* Arles, Christmas in Provence

From Arles to Avignon, via the hilly landscapes of the Alpilles, enjoy the history and traditions of Provence as she prepares for the festive season.

3 days / 120 km - November 28th to December 23rd

Ref: 10B018

Dates

November , December

D1 Christmas Market in Avignon (30 km)

Lunch in Avignon. Free time to stroll through the Papal City and shop at the busy Christmas Market in the main square, the Place de l’Horloge. Dinner and overnight.

D2 Provencal Traditions in Arles (40 km)

In Arles, admire the town’s remarkable Roman ruins and the beautiful St Trophim Cloister, setting for the “Santonniers” Fair, uniting specialist craftsmen making « santons » or traditional little figurines for the Christmas Crib. After lunch discover all things to do with daily Provencal life in the Museon Arlaten, dedicated to preserving Provencal culture and traditions across the centuries. Dinner and overnight.

D3 Christmas in the Alpilles (50 km)

Set off for the Alpilles, the small rugged mountain chain stretching from Provence to the Camargue. Stop at an old olive oil mill and sample some of the produce, then visit the miniature village of figurines, or “santons”, the “petite Provence du Paradou”. Lunchtime calls for a festive treat in the form of a Provencal style Christmas lunch with the traditional “thirteen desserts”, symbolizing Christ and the apostles. A local bard will accompany you (optional) to recount folk tales and yarns of Provence inspired by her most famous sons…Mistral, Pagnol, Daudet, Giono etc.