Join us on this high-end, small group literary tour through the French Riviera and Aix en Provence with New York Times bestselling author Natasha Lester. From the sparkling shores of Villefranche-sur-Mer to the lavender-scented streets of Aix-en-Provence, this immersive experience brings her beloved novel, Riviera House, to life through the very places that inspired them.

Wander medieval hilltop villages, explore the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, craft your own signature perfume in Grasse, and explore the neighboring glamour of Monaco. Along the way, enjoy intimate book discussions with Natasha, uncover the history behind her stories, and savor the art, cuisine, and culture of southern France.

Please contact Dilya at dilya@johnshorstravel.com. We'd love to have you join this fabulous tour!

A driver will be waiting for you at the arrivals gate, and they will escort you to the hotel located in Villefranche-sur-Mer.

Check into the charming four-star Welcome Hotel, beautifully situated on the waterfront in Villefranche-sur-Mer. Overlooking the picturesque harbor and sparkling Mediterranean Sea, the hotel offers a relaxing coastal atmosphere just steps from the colorful Old Town, cafés, and restaurants.

Meet in the hotel lobby and walk to a local restaurant.

Meet at the hotel lobby and depart for the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a 20th-century villa with several themed gardens overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Enjoy a tour of the Villa that inspired Natasha's The Riviera House.

Enjoy lunch at the restaurant in the villa, overlooking the Villefranche Bay.

For those interested, continue onwards to the Sentier du Littoral coastal path (Eastern Loop). Enjoy walking along the seaside on this historic trail connecting Côte d'Azur and the Basque Country.

Otherwise, return to the hotel and relax for the rest of the day.

For those who went on the coastal trail, return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the afternoon independently.

Meet in the hotel lobby and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Meet in the hotel lobby and, together with our local guide, depart for Èze.

Enjoy a guided walking tour of the streets of Èze, including the medieval hilltop village featured in Natasha's The Riviera House.

Explore cobblestone streets, scenic overlooks, and charming boutiques.

Enjoy free time to explore the beautiful area by yourself and to look through the many boutiques.

Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.

Return to the coach and depart for the hotel.

Afterwards, enjoy free time to relax or continue exploring independently.

Meet at the hotel lobby and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.

Meet in the hotel lobby and depart for Grasse via private coach. This drive will take about 1.5 - 2 hours.

Enjoy a private perfume making workshop in Grasse, known as the perfume capital of the world.

Create a personalized fragrance inspired by the flowers and scents of Provence.

Enjoy a Provençal lunch at a local restaurant.

Enjoy free time to explore Grasse independently.

• Browse perfume boutiques and artisan soap shops

• Visit cafés and wine bars

• Wander the colorful historic center

Return to the coach and head back to the hotel. Enjoy free time to relax for the the rest of the afternoon.

Meet in the hotel lobby and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Meet at the hotel lobby and depart for Monaco by train.

Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city of Monaco, including the iconic gardens, casinos, and historic quarter.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Enjoy free time to explore Monaco independently.

Return to the train station and head back to the hotel. Enjoy free time to relax for the rest of the afternoon.

Meet at the hotel lobby and head to a local restaurant for dinner.

Enjoy this morning at leisure. Take a slow morning at the hotel or explore the city independently.

As we are transferring to a different hotel later today, check out of your rooms and leave your large bags at the front desk before enjoying your free morning.

Meet at the hotel lobby and head to a nearby venue to enjoy a book talk session with Natasha Lester.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Meet in the hotel lobby and with your bags and board the private coach to head to Aix-en-Provence. This drive will take about three hours.

Check into the elegant five-star Renaissance Aix-en-Provence Hotel, ideally located within walking distance of the historic city center and the lively Cours Mirabeau. The hotel combines contemporary comfort with Provençal charm and features stylish rooms, a spa, a garden terrace, and inviting indoor and outdoor pools.

Gather at the hotel restaurant for a delightful dinner experience.

Meet at the hotel lobby and depart for our guided tour of the city.

We will explore sights including Cours Mirabeau, the historic fountains and squares, The Old Town, and sites connected to The Mademoiselle Alliance including where Marie-Madeleine Fourcade was imprisoned and famously escaped from a prison by squeezing through the bars of a window.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Return to the hotel and relax, or continue exploring the city independently.

Meet at the hotel lobby and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
We will enjoy an evening stroll through the old town on the way to the restaurant.

Today, guests will have the opportunity to choose between two wonderful experiences highlighting the flavors and traditions of Provence. Depending on individual interests, the group may divide into two smaller groups for the day.

Gather at the hotel restaurant for a delightful 3-course dinner.

Meet in the hotel lobby and depart for Marseille on a private coach.

Enjoy a guided tour of the city of Marseille. We will walk through sights including the Notre-Dame de la Garde, Le Vieux Port, and the Le Panier district.

Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant along the waterfront.

After lunch, enjoy a visit to the Chateau Borély. Enjoy a tour of the museum of decorative art, fashion, and ceramics.

Return to the coach and head back to the hotel.

Meet in the hotel lobby and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Transportation will be provided to the Marseilles Airport.

• $9,095 USD per person (based on double occupancy)

• $11,195 USD per person (based on single occupancy)

Some details, like restaurants or activities may change, but quality will be the same

PRICE INCLUDES:

• Accommodations at high-end hotels

• All transportation

• Meals and non-alcoholic drinks

• Fees (tours, guides, etc.)

• Excursions (tours, tickets, workshops, classes, etc.)

• All tips

PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:

• International airfare to and from France

• Alcohol beverages

• Activities during free times

• Hotel incidentals such as room service, mini bar, Internet and phone charges, laundry, etc.

• Exact tour details may differ slightly from what is listed above, depending on recommendations from local guides; as restaurants close, streets are refurbished, etc.

• This tour will have a maximum of 20 guests, not including guides and representative from John Shors Travel

Before booking your slot, please ensure that you are physically and mentally fit to travel fully unassisted. This includes being able to:

• Walk two or more miles per day, including on uneven surfaces

• Go up and down steps and inclines

• Stand for periods of time

• Carry personal bags and luggage independently 

Have a look at our full “Traveler Expectations and Disclaimer” page here.

We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your trip. For your convenience, you can explore options from our trusted travel insurance partner here.