Gastronomy and sun between Provence & the Southern French Alpes

The epitome of Provence’s envied lifestyle, Aix-en-Provence promises to delight discerning palates. The vibrant daily market held on Place Richelme in the town’s historic quarter is a genuine feast for the senses, with stalls piled high with fruit, vegetables, herbs, cheeses and olive oil. Part of Aix-en-Provence’s Living Heritage, the Calisson, whose origins date back to the 15th century, is a succulent candy made with almonds, candied melon and sugar syrup. The iconic Confiserie du Roy René has been flying the flag of this unique know-how since 1920. Their museum – also a workshop and boutique – is located just a few kilometres from the town centre and offers an immersive experience in the extraordinary world of the Calisson, said to have been invented by the head confectioner of King René. Much to the delight of his wife, Jeanne de Laval of course…

Tucked away between the Durance river, Esparron lake and lavender fields of Haute Provence, the spa town of Gréoux-les-Bains, bedecked with a medieval castle and picturesque lanes, offers a captivating sight. To the east, the ancient Roman village of Riez is home to ancient columns – the remarkably well-preserved remains of a temple built in the 1st century AD. Erected at the foot of limestone cliffs on the shores of the majestic Sainte-Croix lake, under the watchful gaze of its famous golden star suspended 135 metres above the ground, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is the proud holder of the “France’s Most Beautiful Villages” label. An exceptional gastronomic experience awaits here at Chef Alain Ducasse’s celebrated Michelin-starred restaurant La Bastide de Moustiers, serving Provençal cuisine lovingly crafted with produce from the kitchen garden.

Swathed in lavender during the summer months, when Provence’s vibrant purple blooms stretch as far as the eye can see, Valensole plateau is a must-do gourmet stop-off, steeped in the subtle flavours of Haute-Provence. La Maison de la Pistache offers a delicious delve into the many ways to enjoy the pistachio nut – reintroduced into Provence in the early 21st century – from pesto to candies and spreads… Another must-see: Les Grandes Marges, a family-run estate specializing in the production of olive oil, nougat, pralines and lavender essential oils. Set inside an 18th-century Provençal bastide, La Caramelerie artisan toffee maker in Mane, a charming village nestled inside ancient walls, promises a wonderful trip down memory lane. Last but not least, Château-Arnoux is where you’ll find the amazing Chef Jany Gleize at the helm of La Bonne Étape. His generous revisited traditional Provençal cuisine, including succulent Sisteron lamb, is truly unforgettable.

Basking between Haute-Provence and the Alps, the hilltop village of La Bréole offers spectacular vistas over Serre-Ponçon lake, France’s largest reservoir, created by the construction of a dam in 1960. As you wander through the peaceful village streets, you will come across one of the dairies forming the Ubaye Valley Dairy Cooperative, established in 1949 to promote traditional mountain cheeses. The dairy of La Bréole specializes in yoghurts and fresh cheeses, such as the succulent Ubaye goat’s cheese log and Délice de Chambeyron. An ode to typical southern Alpine rural heritage, the neighbouring village of Lauzet-Ubaye stands on the banks of Lauzet lake: its captivating emerald green waters are a favourite haunt for anglers, swimmers and stand-up paddleboarders. Pra Loup, a coveted ski resort in the Ubaye area prized for its abundant sunshine and family atmosphere, invites you to savour a relaxing escape in breathtaking mountain scenery in every season.

In the 19th century, many Ubaye inhabitants left their native valley to seek their fortune in Mexico. When they returned, they built sumptuous Mexican-style villas in Barcelonnette that still stand witness to their unique story. Maison Padiou in the town’s old quarter – a renowned patisserie and chocolate shop – crafts exquisite chocolates using only the finest cocoa beans. Stop off at the Maison de Pays de l’Ubaye in Jausiers to stock up on honeys, jams, terrines, beer and countless other specialities, all sourced directly from local producers. In Méolans-Revel its time to sample – in moderation of course! – the exquisite, 100% natural liqueurs and whiskies produced by the Lachanenche artisan distillery. Sisteron and its spectacular citadel, watching eternally over the Durance river, marks the final stage of your gastronomic tour between Provence and the Alps.