Picking up where I left off on our Provence trip, our fourth full day in the region we ventured a little further from our home base to Saint-Remy-de-Provence. The drive was about 45 minutes from our place and involved more highway driving, but by this point in the trip Brian felt confident in his French driving skills.

We got to Saint-Remy pretty early in the day, before most of the stores were open. I had seen a near-by hotel on Instagram that I wanted to visit for lunch so we decided to head there first. Le Chateau des Alpilles is such a gorgeous property. Turning onto the tree-lined drive and seeing the filtered light catch the beautiful chateau was magical. The staff was so friendly and was kind enough to reserve a table by the pool for an al-fresco lunch later in the day.

We made our way back to the center of town to explore before our reservation. Saint-Remy ended up being one of my favorite spots. It was so quiet and charming. After grabbing an espresso we wandered through the shops looking for little souvenirs. Both Brian and I were taken in by a colorful display of hand-made pottery in a shop window. We couldn’t resist bringing home a few pieces. Now every time we have our coffee in our pretty, pastel mugs we think about our morning in Saint-Remy.

Around noon, we headed back for our reservation at Le Chateau des Alpilles. It was such a beautiful day for lunch by the pool. We spent a couple of hours there, just enjoying the scenery. Our time in Provence was so peaceful. Everything is just a little slower and sweeter there. It was a nice change from our typical city trips where you feel worn out by the end of the trip.

After our leisurely lunch, we drove to visit the Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole where Van Gogh did his most famous work. The monastery is not a cheerful place, as its residents were committed for various psychiatric conditions. But yet there is something so calming and beautiful about it.

We didn’t spend too long at Saint-Paul but I do recommend a visit if you are in the area. It is easy to understand how Van Gogh was so inspired by the region. Provence is truly a beautiful place! xo Bryn

Dress by Doen