Tour
Romantic roadtrip in the Vallée de la Gastronomie 🍷🥰
Routes : Lyon 2e Arrondissement > Beaune > Cluny > Tournon-sur-Rhône > Grignan > Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade > Aix-en-Provence > Martigues
Tour duration
7 days, 6 nights
TravelBy car
Starting from Lyon, enjoy a gourmet getaway for two in the Vallée de la Gastronomie. 🍴🍷 Follow the guide on a romantic road trip to discover the flavors of this region, from Burgundy to Provence, passing through the Rhône Valley. Along the way, take in the scenery and charming villages while tasting regional specialties. THE perfect trip to enjoy quality (and romantic) time with your other half.
23 steps distributed over 7 days
Day 1
Lyon 2e Arrondissement > Beaune
Start
Welcome in Lyon
Take advantage of your stopover in the capital of Gastronomy to begin your tour of the Vallée de la Gastronomie. It's also the perfect opportunity to rent a car and head off in the direction of Burgundy's gourmet delights.
Details
1 h 46 min By car
161 km
Step 1
La Table de Pauline
The Domaine Charles, located in the heart of the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune, in NANTOUX, cultivates 14 hectares of vines, including 10 hectares in the Hautes-Côtes de Beaune and 4 hectares in Volnay, Pommard, Meursault and Beaune.
The estate was passed on to Pascal and his daughters Pauline and Marie, François' son and granddaughter, and gave birth to Charles Père & Fille. Together, they offer new wines such as Chablis, Mâcon, Gevrey Chambertin and Nuits-Saint-Georges. Pauline, wanting people to taste their wines in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, created
"La Table de Pauline".
You will be offered several options with different house wines to taste. These wines will be accompanied by a traditional Burgundian menu prepared by a regional caterer.
Pauline will be on hand throughout your meal to introduce you to the estate's wines and our beautiful region, and to guide you in your choices.
For prices, opening times and dates, please contact the service provider directly.
Details
The estate was passed on to Pascal and his daughters Pauline and Marie, François' son and granddaughter, and gave birth to Charles Père & Fille. Together, they offer new wines such as Chablis, Mâcon, Gevrey Chambertin and Nuits-Saint-Georges. Pauline, wanting people to taste their wines in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, created
"La Table de Pauline".
You will be offered several options with different house wines to taste. These wines will be accompanied by a traditional Burgundian menu prepared by a regional caterer.
Pauline will be on hand throughout your meal to introduce you to the estate's wines and our beautiful region, and to guide you in your choices.
For prices, opening times and dates, please contact the service provider directly.
5 min By car
4.6 km
Step 2
A peek behind-the-scenes of the grape harvester profession at the Château de Pommard
Château de Pommard is ideally located just a few kilometres from Beaune, in the heart of Burgundy. Our tastings have been specifically designed to enhance your knowledge of the world of wine while awakening your senses.
Château de Pommard offers a variety of tastings.
We are open every day from 10am to 6pm.
Details
Château de Pommard offers a variety of tastings.
We are open every day from 10am to 6pm.
7 min By car
4.6 km
Overnight stay 3
Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa • Beaune
Right in the heart of Beaune, opposite the ramparts and just a stone's throw from the famous Hospices, Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa Beaune***** opens the doors to the French art of living, a charming blend of elegance, well-being and gourmet experiences.
Nestling in a verdant garden, the establishment offers 40 personalised rooms and suites, a gourmet restaurant Clos du Cèdre, awarded a Michelin star, a lounge bar with fireplace and a Nuxe Spa set in a magnificent vaulted cellar.
With the Authentic Hotel & Cruises, Vignobles et Découvertes and Clef Verte labels, Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa is the ideal place to discover Burgundy's cultural and oenological heritage during a leisure or business stay.
For more information, please contact the hotel directly.
Details
Nestling in a verdant garden, the establishment offers 40 personalised rooms and suites, a gourmet restaurant Clos du Cèdre, awarded a Michelin star, a lounge bar with fireplace and a Nuxe Spa set in a magnificent vaulted cellar.
