France Provence with Kathy Adams Clark

Your journey begins with an overnight flight from home to Marseille France (MRS). Please Note: All flights will be multi-city, either Home-MRS/Montpellier-Home, or BCN-Home if you are attending the extension. (meals on plane)

Upon arrival there will be a group transfer from the airport to the hotel (*time to be announced). Since the majority of our participants prefer to have an extra day to rest upon arrival, today is just that. Unwind to get over jet lag on your own and meet this evening for a brief meeting with your guides to prepare you for the tour program. Afterwards enjoy your welcome dinner.

Enjoy a day trip to the charming village of Cassis by the sea. There are many hiking trails around Cassis, but instead you will photograph the world famous Calanques National Park and their breathtaking cliffs from the comfort of a small boat as you motor through the park. Return to the picturesque Cassis Harbor, snuggled at the foot of the tall Cap Canaille cliff and white limestone coves. It is filled with many colorful boats and restaurants, with a view of the Chateau de Cassis in the distance. The small backstreets are surprisingly quieter as well as bright, colorful, and full of Provencal charm. Enjoy lunch with your guides.

The last day from Aix you will enjoy a walking tour of the town, going to the Provencal Market this morning to start the day. The old part of the city is mostly pedestrianized, so you can walk slowly, photographing the rich charm of the buildings and early light on the squares. Its public squares are lined with 17 & 18th Century mansions, fountains (there are 1000!), and tree lined streets. Walk in the steps of their most famous resident – Paul Cezanne. There should be free time later in the day to wander on your own or continue photographing with Kathy. Overnight Aix en Provence (D; B, L; B)

Depart after breakfast, travelling north and photograph Roussillon. It is considered an artist’s pallet, with infinite combinations of colors. It is one of the must see of the Luberon region. Famous for red cliffs and ochre quarries, the lush green pine trees present quite the contrast of color and feel. Explore the village and then move next door to the hilltop village of Gordes with tan colored stone architecture, rooting itself into the sharp cliff of the mountainside. Arrive St. Remy late afternoon or early evening, followed by dinner.

Rise early today to reach Avignon. Located on the Rhone River in Provence, Avignon is a beautiful preserved medieval town surrounded by the original fortified city walls. After a walking tour of this lovely city continue north to the Rhone Valley wine region. Tour, taste, and photograph at a lovely winery, after all you can’t travel to France and not enjoy the Vino! Afterwards return to St. Remy in time for afternoon exploration on your own or with Kathy. Given time there can be a photo discussion at the hotel this evening.

South of St. Remy is Les Baux de Provence, one of the most gorgeous Southern France villages. It is similar to St. Remy, yet a much warmer feel and less touristy. Photograph the traditional limestone village of Baux-de-Provence, rising above the village are castle ruins, with olive groves in the surrounding valley.

Enjoy an amazing experience at Carrieres de Lumieres show in Beaux de Provence. It pulls together light, sound, and art in an extravaganza. No matter the artist at the time, you will be enthralled by the experience. Before returning to your accommodations visit the 11th century Saint-Paul-de-Mausole where Vincent Van Gogh painted Starry Night. Overnight St. Remy (B, D; B, L; B)

Today is moving day to Camargue. Arles is along the way, famous for its many Roman monuments, photograph them as you enjoy a walking tour of the places Vincent Van Gogh was inspired by: The Yellow Café, the Langlois Bridge, and Rhone River.

The next day photograph in the Camargue Region. You will learn about and photograph the traditions of the region. See the French cowboys practice herding the black bulls of the Camargue while riding the famous white horses. Enjoy a traditional lunch at the ranch.
This afternoon visit the Parc Ornithologique de Pont de Gau. A great place to wonder at the spectacle and beauty of flamingos. They are mesmerizing. You can walk as far as you want to around the lakes or simply find a place to sit down and photograph. Listen to the various bird songs from the parks varied boardwalk and trail system. Overnight Camargue (B, L; B, L)

Kathy and the local guide will determine photography locations today considering the interests of the group. There is so much more to see in the Camargue region. Seaside towns surrounded by sandy beaches, or travel to Ecusson to photograph the old town area of Montpellier for architecture and quaint café’s serving their famous crepes. Late this afternoon the group will check in to your accommodations for the evening close to the airport. Enjoy the evening on your own and prepare for departure tomorrow. (B, L)

The hotel has an airport shuttle, be sure to arrange your departure time at the front desk. (B)