Côte d'Azur, France
Culinary Explorations: Discover the Food + Wine of the Côte d'Azur, France
September 30 - October 6, 2025
Spend a week in the countryside and small towns of the Côte d’Azur, surrounded by groves of olive trees, rows of cypresses, field-after-field of grapevines, all while basking in the culinary magic of this award-winning and coveted region.
We’ll have an introduction to the culinary culture of Nice, where the flavors of the city showcase both traditional French Riviera cuisine and Mediterranean flavors, influenced by the city’s proximity to Italy and its coastal location. We’ll wander the historic town of Nice, visiting the abundant street markets, while seeking out our favorite boulangeries and fromageries and dining at several unique, local restaurants.
We’ll explore a variety of Provençal and Maritime Alps regional wines with a visit to some of our favorite Côtes de Provence wineries. In Nice, you’ll enjoy a guided wine tasting with a sommelier where you can learn about regional wine history, how to better evaluate the quality of wines, and features to consider when selecting and enjoying French wines on your own.
Further a field, we’ll journey to a number of small towns to experience and breadth and depth of the culinary scene in this region. We’ll visit an island of monks, where they cultivate olive trees and produce high-quality wines of their own. We’ll head east towards Italy to learn about the famous Menton lemons before we have time to wander the medieval town of Dolceacqua nestled in the heart of Liguria. In Cannes we’ll meander through the stalls of locally grown produce at a food market known to be one of Julia Child's most notable haunts. We’ll ascend into curious hilltop towns above the sea and explore a variety of historical and charming villages with spectacular vistas across this beautiful region of the world.
Trip Itinerary, Details + Important Trip Notes below.
DATES
September 30 - October 6, 2025 ∙ 7 Days, 6 Nights
PRICE
Twin Shared Room $5,395 USD
Private Room $5,995 USD
Full Rooming + Pricing Details Below
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
Experiences guided by Fouad Zarrou who will provide daily context, cultural relevancy, and additional insights
Guided walking tour of Nice focusing on local markets and culinary specialties
Visit the Cannes Market, an oilve oil mill, goat cheese farm, and lemon farm
Explore the island of Îles de Saint-Honorat, which has it’s own winery and beautiful monastery
Visit the Meaght Foundation, a modern art museum on the Colline des Gardettes
Enjoy an expert-led Wine Tasting with a local Sommelier
Visits to hilltop villages of Côte d’Azur, and the charming towns of Menton and Dolceacqua in Italy
Curated meals centered around traditional French cuisine and the multicultural influences of region
Transport during included meals and activities
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout your trip
Trip Prep call to meet fellow travelers and talk through schedules, recommendations, and questions
Explore with Fouad Zarrou
Fouad will be sharing some of the most beautiful places, on and off the beaten path, around the Côte d’Azur + Provence.
Formerly an international lawyer and a consultant for Unesco in Paris, Fouad is an accomplished cook and has a particular interest in sharing behind the scenes culinary + wine experiences of the region. As a graduate of the Sorbonne, he has extensive knowledge of French culture and history which he will share with us.
Day by Day Itinerary
Nota Bene: this is a prospective itinerary. It is subject to modest modifications, dependent on local weather, new opportunities, and the desires of the group.
Day 1
Tuesday, September 30
Welcome to Nice, France!
Today you’ll arrive in Nice and make your own way to our city center hotel. Have a rest, walk the city, head for a beverage, or explore the neighborhood. Please plan to arrive at our Nice hotel no later that 4:30pm so you have time to settle in before dinner.
This evening we visit the restaurant of a local chef who will introduce you to some of the traditional flavors and ingredients of the region through a demonstrative multi-course tasting menu.
Meals included: Dinner
Day 2
Wednesday, October 1
We begin our culinary adventures by venturing up into the hilltop communities above Nice. One of the great specialties of the French Riviera, unknown to most visitors, is the ability of its people to adapt to their steep natural environment in order to feed themselves. Terraced farming has a long history in the Mediterranean region, with evidence of its use dating back millennia. Vineyards, fruit orchards, and olive groves thrive here.