With the Authentic Hotel & Cruises, Vignobles et Découvertes and Clef Verte labels, Hostellerie Cèdre & Spa is the ideal place to discover Burgundy's cultural and oenological heritage during a leisure or business stay.
For more information, please contact the hotel directly.
1 h 25 min By car
109 km
Day 2
Beaune > Cluny
Step 4
Maison Doucet
Leave the main roads and plunge into the Charolais region, the surroundings will amaze you. The Hotel de la Poste and its outbuilding, the Villa Kiwis, located on the riverside with a wonderful garden, offer sophisticated and fully equipped rooms and suites. The property invites you to taste the pleasure of its cuisine, full of flavour, colour and freshness, prepared by the Chef, Frédéric Doucet, still at the stove, who has been awarded one star in the Michelin guide since 2012.
Details
35 min By car
40 km
Overnight stay 5
Hostellerie d'Héloïse
Located in Cluny, 1 km from the abbey and the Romanesque town centre, the Hostellerie d'Héloïse offers 12 fully renovated rooms for 1 to 4 people, all with LCD TV, telephone, hairdryer and private bathroom.
A buffet breakfast completes our offer.
There is also a bicycle and motorbike storage room.
Last but not least, our gourmet restaurant and lounge bar invite you to spend a pleasant moment with us and discover a refined and generous cuisine using seasonal produce.
L'Hostellerie d'Héloïse is an ideal base for exploring the many hiking trails, cycle paths (Voie Verte), vineyards of the Mâconnais and visits to the Clunisois region.
Details
A buffet breakfast completes our offer.
There is also a bicycle and motorbike storage room.
Last but not least, our gourmet restaurant and lounge bar invite you to spend a pleasant moment with us and discover a refined and generous cuisine using seasonal produce.
L'Hostellerie d'Héloïse is an ideal base for exploring the many hiking trails, cycle paths (Voie Verte), vineyards of the Mâconnais and visits to the Clunisois region.
2 h 03 min By car
174 km
Day 3
Cluny > Tournon-sur-Rhône
Step 6
Wine tours on an electric bike
The wine expert will tell you all about the different terroirs in the Hermitage region. Your guide can even provide transport for your children in a cargo bike.
After the tour, you have the possibility to put into practice what you have learnt by staying for lunch on-site. You will be served a simple meal of regional products and 6 different wines to taste (price: €50 per person including the bike ride through the vineyard).
Details
After the tour, you have the possibility to put into practice what you have learnt by staying for lunch on-site. You will be served a simple meal of regional products and 6 different wines to taste (price: €50 per person including the bike ride through the vineyard).
3 min By car
1.9 km
Step 7
Le Cerisier
Meet the charming couple behind Le Cerisier who cook with 4 hands and offer gourmet cuisine using fresh, local and seasonal produce. Fine wine list from the Rhône Valley, Burgundy and other regions with around 850 references.
Details
2 min By car
872 m
Overnight stay 8
Hotel de la Villeon
L'Hôtel de la Villeon**** is a private property dating from the 18th Century, located in Tournon-sur-Rhône, 50mn south of Lyon, nestling beyond the vineyards of Saint-Joseph allowing spectacular views on the Hermitage hills from our garden terraces. Here one can live many lives through the History of the mansion, the rich natural environment and the very specific attentive care extended to each request: 16 rooms, among which 4 suites, meeting and incentives rooms, one bar, «Le Gabriel». All year around, guests can have an alternative choice and enjoy a human scale restauration offer inside the hotel, sitting in the gardens or inside one of the public lounges of the mansion – the delicious interior patio or the spectacular garden terraces propose a glamour environment for a moment of flavourish tasting.
