Discovering the Magic of Saint-Rémy de Provence: A Five-Day Journey

Day 1: Arrival and Getting Acquainted

As we arrived in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the charm of this quaint town surrounded us. The landscape was lush with rolling hills, olive groves as far as the eye could see, winding dirt roads lined with blooming lavender at the heart of the Provence region. A potpourri of smells tantalized us with the food experiences that lay ahead of us. The warm sun and gentle breeze greeted us as we left our car, heightening our anticipation of discovering this magical place.

Food and accommodations were quite adequate, the latter located in a beautifully restored building that perfectly melded traditional architecture with modern comforts. Their hospitable ambiance with terracotta tiles and centuries-old stone walls provided us respite after our long journey. Our welcome at the hotel was extremely friendly because the locals in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence are very nice. After making ourselves comfortable, we were guided through some key attractions and eateries in the area, which only made us more excited for the next few days ahead.

By nightfall, we walked to the town center, where the cobblestoned streets were alive. Cafés and bistros lined the square, each presenting a seemingly unending display of local delicacies. Our first meal in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence was a treat; traditional fare representing the region. The ratatouille, made with fresh seasonal vegetables, was a remarkable harmony of flavors. We complemented our meal with a local rosé, a perfect finish to the quintessential Provençal meal. The day, then, was the start of the culinary journey, ready to dig deeper into the culture and artistry behind Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.

Day 2: Historical Exploration

The second day of the trip to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence was a day of history, visiting the local places that knew all the stories behind them. Our first port of call was the famed St. Paul de Mausole asylum, a place that will forever ring bells for art lovers. It was here, among these quiet yet demanding walls, that Vincent van Gogh found sanctuary and inspiration during his stay here from 1889 through 1890. Visitors can see the colorful landscapes Van Gogh carefully rendered on canvas, such as the vivid “Starry Night Over the Rhône.” The asylum grounds reveal an environment that shaped the artist’s seminal work, blending the history of mental illness and creativity in this historic institution.

Moving on, we drove to the spectacular ruins of Glanum, just outside the town center. As an ancient Roman city, it offers a rare look back in time, with its well-preserved architecture (including triumphal arches, temples, and leftovers of earlier settlements). We walked among ruins dating back to the 1st century BC at Glanum. The archaeological site is a testament to the significance of the city during Roman times, when it was a center of commerce and culture.

With every step we made at these historical sites, we gained a deeper appreciation of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence’s cultural heritage. The stories behind these monuments underline the importance of preserving these artifacts so that coming generations can learn about the rich stories within them. In a world that continues to move forward at a rapid pace, these places exist as essential connections to our shared history, a reminder of the indelible spirit of innovation and determination that characterizes not only Saint-Rémy-de-Provence but humanity in general.

Day 3: Art in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Located at the center of the Provence region, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence has long inspired artists from all over. Its breathtaking scenery, colors, and shimmering light have long drawn painters, sculptors, and other creative types of all types to its hills, especially in the last decades of the 19th century and throughout the 20th.

Our artistic adventure will take us through the local galleries and art studios where contemporary and classic works are on display. Not only do these places showcase the work of contemporary artists from the area, but they also pay tribute to the history behind luminaries such as Vincent Van Gogh. When Van Gogh moved to Saint-Rémy in 1889, he drew much from the quiet beauty of the countryside around him. His notable creations include "Starry Night Over the Rhône," where the painter records the captivating tone of the scenery at dusk, highlighting the shimmering contact of nature and light.

We will also visit the locations of some of Van Gogh’s masterpieces, including the famed “Café Terrace at Night.” Visitors are able to wander through these syllabic landscapes and encounter in the flesh what so inspired the artist’s imagination. This link to the past and present showcases the lasting effect Van Gogh had on the town and his nurturing of a culture of creativity that continues to thrive today.

During our time at art galleries, we will learn how the spirit of Van Gogh lives on due to modern-day artists in his temporary hometown of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Exhibitions and community events keep the arts at the forefront and reflect the town's vibrant artistic landscape, rooted in history yet looking towards the exciting future ahead.

Day 4: Culinary and Local Market Explorations

Join us for when we traveled to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, when we took a Provençale cooking class on day four! We spent the first day at the crowded local market, where the bright colors of the fresh food jumped to life. Stands bulged with a variety of seasonal vegetables, fragrant herbs, and an abundance of fruits — everything seasonal from juicy peaches to meaty tomatoes. Not only was this market a visual delight, it also provided an excellent chance to interact with the local sellers, sharing trivia about their produce and local cuisine.

Wandering the market, we found local cheeses that reflected the distinct terroir of the region. We enjoyed the textures and flavors that defined these artisans’ products, from creamy goat cheeses to rich sheep’s milk varieties. Eating them with crusty fresh bread from local bakeries gave us a taste of genuine Provence.