This morning we have the opportunity to visit an olive oil mill followed by a visit to a goat cheese farm. This hilly region is renowned for goat dairy farming, especially the production of goat cheese. Southern France is famous for its diverse range of goat cheeses, including well-known varieties such as Crottin de Chavignol and Valençay.
For lunch we make our way towards Gourdon. Notably considered one of the most beautiful villages in all of France we’ll have a casual lunch nearby. The village offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Valley of the Loup and extends all the way across the Riviera, from Nice on the left to Théoule on the right. The village itself nestles behind the imposing château surrounded by gardens designed by Le Notre.
This afternoon we visit the Maeght Foundation, a museum of modern art on the Colline des Gardettes. The museums collection includes works by many important 20th-century artists, including Jean Arp, Georges Braque, Alexander Calder, Marc Chagall, Sam Francis, Alberto Giacometti, Wassily Kandinsky, Ellsworth Kelly, Fernand Léger, Anne Madden, and Joan Miró among others.
This evening we visit one of our favorite bistros in Nice for dinner together.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Thursday, October 2
We’re off to the winery haven of western Provence, also known as Côtes de Provence, to learn about several varieties of wine and enjoy tastings at a couple of our favorite wineries that we have hand selected for you to visit. This region is particularly famous for its’ rosé wine, which accounts for over 10% of the world’s rosé production. Provence is the one wine region of the world where ‘pink’ is the main wine.
The Côtes de Provence landscapes are equally spectacular, with vineyards stretching across rolling hills offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, mountains, and Provençal villages. The wine estates, often set in bastides or traditional Provençal farmhouses, add to the region’s charm. We will visit a traditional and more modern winery which are known for their crisp rosés, fruity whites, and full-bodied reds.
We’ll stop for lunch in a small hillside village and visit the nearby 12th century abbey. This afternoon we visit one more winery for a tasting before we return to Nice. This evening is free for you to relax and explore the flavors of Nice on your own or with others from the group.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4
Friday, October 3
This morning we will explore the captivating town of Nice for a walking culinary tour. Did you know that Nice is the only city in France that is famed for its street food, a result of the strong Italian influence here?
During this fascinating tour you will learn about the history of Nice and its food. You’ll have the opportunity to taste unexpected delicacies, visit the famed flower market, and learn about a variety of spices and flavors. Explore specialties, such as socca (made with chickpeas, olive oil), pissaladière (a tart made with onions and anchovies), olives, olive oil, nougat, and more. As we continue through the narrow streets of old town, we’ll visit a cheese shop for a curated tasting.
Later this afternoon we will visit the Nice studio of Sommelier Julia, for a guided wine tasting. Julia will introduce you to several different wines from the Provence and Maritime Alps wine growing regions. Julia will explain how to taste wine, evaluate its quality, and features to pay attention to when choosing wine in the future. You’ll discuss grape varieties, regional history, and all about winemaking.
This rest of this evening is free for you to relax and explore the flavours on your own or with others from the group (if you find yourself still hungry that is!).
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5
Saturday, October 4
Today we head east towards the charming lemon growing region of Menton. The Menton lemon is an iconic fruit of the French Riviera, particularly cultivated around the town of Menton. These specialty lemons have been growing here since the 18th century. Renowned for their exceptional quality, unique flavor, and strong local symbolism, these citrus are especially appreciated for their intense fragrance and subtle aromas.
Growing in rich, well-drained soils, often cultivated in terraces on the hills overbooking the sea we’ll tour a lemon orchard which also grows clementines, bitter oranges, and bananas. For lunch we enjoy a picnic at the farm featuring a variety of locally grown seasonal produce.
This afternoon we cross the border into Italy to visit the medieval town of Dolceacqua nestled in the heart of Liguria. The village is famous for its medieval stone bridge—the Ponte Vecchio—which connects the two parts of the village. The village itself is dominated by the Doria Castle, a medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the valley and is an excellent example of medieval defensive architecture.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Sunday, October 5
This morning we head towards the town of Cannes and to a food market that was once one of Julia Child’s favorites in the region. We’ll have some time to explore the large variety of produce and specialty dishes, as well pick up some ingredients for our picnic lunch later today.