While one will enjoy a drink from the bar «Le Gabriel», the «Snacking Menu» proposes a variety of products all made by local producers both from Ardèche and Drôme: Picodons AOP, fresh cheeses, hams, pates from Salaisons Marion (selected by the brand "Goûter l'Ardèche"), soups, salty tarts and salads, etc… Here we discover a rich and wonderful panel of flavors and textures - accessible to the non-resident clientele (upon reservation). Rates from €8 to €16.
This luxury hotel has become the incarnation of French Art de Vivre and of a high end approach for Wine Tourism in the Rhône Valley. A promise of a subtle blend of tradition and modernity – an enchantment of each moment in the heart of a splendid decor...
(Hôtel de la Villeon**** reminds that the abuse of alcohol is dangerous for health)
Details
While one will enjoy a drink from the bar «Le Gabriel», the «Snacking Menu» proposes a variety of products all made by local producers both from Ardèche and Drôme: Picodons AOP, fresh cheeses, hams, pates from Salaisons Marion (selected by the brand "Goûter l'Ardèche"), soups, salty tarts and salads, etc… Here we discover a rich and wonderful panel of flavors and textures - accessible to the non-resident clientele (upon reservation). Rates from €8 to €16.
This luxury hotel has become the incarnation of French Art de Vivre and of a high end approach for Wine Tourism in the Rhône Valley. A promise of a subtle blend of tradition and modernity – an enchantment of each moment in the heart of a splendid decor...
(Hôtel de la Villeon**** reminds that the abuse of alcohol is dangerous for health)
1 h 08 min By car
77 km
Day 4
Tournon-sur-Rhône > Grignan
Step 9
Sumptuous picnic surrounded by lavender - L'Essentiel de Lavande
A refreshing change of scenery guaranteed! Come and venture off the beaten track as a family, with friends or as a couple, and treat yourselves to a getaway at the estate. From €17 per person.
Our favourite? The luxurious premium version for a relaxing experience as a couple. You'll be tasting truffles and champagne, with a breath-taking view of the Drôme Provençale hills.
Details
Our favourite? The luxurious premium version for a relaxing experience as a couple. You'll be tasting truffles and champagne, with a breath-taking view of the Drôme Provençale hills.
25 min By car
21 km
Step 10
Bistro Chapouton
Le Clair de la Plume, the hidden jewel of Provence, comprises five different sites in the historical village of Grignan. As they approach the village, guests will find the Ferme Chapouton, the newest hotel offering a beautiful view of the castle and exceptional dining. With its old tile floor, fireplace and patio, the bistro restaurant fuses modernity and tradition and offers outstanding food at moderate prices (featured “Bib Gourmand” by Michelin). Other welcome features include the vaulted ceiling of the spacious lounge where breakfast is served and an original stone staircase leading to any of the nine rooms available. Guests can also dive into the heated pool hidden located behind the former rabbit house. The large and bright conference room (formerly the sheep stable) has room for up to 50 persons.
A short walk away is our second location: the private house. A noble stone staircase leads to the 19th-century rooms and suites where guests will find a shaded and cool respite on hot summer days. A few more steps bring you to the Historical House, opposite one of the most beautiful period washing basins of Provence. In the conservatory or in the dining room, the hotel’s gastronomic restaurant (1* Michelin) offers a delectable cuisine, built around the freshest local produce. Spend the sweet afternoon hours on the patio, under the arbour or in the lounge, sipping a tea or enjoying cold refreshments. A generous breakfast buffet is served in the period kitchen where you can still hear the old clock ticking and chiming. The scent of natural wax and lavender lead to the ancient engravings of the timeless rooms on the upper floors where cozy comfort and modern service meet tradition and heritage. Here as everywhere, there are books to read.
In summer, a stroll through the Mediterranean garden is a must. There, guests will find a collection of aromatic plants, a natural swimming pool and an outdoor restaurant. Guests will also discover a beehive by the organic pond, rare rose bushes and small orchard of apple and pear trees. In the midst of this unique garden, the “lovers’ pavilion” offers unique accommodations for couples who want to experience a romantic night. Pull up a chaise longue and fall asleep in front of the village crowned with its castle... or dream next to lush fields of lavender.
