
Essentially French Small Group Tours
Sept 2025
25th - 30th - Available
Price is 3,600 euros Per Person - double occupancy
Embark on an unforgettable Market focused all-inclusive tour fully hosted by Susan and Brendan at their historic 13th-century maison in Provence. This exceptional package includes seamless private transportation, charming accommodation, wine with meals, entry fees to all attractions and most meals, (with select exceptions).
This is a flexible Itinerary - Final itineraries and details will be emailed to guests closer to tour dates.
Day 1: Thursday - Arrival in Mazan
Morning/Afternoon:
Arrival at Avignon TGV Station: Your journey begins as you are greeted at the Avignon TGV station and driven to your charming home in Mazan, a picturesque village in the heart of Provence. We pick-up from Avignon TGV between 11.00 am and 2.00pm. Guests can make their own arrangements if they prefer.
Check-In and Orientation: On the first evening of our small group tours, guests are warmly welcomed into our spacious home. After settling into your suite, guests gather in the salon for aperitifs and dinner. This relaxed setting allows everyone to become acquainted whilst savouring the ambience of our historic residence. Our home boasts a rich history, having once housed a Papal family and served as a sanctuary for the Knights Templar.
Evening:
Welcome Dinner: Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner in the Salon, savouring Provençal cuisine.
Relax at Home: Unwind and soak in the peaceful surroundings of your home.
Day 2: Friday - Hilltop Villages - Gordes &Roussillon
Morning:
Gordes and Roussillon: Start your day with a visit to Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in France, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Luberon Valley. Explore its narrow cobblestone streets, visit the 11th century chateau and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Afternoon: We next travel to the stunning village of Roussillon. This village is know for its striking red ochre cliffs and colourful buildings. Experience an incredible lunch with a view before exploring the village, visit the former ochre quarries and admire the unique architecture.
Return to Mazan for aperitifs before choosing to dine at one of the many restaurants in our village.
Day 3: Saturday - Exploring the Brocante Markets – Pernes-les-Fontaines & Villeneuve-lès-Avignon
Morning:
Pernes-les-Fontaines Brocante Market: Start your day with a visit to the charming Provençal town of Pernes-les-Fontaines, renowned for its antique and brocante market. Stroll through the picturesque streets lined with fountains, discovering unique vintage finds, collectibles, and artisan treasures. Whether you're searching for classic French furniture, delicate porcelain, rustic kitchenware, or vintage linens, this market is a haven for antique lovers.
Take time to chat with local vendors, soak in the village’s history, and enjoy a café au lait at a quaint terrace café.
Villeneuve-lès-Avignon Brocante & Lunch: We continue our journey to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, home to one of the most famous antique and brocante markets in Provence. Held every Saturday, this bustling market attracts collectors and dealers from across France. Browse an exquisite selection of vintage books, crystalware, artwork, silverware, and period furniture, all set against the backdrop of this historic town.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can relax and discuss your unique finds over a delicious Provençal meal with local wine.
Evening:
Return to Mazan & Leisurely Evening:
After a fulfilling day of treasure hunting, return to Mazan for a relaxed evening. Enjoy aperitifs in the salon before choosing to dine at one of the charming restaurants in the village (walking distance).
Day 4: Sunday - Visiting Isle-sur-la-Sorgue & Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
Morning:
Today we visit two stunning villages on the Sorgue river, L’lsle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. Spend the morning exploring the picturesque town of L’lsle-sur-la-Sorgue, famous for its antique markets and canals. Browse through the numerous antique shops, visit the bustling market (Sunday is market day), and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterside restaurant (including beer and wine).
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, we drive to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a charming village nestled at the foot of limestone cliffs, 230m tall. Take a stroll along the Sorgue River, visit the Petrarch Museum, the Paper Mill, (still producing high quality rag paper using traditional techniques dating from the 15th century), and walk up to the viewpoint overlooking the village and natural spring.
Evening:
Return to Mazan: Enjoy aperitifs in the salon before choosing to dine at one of the charming restaurants in the village (walking distance).
Day5: Monday - Discovering Avignon
Morning:
Drive to Avignon: Embark on a day trip to Avignon, a city rich in history and culture.
Visit Palais des Papes: Explore the Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. Enjoy a relaxing lunch in the beautiful square Place de l’Horloge.
Afternoon:
Scenic Train Ride: Board the charming mini tourist train for a 45-minute guided ride through the historic center of Avignon. As we weave through the ancient streets, take in breathtaking views of the Palais des Papes, Place de l’Horloge, and the medieval ramparts that have stood for centuries. The train provides a delightful introduction to the city’s rich history and architectural beauty, setting the stage for our next stop.
Leisure Time to Explore & Shop:
The afternoon is yours to stroll the charming streets of Avignon at your own pace. Wander through bustling squares, browse elegant boutiques, or explore local Provençal markets filled with lavender, artisanal soaps, and regional delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely café stop in Place de l’Horloge, where you can soak up the lively atmosphere, or seek out a hidden gem in the city’s many independent shops and galleries.Evening:
Farewell Dinner: Celebrate your final evening with a special farewell dinner at a renowned local restaurant in Mazan. Enjoy a multi-course meal featuring gourmet Provencal dishes, paired with exceptional local wines. Toast to new friends and unforgettable memories.
Day 6: Tuesday - Departure Day
Morning:
Departure from Mazan: Depart our home in Mazan as Brendan takes you back to Avignon TGV Station between 11.00 am and 2.00pm.
Farewell: Bid farewell to Provence as you board your train or make your own way for your next adventure.
This itinerary provides a delightful focus on the brocante markets, rich mix of historical exploration, visits to stunning hilltop villages, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Provence.