7–21 June 2027 | Detailed Itinerary

Monday 7th June — Arrive Marseille or Aix-en-Provence

Arrive at Marseille Airport and taxi to Aix-en-Provence, Alternatively, travel by train (e.g. from Paris) to Aix-en-Provence, then transfer to our hotel. Here we connect and enjoy our first evening together in the South of France.

ON Aix-en-Provence — Hotel TBC

Tuesday 8th June — Aix-en-Provence to Sainte-Baume via Gémenos (tbc on the day)

This morning we enjoy some time exploring beautiful Aix-en-Provence, with its elegant streets, lively squares, fountains and charming cafés, before enjoying lunch in town.

Early afternoon, we leave Aix and travel towards Gémenos, a gateway to the sacred mountain of Sainte-Baume and an important stage on the Mary Magdalene pilgrimage route.

Aix-en-Provence → Gémenos — Approximate drive: 35–50 minutes

Here we visit the beautiful Saint-Pons valley, following part of the ancient pilgrimage trail through lush woodland, past waterfalls and the historic 13th-century Abbey of Saint-Pons, once home to a community of Cistercian nuns.

After our woodland walk, we continue into the magnificent landscape of Sainte-Baume.

Gémenos → Sainte-Baume — Approximate drive: 25–35 minutes

Nestled beneath soaring limestone cliffs and surrounded by ancient beech forest, our peaceful mountain inn becomes home for the next four nights.

This evening we gather in one of southern France's most revered sacred landscapes.

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Morning — Explore Aix-en-Provence.

• Lunch — Aix-en-Provence.

• Early afternoon — Drive to Gémenos on the Mary Magdalene pilgrimage route.

• Woodland walk — Saint-Pons valley, waterfall and medieval abbey.

• Late afternoon — Arrive at Lou Pebre d'Aï and settle in.
  ON Sainte-Baume Area — Hotel Lou Pebre d'Aï (or similar)
  
  

Wednesday 9th June — The Sacred Forest & Grotto of Mary Magdalene

Today we enter the ancient forest of Sainte-Baume, where towering beech trees have sheltered pilgrims and hermits for countless generations.

Our sacred path winds through the ancient beech forest of Sainte-Baume, one of the oldest and most protected forests in southern France. Sheltered beneath towering trees, rich mosses and a remarkable diversity of native flora, the mountain has long been regarded as a place of peace, healing and contemplation.

High within the limestone cliffs lies the Grotto of Mary Magdalene, a natural sanctuary dedicated to her for centuries.

According to ancient Provençal tradition, she spent the final years of her life here in prayer, contemplation and devotion after arriving on the shores of southern France.

Pilgrims and devotees of Mary Magdalene from around the world continue to make this sacred ascent, drawn by the mountain's timeless beauty, profound stillness and enduring spiritual presence.

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Morning — Walk through the sacred forest of Sainte-Baume

• Grotto visit — Time at the Grotto of Mary Magdalene.

• Return walk — Descend through the forest.
  ON Sainte-Baume Area — Hotel Lou Pebre d'Aï (or similar)
  
  

Thursday 10th June — Saint-Maximin & Cotignac

This morning we journey to Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume to visit its magnificent Gothic Basilica. We will meet with our local guide, Isabelle.

Sainte-Baume → Saint-Maximin — Approximate drive: 25–30 minutes

Inside the Basilica, we descend into its ancient crypt, a place where relics traditionally attributed to Mary Magdalene have been venerated for centuries. In this holy place, a beautiful reliquary holds what is traditionally believed to be her skull, making Saint-Maximin one of the most important Mary Magdalene pilgrimage sites in France.

Sacred time here allows us to feel into the extraordinary spiritual heritage surrounding Mary Magdalene.

Later, we continue through the Provençal countryside to the beautiful village of Cotignac.

Saint-Maximin → Cotignac — Approximate drive: 30–40 minutes

Nestled beneath an impressive limestone cliff, Cotignac is a delightful village of winding streets, fountains, cafés and ancient cave dwellings carved directly into the rock.

Beyond its picturesque beauty, Cotignac holds a remarkable place in the sacred history of Provence. In 1519, the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to a local woodcutter, Jean de la Baume, leading to the establishment of the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Grâces.

More than a century later, on 7 June 1660, Saint Joseph is said to have appeared to a thirsty shepherd on nearby Mont Bessillon, revealing a spring of fresh water beneath a great stone.