A few cobbled streets away, on the village square, the shop sells delicacies, scents and traditions of Provence so guests can take with them a souvenir from their experience, and share with their loved ones the Clair de la Plume.
Details
A short walk away is our second location: the private house. A noble stone staircase leads to the 19th-century rooms and suites where guests will find a shaded and cool respite on hot summer days. A few more steps bring you to the Historical House, opposite one of the most beautiful period washing basins of Provence. In the conservatory or in the dining room, the hotel’s gastronomic restaurant (1* Michelin) offers a delectable cuisine, built around the freshest local produce. Spend the sweet afternoon hours on the patio, under the arbour or in the lounge, sipping a tea or enjoying cold refreshments. A generous breakfast buffet is served in the period kitchen where you can still hear the old clock ticking and chiming. The scent of natural wax and lavender lead to the ancient engravings of the timeless rooms on the upper floors where cozy comfort and modern service meet tradition and heritage. Here as everywhere, there are books to read.
In summer, a stroll through the Mediterranean garden is a must. There, guests will find a collection of aromatic plants, a natural swimming pool and an outdoor restaurant. Guests will also discover a beehive by the organic pond, rare rose bushes and small orchard of apple and pear trees. In the midst of this unique garden, the “lovers’ pavilion” offers unique accommodations for couples who want to experience a romantic night. Pull up a chaise longue and fall asleep in front of the village crowned with its castle... or dream next to lush fields of lavender.
A few cobbled streets away, on the village square, the shop sells delicacies, scents and traditions of Provence so guests can take with them a souvenir from their experience, and share with their loved ones the Clair de la Plume.
< 1 min By car
627 m
Step 11
Château de Grignan
In the heart of the Drome, part of Provence, built on a rocky hill, the chateau of Grignan dominates the landscape. An example of the Renaissance architecture and French classic style, the building has had an eventful story.
A fortified castle mentioned as early as the 11th century, it was transformed into a luxury residence by the Adhemar family at the Renaissance. In the 17th century, the Marquise of Sévigné visits her daughter Françoise-Marguerite, who had become countess of Grignan after her marriage. The letters of the marquise to her daughter will make her famous and contribute to the reputation of the chateau. Dismantled during the French revolution, then rebuilt in the 20th century by Marie Fontaine, it has been the property of the Drome Department since 1979, who has been leading ambitious renovation and acquisitions projects.
Listed as an Heritage Site in 1993 and with a Musée de France label, the chateau of Grignan offers a journey through the art of living in different centuries. The chateau organises every summer the theatrical Night Festival and hosts different cultural events all year long.
Details
A fortified castle mentioned as early as the 11th century, it was transformed into a luxury residence by the Adhemar family at the Renaissance. In the 17th century, the Marquise of Sévigné visits her daughter Françoise-Marguerite, who had become countess of Grignan after her marriage. The letters of the marquise to her daughter will make her famous and contribute to the reputation of the chateau. Dismantled during the French revolution, then rebuilt in the 20th century by Marie Fontaine, it has been the property of the Drome Department since 1979, who has been leading ambitious renovation and acquisitions projects.
Listed as an Heritage Site in 1993 and with a Musée de France label, the chateau of Grignan offers a journey through the art of living in different centuries. The chateau organises every summer the theatrical Night Festival and hosts different cultural events all year long.
1 min By car
722 m
Overnight stay 12
Hôtel Le Clair de la Plume
Le Clair de la Plume, the hidden jewel of Provence, comprises five different sites in the historical village of Grignan. As they approach the village, guests will find the Ferme Chapouton, the newest hotel offering a beautiful view of the castle and exceptional dining. With its old tile floor, fireplace and patio, the bistro restaurant fuses modernity and tradition and offers outstanding food at moderate prices (featured “Bib Gourmand” by Michelin). Other welcome features include the vaulted ceiling of the spacious lounge where breakfast is served and an original stone staircase leading to any of the nine rooms available. Guests can also dive into the heated pool hidden located behind the former rabbit house. The large and bright conference room (formerly the sheep stable) has room for up to 50 persons.
