Lavender & Light: Provence, France
June 12-18, 2026
Full Price: $5885
Activity Level — Moderate
This tour is not suitable for those in a wheelchair or with mobility issues.
Trip Overview
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
Roman ruins in Arles & wine tasting
The lavender fields of Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque
Cassis, its idyllic harbor, and the red cliffs
Charming St Rémy and its market
Baux de Provence’s light show
Lavender Museum in Cabrières-d'Avignon
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.
MAIN ATTRACTIONS
Relax as your expert tour leader manages all the logistics
Explore bustling Marseille and its basilica
Discover Roman ruins in Arles
Sip wines at Mas Valériole, a family wine estate
Wander the charming streets of Aix-en-Provence
Shop for treasures at local markets
Step into a quarry in Les Baux de Provence for an experiential art show
Learn about Van Gogh at St. Paul de Mausole Monastery in St Remy
Enjoy a group picnic at a wine estate in the Camargue Unesco Heritage Park
Learn about Paul Cézanne at his workshop in the Provence countryside
Embark on a boat trip along the French coastline in Cassis
Delight in excellent French meals and a food tour
Sniff the best soaps at family-owned Savonnerie La Licorne in Marseille
Meet other bold women who love travel as much as you do!
Activity Highlights
Historical sites
Wine tasting
Food tour
Roman ruins exploration
Local market visits
Walking tours
Art studio visits
Relaxing in charming cafes
Connecting with other Bold Spirit women
DETAILED Itinerary
Day 1: bonjour! Your Adventure Begins
Your journey begins in the enchanting town of Aix-en-Provence, a place where history, culture, and natural beauty unite.
We recommend flying into the Marseille airport or taking the high-speed train from Paris to the Aix-en-Provence (TGV) train station.
Check-in at your hotel is at 3:00PM. You can always just leave your bags and head out to look around.
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. We think you will love being based here.
As the birthplace of the great artist Paul Cézanne, Aix is also a haven for art lovers and history buffs alike. You’ll have plenty of time to explore and soak it all in.
Later this evening, 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.
After orientation, we’ll head out for a welcome dinner where you can dig into your first delicious French meal and start connecting with your new travel buddies.
Getting to Aix-en-Provence: Take the TGV train to the Aix-en-Provence train stop if you are coming from Paris or elsewhere. TGV is the fast train in France. Book First Class on the TGV train, which is not much more than a second class ticket and worth the extra cost. Some trains are double-deckers. Choose the lower deck which is easier if you have luggage. You can take a taxi from the Aix-en-Provence TGV station; the ride is 20 minutes. You can take a taxi from the Marseille airport which is about 30-45 minutes. A taxi will drop you directly at the hotel.
Meals: Welcome dinner & orientation cocktail
Hotel: Three-star boutique hotel (Augustins or similar)
Day 2: Delicious Provence
After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll kick off the day with a visit to the lively Saturday market in Aix. We’ve timed this just right so you can experience the buzz of the market, filled with local goodies like cheese, wine, soaps, linens, and other treats. It’s the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs to bring home or snacks to enjoy during your stay.
Once we’ve had our fill of the market, we’ll meet up with our guide for a foodie walking tour in the historical center of Aix. You’ll get to taste some of the region’s best local specialties and you might be full enough after the tour to skip lunch. Or, if you're still hungry, you’ll have some free time afterward to grab a more formal lunch on your own.
In the afternoon, your tour leader will introduce you to Provençal shops, such as L’Occitane, the renowned cosmetic brand, and Soleiado, known for its traditional Provençal fabrics.
Or, you can use the afternoon to explore the Caumont Art Center, a gorgeous 18th-century mansion with beautiful gardens and changing art exhibits. Whether you're into classical masterpieces or contemporary works, there's something for everyone. Feel free to visit this art center on your own.
The evening is yours to relax or explore. You can head out to dinner with some of the group or take it easy back at the hotel. Our tour leader will have restaurant recommendations for you.
