SOUTHERN FRANCE CULINARY
The Food & Wine of Provence & Cote D’Azur
October 7 - 14, 2023
About The Trip
Spend a week in the countryside above Côte d’Azur, surrounded by groves of olive trees, rows of cypresses, and field after field of grapevines exploring the magical region of Provence. Learn about the fundamentals of Provençal cuisine and cooking, sampling local specialties, + visiting the abundant street markets. We’ll seek out boulangeries, fromageries and pastisseries, our favourite village restaurants and provencal wineries with local culinary experts who will introduce you to the heart of Southern France’s Food & Wine scene.
DATES
October 7 - 14, 2023∙ 8 Days, 7 Nights
PRICE
Shared Room - $5395
Private Room starts at - $5995
THIS TRIP IS CURRENTLY WAITLISTED- REGISTER FOR OUR WAITLIST BELOW
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
Historical Farmhouse Estate Accommodation
Behind the scenes with culinary experts
Iconic winery visits in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Visits with local artisans
Visit to countryside farm + markets
Walking Food tour
Expert-led Wine Tasting
Transport during included meals + activities
Chef Prepared Meals
Gourmet French Cooking class
Taste + Explore with Culinary Experts
Chef Alison Bell
While travelling to Europe on a school trip when Alison was 17, the proverbial food seed was planted that has grown into a decades-long culinary life. She began cooking when she was 19 in a small wine bar in Southern England and once back in Canada, Alison immediately enrolled in a professional cooking program, followed by an apprenticeship that introduced her to some of the top kitchens in Canada.
Alison is a Red Seal Chef and a food educator who holds a Le Cordon Bleu Master of Arts in Gastronomy from the University of Adelaide, Australia. She loves to prepare deliciously uncomplicated foods, made with the freshest, seasonal ingredients. Alison’s culinary career has included directing an innovative professional cooking program where she instilled a passion for food and cooking in scores of young cooks, running a successful café, dabbling in food writing and food photography and creating delicious foods and food experiences with Ace Camps Travel Company.
Alison is thrilled to follow any path that leads to the most delicious dish or ingredient, whether it’s in a farmer’s field in the Peruvian Andes or in a small cafe in rural France.
Fouad Zarrou
Fouad will be taking us to some of the most beautiful places, on and off the beaten path, around the French Riviera + 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.
Sommelier Julia
With a Master’s degree in Wine Sciences + a Sommelier diploma, Julia has studied wine in Spain, France and Portugal. Her knowledge comes from academic courses, constant self-education + field trips and working experience.
Julia has produced wine in chateaus in Bordeaux, sold wines in Porto, held commercial representation of one of the famed champagne houses and is a sommelier for high-end events on the French Riviera.
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1
Mid afternoon the group will meet in Nice, France and drive to Bramafam located about 25 km away in the hills above Cote D'Azur.
Arrive at the house and settle into your rooms. This evening Chef Alison will prepare a welcome dinner while we will review our plans for the week ahead while we embrace our incredible surroundings.
Travel notes: Specific meeting time and location will be provided to guests closer to the trip dates.
Day 2
Enjoy a leisurely morning breakfast before you begin a cooking class with Chef Alison learning to prepare local dishes for lunch.
This afternoon Sommelier Julia will visit the house for a private guided wine tasting. Julia will introduce you to six 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.
Dinner prepared by Chef Alison
Day 3
Today you’ll venture to some beautiful hidden hillside villages for a taste of the hills + countryside. You’ll visit several hidden hillside towns, notably Peillon village, and Luceram.
From here you will be welcomed at a traditional family-run french farm. You’ll meet the farmers, tour the farm house and learn about the produce they grow and the challenges of growing on a terraced estate. You’ll get the chance to sample farm fresh produce such as figs, almonds and apricots. You’ll learn about local bread making, jams and nougat.
We’ll enjoy an afternoon picnic lunch on the farm
Early evening we return back to the house to relax and enjoy dinner prepared by Chef Alison
Day 4
Today we venture to the captivating town of Nice for a walking food tour with Julia. 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 and wines.
You’ll have some free time to explore Nice this afternoon. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, visit the flower market or relax and people watch in one of the hundreds of cafes.
