[Road Trip] Let's Go! France's Southern Rhône & Provence Wine Regions

Domaine Tempier in Bandol.

This fall, I’m inviting you to slow down with me in one of the great wine-and-food regions of the world: the Southern Rhône and Provence.

This is a place where wine isn’t separate from daily life—it’s woven into the landscape, the markets, the table, and the conversations that stretch long into the evening. Over eight carefully paced days, Authentic Explorations and I will explore the Southern Rhône and Provence not as tourists, but as guests—moving through Nîmes, Aix-en-Provence, and Marseille, and spending meaningful time in vineyards, cellars, kitchens, and cafés.

Our focus will be the wines of the Southern Rhône and Provence—how appellation, terroir, tradition, and people all shape what’s in the glass—but always in context. Tastings will be paired with market visits, long lunches, shared meals, and the simple pleasure of being somewhere beautiful without rushing to the next thing.

This is not about checking boxes or chasing prestige bottles—though there will be many surprises! It’s about understanding why these wines taste the way they do, how they fit into Provençal life, and who is behind them. There will be learning, yes—but also laughter, conversation, and plenty of moments where the best thing to do is sit, sip, and take it all in.

 If you love wine, food, and travel that feels human, relaxed, and deeply connected to place, I’d love for you to join me.

Itinerary

Day 1: Tuesday, 13 October 2026

Built around 100 AD, shortly after the Colosseum of Rome, the Arena of Nîmes is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world

The Art Deco–inspired lobby of Maison Albar L’Imperator — where classic Parisian style meets Riviera charm.

BRASSERIE L'IMPÉ at Maison Albar L’Imperator — elegant dining with a seasonal, region-driven menu.

Day 2: Wednesday, October 14, 2026

Classic view of the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, looking toward the ruins of the Papal Castle (Château des Papes) from the surrounding vineyards.

The bronze statue in front of the Arena of Nîmes is a contemporary sculpture that evokes the city’s long bullfighting and spectacle tradition.

Day 3: Thursday, October 15, 2026

Guided Discovery of Uzès

Start your day with a guided tour of Uzès, a charming town known for its vibrant Provençal market—alive with colors, aromas, and handcrafted treasures. Wander through its lively streets, meet local artisans, and soak in the easygoing rhythm of everyday life.

The magnificently preserved Roman-era Pont du Gard.

Day 4: Friday, October 16, 2026

In Gigondas, the Grenache grape dominates blends bearing this storied appellation.

The medieval citadel of Les Baux-de-Provence, carved into the limestone cliffs of the Alpilles.

Day 5: Saturday, October 17, 2026

Abbaye de Sénanque, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey in the Luberon.

Evening at the Fontaine de la Rotonde, a landmark fountain on Aix’s Cours Mirabeau.

Day 6: Sunday, October 18, 2026

The Vieux-Port of Marseille, with Notre-Dame de la Garde rising above the city.

Lunch among the vines in Bandol, where time slows and Mourvèdre tells its story.

A tasting and tour at one of Provence’s most famous wineries, Domaine Tempier.

Dinner at Le Pigonnet, where Provençal cuisine is served in a timeless garden setting.

Day 7: Monday, October 19, 2026

At Château La Coste, art, architecture, and wine unfold across the Provençal landscape.

Surprise Farewell Dinner in a private cellar.

Pricing

The Southern Rhône & Provence journey with yours truly is priced at $11,390 per person, based on double occupancy. A $5,000 deposit per couple is required to secure your place, with the final balance due in Spring 2026.

A limited number of single accommodations may be available. Please inquire by emailing info@authenticexplorations.com.

About Authentic Explorations

Authentic Explorations creates journeys that are deeply rooted in place—shaped by culture, cuisine, history, and the people who bring a destination to life. Led by co-managing partners Gary Portuesi and Jennifer Schwartz, along with Marco Palermo, the team is known for designing thoughtful, high-touch itineraries that favor depth over spectacle and connection over checklists. I’ve been partnering with Authentic Explorations since our first tour together in 2006, to what was then a remarkably quiet Sicily, and over the years I’ve seen firsthand their unwavering commitment to detail, integrity, and meaningful travel. From carefully chosen accommodations to genuine encounters with local producers and guides, their approach consistently turns travel into something personal, enriching, and memorable.

For more info, check out their site, here.