I just returned from a wonderful trip to Paris & Provence and thought I would start documenting my self-planned vacations. Others keep asking me about my travels and want a copy of my itineraries. The easiest way to do that is to start blogging about my adventures.
My theory on planning a vacation to remember is to first plan-where & when, I/We want to go, Who's going with me and what are they interested in and How long can we stay, and where to stay. Next I read lots & lots of blogs, look on Pinterest, and read a few books on the areas of interest.
France ROAD TRIP
Return-Saturday, June 9: (Ua914)Paris (CDG)12:25pm to Wash. (IAD)2:50pm.
Depart-Mon.,May 28: (UA915)Wash. (IAD) Depart: 5:25 pm. to Paris (CDG)
OVERNIGHT-Arrive: 6:55am.
OVERNIGHT-Arrive: 6:55am.
Return-Saturday, June 9: (Ua914)Paris (CDG)12:25pm to Wash. (IAD)2:50pm.
Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel=$465
Total w/pts.
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40 Rue Rene Boulanger Paris 75010
France
+33-1-71 18 20 95/
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Check-In:Tues.
May28@3pm. /Out-Fri.June 1@12pm. Artist Studio
Suite, Jr. Suite, 1 King-Rooftop View, Wifi
https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/parpr-renaissance-paris-republique-hotel/
11 days ---Monday, May 28-Saturdayday, June
9
Hoppa Transfer
x2-$97.06(CDGèParis/ParisèCDG)
PARIS: Monday:
May 28 (Fly to Paris)
Day 1: Tuesday: May 29 (Arrive Morning 9-10am)
Sightseeing- #163965-Open Tour -Hop On/off Bus-$47ea.
(2 Days)
Eiffel Tower-4:45(16:45)-Show up w/Email confirmation: #1108677-60each & exchange coupon/voucher-#1804WS7220 Print-vouchers and hand it to your group leader at the meeting point at 36 Avenue de la Bourdonnais 75007 Paris (PARISCityVISION/FAT FAT TIRE cobranded shop).
Eiffel Tower-4:45(16:45)-Show up w/Email confirmation: #1108677-60each & exchange coupon/voucher-#1804WS7220 Print-vouchers and hand it to your group leader at the meeting point at 36 Avenue de la Bourdonnais 75007 Paris (PARISCityVISION/FAT FAT TIRE cobranded shop).
Day 2: Wednesday: May 30-
Louvre10:15 Tour-2Hrs., Sightseeing
Moulin Rouge
w/Champagne-9-11pm. $160ea.
Day 3: Thursday: May 31-Day Trip-Giverny/Versailles
HERTZ-Rental
Car-Auto (H6022934367) 7am.-9pm.
18
Rue de dunkerqueLevel-1 Eurostar Terminis
TGV-TRAIN: Paris
to Provence (Avignon) $582 Round Trip $194USD. Ea.
Day 4-11 in Provence: Friday: June
1-Paris Gare Lyon to Avignon TGV
Booking #:42898308 / Train #-6065
(Paris Gare Lyon-10:37amè1:16pm (13:16)èAvignon TGV
Day 11: Friday: June
8- Avignon TGV to Paris Gare Lyon-Train #-6112
(Avignon TGV -9:43am-12:23pm to Paris Gare Lyon
Day
11: Friday: June 8: (TGV to Paris) IBIS
Day 12: Saturday: June 9/ Depart (Fly Home)
Day trip, One Hour between places
Paris è Versaillesè Givernyè Paris
*Versailles-Gardens-8am-6pm ($24)
Palace: 9am-5:30pm.
*Giverny-9:30-6pm.
Daily ($15)
*Giverny-9:30-6pm. Daily ($15) 84 rue Claude Monet-27620 Claude Monet lived for forty-three years, from 1883 to 1926, in his house in Giverny. With a passion for gardening as well as for colours, he conceived both his flower garden and water garden as true works of art. Walking through his house and gardens, visitors can still feel the atmosphere which reigned at the home of the Master of Impressionnism and marvel at the floral compositions and nymphéas, his greatest sources of inspiration.
