Provence will linger with you for years after you leave. From the scent of herbs to the vibrant local markets, and the golden sunsets that make the streets glow. While three days may not sound long enough, with the right plan, you can soak up the culture, history, and traditions of Provence, from it’s irresistible food to spectacular hillside villages, and treasured local secrets that most visitors miss. At Cooking Classes in Provence we have put together a guide to help you spend 3 perfect days in Provence.
Day 1 – Markets, Liquid Gold, and Hilltop Villages
Start your Provençal experience early at one of the regions vibrant and colourful fresh produce markets. Whether you are staying in Aix-en-Provence or Saint-Remy, you will find a market with stalls overflowing with local, seasonal, and fresh produce and products. Wandering through the market and selecting ingredients is a cultural ritual, deciding the meal for the day, based on the season and availability. It also offers an opportunity to talk to local farmers and producers, learning about their products.
After an early morning wander through the produce market, you will want to experience the liquid gold in the region. Provence calls olive oil liquid gold. There are numerous olive mills in the area, where you can explore the olive groves, tasting a variety of olive oils, including lavender-infused and honey-infused olive oils, ideal with tapenade or fresh bread.
As the day starts to wind down, make your way to one of the regions iconic villages, such as Gordes or Roussillon. Here you can wander the narrow cobblestoned streets lined with stone houses, as the sun starts to dip behind the hills. You can find a bistro or cafe where you can try some local dishes for dinner before making your way back to your hotel.
Day 2 – Wines and Hidden Corners
Start your day in Provence’s hidden corners, a character-filled village that is often overlooked by visitors, such as Cucuron or Seguret. These villages offer shaded squares, stone fountains, and quiet charm. Stop for breakfast at one of the cafés, enjoying fresh, local breakfasts to fuel you for the morning.
After breakfast, immerse yourself in the local wine culture. There are numerous family-run wineries in the region, offering guided wine tastings, where you can try a variety of the regions famous rose wines, along with a choice of rich reds and aromatic whites.
In the afternoon, consider heading to Cassis, where you can stroll through the boutique stores, enjoy a glass of wine at a local cafe, and enjoy an evening meal as the sun sets.
Day 3 – A Private Cooking Class
The third day of your Provençal holiday can be spent learning a new skill, while learning how to create your favourite Provençal dish. Private Provençal cooking classes are a rewarding way to connect with the local food culture. It’s best to start your class early, which often includes a guided tour of the local produce market to select your ingredients for your chosen dishes.
Classes are held in your holiday home kitchen or a private kitchen workshop in Provence. Once you return to the kitchen, you enjoy a hands-on experience, learning how to prepare some of your favourite Provençal classics. At the end of the class, you can sit together and enjoy chef to table service as you savour your selected dishes, pairing them with your favourite wines you purchased during your wine tours yesterday.
Cooking Classes in Provence offer an unforgettable experience, a chance to wind down your three perfect days in Provence beautifully.
Conclusion
When you have three sun-drenched days in Provence, you can discover a blend of landscapes, flavours, and aromas. Provence offers a chance to feel, taste, and savour every moment. Call Cooking Classes in Provence today to book your Provençal cooking class and make your holiday experience one to remember.
