Day 1   Nice

This morning we drive from Nice along the Corniche to Monaco. On the way we see the stunning Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in St Jean Cap Ferrat. We explore this beautiful French Riviera Palazzo, its nine wonderful gardens and Baroness Ephrussi de Rothschild’s impressive art collection, which has transformed the villa into a collector’s paradise. We then continue our journey to the exclusive Monaco, the second smallest country in the world, which has been ruled by the same famous dynasty for 700 years. This glamorous principality is truly the playground of the rich and famous. Made up of seven areas, the most recognisable region is Monte Carlo, known for its dazzling harbour and entertainment, where you might spot the odd celebrity relaxing on one of the super yachts moored here. And of course the town hosts what is perhaps the most famous Formula One Grand Prix of all, and it is possible to travel along the same roads which make up its circuit (including the infamous tunnel). Why not visit the famous Casino, indulge in some shopping or relax with a glass of wine. This afternoon our drive back to Nice, the spectacular centre of the French Riviera, takes us past villages such as the ancient fortified Eze, perched high on the hilltops. (D)

Day 2   Cap d'Antibes

Our first visit today is to the beautiful village of St Paul de Vence, famous for its herbs and perfumes and picturesque narrow streets. We explore the many boutiques lining the alleyways and the artists’ galleries, surrounded all the while by the aroma of “herbes de Provence”. We stop for lunch in the neighbouring town of Vence, and you might want to visit Matisse’s Rosaire Chapel, a sacred art monument which he conceived from 1948-1951 (limited opening). This town has preserved much of its historical heritage and enjoys a unique micro-climate. It is sure to captivate you as we wander its ancient cobbled streets and alleyways, admiring the 11^th century cathedral of St Véran with its mosaic by Marc Chagall, and Chagall’s chapel. Tonight’s accommodation will be in the charming coastal region near Cap d’Antibes.

Day 3   Cap d’Antibes

Today we spend some time in Cannes, the star of the Riviera famous for its film festival, glitzy hotels, shopping, beaches and old port – this is a place to be seen! The sheer number of exotic sports cars, designer labels and yachts will astonish you. The city is easy to explore and, centred around the old port, it is quite compact. Walk down the famous "Croisette", the boulevard and beach that extends around the bay, or down the Rue d'Antibes, the main street running through the city. Enjoy a delicious lunch before our leisurely exploration of the scenic coast and a drive through the narrow and hilly interior roads towards the breath-taking summit at Pic de l’Ours. (B)

Day 4   Aix-en-Provence

We commence our journey today with a drive along the rugged coastline, taking in the most spectacular scenery of the Côte d’Azur, the quintessential Mediterranean playground. We travel down the real back roads discovering sights and experiences otherwise missed from the main highway and avoid the less attractive tourist traps. This afternoon we arrive in the historical and cultural town of Aix-en-Provence, where Cézanne once lived. We spend time here discovering its evocative architecture as we walk through its streets, concentrating on the old part of the town where most of the city’s highlights can be found, including The Saint Sauveur Cathedral (legend says it is built on the site of a temple of Apollo) and the site of the former Roman town, where the ruins of the old medieval ramparts can be seen. If time permits we will also explore the 17^th century Mazarin Quarter, once home to the city’s aristocrats and great for a stroll, and the Arbaud Museum is well worth visiting. (B,D)

Day 5   Aix-en-Provence

Today we relax in the yellow-stoned town of Aix-en-Provence. A walking tour takes us in the footsteps of Cezanne, passing hot thermal springs, the Pavillon de Vendôme and the Musée des Tapisseries (tapestry museum), finally reaching Paul Cézanne’s studio. The studio is almost as he left it in the 1900s, albeit heavily restored, and whilst there are none of his works on display, there are still many items of interest to view.  This afternoon relax and enjoy the town at your own pace. There is much to absorb in this charming city including its many museums, the Old City, the thermal baths or perhaps you would rather watch the world go by in the shade of the trees lining the Cours Mirebeau. (B)

Day 6   Avignon

Heading further inland we follow the Durance River to Avignon, meandering through the spectacular vineyards en route (perhaps we’ll stop here for a taste). We pass through Ménerbes, the village immortalised by Peter Mayles in A Year in Provence. However, our highlight today is the 14th century walled city of Avignon, once home to the Catholic popes. The presence of the Church transformed the appearance of the old medieval city and the Palais des Papes dominates the old historic centre. Another must-see is, of course, the St Bénézet Bridge, subject of the well-know tune “Sur le pont d’Avignon”! (B,D)

Day 7   Avignon

Whilst meandering through the vineyards of the Côtes-du-Rhône, one of the best wine producing regions in France, we visit two of the most spectacularly preserved achievements of the Roman Empire, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the aqueduct of the Pont-du-Gard, and the Roman theatre of Orange. Our classical day will end with a visit to one of the famous wine caves for a tasting before returning to Avignon. (B)

Day 8    Arles

Today we turn south to the Camargue area, Western Europe’s largest river delta and one of France’s most important areas of natural history. It lies on the coast between the Languedoc-Roussillon and Provence and boasts an exceptional biological diversity, as well as being home to unique breeds of horses and bulls, and to more than 400 species of bird including pink flamingos. Our first stop is the fortified village of Aigues-Mortes (Latin for “dead waters”). It was created in the middle of nowhere by St Louis, who set out for the Crusades from here. Then on to Van Gogh’s Arles, which dates back to the 7^th Century B.C and which was once a major Gallo-Roman city.  Its narrow winding streets remain as testament to its historic past. This city has enamoured many famous artists including Van Gogh, who stayed here fourteen months and produced 200 pieces of art, and it also inspired paintings and drawings by Picasso. (B,D)

Day 9   Arles

This morning enjoy the local sights as we walk through the narrow streets of Arles, seeing scenes painted by Van Gogh himself. The local market is not to be missed and the Roman Amphitheatre, once seating 21,000, is one of the largest and most complete ancient monuments of its kind, rivalling those of Rome itself. The afternoon can be spent at leisure, and there are interesting shops selling regional goods and souvenirs. Alternatively why not sit at a pavement café and sip a glass or two of the local wine. (B)

Day 10    Arles

Heading into the “Little Alps”, we explore the Huguenot stronghold of Les Baux-de-Provence. Situated on a rocky precipice in the heart of Alpilles, the town rewards us with a view of “half of Provence” down over Arles and the Camargue. It has been painstakingly restored and now boasts over 22 historical listed buildings, including its medieval castle and the Romanesque and Renaissance Saint Vincent's Church, with beautiful stained-glass windows by Max Ingrand. We take time to visit the town itself and marvel how it appears almost carved out of the very rock of the hilltop. Admire more of the spectacular scenery of the region as we pass through St Rémi de Provence on our way back to Arles for tonight’s evening meal. (B,D)

Day 11      Nice

As we return to Nice, we pay a brief visit to Marseille and its old port, known as the gateway to the Orient and Africa. A stark contrast to the sleepy villages in Provence, this city is bustling and a melting pot of different cultures. We travel the Corniche, the scenic road along the coast, and travel along the Côte d’Azur, passing through more famous towns and traditional villages sitting beside the sea, on our way back to Nice. (B)