Behind The Design, French Beauty & Fragrance

V3: Celebrating Springtime with Sabé Masson

February 15, 2016
luxury french perfume gift box

We couldn’t wait to share the news that we will be featuring not one, but two, luxury French perfume houses in our V3: Celebrating Springtime in Provence curation. We have already shared the news about Au Pays de la Fleur d’Oranger and now we are very pleased to announce that we will include one Soft Perfume from the ultra-chic, Sabé Masson. This season, we are truly delivering the luxury fragrances of Provence in bloom to your doorstep.

luxury french giftbox spring

Sabé Masson Soft Perfume line Presents the First “Fragrance with a Thousand Virtues” 

Isabelle Masson-Mandonnaud is the founder of this innovative French brand and is no stranger to perfume. She began her career in 1982, when she opened the perfumery created by Fominique Mandonnaud, Shop 8, which would later become Sephora after the LVMH acquisition. Then in 2004, Isabelle Masson-Mandonnaud founded Crazylibellule and the Poppies, her first soft perfume line.

luxe provence perfume sabe masson soft perfume

Sabé Masson is her latest brand and the innovative line is receiving rave reviews. Le Soft Perfume is a nourishing soft perfume with a natural composition from the best perfumeries in France. Delicate, sophisticated without alcohol or parabens, these beautifuly packaged soft, elegant perfumes bring together the pure sensation of perfume with the virtues of skincare. All of Sabé Masson perfumes are painstakingly designed, created, formulated and manufactured in France. They make a wonderful gift, which surprises, provokes thought and conversation, and, of course, becomes highly addictive, which is exactly why we chose to include these in our Spring Luxe Provence Box Curation.

“I created Soft Perfume because I believe fragrance should deliver skincare benefits. I believe our skins always need more softness: a ritual of perfuming more intimate, more generous, more respectful and more elegant.” – Isabelle Masson-Mandonnaud

Our Spring V3 Celebrating Springtime in Provence is now on sale, so indulge quickly. Supplies are limited, so be sure to reserve yours today. Learn more about this second fragrance curation, but the rest must remain a surprise…

 

Behind The Design, French Beauty & Fragrance

Our Au Pays de La Fleur Perfume Guide

February 4, 2016

We’ve partnered up with luxury, niche perfume house Au Pays de la Fleur d’Oranger this season to include their gorgeous fragrances within our V3: Celebrating Spring in Provence Box curation, on-sale now and shipping this April.

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We chose Au Pays de La Fleur d’Oranger as one of our luxe perfume options for this season after testing many other local houses. We offer our VIP Annual Subscriber’s tailored curations each season. This spring, our lucky USA subscribers will have the opportunity to choose one full size bottle of either the Néroli Blanc, or Les Inédits Fragrances listed below (more exciting brands to be announced soon).

To help our clients and reader’s make an informed choice, we have asked Fragrance Consultant, Rebecca Amer of Irridessence, to offer her expert guidance in selecting their fragrances. We are pleased to share Rebecca’s APFO Perfume Guide with all of our readers, in case you, too, are curious to learn more about this luxury perfume house from Grasse. From Rebecca:

How to choose? I am a firm believer in connecting emotions to perfume. So you could choose purely by reading how these perfumes made me feel. Of course it is subjective. Other factors to consider are what your current taste in perfume is and how daring you wish to be.

There are several reasons we chose Au Pays de La Fleur d’Oranger for this curation. This perfume house is outstanding and there is plenty to choose from. The founders behind this brand have put their hearts and souls into making exceptional fragrances and it shines through. Their success hinges on many factors, not least the heritage linking them to orange blossom and the high quality of the local ingredients used. Even more important in my view, is the undeniable talent of their nose, Jean Claude Gigodot, who has spent a lifetime creating beautiful smells. He is a generous and delightful man and his body of work reflects this. I was fortunate to meet Jean Claude Gigodot in Grasse, it was fascinating to witness his creative process first hand and to hear his wonderful stories about the perfume world.

neroli-blanc-collection

Néroli Blanc is the mainstay of Au Pays de la Fleur d’Oranger, this line is it’s heritage and showcases one of my favorite white flowers, the orange blossom. Let’s begin with the choices available from this line:

