Provence from Fayence: Provence Guide

Mons matchstick models (en Provence)

I am reminded of one on Mons' special treasures. The Mons schoolbus driver, M. Audibert, has been building  matchstick models for more than half a decade. Mostly ships. The largest sailing ship he has made uses 32,000 of them. It's quite astonishing

to see the attention to detail and love that goes into these creations which have occupied the artisan for close to 60 years.

My favourite production is the scale model of Mons, which you can see below courtesy of Provence Beyond. Every street, path and building all laid out - even little lights.

 

 

There is also now a rather splendid self-portrait in matches which Jill Mcqueen kindly sent me. A real lifematchstick man, so to speak.

 

Four Seasons facials

Now you can get posh facials at the Four Seasons, Fayence. This woman Vaishaly looks after Elle Macpherson, Sophie Dahl and Nigella Lawson. Set amid fragrant fields of thyme and lavender in the Provencal hills near the town of Grasse, the Four Seasons is a world away from the hustle and bustle and now you can get a Signature Facial there for £216. Bargain?