Relax In Our Chateau Located In The Middle of A Vineyard!
Learn How to Pair Food & Wine and Enjoy Delicious Meals with Wine Poured Right From The Source!
Join In On A Truffle Hunt…and Tasting!
Experience A Cooking Class In Our Chateau
Taste Some Of The Best Châteauneuf-Du-Pape Has To Offer
Visit Roussillon and Walk Along The Ochre Trail
Visit Beautiful Vineyards in Provence
Explore Spectacular Perched Villages Like Gordes
Date:
June 14, 2025 @ 4:00 pm –
June 23, 2025 @ 10:00 am
Start Location:
Avignon, France
Nearest Airport: MRS or you can use CDG to visit Paris
End Location:
Avignon, France
Nearest Airport: MRS or you can use CDG to visit Paris
Duration:
10 days / 9 nights
Price:
$5,750 per person, double occupancy$6,750 per person, single occupancy, limited availability
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June 14- June 23, 2025 click the itinerary tab for full day by day details). Those who have been fortunate enough to have travelled to Provence know that there is something magical about the combination of fields of lavender and sunflowers, a glass of cool rosé on a warm summer evening, markets full of gorgeous produce, delicious cheeses and local delicacies, and medieval towns with cobblestone streets so perfectly preserved that you expect a knight in shining armor to appear just around the bend. This is our Provence and we want to share it with you. The towns, the wineries, the food, cooking lessons, truffle hunting, the scenery that inspired Cezanne and Van Gogh- they all await you on our exclusive, small group, Provence Dreams tour. We hope you will join us this summer for an exclusive, small group private tour showcasing some of what we consider the Best of Provence. Cheers, Provence Dreams – The Best of Provence Tour
June 14 – 23, 2025 This Tour is Sold Out! Wait List ONLY !Wait List Me for the 2025 Provence Dreams Tour and/or Notify Me When The 2026 Tour is Available ! Here are some of the highlights
Our VIP accommodations start with a week in our chateau in a vineyard near the famous wine region of Chateauneuf-du-Pape followed by 2 nights in a 4-star boutique hotel in Avignon, the lovely “City of the Popes”.
We’ll dive right into the fabulous food experiences one expects in Provence with a gourmet welcome dinner with a private chef at our chateau. More delicious dinners will follow during our stay, as well as a cooking class (those who would rather relax than cook can still participate in the meal). Daily breakfasts and some fabulous lunches are also included, amongst these is a serious indulgence of local specialties from appetizer to cheese plate at one of our favorite restaurants!
In Avignon, we will explore the historic city and see the Popes Palace, the Pont d’Avignon and the famous Les Halles food market with an award winning local guide.
We’ve planned outings to some of our favorite perched villages and other charming towns in the surrounding areas. Our drives will bring us through the picturesque countryside and towns made famous by artists like Cezanne and Van Gogh. Whether you enjoy painting, photography, cooking or any art form, including admiring others’ works, you can’t help but be inspired by the beauty that will surround you.
 Seeing the lavender fields that Provence is famous for is a must experience. You will be surprised to find the myriad uses for the essential oils distilled from this product that has become one of the symbols of Provence.
 Any visitor to France must see at least a few of the towns classified as one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” (The Most Beautiful Villages in France). You will find those that are perched up on the top of the hillsides like Gordes and Le Baux de Provence are pretty incredible. Sometimes it is hard to decide which is a more amazing sight the view of the villages like this photo to the left, or the views from the villages over the surrounding countryside!
Imagine what it would be like if you could walk into and through some of the world’s most famous paintings. In the old, inactive chalk mines in Le Baux, you will be mesmerized by one of the world’s most beautiful multimedia art presentations – the Carrieres des Lumieres. Let’s just say that there is no way to describe this amazing, immersive presentation except to experience it in person, but once you go, you will be hooked.
 Foodies and dog lovers alike will love our unique truffle hunting experience. Truffles are one of the most expensive foods in the world and truffle hunters tend to be very secretive and territorial. We will learn how these “black diamonds” grow, the mystique behind them, meet the truffle dogs(not pigs!) and go on a truffle hunt. Afterwards we will have the opportunity to taste some of the amazing products created with truffles in our beautiful Provencal setting.
No trip to Provence would be complete without spending some time at one of the weekly markets and the famous weekend market in L’Isle sur la Sorgue is one of the most lively and colorful in Provence. From the Antiques and Bric a Brac (Isle sur la Sorgues boasts the second largest Antiques center in France after Paris) to the delicious local products such as cheese to charcuterie, or locally milled soaps to lavender sachets, you are sure to find the perfect souvenir of Provence as you stroll along the stands lining the streets and waterways.
