Page 176 - Cork & Tee Sample Program Flipbook, 2018

Day 4 – Thursday, June 14: On to Aix and Montagne Saint-Victoire with Catherine.
Following check out from Crillon le Brave, we’ll arrange a 1-hr private transfer to Villa Gallici
in Aix-en-Provence. We’ve arranged for you to spend a half-day with our lead driver/guide,
Catherine, with a focus on Montagne Sainte-Victoire, an icon of Provence and inspiration for
Cezanne. This area is perfect for a
driving tour (there is a route that
circles the mountain) and it is also an
exceptional area for walking or hiking.
There are paths peppered with dry
stone walls and you can stop to look at
several sites of religious heritage on
your rambles: the Sainte- Victoire
Priory, built in the 17th century, the
Saint-Ser Hermitage, a tiny chapel
surrounded by wonderful Provencal
scenery and built in a cave to preserve
the memory of a 5th century hermit
who sought refuge in this place, and
the Cross of Provence, perched on the western tip of the massif. From the Pic des Mouches, the
highest point, there is a spectacular view stretching out over Provence and the rolling plains of
the Aix Region as far as the eye can see. As well, there are picturesque small villages in the
area. Some highlights to consider are the following:
• Bibémus Quarries - the Carrières de Bibémus are old ochre sandstone quarries which
gave much inspiration to Cezanne. 1-hr tours are available of this site (availability is
infrequent).
• Jardin des 5 Sens - a peaceful, colorful and aromatic garden in Saint Marc Jaumegarde
• Villages such as Puyloubier, where you’ll be surrounded by the blue and gray rocky
landscapes of the Sainte-Victoire which Cézanne was so gifted at capturing on canvas,
and Vauvenargues. The Chateau de Vauvenargues is located on a site occupied since
Roman times and served as the seat of the Counts of Provence in the Middle Ages.
Picasso bought the chateau in 1958. He lived there for three years and is buried along
with his wife Jacqueline on the grounds. The property, which is closed to the public, is
still owned by his family
• Domaine de Saint Ser & Domaine Sainte Lucie - Pretty vineyards just below the rocky
face of the Sainte Victoire, stop off to try some fabulous rosés
• Moulin de Cezanne - an old mill has been converted into an art gallery

Proposed Accommodations for 2 nights: Villa Gallici, a luxurious, five-star Provencal gem
just minutes from the center of Aix-en-Provence. This boutique is one of the finest properties in
Provence.

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