Past 2013 trip: Flavors of Provence

April 13 - 21, 2013
Pricing: From $3,995 per person

Join the Alumni Association of Case Western University on a nine-day exploration of Provence from April 13-21, 2013, soaking in its beautiful painted landscapes. Learn the secrets of Provencal cuisine from experts, including a two Michelin starred chef, and gain an insider’s perspective on the region’s history and culture.

During private lessons and demonstrations, learn tricks, techniques, and culinary philosophies in the kitchen of Michelin-rated chef, Edouard Loubet. Foray to a small farm to learn about chèvre from a cheese maker, join locals to peruse markets in Aix-en-Provence and Lourmarin, and taste wines of the Côte du Rhône. Visit historic gems: the most picturesque perched villages, an abbey where lavender essence is made, Avignon’s Palace of the Popes, and places from the lives and works of Van Gogh and Cezanne.

Set in the heart of Provence above the perched village of Bonnieux, our enchanting Relais & Châteaux property will cast its spell and create a luxurious base for our adventures. Each day will unfold from here, with hands-on cooking lessons, visits to local markets, exclusive private tastings, and visits to the area’s most picturesque villages and historic sites.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Depart U.S.

Day 2: Arrive Marseille, France (D) La Bastide de Capelongue

Day 3: Bonnieux (B,L,D)
Cooking classes: creating la cuisine Provençale

Day 4: Avignon / Châteauneuf du Pape (B,D)
Palais de Papes, Pont du Gard, wine tasting

Day 5: Luberon (B,L,D)
Cooking class, chevre cheese, wines of the Luberon

Day 6: Les Baux / Arles (B,L)
Medieval defenses, haunts of Van Gogh

Day 7: Lourmarin / Gordes / Roussillon (B,L)
Chef’s tour in Lourmarin, perched villages, Abbey of Senanque

Day 8: Aix-en-Provence (B,D)
Markets of Aix, Cezanne’s studio, a special farewell

Day 9: Depart Marseille (B)

Optional Extension: Paris

Please contact the Alumni Travel office at 1-800-886-9895 or via email at alumnitravel@case.edu for more details.