Nice Fresh Air Of The Southern French Alps & Provence

Welcome at Nice airport and transfer to your hotel.

Dinner on your own. We recommend the restaurant “le Panier”. Le Panier, near Cours Saleya, offers a unique dining experience in four distinct ambiances, including the newly added Myanmar room. Reservations are recommended. Chef Aurélien Martin’s highlights include gravlax trout, sea bream fillet, and venison filet mignon. The attentive service provides detailed explanations for each dish, and the wine list features natural and biodynamic selections. We book for you.

MERIDIEN HOTEL 4**** (Deluxe room).

Le Méridien Nice, situated on the iconic “Promenade des Anglais”, offers unparalleled views of the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. This luxurious hotel seamlessly blends contemporary style with Provençal charm, featuring spacious and elegantly appointed rooms equipped with modern amenities. Guests are invited to relax in the rooftop pool, which provides panoramic vistas of the city and sea, or rejuvenate in the state-of-the-art wellness center. The hotel boasts several gourmet dining options, including the renowned Albert 1er restaurant, where patrons can savor exquisite cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views. Ideally located near Nice’s major attractions, cultural sites, and shopping areas, Le Méridien Nice serves as the perfect base for both leisure and business travelers. The exceptional service, combined with the stunning setting, ensures a memorable and refined experience for all guests.

Breakfast.

Accompanied by your guide, start the day with a visit to the Cours Saleya market, a vibrant and colorful open-air market offering a wide variety of fresh produce, flowers, and local specialties. Stroll through the aisles and indulge in the scents and flavors of Provence.

Next, delve into the history of Old Nice by walking through its picturesque streets lined with pastel-colored buildings. Admire the charming architecture and soak in the lively atmosphere of this historic district.

Lunch on your own. We recommend the restaurant “chez Davia”.  This charming establishment has been run by the same family since 1953. Initially imagined by Davia, the grandmother, it was taken over in 1985 by Alda, the mother, who is now retired. Since 2016, it’s been Pierre Altobelli, the third generation, who, after an impressive career in Michelin-starred restaurants in France and Asia, prepares delicious Niçoise recipes. Everything here is carefully curated, with products chosen with great attention. Enjoy these dishes in a delightful retro bistro setting, preserved in its original state. An absolute favorite. We book for you.

Continue your cultural exploration by visiting the Matisse Museum, which houses an impressive collection of works by Henri Matisse. This museum is located in a magnificent 17th-century villa and provides an ideal setting to admire the work of this master of modern art, a major 20th-century artist.

Then, climb up to Castle Hill to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Nice and the Mediterranean Sea. Also explore the historic ruins of the old fortress overlooking the city.

End your day with a visit to the Saint Nicholas Cathedral, a gem of neoclassical architecture. Admire the cathedral’s sumptuous interior and discover its rich historical heritage.

Transfer to the hotel. 

For dinner we recommend the restaurant “Peixes Bonaparte”. Between Place Garibaldi and Old Nice, the little brother of Peixes Opéra also boasts a large terrace, highly popular during the warmer months! The winning formula is well-known: a variety of seafood dishes (fish, tataki, sashimi, acras, oysters) and ceviche specialties. The contemporary bistro setting, with its marine blue and white decor, evokes Portugal and Greece. Behind the counter, a mixologist crafts cocktails. We book for you.

Overnight at the hotel Palais Saleya.

Breakfast.

Departure Grasse, the French capital of perfumery.

After a guided walk through the old town with its Italian and Provençal atmosphere, we will head to the Fragonard perfumery for a 1.5-hour workshop where everyone will create their own perfume with the guidance of a master perfumer. At the end of this workshop, you will leave with your creation in a personalized 100ml elegant bottle.

This service includes a guided tour of the “La Fabrique des Fleurs” factory. The tour invites you to discover the key stages of perfume making, supported by the most modern production tools. The visit to the packaging workshops allows you to witness the transformation of fragrant products from the factory into refined products ready to be marketed to enthusiasts. In addition to the production lines, it houses the laboratory where raw materials are mixed after analysis to obtain the concentrates of future perfumes.

