ beautiful home, I immediately understood why Provence has captured the hearts of so many writers, artists, and travelers. The pace was slower, the meals lingered longer, and everyday moments felt wonderfully meaningful.
A Note About France’s Geography
France is divided into 18 regions and 96 departments (similar to states and counties in the United States). These departments often have their own distinct identity, traditions, culinary specialties, landscapes, and even local symbols.
This is also how I like to plan my travels. I typically begin with a region and then choose a smaller area to explore in depth. Rather than trying to see everything at once, I prefer to settle into a place—visit the markets, wander the villages, discover local restaurants, and leave room for those unplanned moments that often become the most memorable.
For this journey, my destination was Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, specifically the Vaucluse department and the enchanting villages of the Luberon.
Where We Stayed
I had the great fortune of staying with friends in their private home. They purchased this extraordinary property many years ago and have lovingly transformed it into a beautiful retreat that perfectly blends modern comforts with the charm of Provence.
The house has every amenity one could wish for, while still preserving the character that makes the region so special. There are several en-suite bedrooms, separate living quarters, a pool, a pétanque court, spectacular views, and even a natural spring.
Of course, not everyone has friends with a Provençal home (although it is a lovely dream!). For those looking for a memorable stay, I would begin my search with Relais & Chateaux, which consistently offers properties that reflect the character and traditions of the regions they represent.
Exploring the Luberon
I took the TGV from Paris’ Gare de Lyon to Avignon, where my Provençal adventure began. The first few days were spent reconnecting with friends, enjoying long meals, and simply slowing down. There is something wonderfully restorative about sharing a table, catching up on life, and allowing the days to unfold naturally.
After that, I set out to explore the villages of the Luberon—sometimes with friends and sometimes on my own.
Those who know me best know that I love solo travel. I enjoy the freedom of following my curiosity, stopping when something catches my eye, and allowing the day to unfold without a strict schedule. I am also someone who genuinely appreciates quiet moments and time spent alone.
My drive took me through some of the most beautiful villages in Provence, including Gordes, Apt, Lourmarin, Bonnieux, and Ménerbes. Ménerbes, of course, was made famous by Peter Mayle’s beloved book A Year in Provence. I suspect the locals are still recovering from the attention his book brought to their peaceful corner of France.
The roads were easy to navigate, traffic was minimal, and every village seemed more beautiful than the last. I could happily return to each one. The entire drive, including the journey to and from Avignon, was less than four hours—proof that some of the greatest discoveries in Provence are found when you simply take your time.
“They” say a picture is worth a thousand words, so I will let the photographs tell the rest of the story.
Traffic was minimal and the roads were easy to navigate. Each village was as beautiful as the next, and I would happily return to any of them. My entire drive time was less than four hours, including to and from Avignon. “They” say a photo is worth a thousand words. So, I’ll stop there.
Where We Ate
While we enjoyed casual meals at local restaurants, I believe my favorite meals were the ones we shared at home.
There was something magical about gathering around a table surrounded by the beauty of Provence. The fresh ingredients purchased at local markets, the relaxed pace, and the conversations that stretched well beyond the meal captured everything I love about French living.
Breakfast each morning at eight o’clock became my favorite ritual. There was a wonderful anticipation as we discussed how well we had slept, where we planned to go that day, what we hoped to discover, and what adventures awaited us.
Those simple conversations—over coffee and whatever was fresh from the market—felt like the essence of Provence.
Until Next Time…
If you have not yet visited Provence, I cannot recommend it highly enough. It is everything people promise it will be—and somehow even better.
The landscapes are breathtaking, the villages are timeless, and the rhythm of life invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
This is just the beginning of my Provence journey. I look forward to sharing more destinations throughout this beautiful region, one corner at a time.
If you are planning a trip to France and have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. I would love to hear from you!
These are just the basics. If you’re heading to France and have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. I would love to hear from you!
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