We also found ourselves sampling some of the region’s famous pastries after our exploration. The sweet scent of tarte tropézienne and calisson, traditional desserts from this part of the world, tugged us at steps at the chain of patisseries; we fell in love with these decadent creations. Getting to learn about the history and preparation of these pastries gave me that respect for the local culinary heritage.

We also enjoyed a beautiful olive oil tasting with a local expert, who talked about the important role olive oil has in Provençal cooking. We learned to distinguish among the different grades and flavors of olive oil, and how it enhances many traditional Provençal dishes. We ended our day at a local eatery (complementary to the region). Every dish represented the community's commitment to good ingredients and food made with love.

Day 5: Nature and Reflection

Our last day in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence should be spent soaking in the beautiful natural assets of the area. Stunning landscapes of the Alpilles mountains provided an excellent backdrop for our intrepid explorations. We started off in the morning, taking a trail that boasted not only physical exertion but also peaceful moments with nature. The colorful wildflowers and uncommon rock formations captivated us as we teased the meandering trails.

Every step up the trail took us closer to views that were well worth the effort. The green valleys below the hills were surreal and conducive to reflection, interspersed with the soft rustling of leaves and the distant melody of birdsong. While doing this hike, we really felt a bond with the land, a bond that was stronger than aesthetics. As the serenity of the Alpilles embraced us, we found ourselves thinking of our experiences during this amazing trip.

Over our five-day stay, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence ended up being an exceptional mix of history, art, and nature. The siren song of a quaint street, the echo of Van Gogh’s footsteps, the charm of a local culture transformed us, marked our lives forever. We left speaking in reverent tones of how such a distinctive place had revived our spirits as well as our slow smile for nature and creativity. Now we came to an end of our traveling and warmth of memories that we created and inspiration that we grabbed from the tour gave us energy. Indeed, the magic of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence stays long after you leave and encourages us to take pieces of its beauty along with us for life.

Things you need to know about Saint-Remy de Provence

Location and Setting

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is a small yet vibrant town located in southern France, within the Bouches-du-Rhône department of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. It sits at the foot of the Alpilles mountains, about 20 km (12 miles) south of Avignon. Its picturesque streets, shaded squares, and surrounding olive groves make it one of the most beautiful destinations in Provence.

Historical Significance

The town has a deep historical past, dating back to the Greco-Roman era. Just outside Saint-Rémy, the Glanum archaeological site offers a glimpse into an ancient Roman city, with well-preserved ruins, including a triumphal arch and a mausoleum. Additionally, Saint-Rémy is the birthplace of the famous astrologer and physician Nostradamus, who was born here in 1503.

Van Gogh’s Legacy

One of Saint-Rémy’s most famous residents was Vincent van Gogh, who lived here for a year at the Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery in 1889. During his stay, he created over 150 paintings, including the iconic Starry Night, inspired by the town's landscapes. Today, visitors can walk the Van Gogh Trail, which highlights locations that influenced his artwork, and visit his former residence to see the places that fueled his creativity.

Culture and Attractions

Saint-Rémy is known for its charming historic center, filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and lively cafés. Every Wednesday, the town hosts the Marché Provençal, a colorful and aromatic market offering local produce, cheeses, wines, and handmade crafts. Art and history lovers can also explore nearby attractions like the Carrières de Lumières, an immersive digital art exhibition in a former limestone quarry in Les Baux-de-Provence.

Food and Wine

The town is a paradise for food lovers, known for its traditional Provençal cuisine. Local specialties include olive oil, truffles, lavender honey, tapenade, and fresh goat cheese. Visitors can enjoy fine dining at traditional bistros, explore vineyards producing Côtes du Rhône and Alpilles wines, or take a cooking class to learn the secrets of Provençal dishes.

Outdoor Activities

Surrounded by the Alpilles Natural Park, Saint-Rémy offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and scenic drives. The rolling landscapes, dotted with olive trees and cypress groves, provide a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. There are also several olive oil mills where visitors can learn about and taste locally produced olive oils.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is in spring (April to June) and fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasant, and the town is less crowded. Summer (July and August) is popular for its lavender fields in full bloom, but it can be busy with tourists. Winter (December to February) offers a quieter and more authentic experience, perfect for those looking to enjoy the town’s charm at a slower pace.

Getting There

Saint-Rémy is easily accessible from Avignon (20 km away), which has a TGV train station, and from Marseille-Provence Airport (70 km away). While public transportation is available, the best way to explore Saint-Rémy and the surrounding region is by car, allowing visitors to discover nearby villages, vineyards, and natural wonders at their own pace.

Whether you are drawn by history, art, food, or the breathtaking landscapes of Provence, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence offers an unforgettable experience filled with charm and authenticity.

Useful information of Saint-Remy de Provence