Meals: Breakfast, Foodie Walking Tour
Hotel: Three-star boutique hotel (Augustins or similar)
Day 3: Seaside Escape to Marseille and Cassis
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.
Our next stop is the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde, a basilica perched high on a hilltop overlooking the city. The spectacular panoramic views offer sweeping vistas of the Mediterranean coastline, the Old Port, and the city's historic neighborhoods. Take a moment to admire the imposing gold statue of the Virgin Mary at the top of the basilica which has long been the symbol of protection for sailors.
Then, our private driver will take us to the charming town of Cassis by the Mediterranean, just a short drive from Marseille. You’ll have some free time to explore Cassis and have lunch on your own.
Weather permitting, we’ll embark on a 45-minute private boat tour of the Calanques, a series of rugged inlets with turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. These protected natural wonders are best explored by boat, allowing you to access hidden coves and get a different perspective on the coastline.
After your boat tour, we will return to Aix-en-Provence where you will have the evening to explore on your own. Whether you prefer a casual bistro or a more upscale dining experience, Aix offers a variety of restaurants serving fresh, local ingredients and regional specialties.
Meals: Breakfast
Hotel: Three-star boutique hotel (Augustins or similar)
Day 4: Wine Estate Picnic and Arles
This morning you are off to the charming town of Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for Roman monuments, such as the arena, the Roman theater, and the cryptoporticus (subterranean galleries), dating back to the 1st century B.C.
A local guide will lead you through the historic streets, sharing fascinating stories of Arles' rich past.
After soaking in the sights of Arles, it’s time to head to Mas de Valériole, a family wine estate located in the Camargue region of Provence. You'll be taken for a stroll in the vineyard, followed by a private tasting of the rich varietals of the region.
After wine tasting, enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch prepared by the estate’s owner, Hélène, featuring fresh produce from her garden, including rice from their fields, all paired with wines.
In the afternoon, we will make our way back to Aix-en-Provence and stop along the way at Cezanne’s Workshop (the post-Impressionist painter) for a guided tour.
Maybe you just want to linger in a cafe and watch Aix life roll by. You do you.
Dinner on your own this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch
Hotel: Three-star boutique hotel (Augustins or similar)
Day 5: Lavender Fields Forever
Today, it’s all about flowers. We’re heading deep into lavender country to areas so beautiful they will have your camera working overtime.
After breakfast, our first 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.
Then, enjoy a bit of free time in Gordes to look around its market.
We’ll stay a while longer in Gordes to share a group lunch together before heading off to Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque. What a beauty! Talk about lavender fields forever — this abbey sits in fragrant fields of purple.
On our way to the abbey, we’ll stop at that picture-perfect viewpoint you’ve probably seen all over Instagram — lavender fields rolling out in front with the abbey in the background. It’s the ultimate photo-op, so get your cameras (and smiles!) ready!
At the abbey, enjoy a historical guided tour in English, followed by some time to poke around the boutique.
Later, we’ll hop in the van to return “home” to Aix. The evening is yours.
Dinner on your own.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel: Three-star boutique hotel (Augustins or similar)
Day 6: joie de vivre in St Rémy
After breakfast, we’ll head to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where you’ll 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.
Next up, 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. Taste some olives, nibble on cheese, and soak up the Provencal vibe.
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. Your tour leader will be happy to share recommendations.
After lunch, we’ll whisk you away to 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 combination of music, visuals, and the sheer scale of the projection will leave you speechless. It’s an art experience you’ll want to tell all your friends about.
Then, we’ll head back to Aix-en-Provence, where you will be able to relax, pick up last-minute gifts, pack up, and prepare for your farewell dinner.
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, Dinner
Hotel: Three-star boutique hotel (Augustins or similar)
Day 7: Au revoir for now
Alas, our adventure has come to an end.
After breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to say farewell to all your Bold Spirit friends before you catch a cab to the Marseille airport or take the high-speed train from Aix to Paris to see more of France…there is still so much more to see in this amazing country.
