Lavender Dreams & Mediterranean Breezes with Raphie
Girl's Trip: A 7-Day Provencal Adventure with Raphaela from @OverpackedSuitcase
Dates
June 24, 2024 (arrival in MRS- Marseille-Provence Airport) - July 1, 2024
Physical Activity
4 out of 5
Group Size
6 Travelers, plus Raphie and driver/translator
Location
Provence and French Riviera
Overview
Join us on an unforgettable girls trip through Provence's stunning landscapes, dotted with vineyards and lavender fields, where you'll experience the beauty of France like never before! You will visit some of the most picturesque locations in the country, including a wine tasting in a Provençal Chateau who's history dates back to 200 BC, venture into the heart of Gordes, where narrow, winding streets lined with centuries-old stone houses await you and a private boat tour through the crystal blue Mediterranean sea to the world famous Calanques.
Tour Includes
🌼Airport meet and greet, along with pick- up and drop-off 🌼7 Nights in Handpicked Accommodations with Double Occupancy Rooms 🌼Daily Breakfast 🌼 5 Lunches 🌼 7 Epicurean Dinners 🌼 2 Wine tastings 🌼1 E-bike Ride 🌼Embark on a private boat tour of famous Calanques National Park 🌼1 Provençal vineyard picnic 🌼Tour guide & Translator 🌼Private 9 passenger van
Trip Highlights
Discover the captivating charm of Gordes, a picturesque hilltop village nestled amidst the enchanting landscapes of Provence Journey through Provençal lavender fields taking photos and learning its rich history Savor a Provençal vineyard picnic paired with fine wine Learn the art of winemaking in 2 different regions - Provence and Cotes du Rhone Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Atmosphere of Provençal Farmer's Market Delight your senses with a Provence olive oil-tasting experience Hands-on photography and video assistance throughout the tour to capture your trip highlights
Meet Raphie
Tour Leader
Raphaela of Overpacked Suitcase
Hello, my name is Raphaela, but my friends call me Raphie and I'm otherwise known as Overpacked Suitcase on Instagram.
I’m a London-based Travel and Lifestyle blogger and creative.
I'm half Bulgarian, quarter Italian, and quarter Slovenian (phew, that's always a mouthful). I grew up in Sydney, Australia, and moved to Sofia, Bulgaria. I completed my University degree in the United Kingdom and then moved back to Australia, only to move back to the United Kingdom.
I love to document my adventures from around the world through my photos and blog posts. I have a passion for traveling and creating unique content and I love to share feel-good thoughts, motivational captions, and travel tips. If I can inspire people to travel, seek adventure, and feel happy and motivated - my purpose is fulfilled.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 - June 24, 2024
Welcome to France, get settled in and get ready for an incredible week!
Airport Transfer from Marseille-Provence (MRS) to a Provence hotel in our Private 9-passenger van.
Dinner - Group welcome dinner at a restaurant that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the enchanting Provence landscape!
*Travelers must arrive by noon (12pm) June 24, 2023 to Marseille-Provence (MRS).
Day 2 - June 25, 2024
Visit #1 - (optional) Early risers can seize the opportunity for a magical lavender field photoshoot at the crack of dawn, capturing the beauty of the lavender blooms in the soft morning light. Return to hotel for breakfast.
Visit # 2 - In the town market, stroll through the colorful stalls brimming with local produce, artisan crafts, and fragrant lavender products, before heading to Dieulefit for lunch.
Visit #3 - Embark on a guided tour of the local olive oil producer, where you'll gain insight into the ancient art of olive oil production followed by a tasting session, where you can savor the rich, fruity notes of extra virgin olive oil and sample exquisite local wines
Meals
Breakfast at the Hotel is included. Lunch in Dieulefit at a restaurant with a cozy ambiance and a menu that changes daily based on seasonal and regional ingredients, so you're sure to have a unique and delicious meal. Dinner at a Nyon restaurant with an inviting atmosphere, with a focus on traditional Provençal cuisine like roasted lamb or house-grown tomatoes with burrata!
Day 3 - June 26, 2024
Visit #1 - Relish the beauty of Valreas' lavender fields, where the purple blooms glisten in the early light, creating a picturesque scene perfect for lavender field photos!