These two traditions have made Cotignac an extraordinary place of pilgrimage, associated with the Holy Family, sacred waters and divine grace.

We will enjoy time exploring the village, with the possibility of visiting one of its historic sanctuaries before returning to Sainte-Baume.

Cotignac → Sainte-Baume — Approximate drive: 55–60 minutes

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Morning — Visit the magnificent Gothic Basilica in Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, including its ancient crypt and the relics traditionally attributed to Mary Magdalene.

• Late morning — Drive to Cotignac.

• Lunch — Cotignac.

• Early afternoon — Discover the village, its fountains, historic streets and remarkable limestone cliff.

• Sacred heritage — Possible visit to the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Grâces or Saint Joseph’s Sanctuary (to be confirmed).

• Late afternoon — Return to Lou Pebre d'Aï.
  ON Sainte-Baume Area — Hotel Lou Pebre d'Aï (or similar)

  
  

Friday 11th June — Deep into the Sacred Forest

Today we spend another day with our guide, Isabelle, exploring sacred places, hidden treasures and mysteries of the Sacred Forest. Together, we move deeper into the landscape, discovering its spiritual heritage and beyond…

ON Sainte-Baume Area — Hotel Lou Pebre d'Aï (or similar)

Saturday 12th June — Sainte-Baume to Arles

Departing Sainte-Baume, we travel west through Provence to Arles.

Sainte-Baume → Arles — Approximate drive: 1½ hours

Arles, ancient and beautiful, its narrow streets and cafés create a wonderful Provençal atmosphere. Arles is renowned for its remarkable Roman heritage and its connection with Vincent van Gogh, who lived and painted here during one of the most prolific periods of his life.

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Travel — Sainte-Baume to Arles.

• Explore — Discover Arles, its Roman heritage and Van Gogh connections.
  ON Arles — Hotel TBC
  
  

Sunday 13th June — Arles to the Camargue via Aigues-Mortes

We start our day with more time to explore Arles, with its remarkable Roman heritage, artistic history and beautiful Provençal atmosphere. Programme to come.

Later, we travel towards the Camargue, stopping at Aigues-Mortes, a fascinating medieval walled town surrounded by the salt marshes of southern France. Built as a royal port in the 13th century, we can enjoy its impressive ramparts, ancient gateways and charming streets. We’ll also (if possible) walk upon its Salins d’Aigues-Mortes (salt flats) and utilise this frequency for purification and uptake of minerals!

From here, we continue into the heart of the Camargue, a remarkable landscape of wetlands, wild white horses, flamingos and centuries-old traditions.

We arrive in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, our home for the next three nights, where the Mediterranean meets the wild beauty and sacred heritage of the Camargue.

Arles → Aigues-Mortes: approximately 45 minutes
Aigues-Mortes → Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: approximately 35–45 minutes

The Camargue is a unique landscape of shimmering lagoons, salt marshes, white horses, pink flamingos and black bulls. A place where rich heritage and ancient legends abound, yet its spirit remains wild.

According to Provençal tradition, this is where the boat carrying Mary Magdalene, Mary Jacobe and Mary Salome, together with their companions, came safely ashore after being set adrift across the Mediterranean.

Their legendary arrival gave the little town its name, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, and its ancient church became a place of pilgrimage for countless generations.

Within its crypt stands the statue of the mysterious Sara la Kali — Sara the Black, the beloved patron saint of the Romani people, whose annual procession to the sea remains one of the region's most moving and colourful traditions.

Over our time here we will explore the historic Church of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and its remarkable pilgrimage heritage, dip our toes in the sparkling Mediterranean and enjoy a wildlife safari through beautiful wetlands.

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Explore — Spend time in Arles (programme to come).

• Stop — Explore the medieval walled town of Aigues-Mortes.

• Salt flats — Possible visit to the Salins d’Aigues-Mortes (to be confirmed).

• Later in the day — Drive to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

• Settle in — Arrive in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer for three nights.

ON Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer — Hotel Camille (or similar)

Monday 14th June — The Camargue

Monday 14 June — Sara la Kali, Village & Boat Cruise 

Morning | 9.00am–12.00pm

• Explore the historic Church of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

• Visit the crypt of Sara la Kali.

• Optional climb to the church rooftop for panoramic views.

• Wander through the village, shops and cafés.

Lunch | 12.00–2.00pm

• Relaxed lunch in the village.

