Jas de Bouffan,

Jas de Bouffan, Aix-en-Provence © photo Michel FraissetThe 18th-century mansion was purchasedby Cezanne’s father in 1859. By then he hadmade a fortune in banking, having abandonedthe hat business. At Jas de Bouffan Cezannepainted some of his earliest works – on thewalls of the Grand Salon. Those murals werelater cut out and sold (for a pittance), and thewalls were papered over.Now owned by the city and lovingly restoredthe house will reopen in June 2025. You’ll beable to see projections of his original paintingson the walls of the grand salon, and wanderthe gardens that once saw Cézanne hunchedover his sketchpad. It’s here that Cezannepainted his card player series, one of whichsold for a whopping 0 million in 2011 – afar cry from Monet’s 50 Franc bargain. Bookahead for guided tours of the interior of theelegant mansion with its typically Provencalblue-grey shutters. And leave time to visitthe gardens, which though smaller than inCezanne’s time, are full of reminders of hispaintings, from the square pond to the statues.And if all that art appreciation leaves youpeckish, I suggest the glorious Villa Gallici justFood art, Villa Gallicia short walk away. Chef Christophe Gavot haswhipped up a Cezanne-themed menu that’sas inspired as it is delicious. Think rich, sunblushedflavours and the kind of plating thatdeserves a round of applause.Aix has a timeless quality, perfect for ahefty dose of rich culture, joie de vivre andoutstanding gastronomy – a city that satisfiesyour soul.Find out more at:aixenprovencetourism.com/en4* family-ownedhotel and restaurantExceptional service &stylish rooms, suites andcottages plus pool &gorgeous gardensA truly unique & authenticProvence experience in astunning locationLes Baux de ProvenceBenvengudo.com22 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 23