Inspired by the multi-coloured umbrellas by Patricia Cunha in Aix-en-Provence, France.
Red – Naturally, it has to be the wine. Ok, technically it is a rosé, but it is without a doubt the best rosé I have ever tasted, and it would be criminal for it to go unmentioned. The particular wine I am referring to is the AIX Rose Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence Magnum: locally produced in Aix-en-Provence with the freshest and fruitiest flavour. Best served chilled, on a summer’s day, in the Place des Cardeurs.
Orange – I had never heard of these delicious little treats before my time in Aix-en-Provence, but these orange and white droplets are as fun as they are tasty. Calissons are regional sweets that come in many varieties, from the classic almond shaped orange and marzipan, to the more exotic strawberry mojito flavour. I would recommend the variety pack from Le Roy René which gives you the opportunity to explore their handmade assortment of flavours, from candied berries to the more daring chocolate and chilli.
Laurent Giraudou Getty Images
Yellow – If you were to ask me what is my favourite thing about Aix-en-Provence it may surprise you, because it has to be the mustard brick, walls and tiles that make up this town. There is something so comforting to me about being surrounded by warm, winding cobbled streets, golden architecture and beautiful yellow stone homes, against the bright, clear blue sky. Like a sunny, welcoming labyrinth just waiting to be discovered.
Green – As is the case in many of the French towns that I have visited, for some reason still unknown to me, there is a surprising abundance of Irish pubs. Each is full to the brim with shamrocks, flags and anything green. I asked my friend, a local to the area, why in particular Aix-en-Provence seemed so fascinated with getting their hands on some Guinness. The answer is quite simple: Aix is a student town, and there’s nothing the students love more than pubs, pints and a game of pool...apparently to such an extent that they rival the Irish.
Blue – Rather than choosing the obvious Mediterranean sea and sky, because I’ve tried so hard to avoid clichés already, there exists another 'blue' in Aix-en-Provence. When the sun sets over this picturesque town, all of a sudden, the night awakens, and with it comes a new kind of life. The buzz of the people, the clinking of glasses and the sweet melodies of Jazz and Blues pour into every street, terrace and bar. Feeling blue never felt so good.
Indigo – One of the top events in the Aix-en-Provence calendar is The Festival International d'Art Lyrique d'Aix-en-Provence. Unfortunately, this was cancelled this year for obvious reasons, but every summer the town celebrates the musical talent, particularly of its young people, and the traditional art of opera, all in one grand spectacular. The events take place in the open air amphitheatre under the deep summer night sky, surrounded by the magic and theatre of opera.
Violet – Out with the town, there are endless fields of lavender. Ice cream, candles, soap... The colour, taste and fragrance has become synonymous with the Provence region. The Aix-en-Provence tourist office runs trips to the fields where you can visit the purple meadows and learn all about the local produce. The best time to go is in early summer when the lavender is in full bloom. Remember and pick up a little souvenir!
Aix-en-Provence, France
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