Provence through the eyes of Kim & Bodine
Inspiring encounters, timeless charm, and breathtaking accommodations — Kim's first work trip through Provence was everything she had hoped for and more. As Social Media Coordinator at Nice2stay, her mission is to capture the spirit of our accommodations and translate it into inspiring content. To do this authentically, experiencing the places firsthand is extremely valuable.
Together with Bodine, Product Manager, she spent four days exploring the heart of Provence, visiting eight handpicked accommodations from our collection. For Bodine, it was a return visit, her second time in the region — which brought a deeper layer of familiarity and insight.
It was a journey through blooming fields, timeless villages, soulful homes, and unforgettable conversations — a vivid encounter with the relaxed beauty of Provence and the passion behind the places we proudly present.
From Nice to the Heart of Provence
After flying into Nice and picking up their rental car, Kim and Bodine set off for their first stop: Villa Collinette. This stylish design villa features light-filled interiors and sleek, modern lines. A lovely outdoor area with a private pool invites relaxation, while its convenient yet peaceful location offers easy access to lively towns without sacrificing tranquility.
From there, they continued deeper into the authentic side of Provence, where many of our unique villas and hideaways are nestled amid nature and timeless villages. Springtime revealed the region at its best: blooming fields, mild temperatures, and a calm, unhurried atmosphere.
Along the way, they visited several of the stunning homes from our collection, weaving their journey with stops in picturesque villages and vibrant local markets. One highlight was Aix-en-Provence, a refined city known for its artistic soul and bustling market squares. Here, amidst stalls filled with fragrant herbs, fresh flowers, and artisanal goods, the essence of Provence came alive. It was a vivid introduction to the region's laid-back yet elegant way of life.
That evening, they arrived at Maison Sumaine, a charming B&B where the welcoming owners also serve delicious home-cooked meals. Kim and Bodine enjoyed a typical Provençal dinner: gratin de bèche with creamy goat cheese, roasted seasonal vegetables, and warm, crusty baguette — the perfect introduction to local flavors. The following morning, a breakfast of fresh croissants and homemade jam, enjoyed in the soft spring sun, set the tone for another day full of encounters.
Continuing their route through the Provence countryside, they visited more characterful villas before arriving in the serene village of Vallabrègues, home to Maison Salix. Set in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, Maison Salix is an intimate, slow-travel resort offering just a handful of elegant rooms. It combines light-filled interiors, natural materials, and a lush Mediterranean garden with a relaxed, authentic atmosphere — capturing the true art de vivre of Provence. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by Hugues, the owner, with an aperitif in the lush garden, surrounded by blooming flowers and the golden light of the afternoon.
After settling in, Kim and Bodine wandered through the sleepy streets of the village, strolling along the banks of the Rhône River and soaking up the village’s timeless charm. That evening, they dined at a small local restaurant recommended by Hugues, savoring entrecôte with crispy French fries and a refreshing salad — the perfect close to a day rich in impressions and conversation.
Capturing the Heart of Nice2stay
What made this trip unforgettable wasn’t just the beauty of the places visited, but the depth of the connections formed along the way. Every accommodation had its own story — of passionate owners, meticulous restorations, family traditions and lifelong dreams "It was more than I had imagined — not just the beauty of the spaces, but the atmosphere, the authenticity, and the passion woven into every detail," Kim shares.
Across intimate hideaways and striking design villas, a shared spirit was unmistakable: spaces with soul, where thoughtful design meets meaningful hospitality. Reflecting on the journey, Kim and Bodine agree: "It’s the human connection that breathes life into the experience and allows us to pass on these genuine stories and translate them into inspiring content for our community."
Curious About the Places We Visited?
Curious to see the stunning properties that left such a strong impression on Kim and Bodine? Here's where they stayed and explored:
Each with its own personality, story, and atmosphere — and all part of the carefully curated Nice2stay Provence collection.Discover our full Provence collection here
Why choose the Provence region?