Provence

Provence lies directly between the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps and became a household name in 1991 when Peter Mayle's book "A Year In Provence" was published.  Just its name conjures up the swaying oleanders, olives glistening in the sun and the heavenly smell emanating from row upon row of deep purple lavender bushes.  You think of a slower pace of life, a Sunday lunch under the shade of plane trees, a café crème at a sidewalk café, or a long walk through a forest of oak and chestnut trees.  This is the region that inspired Cezanne, Van Gogh, Chagall and Giono.  The local people (the Midi) have a soft singing accent which evokes their relaxed lifestyle.  In Provence it is all about sharing a meal with friends and relaxing under the sun whilst being cooled by the fresh, scented breeze of the mistral.