Visit # 2 - Grignan surrounded by fields of lavender, it's the perfect destination for those seeking the iconic Provencal experience. The village's tiny streets and squares, adorned with colorful shutters, flower-filled window boxes, and artistic touches, are a photographer's paradise!
Visit # 3 - Indulge in an enchanting Rhone wine experience followed by a picnic amidst the lush vineyards.
Visit # 4 - Bollène is a hidden gem waiting to be explored with a history that dates back to Roman times. The highlight of Bollène is its stunning medieval castle, the Château de Bollène!
Meals
Breakfast at the Hotel is included. Lunch is a picnic set amidst the sprawling vineyards, with an enticing spread of charcuteries, local cheeses, and fruits paired with the freshest, crusty bread from the local bakery, and of course, Wine! For dinner traditional French fare escargot, smoked salmon, coq au vin, and an extensive dessert menu!
Day 4 - June 27, 2024
#1 Visit -Your first stop is the iconic Senanque Abbey, known for its stunning lavender fields. Take in the serene beauty of this historical abbey, surrounded by lavender in bloom.
#2 Visit - Arrive in the enchanting village of Gordes, perched high on a hill with panoramic views of the Luberon landscape, while exploring L’Eglise Saint Fermin to Le Chateau du Gordes.
#3 Visit - Head to the charming village of Roussillon, famous for its vibrant ochre cliffs and quaint streets.
#4 Visit Le Sentier des Ocres (Ochre Trail) in Roussillon, an enchanting natural wonder with stunning red and yellow ochre formations.
Meals
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Lunch at a restaurant in Gordes known for its stuffed tomatoes, courgette salad, and cucumber soup. Dinner at a restaurant known for its carpaccio, mixed grill, and panna cotta.
Day 5 - June 28, 2024
Travel day, we'll be journeying from Provence to the French Riviera!
Visit #1 - Arrive at the picturesque Chateau de Berne, a renowned winery nestled in the rolling hills of Provence. Following a short pause for capturing photographs of this stunning château, we'll be enjoying Provençal cuisine paired with the estate's finest wines, creating a truly memorable gastronomic experience. Next, join the winemakers as they lead you into the cellars for a wine-tasting experience.
Visit #2 - Bandol's seaside night market offers a vibrant array of local crafts and artisanal products. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture and bring home some unique souvenirs.
Meals
Breakfast at the hotel is included. Lunch at one of Chateau de Berne's exclusive restaurants. Dinner in Bandol at a restaurant where the chef draws his creativity from sourcing fresh regional produce, poultry, goat's cheese, seasonal vegetables and fruits.
Day 6 - June 29, 2024
Visit #1 - Private boat tour of the famous Calanques, dive into the crystal-clear waters, soak up the sun on deck, and grab a snorkel to explore the Mediterranean!
Visit #2 - Hop on electric bikes for a journey through the Provencal vineyards with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and adorable French villages that line our path.
Meal
Breakfast is included at the hotel. Lunch is included we'll have a quick bite between our boat and bike tour. Dinner included at a restaurant where seafood is the star of the menu.
Day 7 - June 30, 2024
#1 Visit - Enjoy a leisurely morning stroll through the cobblestone streets of Grimaud. Explore its medieval architecture and take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
#2 Visit - St. Tropez, your afternoon is yours to explore this iconic coastal town at your leisure. Choose your own adventure: bask in the Mediterranean sun on one of its glamorous beaches, stroll along the harbor, discover the town's vibrant streets with high-end boutiques and charming cafés.
Meal
Breakfast is included at the hotel. Lunch is on your own. Dinner is included at an ocean-side venue, the best spot for a farewell dinner!
Day 8 - July 1, 2024
Early morning airport transfer to Marseille-Provence airport.
The end of an incredible journey, but it's only the beginning of the treasured moments you'll carry with you. Until we meet again, safe travels and à la prochaine!
Meal
Breakfast at the hotel is included.
France is calling your name
Discover Provence and the French Riviera with Raphie and Allez Abroad! Take advantage of our EXTENDED offer and embark on an unforgettable journey. Get ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Provence, indulge in fresh Provencal and Mediterranean local cuisine, and create memories and friends that will last a lifetime. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity!