Aix-en-Provence: Timeless Elegance and Provençal Charm
With its sun-drenched streets, tree-lined boulevards, and fragrant markets, Aix-en-Provence is the kind of place that lingers in the memory. Once the capital of Provence and the birthplace of Paul Cézanne, this refined southern French town is where art, heritage, and modern-day luxury live in perfect harmony.
Aix is best explored slowly: sipping espresso under plane trees, wandering through the old town's maze of golden stone buildings, or pausing in front of a Renaissance fountain. But this genteel city also knows how to surprise. From Michelin-starred dining to contemporary art exhibitions, high-end shopping, and unforgettable wine estates, Aix is a playground for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Seasonal Highlights
In spring, wisteria tumbles over centuries-old walls, and local festivals fill the air with music. Summer brings lavender fields in bloom, night markets, and sunlit terraces. Autumn is harvest time—perfect for wine tastings and countryside escapes. Even in winter, Aix charms with crisp skies, intimate concerts, and Provençal Christmas markets.
Experiences Worth Booking
Tailored for discerning travellers seeking unique, high-end experiences, Aix-en-Provence offers a wealth of exclusive activities:
Private wine tour in the Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence AOC: Enjoy behind-the-scenes access to renowned vineyards with private tastings led by local sommeliers.
Art & Atelier visit tracing Cézanne's footsteps: Discover the studio of Paul Cézanne and take a guided tour exploring the landscapes that inspired his most iconic works.
Luxury perfume-making session in Grasse: Travel in a chauffeured car to Grasse for a bespoke scent creation experience at a historic perfumery, complete with lunch at a gourmet restaurant en route.
Vintage car ride through the Luberon villages: Cruise through the lavender-scented hills in a classic convertible, with stops in Gordes, Roussillon, and Lourmarin.
Exclusive access to private Provençal estates: Book a garden picnic or outdoor cinema night at an aristocratic estate closed to the public.
Gastronomic dinner at Michelin-starred Le Art or Pierre Reboul: Reserve the chef's table and indulge in a curated tasting menu paired with local wines.
Sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Provence countryside: A magical way to see the vineyards, olive groves, and ochre cliffs from above.
Shopping tour with a local stylist: Discover Aix’s hidden ateliers, fine linens, antiques, and luxury boutiques tailored to your personal taste.
VERTU’s insider tip: For an unforgettable Provençal afternoon, ask the concierge at Villa Gallici to arrange a private aperitif in the gardens of Château La Coste. While the estate is known for its contemporary art installations and organic wines, few visitors know that select guests can access its restricted sculpture trail after-hours—ideal for a golden-hour stroll with a glass of rosé in hand.
Where to Stay: La Villa Gallici
A serene hideaway just minutes from the bustling old town, Villa Gallici feels more like a private residence than a hotel. The 18th-century Provençal villa is surrounded by cypress trees and terraced gardens, with interiors that channel baroque drama and Italianate romance. Each room is individually styled, with antiques, tapestries, and French balconies that open onto gardens or the countryside.
Bedrooms are lavish yet intimate, dressed in silks and velvets with fine linens and all the comforts expected of a luxury stay. The outdoor pool is framed by classical columns and citrus trees, while the spa offers Sisley treatments in a space designed for calm. Add to that a wine cellar, gourmet restaurant, and impeccable service, and Villa Gallici becomes more than a place to sleep—it’s an invitation to slow down and savour.
La Villa Gallici, a member of the VERTU Collection