‘Cucuron market day & lunch in Ansouis’

During our Provence road trip, we stayed in Lourmarin for three nights and we were recommended by our B&B owner to visit cucuron (only 4km away), because it was Tuesday, the town’s official market day. Ansouis and Cucuron stand as twin jewels, each offering a distinct yet harmonious slice of Provençal paradise.

Ansouis, graced by its medieval castle and winding streets, exudes a rustic charm that seamlessly blends with the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. Meanwhile, Cucuron enchants with its picturesque village square, ancient pond, and vibrant markets, creating a delightful blend of history and local vibrancy. Visiting Ansouis and Cucuron in tandem is a journey through time and tradition, where you can stroll through medieval alleys, savor local cuisine at charming cafes, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of these Provençal communities. The proximity of these two gems allows for a seamless exploration, offering a perfect pairing for travelers eager to experience the timeless allure of Provence through the distinct lenses of Ansouis and Cucuron.

Little did we know that cucuron is actually the same little village that was used in the movie “A good year” with Russell Crowe, during the date scene around the beautiful pool (called a bassin) when it starts to pour with rain. I absolutely love that movie especially because of the quintessential provincial beauty and it was quite surreal spending the morning in such a place. I remember admiring the perfectly manicured trees already in the movie, but in real life they were even more breathtaking reflecting against the water in the bassin. Cucuron is a member of the Most Beautiful Villages of France association and is easily explored in under an hour. If you are in Provence, make sure to find out what markets are going on in the different villages near you.

Cucuron, home to about 2000 villagers is a cute little village in the Vaucluse region on the south side of the Luberon mountains. We arrived at the market really early because we wanted to see other village as well. After some flaky croissants and a large frothy coffee in one of the little cafes around the basin, we walked the market and purchased a few goodies to take back home with us. My favourite purchase was the pistachio nougat that could cure anyone’s sweet tooth. This market would be the perfect place to shop for food if we were staying in a villa where we would be cooking ourselves. All the fresh baby vegetable and the smell of aged cheeses and little bars of soap that match the houses around the square. I love the Provence way of life, how all the locals carry a woven basket and shop for a lot of their weekly goods from places like these. These little towns do not support large supermarkets and cuisine in general, is held to a high standard.

Sleepy Cucuron is surrounded with vineyards and olive fields and is home to local farmers, artisans and shopkeepers that hold a strong sense of community for homemade produce. You will find a buzzing wine shop here (where we tried to import wine back home but the language barrier got the both of us) and a well-known Michelin star restaurant “La petit Maison de Cucuron”. The market area leads to the medieval style old town and the highest point leads to a castle, that dungeons only remain.

Ansouis

Nestled in the heart of the Luberon region in Provence, Ansouis is a captivating village that seems to have stepped out of a postcard. Anchored by its well-preserved medieval castle, which crowns the village with timeless elegance, Ansouis invites visitors to wander through its charming labyrinth of narrow streets and stone houses draped in ivy. The rustic beauty of this Provençal gem is complemented by vibrant flower-filled courtyards and panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. Ansouis effortlessly combines history and tranquility, creating a haven for those seeking an authentic taste of Provence, complete with local markets, artisanal shops, and a warm sense of community. This quaint village exudes an irresistible charm, making Ansouis an enchanting destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the idyllic allure of southern France.

After our morning stroll in Cucuron we headed to the town of Ansouis, where we had lunch reservations at La Closerie (with 1 Michelin star), also highly recommended by our B&B owner. Buzzing with locals, we loved that the restaurant was a less obvious choice from tourists tucked away in the hidden hills of Ansouis.

The cultural village of Menerbes

It is said that Menerbes comes from Minerva (Minerve in French), the Roman goddess of wisdom and a supporter of the arts. Fitting to it’s name, it is also village where Peter Mayle wrote his book “A Year in Provence” and its sequels and has attracted a number of artists and noblemen in the past giving it a cultural setting. Menerbes is also another little town with the “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” label that has heaps of charm and sophisticated beauty.

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Provence region, Ménerbes stands as a timeless testament to the allure of French beauty and charm. This enchanting village, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the Luberon Valley, exudes a captivating ambiance that beckons travelers from around the world. Renowned for its winding cobblestone streets, ancient stone houses adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, and a skyline dominated by a medieval church tower, Ménerbes effortlessly captures the essence of Provencal elegance. The vibrant colors of the local markets, the aroma of lavender wafting through the air, and the warm hospitality of its residents add an unparalleled richness to the experience. As you wander through this historic gem, it's easy to see why Ménerbes is not just a destination; it's an immersion into the timeless beauty of southern France, a place where history, culture, and natural splendor seamlessly converge, making it an unmissable stop on any traveler's journey. The Luberon region is filled with towns in close proximity and therefore you can easily combine visiting a few of them in one day. For example, visiting Oppede, Bonniuex, and Menerbes is a great combination. Keep in mind that market day is here on Thursday mornings, which we sadly missed.