*Giverny-9:30-6pm. Daily ($15) 84 rue Claude Monet-27620 Claude Monet lived for forty-three years, from 1883 to 1926, in his house in Giverny. With a passion for gardening as well as for colours, he conceived both his flower garden and water garden as true works of art. Walking through his house and gardens, visitors can still feel the atmosphere which reigned at the home of the Master of Impressionnism and marvel at the floral compositions and nymphéas, his greatest sources of inspiration.
Tel
: +33 (0) 2 32 51 28 21
*Gardens
MAY-Alchemilla, Columbine, Ornamental Garlic, Azaleas, Spring Clematis,
Foxgloves, Geranium (Pélargoniums) (2nd half of the month), Wallflowers (2nd half of the month),
Wisteria, Irises ( at their best 3rd.week of the month), Dame’s
Rocket, Forget-me-nots, Sweet William, Woad (1st.half of the month),
Oriental Poppies, Pansies and Viola cornuta, Meadowrue, Peonies,
Rhododendrons, Campions, Tamarisks (beginning of the month), Tulips ((1st.half
of the month)
JUNE -Agapanthus,
Alchemilla, Amaranths, Colombines, Anthemis, Ornamental Garlic, Bugloss,
Nasturtiums (beginning), Clematis, Cleomes, Foxgloves, Fuchsias, Geraniums (Pélargoniums), Ox-eye Daisies (Leucanthèmes), Daylilies, Impatiens,
Lavender, Lilies, Water lilies, Sweet William, Oriental Poppies, Pansies and Viola cornuta, Phlox, Meadowrue, Roses, Tobacco Flowers
•
*paris
museum pass-2 DAY-48€-$57-BUY AT AIRPORT to save $24 Shipping
Fee
*Lourve-Booked
Wednesday May 30, 2018-10:30am. Arrive
15 minutes early
Number of Adults: 3/ Product Booking Reference: BR-643354852
Location: 75001 Paris, France/The Arc du Carousel is
inside the Place du Carousel, between Louvre Pyramid & Tuileries Gardens.
Facing the Arc w/Pyramid behind you, two winged female statues in front of
Arch. Meeting Point-at left statue(Southern end of square) Guide holding a
Walks sign.
*La Sainte-Chapelle- 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001-10 € …$13
*Notre Dame Tour-10 € 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II,
75004.Free
*Panthéon- Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, 7€….$8
*Moulin Rouge w/Champagne=$127-82 Boulevard de Clichy (9pm-Show-Wed. May 30)
*Arc de Triomphe, Champs
Elysées- Shopping………………………………………….Free
‘Laduree’- the most delectable Macarons of
Paris. Parisian tearoom
*Eiffel Tower-$11€ (9:30-11pm.) $13+$17-Elevator
*Galeries Lafayette Paris (Lunch & Panoramic View)-… 40 Boulevard Haussmann…Free
*Printemps
Haussmann- a department store-8th
arrondissement, one of best views-Paris! Top of department store-open-air
terrace & cafe –free-64 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009
*Pompidou Center- Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris,-
14€….$16
*Musee L’Orangerie- Monets- Jardin Tuileries, 75001 Paris, (9-6pm) €18.50=…$25
*Musee d’Orsay-1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 (9:30-6pm/Thurs-9:45pm)12 €...$14
*Rodin
Museum-77 rue de Varenne, 75007 10-5:15pm) 10€…$12
7th Arrondisement
*Neopolian’s
Tomb- Musée de l'Armée, 129 Rue de Grenelle,
75007 Paris-12€….$14
*Musée de l'Armée (Invalides), 129 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 (10-6pm.)
