Stephens is Owner of Olives & Vines. Olives & Vines is a luxury holiday company based in the South of France offering stays at their beautifully designed holiday house and boutique hotel in Le Castellet.
It’s incredible to think that it’s been nearly two months at the time of writing that the whole of France was placed into a strict lockdown which prevented anyone leaving their homes. In common with the rest of the world, there were of course some exceptions such as being allowed to exercise or shop for […]
Another month and coronavirus continues to dominate the news. The lockdown’s being experienced by countries around the world have for the most part remained in place which of course has put paid to the best of laid travel plans for millions. Here in France, President Macron has announced that there will be a partial let […]
Under normal circumstances, many of us would choose to visit a beautiful place like Provence to enjoy some rest and rejuvenation in order to improve our Health & Wellbeing. In the midst of today’s Coronavirus pandemic, health concerns are an order of magnitude more serious. Whilst travel plans for the immediate future have been put […]
The mere mention of Provence conjures idyllic images of lavender fields bathed in evocative inspiring light. Whether you imagine the enchanting countryside clasping precarious hillside villages, or consider the cooler climes of medieval caves, Provence will not fail to delight. Here we offer ideas on things to do and places to visit in Provence from […]
Claimed by the Romans, this charming region of South-East France was christened ‘La Provincia’ by Caesar. The Romans are remembered for many things, not least the incredible network of roads they built. Today, whilst original Roman roads are few and far between, Provence is criss-crossed by some fabulous stretches of tarmac which lend themselves perfectly […]
Winter in northern Europe can feel like it drags on and on. With the excitement of Christmas over, Spring can feel a long way off. And, with more clement weather only beginning to appear in places like the UK come early May, it’s understandable that you might want to book a week or two away […]
You might not think of winter as the ideal time to visit Provence and especially not to see the top tourist attractions on offer across the region. Surely the summer is the best time? Well actually late Autumn to early Spring offers a superb window of opportunity to enjoy a holiday in this fabulous area […]
Christmas can be an incredibly exciting time of year to enjoy a holiday. Although the temptation is just to do the ‘same old thing’ and chill out at home, making the effort to get away for a few days over Christmas can be well worth it. So, this year, why not book a flight and […]
With such a lot to see and do in Provence, it can sometimes become overwhelming trying to plan a holiday in Provence… especially if you have never visited before! To help you enjoy the perfect Provence vacation I’ve listed some top attractions and well as lots of useful information about the region. If you’ve got […]
Wow, what a Summer we’ve been having in Provence! With soaring temperatures, it really has been amazing for those of us who love to make the most of the heat of the summer. Still, there are times when even the most ardent heat lovers want to cool down for a bit. Luckily, there are plenty […]
Even in a country as devoted to eating as France, there is something special about feasting in Provence. Provence provides endless sunshine, the French Riviera, home to Cézanne and a colourful countryside. It is this landscape that defines the classical Provençal cuisine with mineral-rich sea and soil responsible for extraordinary flavours. Rocky hillsides are infused […]
Unlike any other European region, the beauty of Provence is that she generously provides a wide array of opportunities for leisure, which never fail to disappoint. From inhaling the sensual lavender lingering aroma to quaffing sweet Rosé under the stars, times here are as delectable as the warmth of the sun that drenches this archetypical […]
Provence is without doubt a popular destination in the summer and for very good reason. The abundant sunshine encourages everything to burst into life. There is a palpable buzz in the air as people make the most of the stunning weather and warm temperatures. The vines are in full leaf, the sunflowers and lavender in […]
For many holiday destinations there are a few ‘must do’ activities or specific places to visit. Here in Provence we’re lucky to have our very own destination venue – The Circuit Paul Ricard Race Track! This incredible complex and homage to motor racing was built in 1969 just outside of the picturesque village of Le […]
There are lots of reasons why Provence makes such a good holiday destination. Great food, lovely towns and vibrant cities set in a geographically beautiful landscape are just some. But one of the top reasons people visit is to enjoy the stunning coastline that meanders for miles and the sunshine and warmth which makes time […]
Easter… the word conjures up Spring sunshine, cute rabbits, fluffy chicks and chocolate. However, in the UK, the reality can also be the nightmare of a long school holiday break with torrential rain outside. So, give yourselves a treat and head south. Blue skies, balmy air, open spaces and even beaches await you in Provence….plus […]