  • Néroli Blanc eau de parfum – Super uplifting, this is a pretty, citrussy, orange blossom blend that will make you feel pretty. It is classical French perfume and in the easy to wear category. Great for day time; light and airy. Lasts about four hours on me. Emotionally it makes me feel lighthearted. If you like Jour d’Hermes or Anais Anais or even Cristalle you might like this. They are not similar as such but stylistically they are related.
  • Néroli Blanc eau de parfum Intense – Luscious and glowing, similar notes to the above but a very different effect as this is definitely sweet and gourmande. There is a lovely helping of vanilla, administered with a sure hand so that the fragrance is not oversweet. A wonderfully balanced perfume. Emotionally the effect is a little naughty, like I have been eating cake when I shouldn’t have. Two of my friends have fallen hard for Néroli Blanc Intense and I would hazard a guess that generally it’s a people pleaser. If you like Bottega Veneta’s Knot and you’d like to amp up the vanilla, you may love Néroli Blanc Intense. All woman.

les-inedits-ban

Les Inédits – This line is more complex, I would say it’s also more daring than the Néroli Blanc line. Each one is beautifully crafted and develops over time. Here are the options from this gorgeous line:

  • Jasmin Rêvé – Sensual and joyful. Let yourself be seduced by this rich jasmine resting on a gorgeous sandalwood vanilla base. If you like Joy by Jean Patou this may be for you, it’s more “modern” and more approachable than Joy, softer and less “perfumey” perhaps.
  • Rose Irisée – A perfume that is close to my heart. It represents tenderness whenever I wear it. Powdery with a subtle, shy rose, clothed in iris. You must like iris to choose this and if your man wears Homme by  Dior and you love it, this will be perfection for you. Rose Irisée captured my heart and I will never be without it.
  • Violette Sacrée – Mystery in a bottle. Sophisticated and complex. Woody violets with orange blossom and vetiver peeping through. I know a man and a woman who wear it and it smells fabulous on both of them. If you like Balenciaga’s Paris you may well fall for this one. Voilette Sacrée makes me feel thoughtful, reflective.
  • Tuberose Rosée – With the demure rose scented cotton dress you will find some silky tuberose lingerie. Not all-out stockings and suspenders but classy and sexy. Date night perfume. This is lush and opens boldly, über feminine. You will fall hard for it or not at all. Puts me in mind of Private Collection Tuberose Gardenia from Estée Lauder but I prefer this one. Made me feel daring.
  • Figue Fruitée – An unusual woody, figgy, green and fruity fragrance with a soft leathery base. I have tested this on lots of people and it is popular; choose this if you know you like fig. If you like Philosykos you may like this. Empowered and fun is how it made me feel.
  • Lavande Ombrée – Lavender feilds are symbolic of Provence although I personally struggle with the lavender note’s more medicinal/herbal facets. This lavender is elegant and refined, it has had the rough edges smoothed away and rests on a subtle leather base and I detect a wisp of smoke.  I am fascinated by Lavande Ombrée. If you like Caron’s Pour un Homme, try this, you will not be disappointed.
  • Bergamote Boisée – Here is an aromatic masculine fragrance that is assertively woody. Delightfully uplifting grapefruit opening which melts into the woody cedar heart and cedar/patchouli base. Makes me feel happy then outdoorsy. If you like Terre d’Hermes you will love this. Insider perfume gossip; Terre d’Hermes is a masterpiece created by Hermes’ in house nose, Jean Claude Ellena, who just happens to be a lifetime friend and one time colleague of Jean Claude Gigodot. The latter admitted that Terre d’Hermes is the fragrance he wishes he had made. Perhaps this is his homage to it?

More About Rebecca, Plus A Special Offer Perfect for Valentine’s Day!

rebecca-amer

In addition, Rebecca has graciously offered a special 20% off until 29th of February 2016, on her Personalized Fragrance Consultations which can be done in-person in Aix-en-Provence, or for those reading from afar, by Skype. Rebecca is an incredible resource and guide to help those entering deeper into the perfume world, or to help you grow and layer your collections.

Visit her web site to learn more or contact Rebecca directly by email or phone at: +33 (0)6 72 68 00 51 to book your consultation today.

 

 

Behind The Design, Slow Fashion

Maison&Objet 2016 Discoveries

January 28, 2016

I just returned from a whirlwind week of sourcing in and around Provence’s treasure, Isle sur la Sorgue, with my partner in Style, Adi, and then headed straight off to Paris for Maison&Objet to be completely inspired. Talk about a designer’s dream week in France! I will share some of our gorgeous finds, photos and favorite stops from our antique and luxury shopping trail here on the blog, so please stay tuned.

