By Alex Harrington
The allure of Provence, with its endless fields of lavender, sun-drenched vineyards, and storied artistic heritage, has long captured the hearts of travelers. As The Albatross sailed into the picturesque port of Cassis, the anticipation of exploring this enchanting region from its coastal towns filled the crew with excitement. Our journey into the heart of Provence promised an adventure rich in natural beauty, cultural discoveries, and unforgettable experiences.
Arrival in Cassis
With its charming harbor and colorful waterfront, Cassis welcomed us with open arms. The pastel-painted houses lining the quay and the scent of fresh seafood wafting from the local bistros set the perfect stage for our Provençal adventure. After securing The Albatross and taking a moment to soak in the serene beauty of the harbor, we set off to explore the town.
Our first stop was the local market, a bustling hub of activity where vendors sold everything from fresh produce and cheeses to handmade crafts and lavender-scented soaps. Liz and Sam wandered through the stalls, sampling olives and cheeses and chatting with the friendly locals. The market’s vibrant atmosphere and the kaleidoscope of colors and scents provided a delightful introduction to Provence’s rich culture.
Journey to the Lavender Fields
From Cassis, we rented a vintage Citroën 2CV, a quintessentially French car that added a touch of charm to our journey. Our destination was the Plateau de Valensole, famed for its expansive lavender fields. The drive took us through winding country roads, flanked by vineyards and olive groves, with the distant silhouette of the Alps adding to the picturesque scenery.
As we approached Valensole, the landscape transformed into a sea of purple. The sight of endless rows of lavender, stretching as far as the eye could see, was nothing short of breathtaking. The air was filled with the sweet, calming fragrance of the blooms, and the gentle hum of bees busy at work added a soothing soundtrack to our exploration.
We parked the car and ventured into the fields, where the lavender swayed gently in the breeze. Liz, ever the nature enthusiast, wandered off to capture the beauty of the flowers with her camera while Sam and I took a moment to simply breathe in the tranquility of the surroundings. The experience was almost surreal, a perfect blend of nature’s beauty and the simplicity of rural life.
Discovering the Artistic Heritage
Leaving the lavender fields behind, we headed towards Aix-en-Provence, a city renowned for its artistic heritage. With its tree-lined boulevards, elegant squares, and vibrant arts scene, Aix was a cultural gem waiting to be explored.
We began our tour at the Atelier Cézanne, the former studio of the legendary painter Paul Cézanne. Walking through the studio, it was easy to see how the light and landscape of Provence had inspired Cézanne’s masterpieces. The studio had been preserved exactly as he left it, with his easels, brushes, and unfinished canvases offering a glimpse into his creative process.
From there, we visited the Granet Museum, which housed an impressive collection of artworks, including Cézanne, Picasso, and Van Gogh pieces. The museum’s exhibits provided a fascinating journey through the history of art, focusing on the artists inspired by the beauty and light of Provence.
A Culinary Adventure
No exploration of Provence would be complete without indulging in its culinary delights. In Aix-en-Provence, we found a charming bistro tucked away in a quiet corner of the old town. The menu featured traditional Provençal dishes, celebrating the region’s fresh, local ingredients.
We started with a plate of tapenade and crusty bread and a refreshing salad of heirloom tomatoes, basil, and goat cheese. For the main course, we savored a succulent lamb stew, slow-cooked with herbs and vegetables and a glass of local rosé. The meal was a true reflection of Provençal cuisine—simple, flavorful, and made with love.
After lunch, we wandered through the town’s narrow streets, stopping at patisseries to sample delicate pastries and sipping espresso at outdoor cafes. The leisurely pace and the warmth of the locals made us feel like we were truly experiencing the heart of Provence.
Exploring the Calanques
Returning to the coast, we explored the Calanques, a series of stunning limestone cliffs and hidden coves stretching between Cassis and Marseille. The best way to explore these natural wonders is by boat, so we rented a small motorboat and set off to discover their beauty from the sea.
The towering cliffs, with their dramatic formations and pristine waters, were a sight to behold. We anchored in a secluded cove, where the turquoise waters invited us to swim and snorkel. The underwater world was just as mesmerizing, with colorful fish darting among the rocks and the sunlight filtering through the clear water, creating a magical play of light and shadow.
We spent the afternoon exploring the coves and inlets, each more beautiful than the last. The tranquility of the Calanques, away from the hustle and bustle of the towns, offered a perfect retreat where we could connect with nature and reflect on our journey.
Sunset in Les Baux-de-Provence
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Les Baux-de-Provence, a medieval village perched on a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles mountains. With its narrow streets and ancient stone buildings, the village felt like a step back in time.
We climbed to the top of the castle ruins, where we were rewarded with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, bathed in the golden light of the setting sun. The sight of the rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, was a fitting end to our Provençal adventure.
We enjoyed a simple picnic of local bread, cheese, and wine, sitting on the castle walls and watching as the sun dipped below the horizon. Provence’s beauty, with its blend of natural splendor and rich cultural heritage, captured our hearts, and the memories of our journey would stay with us forever.
— Alex Harrington
As we sailed away from the port of Cassis, the lavender fields, and the artistic treasures of Provence etched in our minds, we felt a deep gratitude for our shared experiences. Provence had shown us its true character—one of warmth, beauty, and timeless charm. Our Mediterranean adventure continued, but Provence had left an indelible mark on our souls, a reminder of the joy of discovery and life’s simple pleasures.