Hello, my name is Lonnie. During my immersion course in Provence, I had the chance to experience many unforgettable days. Today I want to share with you one of these incredible days, made possible thanks to Virginie en Provence. This day was filled with discoveries, encounters and unforgettable moments that I want to tell you about.
Breakfast and French practice in Provence
My day started with a delicious breakfast at 9am, where we spoke French around the table. Virginie, always enthusiastic, encouraged me to practice my French while enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Each conversation was a good opportunity to improve my French. My dream is to speak French fluently. I hope to come live in France with my wife for three months to practice French every day. In the meantime, I am experiencing this immersion course in Provence to the fullest.
Walk in Provence: Lourmarin and its castle
After this good breakfast, Virginie took me to explore Provence, and more precisely the Luberon. We crossed magnificent landscapes, dotted with olive trees, vineyards and mountains. On the way, we stopped at Lourmarin, one of the most beautiful villages in France. We took the time to visit the castle. It is the first Renaissance-style castle built in Provence, although its fortress dates from the 12th century. It was very nice.
Lunch and meeting in a Provençal restaurant
After this lovely visit, we continued our drive through the Luberon until we stopped for lunch. We then joined friends from Virginie: Babeth and Caroline, who work in a local chocolate factory. We had lunch in a Provençal restaurant which served homemade dishes. The spicy chicken prepared with Provencal herbs was a real treat, as was the apple dessert, crispy and sweet.
Visit to a chocolate factory in Tour d’Aigues in Provence
After lunch, we followed Babeth and Caroline to their chocolate factory in Tour d’Aigues. Their warm welcome and passion for chocolate was incredible. They invited us to visit their workshop, where we discovered the secrets of chocolate making. We were able to taste pralines, truffles and artisanal chocolate bars. Each tasting ranged from intense dark chocolate to creamy milk. It was a real joy. I also received calissons, THE Provençal confectionery par excellence, made with almond paste and candied fruit.
Château de la Tour d'Aigues and the history of Provence
The afternoon continued quietly at the Tour d’Aigues. Virginie took me to see the castle of this small Provençal village. This castle is located at the foot of the Luberon mountains. Virginie explained to me that it is a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture in Provence. This castle was built in the 16th century. It is famous for its stunning facades and rich history. Even though I wasn't able to visit it (it's under renovation), I was impressed by what I discovered. We then continued our route towards the Etang de la Bonde.
End of the day near the Bonde pond in Provence
The Etang de la Bonde is a peaceful place with a splendid view, located a few minutes by car from the Tour d'Aigues. We sat at the edge of the pond, and savored the calm and serenity of this magnificent place. It was the perfect place to end a day filled with discoveries and simple pleasures. We shared our impressions of the day, laughed and discussed the highlights, all while enjoying the surrounding beauty.
What more can we say about this day of immersion course in Provence?
If you are coming for an immersion stay in Provence, I really recommend that you contact Virginie en Provence. She will be happy to help you discover the landscapes, scents, culture and gastronomy of Provence, while helping you improve your French.
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