About the Alpilles & St Remy
One of the must-see locations in Provence, the untamed landscape of the Alpilles is blanketed with olive and almond trees, accompanied by the aromatic scent of oak and pine. Grab your binoculars and head out for a short hike to the top of the Alpilles Nature Reserve. You may spot one of the rare bird species that resides here, such as Egyptian vulture or eagle owl.
From the Alpilles, it’s a short and scenic drive to St Remy. At the heart of Provence, this charming village has over 300 days of sunshine each year. Understandably, this makes it an exquisite location for wine production. It’s home to seemingly endless vineyards. Let us book you on a wine tour of the region to sample a few vintages, before choosing your favourite to enjoy in the carefully sculpted gardens of your luxury St Remy villa.
As brandy lovers will know, St Remy is also where this famous spirit is distilled. Often lesser known, is that this carefully balanced fruity French brandy is distilled from eight different varieties of local grape. Perfect for a digestif or nightcap, pick up a bottle directly from the distillery, and enjoy a glass as the sun sinks behind the vineyards of this famous landscape. You’ll soon understand where Van Gogh found his inspiration!
Time Zone
GMT +1 hour
Language
French
Currency
The official currency is the Euro (€). Coins are available in 1 cent, 2 cent, 5 cent, 10 cent, 20 cent, 50, cent , €1 & €2 denominations. Notes are available in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 denominations.
Money Matters
Travellers cheques are widely accepted for exchange or purchase in major cities, but in more rural areas, visit a bank to exchange them for Euros. Major credit cards are widely accepted here (though a limited number of merchants have American Express accounts) and ATM access is widespread. Exchange currency only at authorized outlets such as banks and hotels, and exchange only what you think you will spend in-country. Coins cannot be reconverted on departure. Save all receipts from any currency exchange transaction. You may be asked to produce them when you exit the country, and they are required if you intend to reconvert local currency.
Tipping Suggestions
Tips in restaurants are usually added on at 10/15 % of the bill. However, it is often a subject of controversy whether this amount actually goes to the waiter or not, therefore it is your choice whether to tip more.