And of course, we want to make sure you are never thirsty; so besides the wine, while this is not a beer-centric tour, we will make sure to have an opportunity to taste some local beers – you knew we’d search out some of those, right?
This 10 Day/9 night tour will start in our Chateau near Châteauneuf du Pape with transfers available from the Avignon TGV station and will finish in Avignon. Provence wine tour
All of this and more awaits you in Provence.
Won’t you join us on vacation in our happy place?
Early Booking Pricing
$5750 per person for Double Occupancy Room Wait List Me for the 2025 Provence Dreams Tour and/or Notify Me When The 2026 Tour is Available ! Space is very limited and room assignments will be based on a first come first serve basis.
Book Today and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime!
Please Email or Call Us at 1-888-846-2337 with any questions.
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Please Read our Terms & Conditions, then complete your Signature & Release Form before you travel. You will need to sign and then either mail or fax this page back to us at least 30 days prior to tour departure-thanks.
Our tour itineraries are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances such as inclement weather, transportation problems, or an unexpected business closure. We’re continually looking for ways to improve our tours and we sometimes come across a special new event, winery or sight since the itinerary was published that we’d like to share with you. Since our tours are planned far in advance, we may occasionally adjust the itinerary as necessary to provide you with the best trip possible! Since a minimum number of passengers are required in order to run each trip, we suggest you refrain from non-refundable air purchases until 2 months prior to your departure date or confirmation that the tour is a go.
Arrival day at our Chateau. After settling into our home for the next week, we will gather on the verandah to meet your fellow Provence Dreamers. We’ll have an opportunity to tour the wine cave at the chateau and enjoy a welcome drink.
Tonight, we’ll relax and chill out in the chateau as our private chef prepares a gourmet Provençal welcome dinner for us. We will accompany the dinner with wines from our chateau.
Dinner
Wait List Me for the 2025 Provence Dreams Tour and/or Notify Me When The 2026 Tour is Available !
This morning after breakfast in the Château we will head off to one of the best markets in Provence and maybe even in France! The Sunday market at L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, “The Venice of Provence”, has it all – a food market, “brocante”(flea market) and antique market all in one so you can buy everything from artisanal cheese to an antique wardrobe! Stroll along the streets lined with vendors and flower-filled riverside cafés. Check out the waterwheels, do some great people watching and take a peek into the local church. Taste your way along the vendors sampling tapanade, olive oil and cheese! When you have totally whet your appetite, find a waterside or garden café and relax with a cool glass of some local rose and a nice lunch. If you are looking for a reservation at somewhere a little out of the crowded market, then check out our app for suggestions. Some of the smaller restaurants fill up fast on market day, so make sure to reserve in advance.
Afterwards, since one cannot visit Provence without seeing some of the gorgeous lavender that paints the valleys in myriad shades of purple during mid-summer, we’ll head to nearby Coustellet to visit the Musée de Lavande (Lavender Museum) where we will learn about the different types and uses of lavender and see how it is processed, from growing to distillation. (Yes, of course we had to include something with distillation!)
Then we head to our Chateau, and this evening, you are invited to join us for “Ruth and Mike’s Favorite Provence Vacation Dinner”: a casual picnic al fresco, weather permitting, of local meats and cheeses, fresh bread, fruit, wine and beer.
Breakfast, Dinner
After we fuel up at breakfast this morning we’ll head to the stunning town of Roussillon, where the quarries which once supplied ochre for products such as dye and paints in fabulous hues from crimson to gold now stand like a mini Grand Canyon. We’ll descend into Les Sentiers des Ocres for a magnificent but easy walk through the dazzling red and yellow sand cliffs. (The short version is only ½ hour or you can opt for a longer trail of about 45min to an hour.) Afterwards, you will have free time to stroll around the town, explore the shops and galleries and climb to the top of the viewing area beside the church for a superb panoramic view. We’ll enjoy lunch here before heading on to visit a local winery that we discovered a few years back for a visit and tasting of their amazing rosés and other local styles.
Next, we will head to Gordes, stopping for photos of the breathtaking view of this popular village perched on the top of a steep hill. The narrow and sometimes arcaded medieval lanes invite you to explore and see what is around each corner of this charming village. Take some time to explore and then soak in the atmosphere over a cool drink on a shaded patio in one of the local restaurants.