Then we’re off to board a small ferry towards the Îles de Saint-Honorat. This small island off the coast of Cannes is renowned for it’s natural beauty, tranquility, and rich history. Today, the island is home to a community of monks from the Order of Saint-Honorat, who cultivate olive trees and produce high-quality wines. One of the island's most remarkable sites is the Abbey of Lérins, a monastery dating back to the 5th century. The monks of Île Saint-Honorat lead a quiet life, cultivating the land, producing wines, olive oil, and artisanal products. We’ll wander the island visiting some of the monuments, and find a spot for our picnic lunch.
After lunch we enjoy a wine tasting of select wines from Abbaye de Lerins Vineyard. Located in the central part of the island, the vineyard covers a little over eight hectares. In an effort to preserve the balance of the island's ecosystem, the community of monks use no herbicides and the salt deposited by the sea breezes allows natural cleaning. Each year, the grapes are pampered, trimmed, de-budded, and harvested entirely by hand.
This evening we celebrate our time together with a contemporary multi-course tasting meal that is set to intrigue the senses!
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Monday, October 6
This morning we pack our bags, say our farewells, and ready ourselves to depart from the beautiful city of Nice.
Thank you for joining us on this incredible culinary journey!
Meals included: Breakfast
Where We’re Staying
Situated in the heart of Nice, this XIXth century building exudes contemporary elegance. You’ll find a variety of restaurants and shops within easy walking distance. Reach the Place Masséna, an architectural masterpiece dating back to 1840 and its legendary fountain of the Sun in less than 10 minutes as well as its mythical coulée verte. Carry on your discovery of the Old-Town district know for its flowers market, curious alleys, traditional restaurants and lively evening culture.
ROOMING OPTIONS
Please read the room options and notes below carefully and make your rooming selection on the booking page
Group Size: Minimum 8 guests, Maximum 12 guests. All Prices are in USD.
OPTION 1 - SHARED TWIN ROOM
The fee for this trip is $5,395 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Initial Payment due immediately: $1995
Final Payment due May 10, 2025: $3400
Room Notes: You will share a room + bathroom with one other guest, each guest will have a twin bed. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
OPTION 2 - PRIVATE ROOM
The fee for this trip is $5,995 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Initial Payment due immediately: $1,995
Final Payment due May 10, 2025: $4,000
Room Notes: You will have a private room + bathroom for the duration of the trip. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
Important Trip Notes + Details
Culinary Notes
Unfortunately we are unable to handle specific dietary requirements, allergies, or intolerances on this trip.
During this culinary adventure, we will be visiting people and locations where we will encounter many delicious surprises based on what the local makers offer us. We will also try dishes that might be unfamiliar. This trip is best suited for those open and eager to enjoy and experience a variety of regional flavors.
Please contact us in advance of registering if you have any dietary questions.
Accessibility
Please note this tour includes walking tours where the ground may be uneven such as cobblestones, trails, hills, stairs. You should be comfortable sitting, standing and walking. You may be on your feet for several of hours at a time and should be comfortable walking 2 - 5kms at a reasonable pace.
Who is this Trip for?
This trip is for the open minded and patient traveler. You should be eager to learn and work hands-on with a local, rural community of skilled artisans and be curious about regional culture and cuisine.
This is an immersive adventure and best suited for those who enjoy traveling as a part of a small group.
Travel Health
We recommend consulting a doctor, nurse, health care provider, or travel health clinic once we confirm your booking on this Ace Camps Travel trip so you know what may be required based on your individual circumstances and based on the locations you’ll be traveling to. If you have any health concerns, contact your health care provider for advice prior to booking this Ace Camps Travel trip.
Trip Start + End Locations
This trip starts and finishes in Nice, France.
Nice Côte d'Azur Airport is an international airport located 3.2 miles southwest of Nice (airport code NCE). Nice airport is served by taxis and various forms of public transport.