A short walk away is our second location: the private house. A noble stone staircase leads to the 19th-century rooms and suites where guests will find a shaded and cool respite on hot summer days. A few more steps bring you to the Historical House, opposite one of the most beautiful period washing basins of Provence. In the conservatory or in the dining room, the hotel’s gastronomic restaurant (1* Michelin) offers a delectable cuisine, built around the freshest local produce. Spend the sweet afternoon hours on the patio, under the arbour or in the lounge, sipping a tea or enjoying cold refreshments. A generous breakfast buffet is served in the period kitchen where you can still hear the old clock ticking and chiming. The scent of natural wax and lavender lead to the ancient engravings of the timeless rooms on the upper floors where cozy comfort and modern service meet tradition and heritage. Here as everywhere, there are books to read.
In summer, a stroll through the Mediterranean garden is a must. There, guests will find a collection of aromatic plants, a natural swimming pool and an outdoor restaurant. Guests will also discover a beehive by the organic pond, rare rose bushes and small orchard of apple and pear trees. In the midst of this unique garden, the “lovers’ pavilion” offers unique accommodations for couples who want to experience a romantic night. Pull up a chaise longue and fall asleep in front of the village crowned with its castle... or dream next to lush fields of lavender.
A few cobbled streets away, on the village square, the shop sells delicacies, scents and traditions of Provence so guests can take with them a souvenir from their experience, and share with their loved ones the Clair de la Plume.
Details
A short walk away is our second location: the private house. A noble stone staircase leads to the 19th-century rooms and suites where guests will find a shaded and cool respite on hot summer days. A few more steps bring you to the Historical House, opposite one of the most beautiful period washing basins of Provence. In the conservatory or in the dining room, the hotel’s gastronomic restaurant (1* Michelin) offers a delectable cuisine, built around the freshest local produce. Spend the sweet afternoon hours on the patio, under the arbour or in the lounge, sipping a tea or enjoying cold refreshments. A generous breakfast buffet is served in the period kitchen where you can still hear the old clock ticking and chiming. The scent of natural wax and lavender lead to the ancient engravings of the timeless rooms on the upper floors where cozy comfort and modern service meet tradition and heritage. Here as everywhere, there are books to read.
In summer, a stroll through the Mediterranean garden is a must. There, guests will find a collection of aromatic plants, a natural swimming pool and an outdoor restaurant. Guests will also discover a beehive by the organic pond, rare rose bushes and small orchard of apple and pear trees. In the midst of this unique garden, the “lovers’ pavilion” offers unique accommodations for couples who want to experience a romantic night. Pull up a chaise longue and fall asleep in front of the village crowned with its castle... or dream next to lush fields of lavender.
A few cobbled streets away, on the village square, the shop sells delicacies, scents and traditions of Provence so guests can take with them a souvenir from their experience, and share with their loved ones the Clair de la Plume.
1 h 48 min By car
160 km
Day 5
Grignan > Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade
Step 13
Mas Saint Germain
In terms of farming, it is thanks to André, representing the second generation, who reorganised the estate, introducing vines and rice in particular.
Then, Pierre continued along the lines of a balanced mixed farming system, which is rare in the Camargue, and introduced the breeding of Camargue horses and bulls. The vineyards were replaced by pastures.
It was Monique who created the activity of rural tourism, bringing back to life the entire estate of remarkable, traditional buildings of St Germain, including a sheepfold, dovecote, stable, mansion, bread oven, caretaker's outbuilding, shepherd's outbuilding, housing for agricultural workers, and a cellar.
