19 independent reviews for Provence hiking retreat, nature, food and wine
Reviews for Provence hiking retreat, nature, food and wine
Vicky Leff review 21 Sep 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The welcoming feeling when you arrived at the villa along with the beautiful views, delicious meals and incredible hosts2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Come prepared for some incredible hikes with expert guides, amazing views and magnificent meals prepared by Remi3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely. Remi used local products and supported local businesses4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This was an incredible experience from the very start. The hospitality and warm welcome we received from Remi and his mom Ilona were exceptional, making us feel comfortable and genuinely cared for throughout our stay. The views from the villa and along our hikes were absolutely amazing, but one of the most special touches was the delicious lunches Remi thoughtfully prepared and packed for us each day. We also enjoyed delicious meals every day, and Remi was incredibly thoughtful in preparing each dish with so much care and attention to detail. Every meal was truly special and added to the wonderful experience. This vacation was truly unforgettable, filled with wonderful moments, thoughtful touches and memories I will cherish for years to come. It will be hard to top!Katie Taylor review 20 Sep 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Everything! The location of the villa combined with the warmth of the welcome from Remi and Ilona was instantly relaxing. Remi is a fantastic chef and the meals and conversations shared around the table were a real highlight. The hikes were varied and the views were stunning. The local guides were brilliant2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
If you are in any way hesitating about this vacation, just book it. You will not regret it.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, the food was locally grown and all the wine was local The walking guides were from the region When we ate out, it was at family-run, local restaurants4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Really outstanding. Every detail has been thought through to ensure that you can totally relax from the word go. I left feeling totally uplifted by the experience with many very special memoriesVanessa Holmes review 18 Sep 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The hospitality, enthusiasm, knowledge and care that Remi and his mom bestowed upon us made the vacation exceptional. We will never forget sitting around the table at meals or for drinks chatting with our hosts. It is hard right now to truly feel present with so much going on in the world and with access at your finger tips, but I truly felt present every moment...to breath, relax, learn, and just be.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
DO IT! Consider hiking boots, not shoes. Although hiking shoes were okay, I think more support would have been nice.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely, even from the moment Remi picked us up at our hotel in Nice we were given reusable water bottles for the stay. He shops locally for all our meals, lunches were packed in reusable linch sacks, and we visited local restaurants and a winery.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This will be a standout vacation for us and very hard to top. Having just arrived home to the U.S. I am quite saddened. I am grateful to have had the experience though and will do my best to close my eyes and think of the gorgeous forests and views from the mountains when I need some peace.James John Patrick Hammond review 7 Sep 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
This is difficult to answer; there are so many such moments. I am a 60 year old Canadian with little experience of travel outside of European cities. On this trip I wanted to change that but traveling with a friend on his first trip to Europe, my itinerary was again large cities, with the exception of my final week which was solo. Exploring a rural region of France was appealing and the Provence experience itinerary highlighted many of the things I have read and heard about Provence: the villages, smells, food, hiking and scenery. I also enjoy overnight train travel and journeying from Paris to Nice on the overnight Intercities de Nuit was wonderful. The hiking aspects of the vacation I cannot comment on (as will be explained below). However, the hosts provided an unforgettable introduction to Provence. The villa is beautiful; the hosts are accommodating and kind. The attention to small details from a welcoming personalized note with fresh local lavender to the final parting gift of a recipe book containing many of the amazing meals we experienced and written by the chef/host Remi shows an attention to detail that I very much appreciated. I was not aware but this vacation coincided with the birthday of one of the other guests, which was celebrated. The home cooked meals were delicious, local and catered to your dietary requirements (canvassed in advance). Beautiful villages, some great restaurants, a vineyard tour and other cultural activities are included. You are part of a small group that dines together, enjoys excursions together and you form real bonds with the other guests and hosts. I completed the retreat both sampling Provence's beauty and stunning scenery, but also enriched through experiencing it with my fellow travelers.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Based on my experience, I would provide 2 tips: 1st. It is a perfect way to conclude a lengthy and demanding European tour. For me, the Provence experience was the final week of an intensive month of travel in Europe, (5 cities in 3 weeks with distance travel between each city). This type of travel can leave you feeling more exhausted than recharged. This vacation allows you to relax and recharge your batteries. 