Last summer, Tarja and Matilda embarked on a vacation to Southern France, a region known for its stunning landscapes and charming towns. Their journey took them to two particularly enchanting destinations: St. Tropez and St. Paul de Vence.

In the lovely Provençal village of Saint-Tropez, known for its immaculate maze of cobbled lanes, boutiques, and charming cottages with painted shutters. Saint-Tropez has managed to retain a quiet charm with its narrow streets, traditional restaurants shaded by grapevines, and a pretty harbor lined with wooden masts. 

It is easy to see the attraction of this once tiny fishing village, with its beautiful beaches, yachts, exclusive boutiques, and cafes exuding French Riviera chic. No wonder Tarja found inspiration in this marvelous town for her next summer collection, drawing from its hues, fabrics, and moods.

Tarja and Matilda were chosen for morning spending time La Ponche beach, which set in a beautiful sheltered bay. Their morning starts with swimming and morning yoga which is so perfect for good start of the day. After this they have a breakfast on the terrace in the La Ponche Hotel.

After their leisurely morning, they decided to explore the vibrant atmosphere of St. Tropez, where narrow streets exude timeless charm. The town was a delightful mix of vibrant colors and historic charm. Tarja and Matilda wandered through narrow alleys lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and fragrant flower stalls.

Then they went to Le Subé Lounge Bar, where they relaxed and enjoyed a lively afternoon watching the Voiles de Saint-Tropez sailing competition on the Mediterranean coast. They brought a vibrant energy to the city, and elegant yachts and sailboats appeared on the horizon. At sunset, Tarja and Matilda enjoyed breathtaking views of the Tigre. The sky was coloured in gorgeous shades of orange and pink, creating a magnificent atmosphere.

After the excitement of St. Tropez, Tarja and Matilda found themselves in the peaceful and artistic village of Saint-Paul de Vence. Saint-Paul de Vence is a quaint medieval village perched on a hill, providing a nice contrast to the bustling St. Tropez. The narrow cobblestone streets, art galleries, and breathtaking views of the Provençal countryside really captured their hearts and imagination.

They had a city stroll through Saint-Paul de Vence’s narrow cobblestone streets. The village, known for its art galleries and quaint shops, was a feast for the senses. Tarja and Matilda explored local boutiques and admired the work of contemporary artists.

Returning to La Colombe d'Or for lunch, they dined on the terrace surrounded by lush greenery and remarkable works of art. The menu, based on Provençal cuisine, delighted their palates with fresh, local flavours. The atmosphere was just right, with the gentle hum of chatter and the scent of blooming flowers adding to the ambience.

As the sun set, they headed back to La Colombe d’Or, reflecting on the day's beauty and tranquility. Dinner was incredible, with a stunning backdrop of artworks by Matisse, Delaunay, and Kandinsky, and each course was a culinary delight. After that, Tarja and Matilda went for a final evening walk through the quiet, softly illuminated streets, under a starry sky that added to the enchantment. It made their day in Saint-Paul de Vence magical.

From Georges Braque and Fernand Léger to Marc Chagall and Pablo Picasso, La Colombe d’Or has been a magnet for creative minds. This rustic, family-run inn in Saint-Paul de Vence is a living museum, where art and history intertwine seamlessly. You’ll find a Picasso flower vase, a Braque still life, and a Calder mobile above the swimming pool, among other masterpieces.

The inn’s simple rooms, adorned with artworks by Maurice Bompard and Yves Klein, exude a timeless elegance. Over the years, La Colombe d’Or has also attracted a fashionable crowd, including François Truffaut, Jean-Paul Belmondo, and Sophia Loren.

Whether you’re here to admire the art, savor the Provençal cuisine, or simply soak in the atmosphere, La Colombe d’Or promises an experience like no other.

Tarja's and Matilda's stay at La Colombe d'Or and their exploration of Saint-Paul de Vence was a journey into the soul of Provence, where art and life are beautifully intertwined, leaving them with memories to cherish forever.