We’ll head back via the route that will pass by the famous Abbaye de Senanque. If you have a guidebook for Provence, chances are, there is a picture of this gorgeous setting with lavender fields and the ancient abbaye on the cover or inside the book. We’ll make a quick stop to take our own photos before heading home.
This evening, dinner will be prepared by our private chef and paired with wines from the chateau.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we’re heading out a bit later than usual so you can indulge in a second croissant or maybe even sleep in a bit, why not? You are on vacation, after all!
Our plan today is to head into nearby Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a tasting of some of the best from this famous region.
Our first stop of the day is to Chateau la Nerthe for a visit of the cellars where wine lockers store wines for some of the most famous restaurants in the world! And of course, we will do a tasting of these wonderful wines!
Then we go to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, upon arrival, you’ll have some free time to wander around the town and see the ruins of the chateau before we enjoy a delicious lunch at a lovely, local restaurant.
Next, we head to another local winery, where we will have a workshop on wine and chocolate pairing!
Then it’s back to our Chateau, located just outside of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where you can relax by the pool or play Pétanque; you may have seen groups of French residents enjoying this relaxed game of boules in some of the village squares or park “boulodromes”; It is an institution in the South of France and is quite fun, especially while enjoying an aperitif or digestif! Tonight you’ll be having dinner on your own at the chateau.
Breakfast, Lunch
Put on your hunting togs today! After breakfast, we are off to do some truffle hunting! On our truffle hunting excursion, we will go behind the scenes of Provence’s most secretive business to learn how truffles are cultivated and truffle dogs are trained. We’ll go on a hunt for France’s elusive “black gold” with professional truffle hunters who will share the tricks of the trade with us. Finally, we’ll finish up with a sampling of fresh truffle hors d’oeuvres and Champagne, followed by a casual post-truffle lunch spread of cheese, paté, charcuterie, fruit, nuts, veggies, quiche, etc.
When our day at the Truffle farm winds down, we will head back to our Chateau to clean up and get dressed for what is going to be a one-of-a-kind dining experience, created specifically for Bon Beer Voyage, thanks to our Belgian connection! Now it is time for us to make the transition from wine makers/tourists to epicurean experts as we head to the Michelin-starred restaurant: La Mère Germaine, where we will be treated to a Multi-Course Wine vs Beer Paired Michelin Dinner!. This is a concept that we came up with Ruth met the chef, Christophe Hardiquest, during a visit with the local tourism board and learned that before he had the Michelin star in Provence, he had a 2 star Michelin restaurant in Brussels! Of course we immediately made the beer connection and knew that this was fate and happily, the chef agreed.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we will spoil your senses with amazing sights, tastes and experiences. We’ll start by touring the vestiges of Château des Baux, an 11th century fortress, perched high on a rocky outcropping. The views from up here seem endless, as if you are at the top of the world. If we are lucky, we may even be there during a demonstration of the giant catapult! Afterwards we’ll have some free time to explore the town which dates back to the 10th century.
Then we head to one of our favorite restaurants in Provence, Le Bistro du Paradou, which we “discovered” years ago, thanks to cookbook author and James Beard award recipient, Patricia Wells. Their plate du jour and amazing cheese selection will likely put you into a food coma, but if you can’t indulge while you are on vacation, then what’s the point?
Once we have finished our dessert, wine and cafes at Paradou, we will head back to Le Baux for the Carrières de Lumières. This extraordinary multimedia experience is held in the chalk quarries. Upon entering the cool caverns, we become surrounded by music accompanying images from the works of famous artists, which are projected larger than life onto all the surfaces of the rock, from ceiling to floor. It is a total immersion, as if you are walking into the paintings!
This evening, we will return to the Château where you might have some time to take a quick dip in the pool until it’s time for you to have dinner on your own. Taxi and local restaurant info can be found in your BBV app.
Breakfast, Lunch
Today is yours to spend as you please. Relax poolside with a good book and a glass of wine, join in on a pétanque match or perhaps a run through the vineyards to work off some of last nights dinner? E-bikes may be reserved in advance by those who want to explore the local surroundings. A short bike ride away (or a little bit longer by foot), the local sunflower fields are worth a visit.
Picnic makings and quiche are available in the chateau kitchen for a light lunch at your leisure. Today is informal and relaxed. It is your vacation do as little or as much as you choose!
This evening, those who are feeling inspired will join in on a cooking class and help prepare tonight’s fabulous dinner, the rest of the group is free to relax until dinner is served!