Lunch on your own in Grasse. We recommend “la Bastide Saint Antoine”. This 17th-century country house, with its terrace overlooking the countryside and a majestic olive grove, is owned by Jacques Chibois—one of the leading figures in “cuisine du soleil.” Here, you can savor dishes that celebrate an array of citrus fruits, herbs, olive oil, and other regional specialties. We book for you.

Depart to discover the Verdon Gorges, nicknamed the “Grand Canyon” of Europe, a natural wonder and the deepest gorges in Europe. These impressive gorges carved by the Verdon River offer breathtaking landscapes, with towering cliffs plunging into turquoise waters. You can also observe vultures and the Golden Eagle.

From June 15 to July 15, pass through the lavender fields of the Valensole plateau to admire these incredible and fragrant landscapes.

Continue to Forcalquier for dinner and overnight at a charming Provençal hotel. 

BASTIDE SAINT-GEORGES HOTEL 4**** (twin luxe). Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Provence region, the Bastide Saint-Georges Hotel in Forcalquier is a haven of peace and charm, perfect for those seeking an authentic and refined stay. Surrounded by lush gardens and offering breathtaking views of the rolling landscapes, this boutique hotel combines Provençal elegance with modern comfort. With tastefully decorated rooms and suites, wellness facilities, and an outdoor pool, Bastide Saint-Georges promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re here to explore local markets, perched villages, or simply relax, you’ll be captivated by the warm hospitality and enchanting setting of this exceptional establishment.

Breakfast.

Visit the charming small town of Forcalquier, once the capital of an independent county in the Middle Ages. It is a historic town located in the heart of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, famous for its medieval streets and stone houses.

Departure for the Alps along the “Napoleon Route,” a historic and picturesque route that follows the path taken by Napoleon Bonaparte during his return from exile on the island of Elba in 1815, stretching from Golfe-Juan to Grenoble through the magnificent Alpine and Provençal landscapes.

Continue towards the Alps and discover the Serre-Ponçon Lake and its dam, which is the largest earth dam in Europe.

Arrive in Barcelonnette for a Lunch on your own. We recommend the restaurant Bocaccino. We book for you.

Explore Barcelonnette. Founded in 1231 by Raymond Berenger V, Count of Provence, Barcelonnette is a charming town located in the Ubaye Valley, in the heart of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. Its unique history is marked by the “Barcelonnettes,” inhabitants who went to Mexico in

the 19th century and returned wealthy, leaving an architectural imprint with their sumptuous Mexican villas. Visit the old town center and some “Mexican” houses from outside.

Continue towards Saint-Véran, considered the highest inhabited village in Europe.

Dinner and overnight at the hotel.

ALTA PEYRA HOTEL 4**** (superior room). Hotel Alta Peyra, located in the charming village of Saint-Véran, is a luxurious establishment nestled at an altitude of 2,040 meters in the French Alps. This hotel combines modern comfort with mountain charm, featuring elegantly decorated rooms offering spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.

The rooms and suites are tastefully decorated, incorporating local materials like wood and stone to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The hotel offers several dining options that highlight local products and regional flavors, ranging from fine dining to a traditional bistro.

The hotel’s spa, with an indoor pool, sauna, hammam, and jacuzzi, provides various treatments and massages for optimal relaxation.

Breakfast.

We begin the day by exploring the 12th century fortress of Château-Queyras. This impressive fortification, perched on a rocky spur, offers an insight into the military history of the region as well as breathtaking views of the Queyras Regional Natural Park.

Next, head to the traditional cheese dairy of Château-Queyras. Take a guided tour to discover the secrets of making the famous Queyras cheeses, such as Bleu du Queyras or Tomme de Montagne. Watch the production process and enjoy a cheese tasting accompanied by fresh bread and local wine.

Lunch at a local restaurant.

Return to Saint-Véran in the afternoon to visit the village and its restored old farms.

Stop at the Soum Museum to learn more about traditional life and customs in the Queyras. The museum offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s architecture, costumes, and ancient trades.

Take a short hike in the mountains starting from the village.

Return to the hotel for a Dinner on your own and overnight stay.

Breakfast.

Depart towards Arvieux, passing through the spectacular landscapes of the Queyras. Stop to admire the views of the Izoard pass, famous for its lunar landscapes, unique rock formations, and as a legendary stage of the Tour de France cycling race.

