“Provence is a country to which I am always returning, next week, next year, any day now…”
~ Elizabeth David

The name Saignon comes from the Roman word signum, or signal. Anciently soldiers walked along the chemin de ronde, part of the village ramparts, and watched over the valley. Now these walls are part of La Maison Des Arts Et Lettres, a renovated 15th century building that houses 4 cozy apartments, each equipped with an efficient kitchen and a large ensuite bathroom. Make Saignon your home base for experiencing Provence as a local. Wander down the narrow street to Chez Christine’s Boulangeri and purchase a baguette or pain au chocolate still warm from the bakery ovens. Shop at the Saturday Market in Apt then return ‘home’ and prepare your meals a la Provencal. Explore Aix En Provence and Avignon, both within an hours drive, as are dozens of other charming medieval villages.

La Maison Des Arts Et Lettres is also home to Le Petit Cafe where Michelen recommended Chef Andrew Goldsby prepares his creative menu using local ingredients, often including produce grown right within the village.

Below the building are 12th century caves. Souhil Arabi, proprietor of Vin Du Sud, a wine-tour company, can arrange your private tour of the caves, local vineyards, wine tasting and pairings, and educate you in the nuances of Provencal wine.