COLORS OF PROVENCE APRIL 28 - MAY 6, 2019 TRIP SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS Hiking in all the small mountain ranges of Provence: the Alpilles, Luberon, Dentelles de Montmirail, and Mont Ventoux Experiencing the light of Provence, which has drawn artists and photographers forever Savoring the fresh fruits and vegetables, breads and pastries, red wines and olive oils Visiting tiny villages perched on rocky cliffs and walking through landscape dotted with cypress trees Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Apr 28 - May 6, 2019 Location: Avignon, France Cost: $3,195.00 Activities: Hiking Arrive: April 28 at 6:00pm at our hotel in Avignon, France Depart: May 6 any time after breakfast TRIP OVERVIEW Provence is surely one of France's most fabled regions. Flanked by the Alps to the north, Italy to the east, and the Mediterranean to the south, Provence is known for the incredible diversity that exists within its borders, its rich human and natural history, and its sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and utter charm. On this trip we will introduce you to all the fascination that Provence has to offer: the ancient settlement of Avignon, the tiny perched villages of the Luberon, the craggy limestone of the Alpilles, and Mont Ventoux, an inspiration for Van Gogh (and us!). We will combine scenic hikes with visits to village markets, stays at French inns, a little culture, and a chance to sample all the fantastic tastes of the south of France. Max group size: 12 RATING This trip is designed for women who want to combine hiking off the beaten track in the Provence countryside, with exploring local culture, visits to some of their unique and different villages, and savoring fresh cuisine. There is significant elevation gain on several days and paths can be rocky at times. Participants can usually opt out of the day and spend the day on their own. In order to do all of the hikes listed here, women should be in good physical condition and able to hike for three to five hours a day. Being able to keep a fast pace is not necessary; there will be time for photography, admiring views, and savoring amazing picnic lunches. Rating: 1 2 [3] 4 5 WHAT'S INCLUDED A local Provencal guide and an Adventures in Good Company group leader Eight nights double occupancy accommodation with en suite bathrooms All meals from dinner the first night through breakfast the last day, with the exception of one lunch All activities on the itinerary All transportation from the time you arrive to the time you leave Avignon Not included: transportation to Avignon, alcoholic beverages (wine is included with dinner on a couple of nights), one lunch, travel insurance and guide gratuities.
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 APRIL 28, SUNDAY Arrival Day We meet in Avignon at our hotel at 6:00pm to start our Provencal adventure! We'll share a welcome and introductions, looking out over the town of Avignon. Avignon, home to seven successive popes from 1309 to 1377, is one of the few French cities where the original ramparts are still largely intact. We then go out to enjoy the first of many delicious dinners at a local restaurant. We'll spend tonight in Avignon in the heart of the walled city. Overnight Palais des Papes D DAY 2 APRIL 29, MONDAY Avignon to Saint Remy This morning we will take a short tour. Our local guide will take us around historic Avignon, pointing out the Pope's Palace, the famed 12th century Pont d'avignon bridge, and many other treasures hidden within the 14th century ramparts. We then transfer by taxi from Avignon to Saint Remy de Provence (20 minutes) where we will be staying for the next two nights. Our warmup walk this afternoon takes us from the center of Saint Remy and follows the Van Gogh path - with a picnic along the trails - sprinkled with enamel reproductions of the paintings he did while in Saint Remy, and facing the very countryside that inspired his works. Dinner is in town. Approx walking 8 miles. Overnight Hotel du Soleil B, L, D
DAY 3 APRIL 30, TUESDAY Alpilles hike and Les Baux de Provence Leaving the hotel by foot we climb up into the Alpilles, literally "baby Alps", an isolated mountain of craggy limestone in an otherwise flat Rhone Valley. We walk on a broad path along the crest, in a countryside of surreal limestone formations. The views extend above the olive groves and throughout the flatlands of the Camargue, often to the Mediterranean Sea. To the north we'll notice the monolithic Pope's Palace and all the mountain ranges that will be our playground over our week's adventure, with the ever-imposing Mont Ventoux as the backdrop. We follow the scenic ridgeline and enjoy a gourmet picnic before dipping down to the village of Les Baux de Provence. Listed among the most beautiful villages in France, Les Baux is set defiantly above the plains, a few-dozen homes perched atop the craggy limestone. We'll have some free time to explore the village before returning to Saint Remy for dinner and our 2nd night. Walking time: approx. 