In addition to the hiking and time at the villa, the retreat includes a selection of experiences that bring guests closer to the local life, food and culture of Provence. These moments add another dimension to the week, offering a more personal and immersive experience of the region.

Vineyard Visit & Wine Tasting

Provence is known around the world for its wines, particularly its rosé, though the whites and reds of the region are equally worth discovering. During the retreat, we visit Val d’Iris in Seillans for a tour and tasting, where guests can learn more about the winemaking process and enjoy the wines in the landscape where they are produced. Their website is valdiris.com.

Medieval Villages

The hilltop villages of Provence are one of the region’s most distinctive and beautiful features. With their old stone buildings, winding lanes and long history, they offer a strong sense of place and a wonderful contrast to the wilder landscapes of the hikes. Over the course of the retreat, we spend time exploring some of these villages and getting a feel for their character, atmosphere and local heritage.

Fayence Market

A visit to the village market in Fayence is another highlight of the week. Set in the heart of the village, it is a lively and characterful place to experience everyday Provençal life, with local produce, artisan goods and the easy rhythm of a market morning. A coffee on a terrace overlooking the square is a lovely way to take it all in.

Dining & Local Flavours

Food is an important part of the retreat, and not only at the villa. During the week, we also dine at two wonderful family-run local restaurants, each offering its own atmosphere and sense of place, and giving guests a wider experience of the region’s flavours and hospitality.

Together, these moments help shape a retreat that feels fuller than a standard walking holiday - one that brings together nature, food, wine, village life and a more personal experience of Provence.