#mo2106

For now, I’m posting a few visual highlights, inspiration and trends I adored from my time at Maison&Objet Paris, such as the Atelier of Creation brand Ibride, behind this fabulous galerie of modern vintage portraits (above left).

While Maison&Objet includes designers and brands from around the world, we focused our time discovering luxury products and artisanal objects Made in France. We are so pleased to have discovered a new inspiring product line to include as the final element in our spring Luxe Provence Box curation. Our V3 Celebrating Springtime in Provence parcel is now on pre-sale, so be sure to reserve yours soon. This is a very special, limited edition curation and they will certainly sell out quickly.

laduree-tea-luxury

I have found myself completely in love with the modern, organic pottery that is very on-trend at the moment. In fact, Rebecca has inspired me to join her in to experiment with our own creations in a local Provence pottery class which has been wonderful. I was not disappointed to see several great examples of fine art caliber pottery design, such as these beautiful, nature inspired tablescape pieces below.

organic-pottery

Classic French objects and patterns were reinvented throughout the show, by the use of modern applications and materials, from these lovely cotton rugs sporting classic floor tile patterns from a new Saint Tropez brand we hope to work with soon, to these ultra-luxe wire chandeliers that incorporate “flickering” ambient candle light.

maisonobjet-paris-2016

We are pleased to announce that Luxe Provence will be adding in a new luxury, custom curation and sourcing service designed for discerning clients and luxury retailers who are looking for that special “je ne sais quoi” French product, artisan gift, antique treasure or curated experience shipped exclusively on-demand from France to you. More details to be revealed soon. Contact us to learn more.

 

Made In Provence

Luxe Provence Voted Best Subscription Box

January 18, 2016
luxe provence voted best subscription box

This just in and we had to share… our Luxe Provence Box was voted one of the Best New Subscription Boxes of 2015. We shared Subscriptionista‘s Top Honors with Rachel Zoe’s House of Style Box.

For those of you who haven’t subscribed or tried it, we launched our luxury subscription service just this past Autumn 2015. Each season has been a wonderful, sold-out success so far. We are thrilled to announce that our international delivery destinations have expanded this year offering the beauty and luxuries of Provence to clients around the world.

Each season, we curate luxury surprise collections featuring gorgeous objects for home and lifestyle, along with epicurean and beauty products from Provence. The luxury French parcels ship with each change of season featuring high-quality artisanal objects, Provencal regional specialities and custom design collaborations with upcoming brands.

luxe provence box autumn

The Luxe Provence parcels are intended for peo­ple who have a high appre­ci­a­tion for quality, artisanal products and luxury goods. The Luxe Provence team travels throughout Provence each season, to curate a truly special selection of items for each collection. Our curation team includes designers, fragrance consultants and stylists who are experts living in the region. Each parcel is designed to celebrate the beauty and quality of the South of France’s Provence region and lifestyle.

My passion is to uncover and share hard to find objects, fresh new French designers, seasonal scents and unique luxury items from Provence to discerning clients and speciality retailers around the world.

rose et marius provence box

So far, Luxe Provence has worked with luxury French brands such as, Rose et Marius, ZChocolat, Concept Provence, Souleiado, Aix et Terra, and Waiting For the Sun.

Gift Curations for Boutique Hotels and Retailers

We are expanding our sourcing and gift curation services to the special needs of retailers and upscale hotels in 2016. We believe we can develop a unique, quality service for speciality B2B clients who are seeking luxury and artisan gift curations that have the seal of approval of the Luxe Provence brand for their clients.
luxe-provence-box

Single Gift or Annual Subscriptions

The Luxe Provence parcels are available as either an Annual Subscription, or a single season parcel shipped four times per year. The Luxe Provence Box first two seasons sold out quickly to excited clients in the USA, Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia and Europe and is available to worldwide consumers, in limited edition.

Be sure to visit the Luxe Provence Box Subscription web site to purchase either an annual or single season parcel to receive the beauty and luxuries of Provence to your door. And now you can shop coveted items from our past sold out parcels in our Luxe Provence Boutique as well.