Breakfast, Dinner
We will spend today in one of Provence’s most magical cities. Vaison la 
Romaine. Vaison la Romaine is a unique and interesting town in that it is divided into 3 areas, each representing different time periods. The Roman ruins and the modern town are down in the valley; then, as you cross over a bridge from the 1st century AD, you will be led into the medieval town which winds its way up a rocky cliff.
We will start our visit today with a guided tour of the ruins and some time to explore the museum housed there. Then you are free to find a shady terrace in the lower area or head up to the medieval part of town for a casual lunch at a local café. As with many towns that are so picturesque and historic, there are a number of talented artists living here. We are happy to point you in the direction of some of their galleries before you head off to explore a bit on your own. The upper town is a wonderful place to wander, with cobblestone pathways and staircases that lead towards the ruins of a castle at the top of the hill. If you are feeling ambitious enough, you might decide to climb all the way to the top. But don’t worry if this is not your thing; wandering leisurely through the ancient town is magical in itself and will provide for some great photo ops.
We’ll head to Avignon late this afternoon to check into our 4 star hotel. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy exploring the papal city. In the app, you will find a list of some of the locally recommended delicious restaurants for dinner on your own this evening – bon appetite!
Breakfast
Today we will have breakfast at the hotel and then we are off to explore Avignon on a private walking tour with our local guide. As we wander through town we will see the Pope’s Palace- a UNESCO world heritage site, Saint Benezet bridge (the legendary Pont d’Avignon), The Jardin des Doms and more until we end up in Les Halles, the fabulous food market. After the tour, this is a great place to hang out, sniff and taste your way around, grab a few things and sit down for lunch. You are free the rest of the day to explore, grab some last minute souvenirs or relax as you please until dinner. We’ll meet up at the hotel this evening and take a short stroll to one of Avignon’s gastronomic restaurants where we will enjoy a leisurely and delicious farewell dinner, in true Provencal style. After dinner, you’re free to meander around town and walk off dinner or check out the magnificent view of the Pope’s Palace lit up at night.
Breakfast, Dinner
Time for a final breakfast at the hotel and you can check out of the hotel at your leisure anytime this prior to check out time. Depending on where you are going, take a taxi to your proper train station then on to wherever your travels will bring you.
Au revoir until next time!
Breakfast
Early Booking Prices
$5750 for Double Occupancy Room
$6750 for Single Occupancy Rooms
Wait List Me for the 2025 Provence Dreams Tour and/or Notify Me When The 2026 Tour is Available !
Such a great trip! Ruth and Mike thought of everything and I was able to just relax and enjoy my vacation as everything was taken care of. The Chateau was so awesome! Couldn’t have asked for more. Can’t wait to book my next tour with Bon Beer Voyage!!
Ruth and Mike’s knowledge of, and connections in the places we visit are what sets their tours apart. We also like the small group approach, as it makes it easy to get to know our fellow travelers. Dining experiences are first rate, as are accommodations. I also liked the fact that while this was a wine tasting tour, we had plenty of opportunities to sample local craft beer. With Ruth and Mike you will experience things you could never do on your own, or with a large group.
Likely the best vacation of our lives!
I was expecting a fun, interesting, well-planned, high quality tour and my expectations were not only met, but exceeded. Ruth and Mike share their knowledge of and love for this beautiful area of France and have created this most wonderful “Provence Dream” itinerary. For me, this is what living in Provence is all about – okay, well-to-do living. If you enjoy wine, great food, a beautiful room in a Chateau overlooking vineyards & lavender, day trips to unique hilltop villages, cooking class with a French chef and many other unique stops and experiences are all perfectly planned out for you. Truffle hunting was my favorite activity. Johann did a great job teaching us, he was charming & funny plus served up a spectacular truffle tasting. More champagne, anyone?
We enjoyed the variety of activities–from eating chef-prepared meals in our chateau and truffle-hunting in our small group to the more expansive visit to Carrieres du Lumieres. Most interesting, of course, were the tastings of wines in some exquisite settings in and near Chateauneuf-du-Pape, including at the chateau we stayed at.
As we strive to constantly improve our tours and come across a special new event or winery, we may occasionally adjust the itinerary as necessary to provide you with the best wine-cation experience possible.
Given that there is a minimum number of passengers required for each trip, we suggest you refrain from non-refundable transportation purchases until two months prior to your departure date or confirmation of tour.
Of course we could not bring you to Provence without plans for 