Your tour leader will help you set up a transfer to the airport or train station with the hotel front desk.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s Included:
Seven days and six nights at a beautiful hotel in Aix-en-Provence (based on double occupancy: we can pair you with a roommate, you can share with a friend, or you can upgrade to a private room for an additional fee)
An English-speaking Bold Spirit tour leader accompanying you every step of the way
All meals as indicated in the detailed itinerary
Private land transfers for the Bold Spirit group throughout the entire adventure
A small group experience—no more than 10 Bold Spirit women travelers
Local expert bilingual guides in each destination
All equipment needed for activities
A session over Zoom to get you ready for this Bold Spirit adventure (1 month or so before the trip to meet other guests)
A packing list
A WhatsApp group to connect with your travel buddies
What’s Not Included:
Round-trip airfare
Cost for additional activities
Taxis to the airport or train station on arrival and departure
Meals not outlined in the detailed itinerary
Alcoholic beverages, unless otherwise specified (most meals include wine)
Personal expenses, such as souvenirs
Travel insurance
Optional private room upgrade (only a few available)
Early hotel check-in
Room service/minibar
Laundry
Tips for guides and drivers
What to Bring on This Adventure:
Comfortable walking shoes
Day pack or bag
Reusable water bottle
Aix enjoys almost 300 days of sun per year; check the weather before you travel
You will receive a detailed packing list upon registering
Travel Insurance
Insurance is strongly recommended for your Bold Spirit trip.
We highly recommend that you obtain adequate coverage for cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.
Your deposit and final trip balance can then be recovered via a claim to your insurance provider in the event that you must cancel your adventure due to unforeseen circumstances.
Check out travel insurance options at Tinleg, Squaremouth, and WorldNomads.
Other Considerations
Our itinerary is subject to change based on availability and unforeseen conditions.
The minimum group number for this trip to run is six participants.
Payment dates:
Deposit: $700 upon registering
2 subsequent payments
Bold Spirit Travel is not responsible if you cannot enter France due to lack of vaccination or other entry requirements.
Refund amounts are determined as follows:
Upon registration: non-refundable deposit *
120+ days before trip: Full refund minus non-refundable deposit
120–90 days before trip: 50% of balance minus non-refundable deposit
90 days or fewer before trip: No refund
*We use your deposit to secure your hotel room and guides. This is why it is not refundable. Please get travel insurance to cover this cost if you think you may need to cancel the trip for some reason (see above).
Luggage:
1 wheel-on bag no more than 50lbs (you need to be able to handle your luggage on your own — can you lift what you packed?)
1 day pack
1 purse
You can shop and ship — some guests buy goods in Aix and them ship them home from the local Aix post office to save on luggage space. Your guide can help you with this.
Getting to Aix-en-Provence:
Take the TGV train to the Aix-en-Provence train stop if you are coming from Paris or elsewhere. TGV is the fast train in France. Book First Class on the TGV train, which is not much more than a second class ticket and worth the extra cost. Some trains are double-deckers. Choose the lower deck which is easier if you have luggage. You can take a taxi from the Aix-en-Provence TGV station; the ride is 20 minutes. You can take a taxi from the Marseille airport which is about 30-45 minutes. A taxi will drop you directly at the hotel.
RailNinja and Rome2Rio are both great sites that can help you book your train tickets.
Train tickets on the TGV usually open up for bookings 3-4 months in advance.
Staying longer - Adding Paris:
We like Locke hotel in Paris if you plan to stay in the City of Light a few days.
Laundry:
You will be in Aix for 7 days.
You can have the hotel do laundry for you (fee) or use a laundromat in Aix.
Minimum Requirement:
Bold Spirit Travel requires a minimum number of guests in order to confirm a trip departure. A trip will be officially confirmed once the minimum guest count has been met (6 guests).
Bold Spirit Travel reserves the right to cancel any trip that does not meet the required minimum attendance. In such cases, all payments made to Bold Spirit Travel will be fully refunded.
Guests are advised not to book airfare or other travel arrangements until their trip has been confirmed. Bold Spirit Travel cannot be held responsible for any personal expenses, including airline tickets, incurred as a result of changes to itineraries or trip cancellations.
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