Join our expert Bold Spirit tour leader on this unforgettable women-only, small-group adventure to the South of France.
Your base for this adventure is a conveniently located hotel in the historical center of Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll explore vibrant markets and relax at sun-dappled cafes.
Your week-long French vacay includes visits to the following destinations:
Historic Aix-en-Provence (your base)
Bustling Marseille and its basilica
Cassis, its idyllic harbor, and the red cliffs
Roman ruins in Arles & wine tasting
The lavender fields of Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque
Lavender Museum in Cabrières-d'Avignon
Charming St Rémy and its market
Baux de Provence’s light show
This Bold Spirit adventure is about embracing the good things in life: friendship, creativity, relaxation, and connecting with nature, savoring delicious Provençal cuisine and wines.
Your journey begins in the enchanting town of Aix-en-Provence, a place where history, culture, and natural beauty unite. Take some time to relax and settle in, as this will be your home away from home for the entire week.
With its historic architecture, splashing fountains, and lively markets, it’s easy to adore Aix. As the birthplace of the great artist Paul Cézanne, Aix is also a haven for art lovers and history buffs alike.
Gather with the rest of the group for a welcome drink and an orientation. Meet your fellow travelers and learn about what’s coming up in the week ahead.
Meals: Dinner
Hotel: Boutique hotel with rooftop bar in the center of Aix-en-Provence
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Boutique hotel with rooftop bar in the center of Aix-en-Provence
Meet up with your guide for a foodie walking tour in the historical center of Aix. Taste some of the region’s best local specialties and enjoy the flavors of Provence.
After the foodie tour, you might be full enough to skip lunch, or you can use your free time to grab a more formal lunch on your own.
Meals: Breakfast, Foodie Walking Tour Tastings
Hotel: Boutique hotel with rooftop bar in the center of Aix-en-Provence
After breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic drive to Marseille, a vibrant port city known for its rich history, architecture, and Mediterranean charm.
Your first stop focuses on the unique local tradition of soap-making with a visit to Savonnerie La Licorne, one of the oldest soap producers in the region. Here, you’ll learn about the famous olive oil-based Marseille soap (Savon de Marseille), an authentic product with centuries of history and a great gift to take home with you.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Boutique hotel with rooftop bar in the center of Aix-en-Provence
Visit the historic St. Paul de Mausole Monastery, where Vincent van Gogh spent a year of his life and found an immense source of inspiration for some of his most famous works.
A hands-on workshop this morning teaches you how to create your own lavender wand, a fragrant talisman steeped in history and tradition.
Enjoy some free time at the St. Rémy-de-Provence market, one of the most delightful markets you’ll ever encounter. This bustling bazaar is a feast for your senses—freshly picked fruit and veggies, fragrant herbs, local cheeses, golden honey, and all kinds of artisanal goodies.
For lunch, you’re on your own in St. Rémy. The town is full of cheerful cafés and delightful bistros, so take your pick. Whether you’re craving a crisp salad, a fresh sandwich, or a classic Provençal dish, you’ll find something to satisfy your appetite.
This afternoon includes a special experience at Carrière des Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence—prepare to be wowed! Step inside a former quarry that has been transformed into an immersive art show where Masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Chagall, and other iconic artists come to life with light, sound, and color.
The evening is yours. Dinner on your own.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Boutique hotel with rooftop bar in the center of Aix-en-Provence
Our next stop is the Lavender Museum in Cabrières-d'Avignon. Learn all about how lavender is grown and distilled into wonderful products as you take an aromatic journey around this lovely stone farmhouse turned museum and store. Lavender fields extend all around the farm.
This evening, we have a special dinner planned at one of the town’s top restaurants. This is the time to toast to the adventures of the week, the memories you’ve made, and the new friends you’ve met along the way.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel: Boutique hotel with rooftop bar in the center of Aix-en-Provence
Meals: Breakfast