3.5 hours walking, 7 miles, 700ft elevation gain. Overnight Hotel du Soleil B, D DAY 4 MAY 1, WEDNESDAY Buoux Exploration and Hike We start the day with a visit to the St Remy market, where we will pick out our food for today's picnic lunch. It will be hard to decide between all the delicious and tempting options from dozens of stalls selling countless gourmet delights. A morning transfer (1 hour by taxi) takes us into the heart of the Luberon mountains, setting of Peter Mayle's "A Year in Provence", and home to some of the most stunning villages and scenery in Provence. We begin our walk in one of those stunning villages: Bonnieux. After exploring its labyrinth of cobbled streets and admiring the views from its 12th century church, we set off on the trails. We follow old-stone walls through oak forests and admire centuries-old stone huts. Crossing the hollow that divides the Luberon in two distinct mountains we walk high above a lavender plantation. We pass the lost village of Buoux before walking atop the cliffs above the Aiguebrun river. Soon from high above we spot our hotel: the Auberge des Seguins, as far off the beaten-track as you can get, hidden in the heart of the Luberon mountains. Set in a 17th century hamlet that lies at the crossroads of the most beautiful walking paths in the Luberon, Les Seguins will be our home for the next two nights. Walking time: approx. 5 hours walking, 8 miles, 1000ft elevation gain. Overnight Auberge des Seguins B, L, D
DAY 5 MAY 2, THURSDAY Buoux Fort and the Luberon. We set off on foot from our hotel and walk to the 3,000 year old Buoux Fort, rich in history and surprises. We explore the ruins of many different civilizations that sought refuge atop this rocky crag that has sheer cliffs on all sides and outstanding views. From Medieval ramparts and churches to Roman silos and watchtowers, and even Celto-Ligurian ruins, the site is fascinating. For those who wish to continue hiking we can climb up to the rounded crest of the Luberon mountains. Carpeted in thyme and in wildflowers, the crest offers views out to the chain of the Alps in the north and even to the Mediterranean Sea in the south. It's also possible not to hike today after visiting Buoux Fort and instead relax by the riverside. Walking time: max approx. 5 hours walking, 7.5 mi, 1600 ft. elevation gain. Overnight Auberge des Sequins B, L, D DAY 6 MAY 3, FRIDAY Rhone Valley A morning transfer (1 hour, 15 minutes) takes us out of the Luberon and towards the Rhone Valley. We begin our walk above the vines, set beside the Dentelles de Montmirail mountain range. "Dentelle" means lacework, attributed to these sharp, teeth-like limestone formations that soar above the Rhone Valley, creating improbable designs. We walk through a pure "garrigue", vegetation of sparse brush on the austere limestone to reach the town of Vaison la Romaine, our home for the next two nights. Vaison has three distinct faces: Roman, harboring France's largest archeological site; medieval: a pristine group of centuries-old homes set protected above the Ouveze river up to its castle ruins; and modern: bustling cafes and restaurants set around the refurbished main square. The three facets mix harmoniously and offer many treasures to explore. Walking time: approx. 5 hours walking, 9 miles, 1300ft elevation gain. Overnight Hotel le Burrhus B, L, D DAY 7 MAY 4, SATURDAY Seguret A short morning transfer takes us to the village of Seguret. With its cobbled streets, old fountains and washbasins, Seguret's beauty remains timeless and definitely off the tourist-radar. We walk through the vines of the Rhone valley. We enter the lands of Gigondas, worldrenowned for their powerful red wines, and enjoy a wine-tasting en route. Our path leads us directly below the imposing limestone cliffs of the Dentelles de Montmirail. We end up in the heart of the village of Gigondas and enjoy the views from the church that crowns the village: a veritable sea of vines stretching into the horizon, the second largest wine-growing area in the world (second only to Bordeaux). Back in Vaison we trade a traditional dinner for a special experience on the terrace of our hotel, overlooking the main square. The nation's best cheese shop is in Vaison, along with great wines. We add some other goodies in the mix for a memorable evening of wines and cheeses and laughter. Walking time: approx. 4 hours walking, 7 miles, 900ft elevation gain. Overnight Hotel le Burrhus B, L, D
DAY 8 MAY 5, SUNDAY Mont Ventoux Have we saved the best for last? Only you can decide. A short morning transfer takes us to the upper slopes of Mont Ventoux, the mountain that has loomed in the distance the entire week. We quickly trade Mediterranean forest for spruce and fir, beginning our walk at the sometimes-ski-resort of Mont Serein. The fir and spruce give way to larch, then mountain pine, and then no trees at all. As we near the summit we'll encounter alpine and arctic flowers and what is arguably one of the best panoramas on earth. Though Ventoux is not nearly as high as its Alpine neighbors, it's a mountain set on its own. The views extend to the entire chain of Alps to the north, and to the vast and open Rhone Valley to the south, often as far as the Mediterranean Sea. We'll have a celebratory lunch at the summit before returning to Avignon. We'll enjoy one last dinner together tonight in town. Walking time: approx. 3 hours walking, 4 miles, +/- 1600ft elevation gain. B, L, D Overnight Palais des Papes DAY 9 MAY 6, MONDAY Departure Day Sadly, your trip ends after breakfast. B
ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE The best way to travel to Avignon is to fly to Paris (CDG) or to Marseille (MRS) and then take the train. Typically there are 5 trips daily from Paris and the train to Avignon takes a little over 3 hours. You can take the train from either the Paris Airport station or the downtown Paris Gare Lyon Station. The main train station in Avignon is Avignon TGV and the closest train station to the hotel is the Avignon Centre Station (AVN). You will arrive at the Avignon TGV station where you can transfer to the train headed to Avignon Centre Station (AVN). The AVN station is about a 10-minute walk to the hotel. You can also get a taxi to the hotel from the TGV station (about 30 euros). The taxi queue will be in front of the train station. If you fly into Marseille, there is a free shuttle from the airport to the train station. The train takes about 60 minutes and goes directly to Avignon Center. Note: Check this website for the current schedule: http://www.raileurope.com/index.html. Please be careful when reserving your train tickets to choose your final destination as Avignon Center station. If you would like help with any travel plans we recommend our travel agent Barbara Phillip, Scan East West Travel, at barbara@scaneastwest.com or call 206-209-5831. ACCOMMODATIONS e'll be staying at 3 star hotels in Avignon, Saint Remy de Provence, and Vaison la Romaine. In Buoux we'll stay in a country inn (see the itinerary for the specific hotels). WEATHER April and May are beautiful months in France. You can expect temperatures in highs in the upper 70s and lows in the upper 60s. The weather is generally lovely but you want to be prepared for rain. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of lightweight hiking boots 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes for general use 2-3 pairs of hiking socks (wool or synthetic equivalent: Smartwool, Thorlo, Darn Tough) CLOTHING 1-2 pair of comfortable supplex/nylon long pants for hiking - zip-offs work well ( 1-2 pairs of shorts or ¾ length pants (one should be quick-drying nylon) 2-3 synthetic or lightweight merino wool T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts 1-2 lightweight, long-sleeved shirt for hiking - button up front is the best 1 light-weight top layer synthetic or wool pull over - 1 warm fleece or lightweight down vest 1 rain jacket and rain pants waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex Underwear/nightwear 1 pair wool, Capilene, or Polartec gloves 1 warm/lightweight wool or fleece hat a buff also works well for this 1 wide brimmed or baseball style hat for protection from the sun/rain 1 2 changes of casual clothes to wear at end of day TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia, sanitary supplies Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS 1 pair Trekking poles (strongly recommended) 1 daypack (see notes on packing list for recommended capacity) Capability to waterproof your backpack. Either a rain cover or a heavy-duty plastic bag to line your pack. Capacity to carry 2 of water (Please see Notes on Packing List) Sunglasses (100% UV protection) w/retention strap insect repellant Small headlamp or flashlight 1 2 bandanas/buff Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep!) Wristwatch/travel alarm clock Tupperware-like container for sandwich/lunch 1 swimsuit OPTIONAL (personal preference, not required) Camera (extra battery) and film/memory card Book, notebook, journal, pencil/pen Binoculars Your favorite snack 2 pair synthetic, lightweight liner socks (optional -- not everyone uses sock liners) Short Gaiters Wash cloth (typically European linens do not include a wash cloth)
NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs. Bringing a duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase with wheels, rather than a hard-sided suitcase, is easier for packing in the van. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 2 liters of water, rain gear, snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), personal first aid kit and personal items such as camera,etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2400 cubic inches with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of your items. Note: Fanny-packs and hydration packs are not large enough to hold all of the items you will need for the day. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended. Hydration: Being able to easily access your water without assistance, so that you can drink frequently, is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bags fit inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1-3 liters of water. Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are required for this trip. Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: http://blog.adventuresingoodcompany.com/blog-women-travel/bid/154714/trekking-poles-for-hiking-trips-the-4-mostcommon-questions.