Weather
October is a wonderful time of year to visit Provence + Côte d'Azur. There is a good chance for sunny days, and long evenings. Temperatures range from 60°F to 70°F, which means you should pack light and layered clothes for your stay and a light jacket to prepare for the possibility of a shower or two.
* Please note that should the weather prove challenging, some activities may be altered from the posted itinerary.
Included in this Trip
Experiences guided by Fouad Zarrou who will provide daily context, cultural relevancy and additional insights
Guided tour of Nice focusing on local markets, culinary specialties + more
Visit the Cannes Market, an oilve oil mill, goat cheese farm + lemon farm
Explore the island of Îles de Saint-Honorat, which has it’s own winery and beautiful monastery
Visit the Meaght Foundation, a modern art museum on the Colline des Gardettes
Enjoy an expert-led Wine Tasting with a local Sommelier
Visits to hilltop villages of Côte d’Azur, and the charming towns of Menton and Dolceacqua in Italy
Curated meals centered around traditional French cuisine and the multicultural influences of region
Transport during included meals + activities
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout your trip
Trip Prep call to meet fellow travelers and talk through schedules, recommendations, and questions
Ace Camps Travel Host
An Ace Camps Travel Host will be with you through your trip, dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible experience. Your Host is there for any questions or concerns, to look out for the health and safety of the group and to help resolve any issues that might arise. This Host is not a local guide but will work with our local partners to insure the right combination of pace, information, and duration. Our local partners are deeply knowledgable in the culture and customs of the area and will be there to share their knowledge and passion with the group.
Not Included in this Trip
International roundtrip airfare; required Travel Insurance; alcoholic drinks not ordered or provided by Ace Camps Travel; activities and food and beverages not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including but not limited to room service, laundry service and hotel bar tabs; and all expenses during free time.
Travel Arrangements
Ace Camps Travel will send you detailed Trip Planning information when it’s time to make your travel arrangements. We usually send this information once we’ve reached the minimum number of guests required to run the trip. We’ll also send you an Ace Camps Travel “Preparing for your Journey” document prior to your trip, which will include arrival and departure information, a suggested packing list, useful country information, and more.
Questions + FAQ’s
If you have any questions about this Ace Camps travel Trip, please feel free to contact us.
You can also read our FAQ’s here.
Travel Insurance
As stated in our Terms and Conditions, we require all guests to have Travel Insurance that at minimum covers both medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Cancellations 180 days or fewer prior to the trip start date will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy which is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance.
For full details on our Travel Insurance requirements, visit our FAQ’s and review our Terms and Conditions.
Health + Safety
Our goal is for each of our guests to enjoy the amazing trip we’ve put together. To ensure that happens, we put the health and safety of the group as our top priority. Individual guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all destination and layover country requirements and laws, including any Covid-19 related requirements, providing proof of vaccination, testing before or after entry, masking, etc.
During the trip, if you feel unwell, exhibit signs of, or test positive for an illness, you should be prepared to follow the advice of local health authorities as well as the Ace Camps Travel Host to ensure the health and safety of the entire group. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and/or viral nature of your illness the Ace Camps Travel Host may determine you need to mask, distance, self isolate, or depart the trip early. You are responsible for any expenses incurred from an illness, injury, or early departure including testing, treatment, isolation, accommodation, transportation, etc. and you will not be issued a refund for any unused portion of the trip. This is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance, as outlined in our Terms and Conditions.
For full details on our Health and Safety Policies, visit our FAQ’s and review our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Policy
If you choose to cancel your trip for any reason, you must do so via email to hello@acecampstravel.com. If we receive written notice 181 or more days prior to the Trip start date, we will refund your initial payment, less a $1,000 cancellation fee. If we receive written notice 180 days or fewer prior to the Trip start date you will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the Trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy, including for reasons related to weather, terrorism, civil strife, pandemics, illness, personal, family or medical emergencies, or any other circumstances beyond our control. For this and other reasons, we require you to purchase Travel Insurance.
Be sure to read our Terms and Conditions for full details on Booking and Payment, Cancellation by You and Trip Changes and Cancellations.