2nd: Adaptability of the hosts to your specific circumstances, within reason. Two days prior to my arrival I sprained my ankle. I considered cancelling, writing off the costs and returning home early because hiking is a significant rationale for this vacation, (and reason why I wanted to go). The hosts canvass your fitness abilities and, although there is no formal testing, you should be honest both with yourself and with the hosts if you are hiking in a group setting. As described by the other guests, the hikes can be physically challenging but incredibly rewarding. Several hiking activities last all day and involve significant climbs, (not mountaineering), but ability to ascend over the course of a day 1000 metres in height. Hiking poles are provided upon request. Specific items of clothing are recommended based upon the season. The reason I cannot comment on this aspect of the vacation is that I was unable to hike due to the ankle sprain. Despite the ankle sprain, I wrote to the host Remi; he was responsive and indicated that they could accommodate and adapt the itinerary permitting me to engage in cultural activities (that did not require hiking) and relax and recuperate during the periods when the other guests were hiking. The villa is excellent for that purpose. It has a beautiful pool with amazing views of the surrounding mountains and on a clear day, all the way to the Mediterranean. At night, star gazing is spectacular due to the lack of urban light pollution. During non-hiking days I was able to explore several villages, markets and also enjoy local restaurants for one lunch and one dinner. Our group also enjoyed a local vineyard tour with personalized wine tastings (for me another first). My expectations of being introduced to Provence were fully met by the hosts despite my unfortunate injury occurring only two days prior to the trip.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The vacation definitely prioritized supporting local businesses and people. During cultural excursions we ate at two local restaurants, attended a local vineyard, and I saw first hand how the host Remi shopped at local markets for local and organic produce. All wine served was from local and in some cases, organic vineyards. The day-long hikes were led by a local guide with certified experience of hiking and climbing in this region. I heard from the other guests how much they appreciated the guide’s knowledge of the landscape, flora and fauna and ability to convey this information; I even learned about “snake eagles”, although never seeing one, as these were a feature of the hike. This is not a “risk free” vacation, as with climate change the risk of wild fires and being in nature and encountering local fauna is something that the hosts are clear about. They request that you review carefully the safety conditions and they also review these with you in person upon arrival on the first day before embarking on the hikes. You are also requested to provide proof of medical insurance. So to the extent that my ankle sprain permitted, I can answer the above question affirmatively.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I would rate my overall experience as five stars. I would definitely like to experience this vacation with my partner; I know he would love it. I also had the strong impression from the other guests that they valued as much as I did the attention to detail and every aspect of the vacation. My impression was that I was not alone in wanting to repeat this experience.Xianfu Lu review 31 Aug 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The different elements (immersion in nature, exploration of local culture, delicious & abundant food & wine, relaxing & well appointed accommodation, friendly and welcoming hosts, and of course the delightful company of fellow travelers) of the retreat came together as a package made the experience the most rewarding and unforgettable for me.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be open to explore and enjoy all the place has to offer, and be generous to others, you will have a wonderful time.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes I think so. We dined at local restaurants, purchases local produce from the village market and vineyard, and brought our own reusable water bottle with us on the hikes.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
SUPERB! Our host Remi and his ever so delightful mum Ilona are the best: thoughtful, friendly, witty, multi-talented. We felt we were visiting old friends!Anna McNally review 21 Jun 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
We all did a wonderful hike on Friday where there was an abundance of wildflowers and resultant butterfly profusion! But it was all memorable … the meals lovingly and professionally created by the operator(including delicious packed lunches), the well thought out trips to mountain villages, the two meals out with stunning views and the welcoming, comfortable home from home to return to at the end of each day.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Make sure you’re comfortable with fairly strenuous hiking … it’s mountainous, it’s Provence! You need to know your fitness levels. Also, bring suncream and hats!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes definitely. All the meals were carefully and prodigiously sourced from local producers and growers and we ate out at local restaurants for two meals. The whole ethos for the operators tour is based on the above.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Absolutely fantastic! The operator could not have done enough for us. First class.Sara Meyer review 11 Jun 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Everything was fantastic. Of the hikes, my favorite was the Gorge de Verdon - our lunch spot overlooking the gorge, with its sheer rock faces and the clear blue water of the river below was simply stunning. Dinners at the villa with Remi and his mother were also a real highlight. The food was delicious and Remi was kind enough to share some of his recipes and even try my hand at a little cooking with him, which I really enjoyed!