We are looking forward to sharing more exciting news and product collaborations in the year ahead so stay tuned…

 

 

French Beauty & Fragrance

Arles’ Gem, La Parfumerie Arlésienne

January 18, 2016
parfumerie de provence

There is a little gem of a perfume boutique in Arles called La Parfumerie Arlésienne. It’s in the historic part of town between the ancient arena or “Arène” and the Roman theatre. We’ve asked Rebecca Amer, Our Luxe Perfume Consultant, to offer up her notes and reviews about this mysterious niche perfume line of Provence.

This is a small niche perfume brand in the proper sense of the word niche. It was created by a true Arlésienne, Fabienne Fabrando, who is driven by her love of Arles. She only sells her perfume, soap and candles from her boutique or via her website, there are no other outlets which maintains the exclusivity of this truly niche brand. There are three fragrances available currently, all launched in 2012.

parfumerie-arlesienne

First up is the feminine and elegant L’Eau d’Arles. It opens bright and zingy, there is plenty of sparkly citrus and a nice peppery kick. As the top notes settle (quickly) the fragrance becomes really soft. It teased me for ages before I detected osmanthus. It’s a note I adore which gives us a velvety, cushioned effect. Comforting, urbane, polished and suave all at once. This one is easy to wear and the sillage is discreet, as befits a perfume hailing from a large town. The lasting power is good, five hours after spraying I can still smell it. Although it is called an “eau” it is in fact an eau de parfum, not an eau de toilette. It got the thumbs up from my menfolk who obligingly sniff my arm with all the fragrances I test. The Parfumerie Arlésienne website describes l’Eau d’Arles as follows “A delicate mix of citrus and pink peppercorn essence. With its fresh and slightly peppery aroma, Eau d’Arles evokes the elegant atmosphere and gentle pleasures of life in a southern French town” It is a fair description that conveys my impression of it, especially the word “gentle”. I was smitten immediately.

Next under the microscope is L’Eau de Camargues (also an eau de parfum incidentally). It’s a woody masculine fragrance which speaks of quality and self confidence; it would suit someone who prizes his individuality. Eau de Camargue is the opposite of generic! Mysterious and surprising.  I am a vetiver fan and you can certainly detect the vetiver here although it’s nicely blended. The website says “Decidedly full-bodied and masculine, Eau de Camargue exhales all the aromas of a wild land. Amber, musk and vetiver give the fragrance its strength ; a hint freshness appeases it. The perfect balance for a perfume with a strong character.” Added bonus, this layers beautifully with the Eau d’Arles if you were to buy ‘his’ and ‘hers’ and wanted to experiment.

The third fragrance is a feminine and floral eau de cologne called Fortunette des Baux. I have yet to test it; mini review to follow in late spring.

The nose behind the three perfumes is top secret, the world of niche perfume is a tough one and full of intrigue. All I could gleam is that the nose is from Grasse and is a gifted young woman. No wonder Fabienne wants to keep her under wraps, she is very talented and is currently working on a fourth fragrance. The launch date is not yet set but I am told it’s a masculine eau de cologne that is “divine”! In light of the two beautiful fragrances I have tested, I can’t wait for more.

 

For more info:
La Parfumerie Arlésienne
26 rue de la liberté
13200 Arles
T: 04 90 97 02 07

 

Blog post written by:
Rebecca Amer
Founder and Perfume Consultant at Irridessence
Follow her Perfume Reviews and Notes on Facebook (New website coming soon!)
rebecca@irridessence.com

Behind The Design, Made In Provence

The Sold Out V2: Winter Luxe Provence Box

January 18, 2016
best subscription box luxe provence

For those of you who have yet to indulge in our Luxe Provence Box, we are pleased to share a little glimpse behind V2: Winter Escape To The Cote d’Azur Dolce Vita Style curation. This sold-out, limited edition parcel shipped to discerning clients around the world including: the USA, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore and more. This parcel was designed for indulgence and escape, inspired by the iconic Brigitte Bardot.

We were thrilled to work with both new emerging brands: Waiting For the Sun (now on the boutique, hurry they are going quick) and Concept Provence, as well as, the historical Dolce-Vita Provencale brand, Souleiado, this season. And to top it off, we included the most indulgent luxury chocolates we could find from our favorite brand, zChocolat.com. Clients were able to take a moment to escape and be completely pampered again this season.

We pride ourselves on creating quality, luxury collections and were pleased to include an exciting product collaboration designed locally and crafted just for our Luxe Provence clients.

