Sundrenched Provence, where the people are exuberant and outspoken and the cooking is a miraculous straightforward blending of the simplest ingredients, is a land that enchants. The tomato, the olive, and garlic reign supreme, with garlic and onions pulled from the earth, dried in the sun, and woven into braids hanging everywhere, ready to be married with the abundance of vegetables (artichokes, eggplant, squash, wild fennel) for which Provence is famous.

Celebrate these riches with us as we join Reine and Guy Sammut for a 7-day, 6-night stay in their deluxe hotel near Lourmarin. Reine, considered by many to be France’s top woman chef, was named Chef of the Year in 1998 by the prestigious Champerard guide. She has also earned one star from the Guide Michelin and three "A+" toques from the Guide Gault Millau. Her husband, Guy, is a charming, welcoming host and a noted wine expert.

The program includes 4 participatory cooking classes with Reine, where we will experience the essence of Provençale cooking—ingredients used in their purest, freshest state, and cooked simply with Reine’s sublime flair.

During our week-long stay, we will accompany the chef to the bustling market at Aix-en-Provence and will visit the charming towns of Lourmarin, Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Les Baux, and Apt as well as several farms, vineyards, and châteaux.