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Don't hesitate, just book. This was such a relaxing trip in a beautiful location. (If you have a choice of bedrooms at the villa, I'd highly recommend Room 4 as it's very spacious and private with a large and comfortable bed, though the ensuite bathroom is behind a screen rather than being fully enclosed, so if you're traveling as a pair you'd need to be comfortable with being able to hear everything your partner is doing. And if you're sensitive to the morning light it's worth noting that the velux/skylights don't have blinds.)3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The vacation definitely benefited local people/businesses. We visited a small independent local vineyard, and had a tour with the owner who clearly has a real passion for winemaking. Our dinner out in Fayence was at a family run restaurant that's clearly a local favorite (and with good reason, as the food and service were fantastic). And Remi buys his ingredients for all your meals at the local market, supporting local producers and reducing food miles.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This was an absolutely fantastic vacation that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys hiking, relaxing and good food.Joelle Hochman review 28 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Remi was warm and welcoming from our first phone conversation-by the time I arrived I felt like a friend rather than a guest. And the food was absolutely spectacular-it was like eating at a 5-star restaurant each night!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
The hikes, while led by a professional, are not easy-definitely spend time preparing before you go.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Absolutely! This was evident in many ways. All the food we ate was locally sourced, and the two meals out clearly benefitted family owned businesses.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It was really outstanding. Every detail was thought through, from the welcome note to the crisp sheets and comfortable bed, to the lovely pool and fun pool towels, the delicious food, and wonderful talks and laughs.Christine Zazzarelli review 26 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The whole experience felt incredibly relaxed and well thought through from start to finish. Remi and his mother Ilona were fantastic hosts and made us feel completely at ease from the moment we arrived. The food was consistently fresh, diverse and excellent, with wonderful local wines always flowing. The hikes were the perfect balance of enjoyable and challenging, and Vincent was an extremely knowledgeable guide who brought the region to life. We also really enjoyed the village and winery visits. One of the best parts was not having to think about anything - everything was taken care of, including the daily apero at 6:30pm, which became a highlight of each evening.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Come prepared to fully switch off and enjoy the experience. Bring good walking shoes, an appetite, and leave room in your suitcase for wine! The hikes are manageable if you are reasonably active, and the pace of the trip is very balanced. Also, don’t skip the apero hour - it’s a great way to unwind and connect with the group after the day’s activities.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, definitely. The vacation clearly supported local businesses through the use of local guides, wineries, food producers and village visits. There was also a strong appreciation for the local culture, landscape and traditions, which made the experience feel authentic and respectful of the region.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent — a truly memorable experience with wonderful hosts, fantastic food and wine, beautiful hikes, and a perfect balance of activity and relaxation. Highly recommended.Mildred (Millie) Ryan review 6 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
All of my vacation was wonderful Remi and his mother, Ilona were great hosts and Remi is an outstanding cook. The hikes and cultural trips were great fun. I even learned how to use my trekking poles correctly.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Come prepared to settle in and enjoy!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes - Remi shopped locally to purchase food for our meals. We went to restaurants that also purchased locally. The winery we visited had sustainable practices.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
My vacation was even better than expected!Nicola Elcock review 5 May 2026
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
As a solo traveler, it was a great relief to be so warmly welcomed and made to feel at home immediately at Remi and his mother's stylish and comfortable property. It truly is one of the most peaceful places I have ever stayed in, and with breathtaking views of the Provençal landscape.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be honest with Remi in advance about your fitness levels and walking likes/dislikes, so he can tailor the hikes accordingly. There is such a diversity of environments to enjoy.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. We ate out twice at restaurants owned and run by local people, visited a locally run winery, and Remi utilises a local guide, who happens to be an experienced mountaineer, to operate some of the walks.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
