Aix-en-Provence is a charming city which blends its ancient history with a modern flair. Founded by the Romans, Aix was once the capital of the Provence region of France and today the city is bustling with markets, museums and magnificent food. It is also close to lavender farms. national parks and vineyards.
The city is relatively small, with most of the major attractions located within walking distance of the central street, Cours Mirabeau. This tree-lined avenue is filled with cafes, gift shops and homes and the Tuesday day and evening markets take over the avenue with locals and tourists seeking crafts and clothing. At the beginning of the Cours Mirabeau is an iconic symbol and landmark of the town, Fontaine de la Rotonde; it is beautiful any time of day.
Winding through the warren of narrow streets there are other, smaller plazas with cafes and small shops. We located the vegetable market and the flower market. We could not resist taking photos and purchasing and consuming delicious peaches. Afterwards we joined the line for freshly made Madelines at Christophe Madeleines.
Eventually we found our way to the Roman ruins of a thermal bath, now a pool at a five star hotel.
The final studio which Cezanne used is closed for renovations. We did see a statute of him, and some plaques all around the city.
Our adventure in Provence also included a visit to the family owned and run Terre Ugo lavender farm. An extremely fragrant strain of lavender, lavendin is grown in Provence. The dusky purple herb blooms on the rolling hills of the Provence region from mid-June to early August. The lavender fields are a fifteen minute car ride from the city center of Aix. We walked through the lavender fields, learned a lot of fun facts about the plant and played a lawn bowling game similar to bocce, named Pentaque. We also took a workshop where we made lavender scented soap.
Back in the city, we enjoyed a special dinner at La Petite Ferme, not far from the fountain. After, the night market was fun to explore.
Aix-en-Provence is a posh place to partake summer fun in the hot sun.
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