Our trips often center around food and wine, and why not? We visit the world's finest vineyards and most picturesque medieval towns, and enjoy authentic regional cuisine prepared with ingredients from local farms and gardens.

This past October, we explored Vaucluse, a small town surrounded by scenic mountains in lovely Provence. Bordered by the Rhone to the west, and the River Durance to the south, Vaucluse boasts some of the most fertile plains in the south of France. While fresh fruits and vegetables are abundant, the region is best known as the home of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the most renowned appellation in the Rhone Valley.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape translates to "the pope's new castle," and history and folklore trail back to the 14th century, when the papacy abandoned Rome for exile in nearby Avignon. Present in the region for over 70 years, "Avignon popes" were said to love the rich burgundy wines produced by the local vineyards.

Many stories explain the wonderful appellations of the region. Some vineyards are rumored to produce their wine from grapes that reach perfection from the thin layer of stones, or "galets," that cover the soil. These remnants from Alpine glaciers have smooth surfaces from centuries in the Rhone River. During the day, the sun heats the stones, and at night, the stones emit warmth to the grapes, hastening their ripening.

Vaucluse, and all of Provence, are home to a wonderful selection of medieval towns, villages, vineyards, castles, markets, mountains, valleys and beaches. The views are breathtaking, the people are friendly, and the cuisine is fresh and delicious.

If you would like to plan a private trip, or join one of our currently scheduled trips (see our calendar here) contact Art Events Travel at (407) 895-1301 or email russ@art-events.com.