Lunch on your own in Briançon. We recommend the restaurant “au plaisir Ambré ». In the heart of the famous Cité Vauban, this former butcher’s shop remains dedicated to quality products. Freshness is the chef’s motto, a skilled cook who knows how to bring out the best flavors. An example? This “Grandma’s recipe” chicken liver cake or this 8-hour slow-cooked mountain pork belly with shiitake mushrooms and Dauphine potatoes… Did someone say pleasure? We book for you.

Visit the Vauban Citadel of Briançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the cobbled streets and visit the fortifications designed by Vauban. Discover the collegiate church of Notre-Dame and Saint-Nicolas, as well as the many charming shops and cafes. The ambiance feels very Italian, which is not surprising as Italy is only 15 km away.

Departure towards your hotel in Château-Arnoux in Provence. Dinner at the hotel.

LA BONNE ETAPE HOTEL 4**** (superior room). Hotel La Bonne Étape, nestled in the charming village of Château Arnoux in Provence, offers a delightful blend of luxury, tradition, and gourmet experiences. This historic hotel, part of the Relais & Châteaux collection, provides an idyllic retreat for those seeking relaxation and refined hospitality.

The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms and suites, each uniquely styled to reflect the Provencal charm. With a focus on comfort and sophistication, the rooms offer modern amenities and picturesque views of the surrounding gardens and mountains.

La Bonne Étape is renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings. The Michelin-starred restaurant, led by Chef Jany Gleize, serves exquisite dishes inspired by local ingredients and traditional Provencal cuisine. Guests can also enjoy a more casual dining experience at the bistro, which offers a variety of regional specialties.

Guests can unwind in the hotel’s beautiful gardens, take a dip in the outdoor pool, or enjoy a relaxing massage. The serene environment and attentive service ensure a peaceful and rejuvenating stay.

Departure to visit Aix-en-Provence, founded in 122 BC by the Romans as “Aquae Sextiae” (water of Sextius), is a city rich in history and culture. Known for its picturesque streets, elegant 17th and 18th-century mansions, and thermal springs, it offers a blend of historical charm and modern wellness.

We explore the Cours Mirabeau, Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, and the legacy of painter Paul Cézanne through his studio and the Granet Museum. The city’s vibrant cultural life includes the annual International Festival of Lyric Art and numerous year-round festivals, exhibitions, and markets.

Aix-en-Provence provides an unforgettable experience with its museums, art galleries, stylish boutiques, and Provençal markets. Enjoy local delicacies like calissons and explore the beautiful surrounding countryside, all while soaking in the city’s unique blend of history and culture.

Lunch on your own during the visit. We recommend the restaurant “Licandro – le Bistro”. A small family-run business led by Felipe Licandro, a chef who has worked in prestigious establishments across France, accompanied by his wife Julie in the dining room. At lunchtime, they offer well-executed market cuisine, while in the evening, guests can enjoy a more extensive selection, maintaining a bistro-style and traditional spirit. We book for you. 

Continue to Nice in the mid-afternoon.

Farewell dinner at the restaurant “Racines*”. Chef Bruno Cirino and his trusted right-hand man, José Vidal, serve a unique, great-value menu in this small restaurant, featuring only organic or sustainably grown fruits and vegetables from the region. Their garden-to-table cuisine uses produce harvested at optimal ripeness, cooked with skill to highlight the unique flavors of the Côte d’Azur, especially garlic, olive oil, and basil. Delight in dishes like a coal fish soup with red spring onions and basil, violet artichoke with cheese emulsion and grilled Ligurian spiny artichoke, a root vegetable terrine inspired by “César Baldaccini,” and oven-baked apple with burnt barley ice cream. All this is complemented by fine wines at attractive prices, served with a smile.

Overnight at the Méridien hotel.

Breakfast.

Free time in Nice depending on your flight schedule, transfer to the airport.

Day 1 : Nice

Day 2 : Nice

Day 3 : Nice – Grasse – Forcalquier

Day 4 : Forcalquier – Barcelonnette – Saint-Véran

Day 5 : Saint-Véran – Région du Queyras – Saint-Véran

Day 6 : Saint-Véran – Briançon – Château Arnoux

Day 7 : Château Arnoux – Aix-en-Provence – Nice

Day 8 : Nice