The hilltop town is scatted with blue shutter windows that is sleepy in the mornings and comes to life closer to noon. It is less crowded than Roussillon and Gordes for instance, which makes it peaceful to stroll around and take in the feeling of the town. Stores, galleries and a few cafes start to trickle open as we walk around the main street. The pink bougainvillea, chic little boutiques and stunning stone buildings give that feeling of traditional Provence. The town is surrounded with vines and orchards with a fortification on top with a tower (La Citadelle) and castle (castle Le Castellet) on each end.

We had pre-booked lunch reservations in the town of Ansouis, but if you are looking for a place to eat in Menerbes, Maison de la Truffe et du Vin is apparently a darling spot. It is dedicated to fresh truffles when in season and it holds tastings with local wines. It is located in a beautiful garden with views of the valley all focused on truffle themed dishes.

Blog Post Title One

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Beautiful Gordes

You are welcomed to another sweet town with blue shutter windows, impressive cars, twisting cobbled pathways, iron chaired cafes and wicker basket holidayers taking a leisurely French-style stroll. Gordes, a town in the Luberon region, which I’m sure most of you have heard about, as it is often referred as the crown jewel of Provence. If any of you have watched one of favourite movies, “A Good Year”, many of the scenes have been filmed in this cosy town. Being such a picturesque place, Gordes was home to many artists including Marc Chagall and Victor Vasarely and today it is listed as “one of the most beautiful villages of France“.

When driving to Gordes, where Route de Cavaillon (D15) and Chemin de Gaumaud meet, you are welcomed by the façade of the perched hilltop town and this is the first spot you are destined to take a photo of the spilling village. Here you can spot the luxurious Bastide de Gordes and see the roads climb up the town that are all surrounded with olive groves and lush fields of wine.

Wandering through the little streets, it is much like any other provincial town that feels like a step back in time where everything is beautiful and well preserved. The town is filled with museums, restaurants, little shops and wandering people who have all come to admire the location. Market day is on Tuesday, if you are in the midst of planning your Provence itinerary. It is very quintessential where you can shop for straw baskets, lavender infused products and all things linen. We stopped for an espresso in the restaurant by the fountain, the same spot where the movie had its restaurant. Steeped in medieval heritage, this perched village boasts stone houses seamlessly integrated into the landscape, creating an architectural masterpiece that has earned it the distinction of being one of the "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France" (The Most Beautiful Villages of France). The castle and narrow cobblestone streets whisper tales of centuries gone by, inviting exploration of its rich past. Gordes not only enchants with its historical allure but also offers a cultural haven where local artisans showcase their crafts in bustling markets, and gastronomic delights celebrate the region's culinary heritage. Visitors are drawn to the panoramic views of the Luberon Valley, the warm hues of the sunset reflecting off limestone walls, and the inviting cafes lining the charming squares. Gordes, with its harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, is an irresistible invitation to experience the quintessential essence of Provence. For those seeking an authentic journey through time and tradition, Gordes stands as a testament to the enduring allure of this enchanting region.

From muted violets and mauve tones, this is the region where lavender fields come alive from June to August. Gordes is surrounded with blooming fields and if you are here in season, make sure to visit the Notre-Dame de Senanque that is a Cistercian abbey. Despite the fact that we missed the lavender season by a month as we visited in September, Gordes is a village worth exploring. During the day, we visited other little villages nearby such as Menerbes, Cucuron and Lourmarin as everything is close to each other.

Blog Post Title Two

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Charming Malaucéne

Malaucéne is a commune in the Vaucluse region in southern eastern France nestled at the foot of Mount Ventoux. The town has numerous horse riding and cycling trails to the mountain, which attracts many locals to spend leisurely weekends. When we entered the hotel, the first question from the manager was “ did we bring bicycles?”. Rich in natural heritage and history, the town has also a splendid gastronomic heritage. Ventoux wine, goat cheese, seasonal vegetables and fruits play a large role in the communes cooking.

