LUXURY TOURS IN FRANCE
Gardens of the French Riviera with amy kupec larue
Join us on an enchanting journey through the French Riviera’s iconic landscapes and hidden treasures, led by our expert tour guide, Amy Kupec Larue.
Embark on a captivating journey through the secret gardens and historic villas of the French Riviera, guided by the passionate and knowledgeable Amy Kupec Larue. Explore the Côte d’Azur’s “Golden Age” of garden design, a period when the wealthy elite commissioned breathtaking landscapes that stand as masterpieces of horticulture. This exclusive tour unveils both renowned and hidden gardens, offering an intimate look at the opulence and botanical splendor that make this region truly extraordinary.
Tour host
Amy Kupec Larue
Amy has had the wonderful opportunity to live, work, and travel throughout France for the past 30 years. Her passion for flowers, plants, and the French Art de Vivre has led her to a career that combines her keen interest and vast experience with plants & gardens together with her knowledge and understanding of France. Since 2005, she has been guiding individuals and groups, including the Pacific Horticulture Society and the New York Botanical Garden, on tours through public and private gardens in Paris, Normandy, Brittany, the Loire River Valley, the South of France, and Tuscany.
Between 1860 and 1930, the French Riviera emerged as Europe’s premier hub for garden design. In this sun-drenched region, esteemed landscape architects crafted some of the most magnificent private gardens to satisfy the discerning tastes of the wealthy elite. The Riviera’s exceptional climate in the Alpes-Maritimes facilitated the flourishing of countless exotic species, transforming the area into a vibrant mosaic of Mediterranean, subtropical, and tropical flora.
Accommodation
Hotel Le Saint Paul
Nestled in the medieval village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Hotel Le Saint Paul offers an authentic Provençal experience. This boutique hotel is located in a well-preserved 16th-century building, seamlessly combining timeless elegance with modern comforts. Guests can enjoy the charming cobblestone streets, lively art galleries, and the peaceful courtyard terrace, ideal for relaxation away from the village center. With its inviting decor and meticulous attention to detail, Hotel Le Saint Paul allows guests to immerse themselves in the rich history and allure of the French Riviera, promising a truly memorable stay.
Itinerary
Tour Highlights
Private Garden Visits
Explore a selection of exquisite private homes and gardens on the French Riviera, handpicked from Amy Kupec Larue’s personal collection. These hidden treasures provide a peek into the opulent Riviera lifestyle, boasting impeccably manicured gardens, distinctive architectural elements, and stunning vistas.
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a magnificent palace located on the Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula. Constructed by Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild in the early 20th century, this opulent villa features luxurious interiors and nine distinct gardens, each with its own unique charm.
Grasse: The Heart of Perfume
Explore Grasse, the world’s perfume capital, where centuries-old gardens filled with fragrant blooms like roses and jasmine tell the story of luxury perfume-making. Visit historic factories and immerse yourself in the rich olfactory heritage of this enchanting town.
Included
Your accommodation (5 nights)
All meals during the tour
All chauffeur-driven transport during the tour
First-class train tickets from and to Paris – Avignon
Access to any private visits during the trip
Complimentary 1-year digital subscription to the MFCH Magazine
Not Included
Minibar items, spa treatments and laundry services
Your flight into France and transport from Paris airport for the start of the tour (Paris Gare de Lyon)
Any purchases you may make along the way
Trip insurance
Booking
Tour Details
To provide an intimate gathering, we have a limited number of spots available. This ensures that each attendee has an unforgettable and tailored experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of this exclusive journey.
Included
Your accommodation (5 nights)
All meals during the tour
All chauffeur-driven transport during the tour
Access to any private visits during the trip
Complimentary 1-year digital subscription to the MFCH Magazine
Not Included
Minibar items, spa treatments and laundry services
Your flight into France and transport from Nice airport for the start of the tour
Any purchases you may make along the way
Trip insurance
To secure your place we request a 25% reservation deposit that is non-refundable. The balance on the tour is due one month before the tour commences.
Frequently asked questions
Our journeys are designed for small groups, with a maximum of 12 participants. This ensures a personalized and intimate experience for everyone.
Absolutely! Many of our participants are solo travelers like yourself. Our small group setting fosters a welcoming environment where everyone easily connects and feels at home.
Our tour hosts are knowledgeable experts in their respective areas, carefully chosen to enrich your experience. Each tour is led by two hosts/guides who bring a wealth of expertise and passion to ensure you have an unforgettable journey.
Our journeys are designed to be enjoyable for participants of various fitness levels. However, some activities may require moderate physical activity. Please check the specific details for each experience, and feel free to contact us with any concerns.
Airport transfers are not included in the experience price, but we are happy to arrange them for you with our drivers. Please contact us to schedule your transfer.
Absolutely! We are happy to provide recommendations for hotels and restaurants to enhance your stay before the experience begins. Feel free to reach out to us for personalized suggestions based on your preferences.