Each season, we enjoy sharing the story behind our curations. Here’s what was inside our V:2 Winter Escape Luxe Provence Box this Sold Out Season:

souleiado

 

A Souleiado Silk Scarf (69 euro value)

A variety of colors and prints were sourced, to offer our clients a stunning range of patterns. These gorgeous 100% silk scarves are from one of Provence’s most historical luxury textile brands, Souleiado. The brand was first established in 1806 and embodies the spirit the South being an original producer of “les indiennes” patterned fabrics, established well before Dolce & Gabbana, and Galliano. The Souleiado style draws its inspiration from the soul and history of Provence and the Camargue region, incorporating sun, colors and heat; smells, summer, and vacation. Patterns are inspired by nearby Arles’ colorful feria season, the Mediterranean sea, and the spirit of dance.

• 100% Silk.
• 60cm x 60 cm.
• Retail value of 69 euros.
• Variety of colors and Provence patterns from Gingham loved by Brigitte, to the famous “les indiennes” patterns

luxe-provence-sunglasses-wfts

 

Featured Luxe Product Collaboration (140 euro value)

“Brigitte” is the inspiration behind the exclusive product collaboration created for Luxe Provence clients. Handcrafted in France using natural materials, W / SÜN (Waiting for the Sun) Brigitte wood sunglasses lend a vintage look with a modern French twist on the ski slopes, or basking in the warm Provencal sun. They are a dream to wear, both lightweight yet sturdy. The Carl Zeiss 100% UV lenses are crisp and incredible bringing a warm glow to your view. Now you can escape to the sunny Mediterranean coast “a la Brigitte” this winter, wherever you may be. You’ll be a trendsetter sporting these wood frames from the W / SÜN  brand, which are guaranteed to be very sought after in the year ahead.

sunglasses-wfts

 

  • Natural wood sunglasses, handcrafted in France.
  • Carl Zeiss 100% UV lenses, Index 3.
  • Incredibly light-weight, yet sturdy
  • Flattering to a variety of face shapes
  • A 149 euro value alone!
  • Two color options shipped: Corso Naturel and Corso Black – buy yours today!

 

calisson-body-concept-provence-gift

 

Concept Provence Calisson Body Scrub (plus free Hand Cream gift for annual subscribers)

This Calisson body combo is lightly scented and highly moisturizing containing sweet almond oil and argan oil. Rosemary extract supports healthy collagen development to fight off skin-damaging free radicals. We found the sweet scent ideal for our holiday parcel, since the Calisson is the iconic almond dessert which is part of the Thirteen Desserts Tradition for Celebrating Christmas here in Provence.

Concept Provence is a new pure cosmetic and lifestyle brand based in Provence. Adorable couple, Jean-Paul and Renata Negroni, created this modern beauty and local lifestyle brand of products which are 100% origin of Provence featuring fragrances created in the famous Grasse region. We were proud to feature products free of parabens, EDTA, BHT PEG, are cruelty-free, and never tested on animals.

Each subscriber received one hand cream, while Annual Subscribers received the hand cream and body scrub combo as a bonus gift.

The Story of the Calisson of Provence

Legend has it, that the Calisson has been the patron sweet of Aix-en-Provence ever since it was created to celebrate the second marriage of King René to Princess Jeanne de Laval in 1454.

According to the story, Princess Jeanne, 22, was quite unhappy about her arranged marriage to the much older 45-year-old King. The Calisson was conceived by the King’s chef to cheer her up. It seems to have worked, since their union was a long and happy one. And ever since then, the Calisson’s classy almond shape and subtle taste have come to symbolize the city of Aix-en-Provence.

CM_1

zChocolat.com Traditional Assortment (35 euro value)

Pascal Caffet, World Champion Chocolatier, fashions up these incredible morsels, zealously following classic French artisan traditions: high cocoa content, 100% pure cocoa butter, low sugar, no alcohol or preservatives. Our favorites are the Signature Z, made from intense 70% Venezuela chocolate, caramel and praline, and, then of course #1 featuring a Taste of Provence with a hint of Provençale lavender bourbon-vanilla ganache and 62% dark Venezuelan chocolate! An escape in one decadent bite.

You can buy their wonderful chocolates on their online store (convenient for the US and international readers as well) and are offering a very special double chocolate Cyber Monday special, so if you liked these order up yours now! Traditional Assortments start at 37+ euros plus 15 euro shipping around the world.