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Mont Ventoux in the Provence region of France, Malaucène stands as a quaint and inviting gateway to the natural wonders and cultural richness of this picturesque area. This charming village, with its narrow cobblestone streets and ancient architecture, provides a serene escape for those seeking a blend of historical charm and breathtaking landscapes. Malaucène is not just a starting point for the renowned ascent of Mont Ventoux; it's a destination in itself, offering a delightful array of local markets, artisanal shops, and a warm Provencal ambiance. As you explore the heart of Malaucène, you'll discover a captivating blend of traditional French culture and the beauty of the surrounding countryside. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast eager to conquer Mont Ventoux or a traveler in search of authentic Provencal experiences, Malaucène promises an enchanting introduction to the soul-stirring allure of southern France.

My hubby and I stayed for two nights, we were actually drawn to the town because of the cute maison we stayed in, Le Pont de L’orme recommended to conde naste traveller. The maison was a few minutes walk from the old town that had a well-praised restaurant that we thoroughly enjoyed.

During the 14th century Pope Clement V enjoyed his summer residence in Malaucéne and today Saint Michel church remains as his imprint. The old town has an almost melancholic atmosphere with a blend of gothic and Romanesque style architecture with beautiful ancient fountains, religious markings and 16th century wash coloured houses to admire. On Wednesday it is market day in the town and many of the restaurants and shops exist on Cours Isnards. On our second night we enjoyed a Gorgonzola pizza before dinner as we saw so many people enjoying them from a little truck, smack centre in town.

During the summer the hotel front hangs with beautiful Wisteria, but we visited late September so we got to experience the first signs of fall with a few dropping leaves.

Blog Post Title Three

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Annecy, the Venice of the Alps

They say it is the Venice of the Alps

Welcome to the land of cheese… We drove up from Provence to Annecy that lays in the southern eastern French Alps for a few nights. It was change of scenery from pale Rosé, foie gras and escargot to mountain tips covered with snow, glistering lake views and comté cheese, the French version of Gruyére. Your eyes could see as far as Mont Blanc & I could see myself coming here during the cozy winter season.

Setteled against the shores of the pristine Lake Annecy, the "Pearl of the French Alps," Annecy, is a captivating blend of medieval charm, alpine allure, and picturesque landscapes. Renowned for its enchanting Old Town, traversed by winding canals adorned with pastel-hued buildings, Annecy exudes a fairytale ambiance that has earned it the moniker "Venice of the Alps." The iconic Palais de l'Isle, a medieval castle set on a triangular islet in the Thiou River, stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Annecy offers not only a stroll through cobblestone streets lined with quaint boutiques and cafes but also the opportunity to embrace the great outdoors with water activities on the crystal-clear lake and exploration of the nearby mountain trails. With its blend of historical allure, natural beauty, and alpine serenity, Annecy invites visitors to immerse themselves in a storybook setting, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a perfect fusion of culture and nature in the heart of the French Alps. The alpine medieval old town is surrounded with a picturesque lake complete with postcard houses and castles all tangled in between the canals. The canals give a slight Venice vibe, hence Annecy is often referred to as the Venice of the Alps. Our boutique hotel (Le Boutik Hotel) was right in the Vieille Ville, the old part of town. The thiou river spills out of the glacial lake into the canals of old town that are all lined with flowers along the bridges.

Driving from the vineyards of countryside Provence, this little chalet-style town seems almost like a piece of Switzerland. The gingerbread style houses, cobbled roads all lead up to little fondue and raclette restaurants, while the little turquoise canal runs through the centre of town. However, coming in from peaceful Provence, sadly, but understandably the old town was filled with tourists, that was a slight letdown. Nevertheless, you can avoid the crowds by frolicking bright and early in the morning and once you step away from the main streets, there is more calmness. Market day along the canals exists on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday, which draws in the crowds from neighbouring towns. Evidently locals loved to stroll along the lake or visit it via boat and spend time close to the water.

Naturally, the weather is unsure when surrounded with mountains, as they tend to collect all the clouds, so keep that in mind when visiting the Alps. We beat to the rainstorms by filling our bellies with amazing cheese infused treats. Unfortunately I did not have my camera with me over dinner (as it was dark already) but we ate the most glorious ½ kg of raclette that warmed on a cast iron oozing all over potatoes, pickles and cured meats. Restaurant Le Freti was absolute heaven I must say. I love how Annecy was filled with little cheese shops, elegant boutiques, hat and basket stores and countless patisseries. Enjoy tea at Philippe Rigollot Patisserie, an ice cream at glacier des alps (notice the long queue) and enjoy raclette at restaurant chez Mamie Lise or Le Freti. Buy freshly ground coffee beans from a family owned roaster of three generations since 1959, called Brand cafés & Thés.

Blog Post Title Four

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.