Laure, Anne and Germain, Pierre and Monique's children, strive to maintain this fragile balance by devoting all their time and energy to the smooth running of the wide variety of activities that make up the estate
Details
Then, Pierre continued along the lines of a balanced mixed farming system, which is rare in the Camargue, and introduced the breeding of Camargue horses and bulls. The vineyards were replaced by pastures.
It was Monique who created the activity of rural tourism, bringing back to life the entire estate of remarkable, traditional buildings of St Germain, including a sheepfold, dovecote, stable, mansion, bread oven, caretaker's outbuilding, shepherd's outbuilding, housing for agricultural workers, and a cellar.
Laure, Anne and Germain, Pierre and Monique's children, strive to maintain this fragile balance by devoting all their time and energy to the smooth running of the wide variety of activities that make up the estate
48 min By car
59 km
Step 14
Les Sens de la Toupine restaurant
Panoramic terrace.
English-style lounge with fireplace.
Set menu for 15 euros on weekday lunchtimes
Set menu for 25 euros
Choose from the menu for 30 euros
Bookings are strongly recommended.
Details
English-style lounge with fireplace.
Set menu for 15 euros on weekday lunchtimes
Set menu for 25 euros
Choose from the menu for 30 euros
Bookings are strongly recommended.
32 min By car
30 km
Step 15
La Ferme de Cabrières
Organic producers of hand-harvested red and aromatic berries, transformed by the owners into sorbets, syrups and jams.
Details
24 min By car
19 km
Overnight stay 16
Villa La Coste
In the heart of a 200-hectare vineyard, the site offers a destination dedicated to wine, art, architecture and well-being.
Details
16 min By car
9.6 km
Day 6
Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade > Aix-en-Provence
Step 17
Chocolaterie de Puyricard (chocolate factory)
Experience the traditional craftsmanship of the Maison Puyricard's Master Chocolatiers!
Come and get an immersive experience in the elegant, gourmet world of the Puyricard chocolate factory and taste the exceptional products on a tour of the production unit.
You'll appreciate the finesse of the chocolates made here, and unveil the secrets that this chocolate factory has held for so many years now.
After the tour, why not take part in a practical workshop. Under the watchful eye of a Master Chocolatier, indulge in a VIP experience and make your very own chocolate treats.
By appointment.
In addition, the chocolate factory holds the France savoir-faire d'excellence label.
Details
Come and get an immersive experience in the elegant, gourmet world of the Puyricard chocolate factory and taste the exceptional products on a tour of the production unit.
You'll appreciate the finesse of the chocolates made here, and unveil the secrets that this chocolate factory has held for so many years now.
After the tour, why not take part in a practical workshop. Under the watchful eye of a Master Chocolatier, indulge in a VIP experience and make your very own chocolate treats.
By appointment.
In addition, the chocolate factory holds the France savoir-faire d'excellence label.
12 min By car
8.4 km
Step 18
Le Art - Château de la Gaude
At the helm of the fine-dining restaurant, chef Matthieu Dupuis Baumal and his team create a feast for the senses every day with dishes that showcase Provence's aromas, colours and flavours, in keeping with the seasons.
You'll find the wines of the Château de la Gaude in the restaurant, in the wine cellar and the shop, and if you still want to find out more, there's a wine-themed visitor's tour that will take you behind-the-scenes to unveil all the secrets, from the grapevine to the bottle.
Details
You'll find the wines of the Château de la Gaude in the restaurant, in the wine cellar and the shop, and if you still want to find out more, there's a wine-themed visitor's tour that will take you behind-the-scenes to unveil all the secrets, from the grapevine to the bottle.
14 min By car
11 km
Step 19
Calisson-Museum - Confiserie du Roy René
The Calisson of Aix is fully recognized as a heritage of the city of Aix-en-Provence and more generally as one of the gastronomic emblems of Provence. Beginner or enthusiasts can continue their journey in the heart of the authentic flavors of the Calisson by visiting the magical environment of the Roy René, a century-old house.