I enjoyed this trip far more than I anticipated. It was like staying with good friends who are deeply motivated to ensure your every comfort, feed you up and show off their favorite neighbourhood - my heart was full when I flew home.Angela Ilic review 3 Nov 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Excellent time with a great group - so much positive energy, a welcoming host that prepared delicious meals for us, took us on breathtaking hikes and so much more.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Take time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the great mix of activities.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes I do, the food and wine were supplied locally.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent - a good combination of activities in relaxing and beautiful surroundings.Angela Gillet review 16 Oct 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Everything was memorable but what stood out were the amazing views on our hikes and of course Remi's delicious food!2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Leave all your worries behind and be prepared to relax and enjoy the trip. You will be well taken care of!3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. all the food was locally sources and we ate in local restaurants in the area and visited local markets.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent. I loved the house, a great place to unwind after a busy day. Remi was an amazing host going out of his way to make us comfortable, and not forgetting Ilona ( Remi's mum) who made us feel very much at home. I liked the balance of different activities and and it was lovely to meet and spend time with the other guests. I would definitely recommend this vacation.Patrick Buckingham review 16 Oct 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The combination of walks in pristine landscapes, idyllic French villages and great Provencal food was very special. The fact that we also got to the beach and to explore a local vineyard was the icing on the cake.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared for a full programme which will include some fairly early starts. There is still time to relax by the pool and enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Certainly. Remi makes it his business to engage with local people and businesses and takes pride in sourcing local produce when turning out delicious Provencal dishes. I haven't eaten so well on vacation for a long time.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
It's a perfect vacation for those who want to see a quieter, more traditional side of the South of France. The villa is very comfortable and Remi makes guests feel extremely welcome. He is an excellent host and talented chef and I felt more like a house guest during my stay. The combination of walking, food and culture is very special.Piers Smith review 13 Oct 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The beautiful setting and the wonderful host2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
you might need to diet afterwards.......3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, absolutely4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
FabulousBrenda Johnson review 7 Oct 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
The hikes each day were wonderful and varied, and the food was memorable.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Just do it - everything is well planned, individual attention is given and it will be memorable3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes, we visited a local winery, and Remi cooked with ingredients he sourced locally.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Highly recommendedDebbie Poole review 6 Oct 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
A fabulous relaxing week in Provence with a great group of people. The accommodation is tasteful and charming in a wonderfully peaceful location with breath taking views. Stunning hikes on 3 of the 5 days interspersed with visits to the beach, a local vineyard and villages. Remi is an extraordinary host, accommodating every need and is a MasterChef in the kitchen ! The food was presented beautifully, tasted amazing and wouldn't be out of place in any high end restaurant, making use of healthy delicious local produce.2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Be prepared to relax, immerse yourself in the surroundings and the company of your host and the group. For an October trip the temp varied from chilly mornings to quickly becoming 25 degrees in the day, therefore clothing layers required.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes there were great benefits for the local community, all produce and services from local suppliers, and I suspect the number will increase. Remi is passionate about the local flora and fauna and happy to share his knowledge on the local environment and conservation.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
This was an excellent vacation with a fabulous host - full of laughter and fun and very suited to solo travelers. Spectacular scenery, a few challenging but ultimately rewarding hikes, culture visits and amazing cuisine. As advertised Culture, Nature, Food and Wine - I thoroughly recommend.Lise Richards review 23 Jun 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
I can’t give a single answer to this. Hiking in such beautiful hills and mountains. The delicious home-cooked food. The warmth, care and attention from a host who is clearly passionate about what he is doing2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Remember to look around you at every opportunity on your hikes. There’s always something nature has to offer. Take advantage, in the best way for you, of the balance of energy and down time you’ll get during your stay.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Yes. Remi takes great care to use local fresh produce and it shows in the meals he prepares. These are accompanied by some lovely local wines, including from the vineyard visited during the stay.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
If I could give more than five stars, I would.Penny Bridle review 27 May 2025
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your vacation?
Walks specifically chosen to cater to our interests especially the wildflowers and the fantastic locally sourced food2. What tips would you give other travelers booking this vacation?
Make sure you let Remi know what you’re main interests are: walking, flowers, wine, food as he will do his best to tailor the retreat accordingly.3. Did you feel that your vacation benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely. The food and wine was locally sourced and mainly organic and then expertly turned into superb dishes.4. Finally, how would you rate your vacation overall?
Excellent!Holiday Reviews
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