When you are in Aix-en-Provence there is one name that comes up continuously: Paul Cézanne.
The whole town is plastered with small and great reminders of its most famous inhabitant.

Of course, as good tourists, we followed his footsteps.

They led us up a very steep hill to the place where he - as legend has it - sat and painted and sat and painted and sat and painted. We understand him very well, because we, too, fell under the spell of this view of his beloved Mont Sainte Victoire. The light and the colours are amazing there.

Nowadays this place is called the Terrain des Peintres, a hot spot for art school students as well as amateur painters.

Sitting there you really wish to be able to paint this beauty. But even old Cézanne himself doubted his ability:
“I lack the magnificent richness of color that animates nature.”

One day in Aix-en-Provence {travelogue #2}

Vibrant with colours. Complete opposite of the yellow night lights. But not less beautiful.

The day started at a little farmer's market under those beautiful sycamore trees.

Strolling through the streets.

Rue des Bouquinistes Obscurs. Obscure shadow plays...

Aix Cathedral.

Tranquillity.

Strolling further into the town.

We love cinemas!

And here's a hint for the next post :)

The town is yellow by night {travelogue #1}

The Provence! The Côte d'Azur! Bright sun, the blue sea, mountains, lavender, olive groves, wine ... this was our holiday destination. And since nowadays the French TGV offers a cheap (if you're lucky and early), direct train connection from Frankfurt to Marseille it was clear how to get there. By train. Especially for someone who is very (very!) afraid of flying, travelling by train is a mercy. And also: it is just wonderful!

After traveling nearly 2000 km we arrived fairly relaxed at our first destination Aix-en-Provence at the beginning of nightfall. So what we first saw from this beautiful town were deserted, ancient streets only illuminated by small street lights. Their warm light made the whole scenery look black and yellow. And so calm and peaceful that it enchanted us at once.

So we dreamed the night away and when opening the little French shutters (French shutters! Yeay!), there they were: the bright colours of the south! And the day had only just began!