Early evening we return back to the house to relax and enjoy dinner prepared by Chef Alison
Day 5
Today you will visit several artisan maker workshops that showcase crafts such as glassware and glass blowing, ceramics and olive wood in various villages. This region boasts a wealth of craftspeople who keep century old traditions alive through their mastery of local arts and crafts.
You’ll visit the beautiful town of Gourdon for lunch and a special Confectionary Workshop where they transform fresh fruit and flowers into delicate and delicious confections.
This evening we return to the house where a french chef will come by and prepare a multi-course dinner of local specialty dishes.
Day 6
We’re off to the tranquil haven of Provence vineyards today to tour and taste our way around some of our favourite wineries that we have hand selected for you to visit. We will visit a traditional and more modern winery to gain a full appreciation of this wine region, which is known for its crisp rosés, fruity whites and full-bodied reds.
Along the way we will explore the culinary culture of the region with lunch in a local bistro, special architecture and the art scene.
Early evening we return back to the house to relax and enjoy dinner prepared by Chef Alison
Day 7
This morning Chef Alison will take you to one of Julia Child’s favourite markets + favourite towns a short drive from the house. The Friday market in Valbonne is located in a pretty medieval village, typically Provençal, with pollarded plane trees, narrow cobbled alleys. Unspoilt 12th century facades are just one of the features of this bustling village.
The market stalls ramble throughout the village, where on any given week you will find everything from silk scarves and children's clothing to hand-painted ceramics, olive-wood bowls, kitchen ware, Provençal fabrics, artists' paintings, lavender cosmetics/soaps and lovely flowers. And then there's the food, a wonderful selection of olives, tapenades, goat's cheeses, olive oils, saucissons, honeys and spices and several fruit and vegetable stands. You can find fresh pasta, chicken roasting on a spit and the most delicious bread straight out of the oven.
Lunch today is on your own. Sample a selection of goods from the market or try one of the excellent local restaurants - there are so many wonderful options.
This afternoon you’ll head back to the house with our market finds for a French Cooking Class led by Chef Alison. Together you’ll prepare a multi course feast that you’ll enjoy this evening to celebrate your culinary week together.
Day 8
After Breakfast at the house, this morning we pack our bags, say our farewells and have a private transfer to Nice Airport.
A NOTE ABOUT THE FOOD As a culinary focused tour, the meals and tastings are a main aspect of the week and the more adventurous you are, the tastier this trip will be for you. As many meals will be served family style, we cannot guarantee to accommodate dietary restrictions or certain allergies.
Please contact us in advance of registering if you have any questions.
Where We’re Staying
Le Vieux Mas Bramafam
A beautifully restored 18th century traditional French farmhouse with a blend of old stone walls, warm wood floors and modern design. The home is surrounded by several acres of terraced olive groves and a large heated pool with a stunning view across the valley to the hamlet of Bramafan. The property is the former summer home of famed chef and cookbook author Simca Beck, and the very place where Simca and Julia Child worked together on writing Mastering the Art of French Cooking Volume 1.
ROOMING OPTIONS
Please read below carefully and make your rooming selection on the booking page
Group Size: Maximum 7 guests.
All Prices are in USD.
PLEASE READ THE ROOMING OPTIONS CAREFULLY AND MAKE SURE YOU INDICATE ON YOUR REGISTRATION WHICH ROOM YOU WOULD LIKE TO BOOK
THIS TRIP IS CURRENTLY WAITLISTED- REGISTER FOR OUR WAITLIST BELOW
ROOM OPTION 1
SHARED ROOM with ENSUITE
The fee for this trip is $5395 per person, paid in two separate instalments.
Deposit due immediately to secure your place on the trip: $2500
Final Payment due July 9, 2023: $2895
ABOUT YOUR ROOM: These rooms feature two twin beds with a private ensuite bathroom. You will share this room + bath with one other guest. The bathroom is separated by a heavy privacy curtain.
ROOM OPTION 2
PRIVATE ROOM with ENSUITE
The fee for this trip is $5995 per person, paid in two separate instalments.
Deposit due immediately to secure your place on the trip: $2500
Final Payment due July 9, 2023: $3495
ABOUT YOUR ROOM: A private room with ensuite bathroom. This room has 1 Queen-size bed. The bathroom may be separated by a privacy curtain.