 

The Boutique is Open and Now Shipping Worldwide

For those of you who missed this last season’s parcel, we have great news. You may now find previously sold-out items from past parcels and luxuries from our favorite Provence brand available for worldwide shipping in our boutique. But hurry, supplies are limited. (The Brigittes are currently in stock!)

 

Happy Holidays & A Luxe New Year

December 20, 2015

The holidays are nearly here, so we will be taking some time off to spend with family and just plain being merry! We’ve put together our dream luxe guide for a little inspiration on how to best ring in the New Year from the perfect venue to these stunning Dolce & Gabanna looks making the rounds on Instagram right now and, of course, our favorite holiday cocktail pick. Enjoy your “fetes” and we cannot wait to share more Luxe Provence living with you in 2016!

luxe provence event planning venues

1: Smokey Holiday Eye Make-up: inspiration via Alyce Paris.

2: Tempo Bracelet: 2 rows lambskin bracelet, made with Swarovski elements by Valerie Valentine; 90.00 €

3: Chateau de Moissac: our dream event venue offering the perfect classic Provence feel, classic architectural details yet with a modern, elegant touches. Imagine walking in and up these steps to your special celebration.

4: Gorgeous Swarovski Gold Leather Clutch: Vestiaire Collective ; 220€

5: The perfect New Year’s Eve drink, the French 75 Champagne Cocktail via Creative-Culinary.

Provence Travel, Taste of Provence

Truffle Season in Provence

December 18, 2015

In a little corner of paradise at Chateau Barbebelle, Rognes there lives a man called Alex who hunts for truffles every year. His humble, rustic house and gardens have been lovingly restored and made beautiful, right down to the gorgeous hand made tiles in his kitchen.

truffle-hunting-pig

The garden is dominated by a giant pig called Jeffrey. Jeffrey is six years old and his first five winters were spent sniffing out truffles and uncovering them with his snout. Jeffrey’s keen sense of smell can detect the slightest whiff of a truffle within several 100 meters of it’s presence. Truffles cannot be planted, and the ones at Alex’s place are completely wild. Rather they can be found just beneath the rich earth’s surface growing in the telltale “witches circle” around small, wild oak trees.  The truffle is born when the spore comes into contact with one of the hair-thin rootlets that fan out under an oak, sending out long, very thin filaments that then wrap around the root.

jeffrey-truffle-hunter

The truffle harvest varies from year to year. When truffles are scarce, which is the case this year, the price goes up even higher than normal. Jeffrey weighs in excess of 400 kilos and is sadly now too heavy to transport. His truffle hunting days are therefore over and so he will live out his retirement in peace, roaming around in piggie heaven.

Naturally with a harvest this valuable Alex had to find a replacement for Jeffrey and it has come in the form of his very bouncy and beautiful white dog. We were lucky enough to be invited along for a truffle hunting outing this week. The season is from now until February and we feel honored to be included in a  quintessentially rural french tradition.

After being inspired by Alex and Jeffrey’s passion for truffles, we thought we’d share some of the top truffle and gastronomic related events and tours happening over the holidays here in Provence.

The Grand Truffle Festival in Rognes (This Sunday, December 20th)

On December 20th the charming little village of Rognes will be celebrating truffles, with its Annual Fete de la Truffle featuring 125 stalls of various local produce and gastronomic delights, truffle tastings, vin chaude, music and animals for the children to pet. Starting at 11am.

madeline

Hunt Black Truffles in the Hills of the Lubéron

Madeleine Vedel, Traveling Fromagerie, (an American from New York and Michigan) along with her ex-husband Erick, a French chef from Arles, are offering their seasonal culinary and wine tours again near Avignon. Madeleine is returning to Provence for January and February, to lead three winter tours.

For one special week this winter, Madeleine Vedel, Chef Erick Vedel and Friends are delighted to invite you and your favorite people to her home in Avignon for a decadent week of the elusive and pungent black truffle, wine tasting at renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape wineries, hands-on preparation of foie gras, duck confit, along with exploring stunning hill towns and so much more. Take advantage of her holiday 10% off specials with more info here.

Taste new olive oils, sample glorious chocolates and enjoy glorious cheese plates over a warm fire gathered around this Provence kitchen.

