3 “Out of the Ordinary” Activities in Southern France…

 

Delicate scents, luxurious soaps and magical caves are what you will find when visiting these three “out of the ordinary” attractions in Southern France…

 

Marius Fabre Savonnier

For 118 years and four generations, Marius Fabre has preserved and maintained the Marseille soap tradition. The factory in Salon-de-Provence (not far from Marseille), with original cauldrons and family secrets passed from generations, produces quality olive oil soaps and cosmetics.

Marius Fabre create vegetable oil soap that is biodegradable, no added colourings and free of petroleum-based by-products. Soaps are sold free of packaging.

Marius Fabre is a unique stop within Provence. Discover the interesting history of France’s most famous Savonnier, Marius Fabre.

Guided tours are available the factory and museum and direct sales can be made at the shop.

Address: 148 Avenue Paul Bourret, 13300 Salon-de-Provence, France

Hours: 

Wednesday	9:30am–12:30pm, 2–6pm
Thursday	9:30am–12:30pm, 2–6pm
Friday	9:30am–12:30pm, 2–6pm
Saturday	9:30am–12:30pm, 2–6pm
Sunday	Closed
Monday	9:30am–12:30pm, 2–6pm
Tuesday	9:30am–12:30pm, 2–6pm

Phone: +33 4 90 53 24 77

 

 

Grottes de Thouzon ( Thouzon Caves, Le Thor)

Once used as a limestone quarry, Thouzon cave was discovered by stone workers through an explosion in 1902, which incidentally revealed the present entrance and 230-metre-long underground tunnel. Water which had drained through the limestone formed an underground subterranean river bed.

This 60-million-year-old cave is well known for its multitude of “fistulous” stalactites which give character and charm to Thouzon. These stalactites can reach up to two metres with a three millimetre diameter.

The room of macaronis, is quite a sight. One in particular, which grows only one centimetre every 100 years, makes this macaroni 13 000 years old!( See photo). If the channel becomes blocked by impurities within the macaroni, the water cannot flow inside resulting in it flowing outside which causes the macaroni to become thicker as well as longer. This process eventually transforms the macaroni into a stalactite. Fossilised bat droppings (guano) can also be found within the cave, though there are no bats since the natural entrance was sealed up (phew)!

Grottes de Thouzon is a natural beauty. An educational geological experience created millions of years ago, and one which I would highly recommend if you are in Southern France.

 

Address: 2083 Route d’Orange, 84250 Le Thor, France

Phone: +33 4 90 33 93 65

 

 

Fragonard Parfumeur

 From 1926, Fragonard have been producing exotic scents and fine perfumes from their factory in Grasse, Southern France.

Traditional techniques and methods, still used today in the factory laboratories, deliver exquisite fragrances exclusive to Fragonard. Locally sourced flowers exclusive to Grasse as well as imported products such as Eucalyptus from Australia and cinnamon from Sri Lanka combined with the perfect formula, harmonize blends of floral essences.

Factory tours are available at Fragonard where you will learn about the unique process and history of this special place. There is also a shop where you can purchase these beautiful fragrances for yourself or as gifts. Fragonard conduct workshops and activity programs available through the year.

 

Fragonard factory
Address: 20 Boulevard Fragonard 06130 Grasse FRANCE
Tel: 0033 (0)4 93 36 44 65

 

 

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My Favourite 10 Things to Do in Saint Remy de Provence

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