Centenary College of Louisiana invites YOU -
alumni and friends of the College -
to join us May 24 to June 1, 2025
for a spectacular trip to one of the most beautiful regions of the world -
Provence in the south of France
[click here for photos of places to be visited]
Coordinated by the Development/Alumni Office and lead by Professor Jefferson Hendricks
The Centenary Page for the trip ----- The Sign-Up Page for the Trip
For more information and any questions:
email Jeff Hendricks -- jhendric@centenary.edu or jeffersonhendricks@gmail.com
or text me @ 318-820-1414 (my cell) and I'll get back to you within a few hours
Imagine yourself strolling through centuries-old cobblestone streets, savoring the scent of poppies in the air, and exploring sun-drenched villages nestled among rolling hills. This May, we invite you to join fellow alumni and friends of Centenary on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Provence and the Luberon – one of the most picturesque regions in all of France.
Our base for this week-long adventure will be the vibrant town of Aix-en-Provence, known for its stunning architecture, colorful markets, and rich history. From there, we’ll embark on guided day trips to some of the region’s most charming and less-traveled gems:
Discover Medieval Villages: Wander through the idyllic stone villages of Gordes, Roussillon, and Lourmarin, where time seems to stand still. With their winding streets, hidden cafes, and artisan shops, these villages offer an authentic taste of Provençal life.
Savor the Flavors of Provence: Taste the world-renowned wines of the region at local vineyards, enjoy farm-to-table Provençal cuisine, and explore vibrant open-air markets where you'll find everything from fresh lavender to handmade goods.
Art and History: Visit sites that have inspired legendary artists like Cézanne and Van Gogh, while uncovering the rich history of the region from Roman ruins to medieval castles.
Breathtaking Natural Beauty: The Luberon’s stunning landscapes – from poppy fields in bloom to rugged cliffs and rolling vineyards – provide a breathtaking backdrop for leisurely walks, photography, and relaxation.
Why Provence?
The South of France offers an unparalleled combination of natural beauty, rich history, and a relaxed pace of life. This trip is the perfect opportunity to:
Reconnect with fellow alumni and friends in a setting that fosters conversation, connection, and shared experiences.
Immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoying the unique blend of French elegance and Provençal simplicity.
Recharge your spirit by soaking in the peacefulness of small village life while staying in comfort.
This trip is designed to offer a thoughtful balance of exploration, relaxation, and camaraderie. Whether you’re drawn by the region’s artistic heritage, the chance to savor classic wines and cuisine, or simply the desire to bask in the beauty of Provence, this is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Trip Dates and Tentative Schedule (depending upon availability and weather): [with links to videos of places we'll visit]
Saturday, May 24 – Arrive at Marseille Provence Airport or at the Aix TGV train station; you'll be picked up by Jeff Hendricks and taken to our hotel in Aix-en-Provence; you'll have free time to explore Aix before our Welcome Dinner that night at Villa Hélène at around 7:00pm
Rooms at Villa Hélène, about a mile outside Aix in a secluded, intimate green valley (May 24-May 28; four nights)
Sunday, May 25 – morning tour of old Aix-en-Provence
free for lunch in Aix
visit to the Caumont Art Centre and (possibly) the Granet Museum
free for dinner in Aix on the Cours Mirabeau
Monday, May 26 -- Drive to the Riviera/Mediterannean coast to Cassis
lunch at La Plage Bleu
2:00 pm - boat tour (reservations and information) of the Calanques near Cassis
then drive along the Parc National des Calanques to Marseilles
6:00ish pm - dinner at La Calanque Blanche, Marseilles
Tuesday, May 27 – morning – market in Aix-en-Provence (one of the best in France!)
afternoon drive to Chateau la Coste for a wine tasting and visit to their art museum
dinner back at Villa Hélène
Wednesday, May 28 – early drive to St. Remy where we'll be based for three days
Rooms at Le St. Remy Hotel and Spa (May 28 to May 31; 3 nights)
after lunch visit Glanum (Roman archeological site) near St. Remy
and nearby, visit Saint Paul-de-Mausole (Asylum) [Van Gogh's year in St. Remy]
free for dinner back in St. Remy
Thursday, May 29 --
free for lunch at les Baux de Provence
drive to Domaine de la Vallongue (near St. Remy) for a wine tasting
free for dinner back in St.-Remy
Friday, May 30 -- drive to the Luberon
morning: market day in Lourmarin
lunch in Roussillon
visit Gordes
dinner at Bistrot Les Pieds dans L'Eau in St. Remy
Saturday, May 31 -- drive to Arles in the morning and lunch there
You Tube video guide to Arles
after lunch drive down to Sausset-Les-Pins (on the coast, near the Marseille Airport)
Rooms at Hôtel Paradou Mediterranée (May 31-June 1; one night)
Farewell Dinner at La Calanque Bleu in Sausset-Les-Pins
Sunday, June 1 – drive everyone to Marseille airport or (a hotel if you're staying over) or Aix TGV station for departure
Note: These activities are subject to change based on availability and scheduling.
Cost: $3995/per person for a double room in a 4-star hotel
$4495/per person for a single room in a 4-star hotel
Inclusions:
4 star hotel accommodations based on double occupancy; single rooms also available
All scheduled sightseeing, museum, and entrance fees
Van transportation throughout the trip in the south of France, plus transfers to/from Marseille Airport
Breakfast daily
A Welcome and Farewell Dinner
Exclusions:
Airfare
Meals other than specified
Activities outside of the group schedule during your free time
Travel protection
Personal expenses
Any other items not mentioned in inclusions
Limited Spots Available – Reserve your place now and experience the best of Provence!
For more details or to secure your spot, please visit contact
We look forward to traveling with you!