Discovering Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – with a look back at two unforgettable days in Aix, Gordes, and Lourmarin
On my Provence adventure, I spent Day 1 exploring the charming streets, fountains, and lively markets of Aix-en-Provence, soaking in the atmosphere of the Cours Mirabeau and the Place d’Albertas, before heading to the hilltop village of Gordes with its narrow lanes, art galleries, and the peaceful Sénanque Abbey surrounded by lavender fields.
Day 2 took me to the cobblestone streets and vine-covered façades of Lourmarin, where the Renaissance castle stands on the remains of a 15th-century fortress, and the weekly market—if you’re visiting on a Friday—is a feast for the senses, full of local cheeses, olive tapenades, and Château de Mille rosé. I returned to Aix in the afternoon to explore Fondation Vasarely, a museum dedicated to Victor Vasarely’s stunning optical art, before enjoying dinner at Il Était Une Fois.
On the third and final day of my Provence adventure, I dedicated my morning to the enchanting village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. This village feels like stepping into a living painting, with its cobbled streets, charming boutiques, and quiet corners that whisper stories of centuries past. My first destination was the Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery, a remarkable site with over a thousand years of history. In 1807, it was converted into a psychiatric hospital, and it was here that Vincent Van Gogh lived and painted for about a year near the end of his life. Walking through the monastery, I could feel both its serene beauty and its slightly somber atmosphere. The walls seemed to echo with the artist’s struggles and creativity, and every corner reminded me of the intensity and brilliance of Van Gogh’s genius. Today, the monastery functions as a living Van Gogh museum, a must-see for any admirer of his work. I spent a long time exploring the rooms where he lived, imagining him sketching and painting under the warm Provençal sunlight.
After exploring the Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery, I wandered into the heart of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. The village is wonderfully walkable, with cobblestone streets lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and inviting cafés. Every corner revealed a new delight: a gallery showcasing local artists, a quaint shop with handcrafted items, or the scent of freshly baked pastries drifting from a boulangerie. I could feel the rhythm of local life here, and it was the kind of place where the history and culture greet you at every turn. I strolled through the village, imagining Van Gogh capturing these streets and scenes in his paintings, and felt truly immersed in the Provençal atmosphere.
Next, I explored the Musée Estrine – Présence Van Gogh, a beautiful museum dedicated to the artist’s life and work. The museum is housed in a stunning example of 18th-century rural architecture, and the exhibition offered a deep dive into Van Gogh’s masterpieces, including the inspirations he drew from Saint-Rémy’s landscapes. I also followed the Van Gogh trail, visiting the exact locations where he painted some of his most famous works, including Starry Night. Standing in the same spaces where Van Gogh once observed the light, the sky, and the colors of Provence was a profoundly moving experience.
After a morning of art and history, I had a quick lunch before starting the journey back to Florence. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence left me with a lasting impression of its quiet charm, its artistic legacy, and its timeless atmosphere. On my next trip, I hope to visit L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, famous for its Sunday antique market, and the stunning Verdon Gorge with its turquoise waters.
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence perfectly captured the magic of Provence: the blend of history, art, and small-town life, the peaceful beauty of its streets and landscapes, and the connection to one of the world’s greatest artists. Every moment felt like living inside a painting, and the memories of this day will stay with me long after I’ve returned home.