Afternoon | 2.30–4.00pm

• Le Camargue boat cruise — approximately 90 minutes. tbc

• Departs from Port Gardian, within walking distance of the village.

• Explore the waterways and wildlife of the Camargue.

Late afternoon

• In the flow options

ON Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer


Tuesday 15th June — The Camargue

Flamingos & Wildlife Safari  

Morning | 9.00–11.00am  ( OR 10am -12pm Camargue Horses at  Maison du Cheval Camargue tbc)

• Visit Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau.

• Explore the wetlands and walking trails.

• See flamingos and other Camargue birdlife.

• Allow approximately 1½–2 hours.

Lunch | 12.00–1.30pm

• Return to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer for lunch.

Afternoon | 2.00–4.30pm

• Guided 4×4 Camargue wildlife safari — approximately 2½ hours.

• Explore the wetlands and countryside.

• Look for white Camargue horses, black bulls and birdlife.

Transport: Confirm whether the safari operator can collect us from the hotel or village.

Late afternoon/evening

• In the flow options

ON Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Wednesday 16th June — Onwards to Couiza via Rennes-le-Château

Today we farewell the Camargue and travel west towards one of the most intriguing areas of southern France.

Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer → Rennes-le-Château — Approximate drive: 3 hours 10 minutes

Set high upon a hilltop, the tiny village of Rennes-le-Château is an enigmatic destination.

Here, Abbé Bérenger Saunière began a remarkable transformation of his parish, creating a legacy that continues to inspire curiosity and speculation. Steeped in mystery and symbolism, at the heart of the village stands a beautiful church dedicated to Mary Magdalene. The energy here is rather special.

Following lunch and time to explore, we make our way to our beautiful château in nearby Couiza.

Rennes-le-Château → Château des Ducs de Joyeuse, Couiza — Approximate drive: 10 minutes

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Morning — Depart the Camargue for Rennes-le-Château.

• Lunch and exploration — Rennes-le-Château, including the church dedicated to Mary Magdalene.

• Later — Drive to the Château des Ducs de Joyeuse, Couiza.
  ON Château des Ducs de Joyeuse, Couiza

Thursday 17th June — Mount Bugarach, Rennes-les-Bains & Fontaine des Amours

After breakfast, we drive to the extraordinary Pic de Bugarach.

Rising dramatically above the surrounding countryside, Pic de Bugarach is known as “the inverted mountain” because older rock layers have been thrust above younger ones.

Legends tell of a vast hidden world beneath the mountain — caves and subterranean passages, even a great underground lake. Esoteric traditions have imagined Bugarach as an entrance to a legendary civilisation within the Earth called Agartha, a hiding place for Templar treasure and even the Ark of the Covenant. Others speak of unusual magnetic energies, UFOs and a portal between worlds. Bugarach is one of southern France's most enigmatic landscapes.

We will spend time at the base of this extraordinary mountain and in the surrounding landscape.

From Bugarach we continue to Rennes-les-Bains. Set amongst forested hills and natural springs, Rennes-les-Bains has been known for its thermal waters since ancient times. Here we walk a short woodland path to the mysterious “Isis” stone seat traditionally known as the Fauteuil du Diable.

Later, we make a short journey to the beautiful Fontaine des Amours — Fountain of Love.

Hidden amongst lush vegetation between Rennes-les-Bains and Sougraigne, the waters of the River Sals form a series of natural pools joined by little cascades.

From here, we head back to our beautiful Château des Ducs de Joyeuse.

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• After breakfast — Drive from Couiza to Pic de Bugarach.

• Morning — Spend time at the base of Pic de Bugarach. No summit climb.

• Next — Travel to Rennes-les-Bains and take the woodland walk to the Fauteuil du Diable (Isis Seat).

• Later — Discover Fontaine des Amours.

• Return — Drive to Château des Ducs de Joyeuse, Couiza.
  ON Château des Ducs de Joyeuse, Couiza

Friday 18th June — Montségur & the Pyrenees

Today we journey into the magnificent Pyrenees, to the legendary Cathar stronghold of Montségur, a place steeped in spiritual history, mystery and the symbolism of Light.

Perched dramatically on a rocky summit at 1,207 metres, Montségur was once home to a thriving Cathar spiritual community. The Cathars believed that the soul originated in a divine realm of Light and sought liberation from the material world. In 1244, their mountain refuge fell after a prolonged siege, and more than 200 Cathars were burnt to death for refusing to renounce their faith.

