Rare Encounters in Provence
The Art of the Extraordinary, Curated Just for You
Maison Merlinis offers private meetings with artisans and producers right where they work.
We believe that some experiences aren’t meant to be consumed, but to be lived:
taking the time, meeting someone, understanding a gesture, feeling a place.
Each experience is organized in very small groups, in a private setting, away from the tourist crowds.
The Maison Merlinis Spirit
Maison Merlinis experiences are designed for those looking for something more than just a standard tour or activity.
Here, we are talking about:
meet women and men who are passionate about their work,
enter places that are usually closed to the public,
understanding a craft through words, actions, and shared time.
Every encounter is unique, shaped by the artisan’s personality and the atmosphere of the place.
The Experiences
Private encounter with a potter or ceramist
Within the intimacy of a workshop, discover the art of working with clay alongside a master ceramist. Modeling, throwing, firing: the artisan shares their journey, techniques, choices, and the intimate relationship they maintain with the raw material.
Depending on the moment, you may witness a firing, handle the clay yourself, or simply observe the work in progress through a free-flowing, privileged exchange.
Duration: approx. 3 hours
Participants: 2 to 6 people
Location: private workshop (Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence)
An authentic discovery alongside a local producer
On the lands of an artisanal producer, gain a true understanding of how exceptional products are crafted.
Whether a cheesemaker, charcutier, confectioner, or olive oil producer, you will observe the process, the meticulous choices, and the raw materials they select. Afterward, take a seat at their table. Just you, the producer, and their creation—a simple, authentic meal shared within their world.
Duration: approx. 4 hours
Participants: 2 to 6 people
Location: estate or private workshop (Vaucluse, Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Var, Alpes-Maritimes)
Mastering a rare craft
Step inside an art studio and slip into the shoes of a creator for a day. Alongside a glassblower, a bookbinder, or a santon maker, this immersion is dedicated to hands-on transmission: discover the secrets of the workbench and tame traditional techniques.
Guided by the master artisan, you will shape your own piece with your own hands and leave with this unique object. A signed certificate will seal your initiation.
Duration: approx. 5 hours
Participants: 2 to 6 people
Location: private workshop (Bouches-du-Rhône, Vaucluse, Var, Alpes-Maritimes)
Rates per person, inclusive of taxes.
How do the encounters take place?
Experiences are conducted exclusively in small private groups
Each meeting is arranged by appointment only
Venues and artisans are chosen as much for their personal qualities as for their expertise
Maison Merlinis handles the organization, coordination, and overall flow of the experience
Book or learn more
Maison Merlinis experiences are offered in collaboration with our partner hotels, concierge services, and travel agencies, or upon direct request.
For further information or to make a reservation: