‘Nico, before I head off with my little weeding group this morning, can I ask about the guitar in the day room? Kellie mentioned she’s into music and she spotted it, so I’m guessing she plays. I was wondering if any of the tutors had any musical experience?’

He looks at me in surprise. ‘Taylor is pretty good. He’s into country music, I believe. I play a little but not enough to coach someone else. Do you want to see if you can fix something up with him? I’m sure he won’t mind.’

I nod, gratefully. ‘Will do, that’s great, thanks.’

We exchange brief smiles before I go in search of Ceana, to see who she’s assembled together to join me this morning. I instantly spot her when I step out into the courtyard.

Today I have four people, two guys who I played cards with last night, Kellie and Patricia.

‘And here’s Fern, my assistant, who will sort you out. Have a fun morning, all.’ Ceana’s words make me smile. So, I’m her assistant now. A promotion already!

Glancing at them all, I can see that Kellie looks okay, but Patricia is standing on the edge of the group, nervously. I give Ceana a nod.

‘Right, follow me. It’s a beautiful morning, that’s for sure.’

Immediately the two guys fall in line either side of me, leaving Kellie and Patricia to bring up the rear. It’s impossible to take this walk without your eye being constantly drawn to something you haven’t noticed before and there’s little chatter as everyone scans around.

‘This is quite something,’ Quin remarks as I turn to look at him.

‘To me, the hills and mountains in the distance are so representative of Provençal,’ I reply. ‘I know many tourists perceive the towns as the real heart of the region, but here, on this little valley plateau, every breath I take in seems to contain that hint of perfume from the lavender fields and the olive groves around us.’

‘It’s so inspiring,’ Patricia adds. ‘The delights of Provence really do show nature at its best.’ And she’s right. That’s why so many artists found their way to this region to experience something unique. The light, the colours and the sheer variety of nature’s splendours and challenges, in sharp contrast. Often on a turn in the road, or an uphill climb, one vista is exchanged for something totally different but equally as awe-inspiring.

I turn to smile at Patricia, thinking how at ease she looks right now. ‘Every view, whichever way you turn, is postcard-worthy, isn’t it? But here, in amongst the little villages where time seems to stand still, family, farming and festivals are the very essence of life – it’s truly authentic.’

We stop for a moment as I point towards the backdrop in front of us.