Top 5 experiences to beat the blues in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Everyone experiences a downer from time to time. There’s even a “most depressing day of the year” nicknamed Blue Monday on January 20th. But chin up: Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur’s naturally optimistic temperament is here to get you back on track with our top pick of moral boosting experiences!

Create some feel-good fragrances

The effect of fragrances on our brain in a… no-brainer. Some soothe and comfort, while others stimulate and put us in a good mood. All you need to do is find a fragrance that uplifts you and the best way to enjoy it, for example in a deliciously scented candle or diffuser. The high perfumery house “Rose et Marius” in Aix-en-Provence even invites you to create your own, made-to-measure fragrance. Renowned for their signature perfumes, curated for exceptional venues including luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants, the Aix-based brand hosts four different workshops in which they share their know-how and accompany you step by step in the creation of your customized fragrance, whether a beautiful perfume tile, scented candle, fragrance diffuser or eau de parfum. Let your senses lead the way as you compose a personal scent to bring a soft sensation of wellness to your everyday life, from a choice of 14 essences used in High Perfumery.

Switch off in a convertible

A breath of fresh air is always a great solution when you’re feeling down. What’s more, it’s even better when the surrounding scenery is stunning! And that’s lucky because we have just the thing if you’re looking to air your mind amid sublime vistas: a mini road trip in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur! Climb aboard a gorgeous, old-fashioned convertible courtesy of “Yes Provence” for a fabulous day or half-day exploring the landscapes of Provence, the Luberon, Avignon, Mont Ventoux and the Alpilles. Opt for a 2CV, Mehari or Beetle for the perfect excursion with friends, partner or family. Alternatively, “Beyond the Wine” in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez invites you on a journey back in time in a 2CV worthy of The Gendarme of Saint-Tropez, for a delightfully retro tour of the local vineyards. Remember to bring your sunglasses and a hat!

Soothe your soul with flowers

Sometimes, the simple act of contemplating something beautiful helps soothe our angst. And “La Butinerie” – a café-come-florist located in Marseille’s Rue Sainte – definitely won’t argue with that! The art of flower arranging flourishes like a bougainvillea in summer here thanks to a passionate team that delights in creating your dream bouquet using exclusively seasonal blooms. Moreover, Coline and Mathilde, the talented women at the origin of “La Butinerie”, invite you to discover the incredible world of flowers and bathe in the positive emotions they procure through a choice of workshops. Learn how to compose your ideal bouquet using fresh or dried flowers, or create a terrarium, dried flower wreath or Advent wreath. Whether you’re taking part alone, with friends or even with kids (for the Advent wreath workshops), this delightfully colourful experience promises to get you back on top of the world!

Empty your mind with a bungee jump

Now there’s a radical remedy for morosity: a good shot of adrenalin! If there’s one activity that’s truly guaranteed to give you a jolt, it’s bungee jumping. If you’re tempted and not bothered about heights, head to Pont de l’Artuby bridge in the Var area. Towering at a height of 182 metres, it is one of Europe’s highest bridges! Gazing over a gorge where, as its name implies, the Artuby river flows, this bridge offers dizzy views over the surrounding typical Provencal scenery. If you’re ready for the big jump, simply get in touch with “Latitude Challenge” and their team of extreme sport experts. And if you want to take a souvenir of this unique experience back home, you can even ask for a video of your adventure or jump with adashcam. Let’s be honest, the face you make in mid air will definitely be worth putting on record…

Let yourself slide

Let go and let yourself slide… on a sledge! Although to our knowledge no scientist has ever researched it they really should, because the satisfaction and pleasure of a dizzy toboggan ride are an infallible remedy for the blues. Not to mention the hilarity that always ensues! You can enjoy the delights of tobogganing all year round in Puy-Saint-Vincent. In winter, head out on a sledge hike on the fun trail alternating giddy downhill runs and short walks amid the larch trees – an ideal activity for families. If you’re visiting with adults and fancy something a little more extreme, try your hand at the yooner: a kind of little, raised seat fitted with a skate. But who said you can only sledge in winter? In July and August, Puy-Saint-Vincent offers a 750-metre summer toboggan run. Hop on the Escapade chairlift, then whisk down the 120-metre drop on board your sledge, following the curves of the track reminiscent of a bobsleigh run. Thrills and spills guaranteed!

Drop everything and make your own pastis

A very wise decision, although it might not be the most innocent choice… But at least it allows you to discover the manufacturing secrets of the South of France’s most famous beverage. Because although anise is the unchallenged star of pastis, it’s not the only plant used in its composition: in some recipes, you’ll find ingredients such as fennel, cinnamon and even cloves. In fact, the word “pastis” comes from the Provencal “pastisson”, meaning mixture! At Le Vadrouilleur distillery in Sault, you can learn how to make your very own pastis aided and abetted by a master distiller. If you’re nearer the Bouches-du-Rhône, Maison Ferroni host workshops in Aubagne where you can concoct your personal pastis recipe using macerated fresh plants, seeds and spices. Cheers!