Creative Wanderlust Tour
Wandering in the footsteps of Van Gogh and discovering the heart & creative soul of Provence.
This immersive, creative retreat through the heart of Provence blended rich history, hands-on artistic exploration, and the laid-back luxury of life in the South of France. From our arrival in Avignon and first steps through the cobblestone streets of the medieval city, to a final celebratory evening filled with local cuisine, laughter, and shared creativity, the tour delivered an unforgettable experience for each guest.
Our home base for the week was a tranquil villa just outside Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where guests began each day with relaxed breakfasts and inspiring views. From there, the group explored Arles through Van Gogh’s eyes, wandered Roman ruins, strolled Provençal markets, picnicked among olive trees, and sketched the same cypress-lined paths the Impressionists once walked.
Daily creative sessions offered a mix of journaling, sketching, painting, and crafting — whether poolside, en plein air, or indoors surrounded by Provençal charm. Guests participated in hands-on cultural experiences including a cooking class, a textile workshop at the iconic Souleiado factory, and a visit to the historic hilltop town of Gordes. Thoughtfully scheduled free time allowed participants to recharge, explore independently, or dive deeper into their art practice.
The tour culminated in a festive farewell celebration of friendship, creativity, and Provence itself. For all who joined, it was more than a vacation — it was a week of inspiration, personal connection, and artistic transformation under the Provençal sun.
I am not an artist at all, yet Betsy helps me be so creative.
“Words can not express how much fun and delightful it was to enjoy this Provence trip you designed - très magnifique!”
Guided walking tour through historic Arles, France as seen through the eyes of Van Gogh;
Tour of the streets of Arles including a visit to the Palais des Papes;
Classic French piquenique among Roman ruins;
Tour of St. Paul de Mausole, where Van Gogh lived for over a year in St. Remy de Provence;
Walking tour & shopping in the famous marché at St Remy de Provence;
Guided tour of the famous fabric and clothing brand Souleiado in Tarascon;
Guided wander through the hilltop town of Gordes;
and more!
On-the-go sketching sessions and journaling through Arles with a custom pocket journal;
Collaging ephemera and colorful material to capture the essence of Provence in our individual journals;
Exploring hand stamping and pattern making in the spirit of Provençal patterns;
Learning about the Provençal craft of Santons and making our own versions;
Hands-on cooking + art class where we prepared food together and sketched along the way;
Daily journaling and reflections;
Capturing our assorted experiences in our own one-of-a-kind accordion journal;
and more!
Betsy’s instructions, how she delivers her creative sessions, her guidance is so approachable- she’s casual, open and easy to understand. This creative tour was a wonderful kick start to adding creativity back into my life!
Creative Journal Flip-Through
Capturing the essence of Provence in an art journal is such a magical creative endeavor. Each journal I create, no matter how many I make of the same location is different. It's only natural this is the case, as each experience is different- the colors, the adventures, the connections! Below is my Provençal art journal inspired by sunflowers, and the simple beauty of the location.
Sign up now to receive my newsletter that highlight all my upcoming creative tours and workshops!