Winter Decadence in Provence Tours
Truffles, Foie Gras, Châteaneuf-du-Pape, Chocolate
Dates: January 24-31
Website For More Details

For questions contact Madeleine at: madeleinevedel@gmail.com

Happy Holidays and truffle tasting everyone!

Joint post by Tarik Koivisto and Rebecca Amer with special thanks to Rebecca for introducing us to the lovely Alex and incredible Jeffrey.  

Gastronomy & Wine, Provence Travel, Taste of Provence

Holiday Events & Tours In Provence

December 17, 2015

Tis the season for holiday wine tastings, truffles, foie gras, duck confit, art and more. We are heading out this afternoon on our own local truffle hunt to kick off our holiday festivities, learn more here. In the meantime, here are a few interesting seasonal events for you and your family coming up at Château la Coste that you won’t want to miss!

chateau-la-coste

 

Château la Coste

Tasting Weekend – Saveurs de Noël: This Saturday December, 19th and Sunday 20th
Château la Coste invites you to discover the local terroirs products paired with their fabulous wines to awaken your senses.

chateau-la-coste-holidayTasting from 11am – 7pm
Free Admission

04 42 61 92 92
caveau@chateau-la-coste.com

Holiday Art & Gift Workshop for Children, Saturday 19th of December 

Children from 7 years and older will be creating and customizing a special gift to offer for Christmas.

Price 15€
Duration 2hours and half

10 am – 2pm
reservations@chateau-la-coste.com
Booking 04 42 61 92 92

 

Holiday Night Visit Saturday December 19th and Sunday  20th at 5:00pm

Come and discover the art works by Louise Bourgeois, Alexander Calder and Hiroshi Sugimoto lit up during a night guided tour.  Enjoy the magic of Wild Time Flowers by Tatsuo Myajima at nightfall and appreciate the resonance of Meditation Bell by Paul Matisse on a peaceful, winter night.

Price 5€

Duration 1 hour

For more info on bookings, art, wine and holiday events visit:

Château la Coste
2750 Route de la Cride
13610 Le Puy Ste Réparade
France

Provence Travel

Escape to Crillon Le Brave

December 4, 2015

I had the opportunity a few weeks ago, to visit one of the most dreamy luxe hotel venues in Provence complete with a guided tour. My mission was to uncover one of the most raved about gems in the region.

The Hotel Crillon Le Brave is quintessential Luxe Provence. The Relais and Chateau property has been constructed from several old stone village houses and properties, dating back to the 15th century. The beautifully restored hotel is discretely tucked into the village offering gorgeous perched views from a variety of angles of Mount Ventoux and the valley below.

crillon-le-brave-luxe-provence-hotel

The origins of the village of Crillon Le Brave, date back to Roman times when it was known as Crillonium. A long line of dukes ruled Crillon throughout the period leading up to the Revolution, but it drew its full name from the most legendary of its dukes, Le Brave Crillon (1541-1615). Crillon, was known as one of Henri IV’s fiercest generals during the wars of religion that swept through France in the late 16th century. The same Crillon family also gave its name to the famous Hôtel Crillon on Paris’s Place de la Concorde.

This quaint luxurious property has been updated with great care and offers authentic fine architectural details, peppered with the modern amenities. It won’t be difficult to properly unwind within the adult-only grounds. Take in sunset and your aperitif on the terrace with fire pit, or with a relaxed game of petanque overlooking the elegant pool area.

We were taken great care of by the lovely Lucy, who offered us a guided tour of the property and its spacious, well designed suites. We had a fabulous, lazy gastronomic lunch on the Crillon’s sunny terrace overlooking the undulating valley beneath us.

The hotel’s concierge works closely with many lovely local tour providers and Provence vineyards to offer its guests tailored seasonal activities from truffle and culinary tours, to guided bike adventures and wine tastings.

For locals or tourists alike, The Crillon Le Brave and the beautiful region offer instant relaxation, peace and authenticity. We appreciated finding such a charming, luxury hotel with an attentive staff that was as warm and inviting as its surroundings.

We will be going back soon to the area to visit some of the recommendations offered by Lucy, including the appealing Chateau Unang on our next visit.

Photograph credits and thanks to: Crillon Le Brave (hotel property) 

Blog Post by: Tarik Koivisto

 

Hotel Crillon le Brave
Place de l’Eglise Crillon le Brave 84410 France
Telephone: +33 (0)4 90 65 61 61
Website www.crillonlebrave.com