Montségur is also known as a mysterious Solar Temple. Its fortress has an association in modern esoteric tradition with the rising Sun around the summer solstice, inspiring interpretations of solar wisdom and sacred geometry. The fortress walls visible today were built after the Cathar period.

Our visit falls just three days before the Summer Solstice, as the Sun approaches its longest day in the Northern Hemisphere. A particularly meaningful moment in our journey Into the Light, before our solstice culmination in Paris on 21 June.

We will walk up to the fortress ruins, taking in the extraordinary mountain panoramas and the atmosphere of this historic spiritual refuge.

Afterwards, we descend to the village of Montségur, a small, inhabited mountain village with traditional stone houses, narrow lanes and a peaceful rural character. Time to explore, enjoy a café and absorb the surroundings before returning to our château in Couiza.

Couiza → Montségur — Approximate drive: 50–60 minutes

Montségur → Couiza — Approximate drive: 50–60 minutes

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Morning — Drive from Couiza to Montségur.

• Mountain ascent — Walk to the fortress ruins, associated with the Solar Temple tradition. Approximately 30–40 minutes uphill, with 170 metres of elevation gain.

• Explore — Fortress ruins and surrounding mountain landscape.

• Lunch — Picnic on the mountain.

• Afternoon — Explore the village of Montségur.

• Return — Drive to Couiza.
  ON Château des Ducs de Joyeuse, Couiza

Saturday 19th June — Couiza to Rocamadour (Full Moon)

Couiza → Martel/Rocamadour — Approximate drive: 3–3½ hours, excluding stops

Today we check out of our fabulous château and head north towards Rocamadour. We depart early to make sure we have time to visit the beautiful medieval town of Martel and catch its traditional Saturday morning market. After lunch at the market we travel on to Rocamadour.

Rocamadour is an extraordinary cliffside village perched dramatically above the Alzou Valley. Clinging impossibly to towering limestone cliffs, it is one of those rare places where history, legend and deep spirituality exist side by side.

For over a thousand years, it has drawn royalty and travellers. Pilgrims made their way on foot from across Europe. Today, people continue to make their way there, captivated by its beauty and history and its palpable sense of presence.

At the heart of Rocamadour lies its ancient sanctuary and the beautiful Black Madonna — Our Lady of Rocamadour. Due to French family living nearby, I have had the privilege of sitting in her presence several times. She is powerful!

Our time in Rocamadour introduces another thread woven throughout our journey — the Black Madonnas of France. Ancient, enigmatic and deeply loved, each has her own story, her own traditions and her own presence.

Later today we make our way to the sanctuary of Rocamadour. Climbing the historic Grand Escalier and passing through ancient gateways and quiet chapels, we arrive at the heart of Rocamadour. Here we come before the beautiful Black Madonna — Our Lady of Rocamadour, whose presence has become inseparable from the spirit of this extraordinary place.

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Early departure — Leave Couiza for Martel.

• Morning — Explore Martel’s Saturday market.

• Lunch — In Martel.

• Afternoon — Travel onwards to Rocamadour.

• Later — Visit the Sanctuary of Rocamadour and the Black Madonna.
  ON Rocamadour — Hotel La Bellaroc (or similar)

Sunday 20th June — Rocamadour & the Dordogne River

Early this morning, before the day becomes busy, we can revisit the Sanctuary of Rocamadour. Later, for those who are keen, I am planning a little kayak on the Dordogne River. I adore doing this on French rivers; they are so beautiful and relaxing. With the remainder of the afternoon, we can explore the village, its little shops and surrounding area at leisure.

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Early morning — Return visit to the Sanctuary of Rocamadour.

• Later — Optional kayaking on the Dordogne River.

• Afternoon — Free time to explore Rocamadour and its surroundings.
  ON Rocamadour — Hotel La Bellaroc (or similar)

Monday 21st June — Summer Solstice — Rocamadour to Paris

Today we farewell Rocamadour and the landscapes of the Dordogne.

We transfer (time to be confirmed) to Souillac Railway Station to board our train north to Paris. The journey generally takes approximately 5–6 hours, depending on the service; our June 2027 timetable is still to be confirmed.

Mystical France comes to a close...until our next adventure.

OUR DAY IN BRIEF

• Transfer — Travel to Souillac Railway Station (time TBC).

• Train — Souillac to Paris. Allow approximately 5–6 hours; exact service to be confirmed.

• Journey concludes — Paris, on the Summer Solstice.