DAY ONE: Saturday, May 3, 2025 - Arrival & Afternoon in AVIGNON

Kick off your unforgettable week by meeting at the Avignon TGV train station*, where your adventure begins. Wander the charming cobblestone streets of Avignon’s old city, immersing yourself in its medieval allure before delving into a tour of the historic Palais des Papes, one of the largest Gothic palaces in the world. As the sun sets, savor a delicious dinner in a quaint local restaurant, setting the tone for a week of creativity and camaraderie. End the day with a scenic van ride to our villa home for the week, ready to recharge for the journey ahead.

*Upon signing up for the tour, we will offer information on how to book a train ticket from Paris to Avignon (or Marseille to Avignon) via the high-speed TGV train.

DAY TWO: Sunday, May 4, 2025 - Villa Life in Tranquil ST REMY

For our first full day we will soak up the true essence of the slow, beautiful life of our villa in the South of France. We will begin our day with breakfast followed by a full morning creative session at the lodging where we will get our creative juices flowing while soaking up the environment. After a leisurely lunch, you are free for the afternoon to relax poolside, read, nap, create more art or explore on your own. In the late afternoon we will all take a stroll through the center of St Remy de Provence to get oriented to our local village, then enjoy a delicious dinner together in town.

DAY THREE: Monday, May 5, 2025 - Roman Ruins & Van Gogh Views: Tour of ARLES

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at our villa before setting out for an unforgettable journey into the heart of historic Arles, France. This enchanting city, brimming with Roman ruins, charming streets, and the vibrant legacy of Van Gogh, is a feast for the senses. Let Betsy guide you on a one-of-a-kind creative escapade, where you'll wander through picturesque spots that feel like stepping into Van Gogh’s masterpieces. After a tasty lunch at a local spot, you can then have a little free time to browse quaint shops or simply unwind on a sun-dappled bench, soaking in the magic of the moment. In the late afternoon, we return to our villa for a relaxed, delicious dinner together reflecting on the inspiration and charm of Arles.

DAY FOUR: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 - Cultural Crafts at the Villa & Free Time - ST REMY

Day four invites you to immerse yourself in the region’s artistic spirit! After a delightful breakfast at the villa, dive into a hands-on creative session celebrating the time-honored crafts that make this area so special. Then, enjoy a leisurely lunch before embarking on an afternoon of freedom tailored to your desires. Whether you choose to explore on your own, shop for unique treasures, or unwind amidst the villa’s serene beauty, the day is yours to savor.

Need inspiration for your free time? We’ll provide excursion ideas with easy links to book independently:

• Les Baux de Provence: A hilltop village with breathtaking views.

• Carrières des Lumières: Immersive art in an extraordinary quarry setting.

• Le Camargue: Wild horses, flamingos, and nature galore.

• Hiking Les Alpilles: Scenic trails through stunning landscapes.

• Maussane-les-Alpilles: Quaint charm with olive oil tastings.

• Pont du Gard: A UNESCO treasure of ancient engineering.

• Wine Tours: Sip the finest at Châteauneuf-du-Pape or Gigondas.

However you choose to spend it, this day is all about celebrating your personal connection to the region’s wonders!

DAY FIVE: Wednesday, May 7, 2025 - Le Marché, Provençal Pique-Nique & Creativity en Plein Air with Van Gogh - ST REMY

Following a buffet breakfast, we will venture to the historic market of Saint-Rémy. There, I will teach you ways to engage with local merchants as we buy local products, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and select fresh provisions for a delicious pique-nique. From the market we will venture to the Roman ruins of Glanum where we will enjoy a true Provençal pique-nique with the fresh foods from our market experience. Afterwards we will visit the serene Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole, where Van Gogh found solace and inspiration, then stroll the paths he once walked for a creative en plein air sketch session, capturing the landscape’s beauty just as Van Gogh once did himself. We will end the day with a relaxing dinner back at our lodging, reflecting on the experiences and creativity shared.

DAY SIX: Thursday, May 8, 2025 - Provençal Textile Craft & Quintessential Hilltop Charm: Gordes

After a filling buffet breakfast we will head off to the renowned Souleiado textile factory to witness the timeless craft of Provençal block printing and learn about their rich history in creating their vibrant designs and clothing. Afterward we will continue our day and head to the stunning hilltop town of Gordes, a jewel of Provence. We will explore its charming streets on a guided walking tour, pausing to sketch its picturesque stone facades and breathtaking views. We will conclude the day with a delightful dinner in Gordes, savoring the town’s magical ambiance as the sun sets over the Luberon.

DAY SEVEN: Friday, May 9, 2025 - Celebrate Provence: Cooking, Creativity & Community - ST REMY

Savor your last full day in Provence by beginning with a relaxed buffet breakfast at our beautiful villa. Afterwards, we will immerse ourselves in the flavors of the region during a hands-on cooking class, where we will blend our creative efforts cooking and also capturing the recipe with a sketch! Following class, we will enjoy the fruits of your labor with a leisurely lunch featuring the dishes we’ve prepared. The afternoon is yours to enjoy free time unwinding, exploring, or do some last minute shopping in town. If you want to continue with your art journal, I will be at our art space all afternoon eager to help in any way! As the sun sets, we will gather for a friendly game of pétanque, share our creative endeavors and enjoy a festive Provençal farewell dinner—an evening of laughter, local flavors, and cherished memories to close your journey in Provence.

DEPARTURE DAY: Saturday, May 10, 2025 - Farewell Provence

Enjoy a final buffet breakfast before a 10 a.m. check-out. Bid farewell to the group as we transfer to the train station, taking with you memories of creativity, connection, and the magic of colorful Provence. Bon voyage!

**Note: The program is subject to change depending on outside service changes.