Just 10 minutes from downtown Aix-en-Provence, surrounded by more than 2 hectares of young almond trees, stands the Confectionery Factory of Roy René, which combines tradition and modernity. Labeled the Mediterranean Sustainable Building, it contains a state-of-the-art production area.
La Fabrique hosts the Musée du Calisson, which offers a true gourmet epic!
In this place, suspended between the past and today, one passes from one epoch to another, from one season to another, from the blossoming of the almond trees to the harvest gestures, from an old chip tool to this virtual one that allows realizing in real time a batch of real calissons!
The public follows the work of the confectioners and the stages of production of the little "hugs of Provence" and offers a total diving in this fascinating and gourmet world that is confectionery.
Round off a trip to the Calisson Museum with a bit of fresh air to uncover the history of the almond tree in Provence in 2ha of grounds open to the general public.
Jardins du Roy René is home to an almond tree orchard with 300 trees, a regional and Mediterranean plant garden and heirloom orchard protecting fifty almond trees from nineteen different Provençal species. The grounds were set up in 2016 and symbolise a commitment to revive Provence's almond tree and fuel sustainable development. The grounds showcase our region's wealth of plantlife. Whether it be flowers or trees, the idea is to itemise, collect, tend and, most importantly, protect these species. Everything is grown in line with organic farming and agroecology methods.
Details
Just 10 minutes from downtown Aix-en-Provence, surrounded by more than 2 hectares of young almond trees, stands the Confectionery Factory of Roy René, which combines tradition and modernity. Labeled the Mediterranean Sustainable Building, it contains a state-of-the-art production area.
La Fabrique hosts the Musée du Calisson, which offers a true gourmet epic!
In this place, suspended between the past and today, one passes from one epoch to another, from one season to another, from the blossoming of the almond trees to the harvest gestures, from an old chip tool to this virtual one that allows realizing in real time a batch of real calissons!
The public follows the work of the confectioners and the stages of production of the little "hugs of Provence" and offers a total diving in this fascinating and gourmet world that is confectionery.
Round off a trip to the Calisson Museum with a bit of fresh air to uncover the history of the almond tree in Provence in 2ha of grounds open to the general public.
Jardins du Roy René is home to an almond tree orchard with 300 trees, a regional and Mediterranean plant garden and heirloom orchard protecting fifty almond trees from nineteen different Provençal species. The grounds were set up in 2016 and symbolise a commitment to revive Provence's almond tree and fuel sustainable development. The grounds showcase our region's wealth of plantlife. Whether it be flowers or trees, the idea is to itemise, collect, tend and, most importantly, protect these species. Everything is grown in line with organic farming and agroecology methods.
11 min By car
9.2 km
Overnight stay 20
Villa Gallici
Villa Gallici is the perfect haven for a relaxing and serene stay, offering exceptional comfort, refined elegance in its décor, a warm welcome, and outstanding service.
Bathed in the light of Cézanne, this 18th-century Provençal residence offers an array of luxurious services. The gourmet restaurant, led by the talented Chef Christophe Gavot, elevates Mediterranean flavors with remarkable creativity. The estate boasts a tranquil, shaded 2-hectare garden with a pool, located just a short walk from the center of Aix-en-Provence.
The 17 rooms, 4 suites, and exclusive suites featuring a private jacuzzi or Roman-style pool are adorned with luxurious embroidered fabrics in sunny hues, opening onto private lavender-scented gardens.
Each room and suite reflects authentic Provençal style—spacious, bright, and enhanced with unique pieces—while also providing modern comforts. With private terraces or gardens, they offer an invitation to peace and relaxation. Every detail has been meticulously designed to make each stay a truly unique experience.
Prestigious Awards:
Conde Nast Traveler: Ranked 1st among Top Hotels in France and Monaco, Readers' Choice Awards 2021
Details
Bathed in the light of Cézanne, this 18th-century Provençal residence offers an array of luxurious services. The gourmet restaurant, led by the talented Chef Christophe Gavot, elevates Mediterranean flavors with remarkable creativity. The estate boasts a tranquil, shaded 2-hectare garden with a pool, located just a short walk from the center of Aix-en-Provence.
