Provence: fragrant secrets, ancient kitchens and legends

There is a corner of the world where the wind smells of lavender, the villages are dressed in soft ochres, and the markets whisper promises of freshly baked bread.

Provence is not just a region in the south of France. It's a slow way of seeing, of perceiving aromas, of living. It's a scent that stays in the memory and a light that caresses ancient stones.

Did you know that…?

• The song of cicadas has accompanied summer naps for centuries.
• In places like Sault or Valensole, lavender is still harvested by hand.
• Herbs such as thyme, rosemary and sage grow freely along the paths.
• In Aix-en-Provence, honey is classified by its aroma: lavender, chestnut or orange blossom.

And if we follow the trail of aromas... we arrive at Grasse

Considered the world capital of perfume, Grasse is the birthplace of the world's most refined fragrances. It is there that the nose, experts capable of identifying more than 3,000 olfactory notes. Historic houses such as Fragonard, Galimard, and Molinard allow visitors to create their own fragrance.

More than 1,000 flowers are required to obtain one liter of May rose essence. Jasmine, lavender, tuberose, mimosa, and orange blossom are the most traditional essences of the region.

Provence is also a cradle of talent and vision

• Paul Cézanne, a pioneer of modern art, was born in Aix-en-Provence.
• Nostradamus, the Renaissance astrologer and physician, was born in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
• Émile Zola, a key figure in naturalism, grew up among Provençal landscapes.
• Garibaldi, a hero of Italian unification, was born in Nice when it still belonged to the Kingdom of Sardinia.
• Vincent van Gogh He painted more than 300 works during his stay in Arles and Saint-Rémy, deeply inspired by the Provençal light.

But there is an invisible bridge that connects perfumes with flavors: The same ingredients that perfume also nourish.

Provençal cuisine uses lavender, rosemary, and orange blossom as much as perfumers. In desserts, oils, meats, and infusions. Provence is savored like it is breathed: slowly, with all the senses awake.

Do you want to experience this land with all your senses?
Discover a perfume creation course in Grasse, the birthplace of French perfumery.