NOTE: This room may be shared by two guests traveling together upon request, pending group size limit availability. Shared room pricing is $5395 per person.
ROOM OPTION 3
PRIVATE TERRACE SUITE
The fee for this trip is $6895 per person, paid in two separate instalments.
Deposit due immediately to secure your place on the trip: $2500
Final Payment due July 9, 2023: $4395
ABOUT YOUR ROOM: A beautiful luxury suite, this room includes a private outdoor terrace, walk-in closet dressing room and private bathroom with free-standing tub and shower. This room has 1 King-size bed.
NOTE: This room may be shared by two guests traveling together upon request, pending group size limit availability. Shared room pricing is $5895 per person.
Important Trip Notes + Details
WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?
This is an immersive adventure and best suited for those who enjoy traveling and cohabitating as a part of a group. This trip is for the open minded traveler who is eager to learn and engage with local communities.
CULINARY NOTES + RESTRICTIONS
As a culinary focused tour, the meals and tastings are a main aspect of the week and the more open and adventurous you are, the tastier this trip will be for you. As many meals will be served family style, we cannot guarantee to accommodate dietary restrictions or certain allergies. Please contact us in advance of registering if you have any questions.
THIS ACE CAMP INCLUDES
Seven nights at unique, boutique accommodations in Cote D’Azur at Bramafam Estate; transport during included activities, private tours with local guides and experts; wine tastings as noted in the itinerary; french cooking class; seven breakfasts, five lunches and seven dinners.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
International airfare; Personal Travel Insurance: We require all participants to have personal travel insurance that at minimum covers medical emergencies and cancellations; Alcoholic Drinks; transportation to the trip’s starting point hotel; activities not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including room service, expenses during free time; laundry service and hotel bar tabs; food and beverages not included in itinerary.
ACCESSIBILITY
This Ace Camp includes walking tours where the ground may be uneven such as trails and hills, cobblestone streets and plenty of stairs. You may be on your feet for several of hours at a time and should be comfortable walking 2-3kms. Guest rooms are accessed by stairs.
ACE CAMPS TOUR MANAGER
The Ace Camps Tour Manager is a part of your group and is there to look out for your safety, to help resolve issues, and to make sure you get what you want from your trip. They also work with the local guides + instructors to insure the right combination of pace, information, and duration.
COVID POLICIES
Please read our full COVID-19 Policies + FAQ’s HERE
While we strive to deliver all aspects of the included itinerary and specific accommodation, due to challenges some vendors may be facing, certain aspects of your Ace Camp may be changed according to the situation beyond our control. In the small chance this does occur, we will work to offer comparable accommodations and/or activities when possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Individuals will be responsible for ensuring they are able to travel to the destination selected. Countries have various Covid-19 related entry requirements including but not limited to: providing proof you are fully vaccinated, taking a test before entry and after entry etc. You should be prepared to meet all necessary health + safety requirements specified by Ace Camps Inc. This may also include wearing masks in all public settings.
Ace Camps Inc. will not be responsible for refunding any lost trip funds if you have to miss your scheduled trip as you cannot meet the requirements determined by Ace Camps Inc. and the country you are visiting.
WHERE DOES THIS TRIP START + FINISH?
This trip starts in Nice, France. This trip ends at the Nice Airport. Specific meeting time and location will be provided to guests closer to the trip dates.
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.
TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS
Ace Camps will email you when it is time to make your travel arrangements. This email will be sent 60 days or more before your trip departs unless you book within 60 prior to the camp. We will also be sending you an Ace Camps Travel preparation document prior to your trip. It will include a detailed itinerary, arrival and departure information, a suggested packing list, useful country information and more.
BOOKING TERMS + CANCELLATION POLICY
You may cancel on or before June 9, 2023 and receive a full refund minus a $500 USD per-person admin fee. If you cancel on or after June 10, 2023 there is a 100% cancellation fee and all funds paid are non-refundable.
Please ensure you read through our full Booking Terms + Cancellation Policy.
QUESTIONS + FAQ’S
If you have any further questions about this Ace Camp please feel free to contact us.
You can also read more FAQ’s here.