The 17 rooms, 4 suites, and exclusive suites featuring a private jacuzzi or Roman-style pool are adorned with luxurious embroidered fabrics in sunny hues, opening onto private lavender-scented gardens.
Each room and suite reflects authentic Provençal style—spacious, bright, and enhanced with unique pieces—while also providing modern comforts. With private terraces or gardens, they offer an invitation to peace and relaxation. Every detail has been meticulously designed to make each stay a truly unique experience.
Prestigious Awards:
Conde Nast Traveler: Ranked 1st among Top Hotels in France and Monaco, Readers' Choice Awards 2021
39 min By car
43 km
Day 7
Aix-en-Provence > Martigues
Step 21
Les Girelles restaurant
Ludovic Walter, Maître Restaurateur, offers generous and refined cuisine overlooking the sea. This young chef from Sausset has inherited a family passion: cooking to please.
Signature dishes: roasted blue lobster, sea bream nems and foie gras with sea urchin.
The menu is local and seasonal, with a gourmet touch from starter to dessert. The service is discreet and attentive, celebrating romance and large tables with friends.
Details
Signature dishes: roasted blue lobster, sea bream nems and foie gras with sea urchin.
The menu is local and seasonal, with a gourmet touch from starter to dessert. The service is discreet and attentive, celebrating romance and large tables with friends.
16 min By car
13 km
Arrival
Aux Perles de l'Etang
"Aux pearls of the pond" is one of the most renowned places in Martigues for all lovers of chocolate and small cakes. Since 1996, Jean-Bernard Poitevin has been working with local products to offer delicacies as tasty as each other.
Individual cakes (strawberry pies, rum baba, revisited tarte tatin, chocolate dome, etc.) or to share, cakes, flans, apple pies, pastries, Provençal shuttles (rosemary, anise, olive oil, lavender ,...) and savory snacks fill the beautifully displayed window. The other part of the store is devoted to sweets (calissons from Aix-en-Provence, fruit jellies, meringues, caramels, etc.) and chocolates (homemade tablets, spreads, individual chocolates, etc.) .).
You can also find two typically Martegal specialities: Les Perles de l'étang and Les Tomettes gourmandes.
Les Perles de l'étang were created in 1965 by Mr. Favier. These are candied cherries macerated in alcohol, coated in marzipan and dipped in chocolate. Everything is dusted with icing sugar.
The Gourmet Tomettes (whose shape represents a Provençal tomette) are made from almonds coated with milk chocolate and croutine. They are flavored with sesame, anise seeds and Camargue fleur de sel.
This specialty was selected by the "La route gourmande" jury.
"Aux Perles de l'étang" was recommended by Le Petit Futé from 2015 to 2019.
Details
Individual cakes (strawberry pies, rum baba, revisited tarte tatin, chocolate dome, etc.) or to share, cakes, flans, apple pies, pastries, Provençal shuttles (rosemary, anise, olive oil, lavender ,...) and savory snacks fill the beautifully displayed window. The other part of the store is devoted to sweets (calissons from Aix-en-Provence, fruit jellies, meringues, caramels, etc.) and chocolates (homemade tablets, spreads, individual chocolates, etc.) .).
You can also find two typically Martegal specialities: Les Perles de l'étang and Les Tomettes gourmandes.
Les Perles de l'étang were created in 1965 by Mr. Favier. These are candied cherries macerated in alcohol, coated in marzipan and dipped in chocolate. Everything is dusted with icing sugar.
The Gourmet Tomettes (whose shape represents a Provençal tomette) are made from almonds coated with milk chocolate and croutine. They are flavored with sesame, anise seeds and Camargue fleur de sel.
This specialty was selected by the "La route gourmande" jury.
"Aux Perles de l'étang" was recommended by Le Petit Futé from 2015 to 2019.
Accommodation
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