A Journey Through Time: Discovering Grasse and Beyond

As the year draws to a close, the charming town of Grasse in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France beckons travelers with its rich history and fragrant allure. Known as the perfume capital of the world, Grasse offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a New Year’s celebration. With clear skies and comfortable temperatures forecasted for December 28th and 29th, visitors can immerse themselves in the scenic landscapes and timeless traditions of this enchanting region.

Begin your journey with a day trip through Provence that departs at 8:30 AM on December 28th. This excursion takes you through the picturesque seaside towns of Cannes and Antibes, where you can stroll along the famous Croisette and explore the narrow streets of the old town. As you travel through the countryside, you’ll encounter medieval villages that seem to have been plucked from the pages of a storybook. The highlight of the day is a visit to the Fragonard perfume factory in Grasse, where you can learn about the art of fragrance creation and perhaps even craft your own signature scent.

“Unforgettably beautiful day in Provence! The places we visited were amazing, including Antibes, Gourdon, Tourrettes, and St Paul de Vence. Philippe suggested an auberge for lunch in Gourdon which turned out to be a great choice. The gazpacho and the Niçoise salad I had were superb.” — Reviewed on 2022-06-28

As the sun sets over the Riviera, you’ll find yourself captivated by the breathtaking views from the medieval village of Gourdon, perched high above the coastline. Here, you can wander through the charming streets, visit the local glassblower artists’ shops, and savor the famous violet ice cream in Tourrettes-sur-Loup.

Embracing the Perfumed Heritage of Grasse

On December 29th, continue your exploration with a guided tour of the Provence countryside that begins at 9:00 AM. This full-day adventure takes you deeper into the heart of Grasse, where the history of perfume and flowers has been woven into the fabric of the town since the 17th century. At the Fragonard perfumery, you’ll delve into the secrets of fragrance creation, guided by experts who share their passion for this timeless craft.

The journey then leads you to the medieval village of Gourdon, nestled in the foothills of the Alps. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely meal at a local eatery while taking in the stunning views of the French Riviera. The tour also includes a visit to the Cascades du Saut du Loup, where you can marvel at the emerald pools and capture unforgettable photographs of the picturesque waterfalls.

“Provence Country Side Medieval Villages Tour with Laurent - My husband and I went on this tour last month during our honeymoon. Laurent was AMAZING. He was so thorough, took time in the beginning of the tour to get to know us in order to cater the tour to us, set up lunch reservation for us, and gave us the best education on the towns we visited.” — Reviewed on 2024-10-03

As the day draws to a close, you’ll find yourself in the artistic haven of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a village celebrated for its art galleries and rich cultural heritage. Here, you can wander through the cobblestone streets, visit the galleries that once hosted artists like Chagall and Matisse, and reflect on the timeless beauty of this enchanting region.

A New Year’s Celebration to Remember

As you prepare to welcome the New Year in Grasse, take a moment to reflect on the experiences that have enriched your journey. The clear skies and mild temperatures provide the perfect backdrop for a celebration that embraces the festive spirit and the region’s perfumed heritage. Whether you’re exploring the medieval villages, savoring the local cuisine, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, Grasse offers a unique blend of romance and nostalgia that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

As the sun sets on another year, raise a glass to the memories made and the adventures yet to come. In Grasse, the beauty of slow travel and the joy of discovery come together to create a truly unforgettable New Year’s celebration. So, as you bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, let the enchanting landscapes and fragrant traditions of Grasse inspire you to embrace the possibilities of the year ahead.