Regent Seven Seas Cruises guests have a unique opportunity to travel into the stunning Provençal countryside and indulge in its fresh, flavorful cuisine by participating in an exclusive hands-on cooking class and sampling wines and local delicacies between tours of charming traditional villages. Embark on a culinary adventure with the new Culinary Creations: Flavors of Provence land tour, available pre- or post-cruise, aboard select Seven Seas Explorer® and Seven Seas Navigator® voyages.
Below is an overview of the land program.
Day 1
Guests will begin the culinary adventure by traveling to the fairytale-like Château de Berne. Surrounded by vineyards, this 5-star hotel is part of the exclusive Relais & Château collection of properties and offers a unique ambience to experience the Provence lifestyle. Guests will have time to settle in, explore the vast hotel and perhaps take in the sights by strolling into the countryside before savoring the flavors of Provence over dinner.
Day 2
The following day, guests will meet with the chef of Château de Berne for a hands-on cooking class in the late morning and actively engage in preparing lunch for the day. The cooking class may take place in the shade of an olive tree or in the vineyard, both extraordinary settings. During the cooking class, learn about the fresh items typically found in Provençal markets, and tour the chef’s garden, discovering various herbs and produce. The chef’s passion and enthusiasm will surely inspire guests to create a culinary masterpiece. Of course, the highlight is dining on the delectable lunch.
Day 3
Accompanied by a local guide, guests will explore the enchanting villages and charming countryside of Le Thoronet as well as Cotignac, which is situated at the base of a sheer cliff wall. Guests may stroll through the narrow streets of the old quarter, admiring the historical houses dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, and perhaps pause at the wonderfully ornate fountains in the serene squares. At nearby Moulin de Pascaline, discover how olive oil is produced locally and sample several delicacies that may include tapenade, homemade jams, figs, sliced meats, pastries and breads. After a long day of exploration, guests will return to the château and join the sommelier for a VIP wine tasting and tour of the owner’s private wine cellar.
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to experience the culinary side of Provence. See below for voyages featuring this splendid land tour.
Exceptional Europe | 8 Nights | Departs July 5, 2016 | Seven Seas Navigator
Inspired Discoveries | 10 Nights | Departs September 24, 2016 | Seven Seas Explorer
Masters & Legends | 8 Nights | Departs October 4, 2016 | Seven Seas Explorer
