14 independent reviews for Provence hiking retreat, nature, food and wine
Reviews for Provence hiking retreat, nature, food and wine
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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