Montmartre -Wall of Love-Square-Jehan Rictus
Paris,
*Basilique du Sacre Coeur-35 Rue du
Chevalier de la Barre
(6am-10:30pm.)(Mass-7, 11
&3pm. 6-Fri)
*Parc des Buttes Chaumont- 1 Rue
Botzaris- Waterfalls, cliffs & temples, 19th Arrondisement
*Musee
Marmottam-All Monets- 2 Rue Louis Boilly, 75016 (10-6pm)
11
€ ...$14
*Catacombs of Paris: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy,
75014 (Tues-Sun:10-8:30)-Closed Monday-Underground
ossuaries-hold the remains of six million people in a small tunnel
*Evening Walk- City of
Light’ by walking along the banks of the Seine, near St-Michel
quarter. Enjoy the view of Notre-Dame and take a walk on the Saint-Michel
Bridge.
•
TIPS!!! GET LOST IN LE MARAIS:
•
‘Le Petit Fer a Cheval’ brasserie.
•
L’As du Fallafel - Is it worth the wait? Yes- on Pretty Iconic Street: 34 Rue des Rosiers, cobbled lane filled with cafés, eateries,
and independent boutiques
• The Picasso Museum: Address: 5 Rue de
Thorigny, 75003 Paris.
•
BREAKFAST AT CAFE SAINT REGIS, just south of Le Marais.
•
Pretty Iconic Streets - Rue des Rosiers ,Rue des Barres, Rue Chanoinesse, Rue
Cremieux (Colorful Houses), Rue
Nicolas Flamel
Places to Eat in Paris…
Criossants/
Cafe Saint Regis: 6 Rue Jean du Bellay, 75004 & Les Deux Magots: 6 Place Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006
Kouign Amann/round
crusty cake, Ladurée: 75, ave. des Champs Elysées 75008 & Maison Georges Larnicol: 132 Blvd St.-Germain, 75006
Macaron: Pierre Hermé: PARIS 9e - Galeries
Lafayette Gourmet/Ground floor/35 boulevard Haussmann & Ladurée
(Above)
Seafood & Neopolitan: Restaurant
Le Duc 243 bd Raspail 75014
Grand Marnier Soufflé: Restaurant Astier: 44, rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud 75011
Croque
Monsieur Or Croque Madame- sandwiches- stuffed w/ ham
& cheese & then fried with cheese on the outside,OR Croque Madame-egg
on top. Les Deux Magots: 6 Place Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006
Pizza: La
Briciola: 64 Rue Charlot, 75003
Praline Brioche: Parlous: 44 rue Cler 75007
Ice Cream: Berthillon: 31 Rue Saint-Louis en
l'Île, 75004
SECRET PASSAGES- See Map:
(1) Passage des Princes (2e) (2) Passage Verdeau (2e) (3) Passage Jouffroy (2e)
(4) Passage des Panoramas (2e) (5) Passage Choiseul (2e) (6) Galerie Vivienne (1e)
(7) Galerie Vérot Dodat (2e) (8) Passage du Bourg l’Abbé (2e)
(9) Passage du Grand Cerf (2e) (10) Passage Ben Aiad (2e) (11) Passage du Caire (2e)
(12) Passage du Ponceau
(2e) (13) Passage du Prado
(10e)
Provence
(7 Nights) Saint Remy
Hertz Rental Car-(7
Days)-$275EU=$341USD
Day
4: Friday: June 1
Day 5: Saturday: June 2
Day 6: Sunday: June 3
Day 7: Monday: June 4
Day 8: Tuesday: June 5
Day 9: Wednesday: June 6 (Cooking Class)
Day 10: Thursday: June 7
Day 11: Friday: June 8 (TGV to Paris)
Day 12: Saturday: June 9/ Depart (Fly Home)
To See the
Place….Go to…
Pass:
I<3Imagine
Go to: Trips
***(French Cooking Class=) $165 EU-Foodie Day tour. (Wednesday, June 6)
http://www.provence-gourmet.fr/en/provence-cooking-class/
(Market/Winery/Cooking/Lunch) 9:30am-3:30 PM- Aix-en Provence or Alpilles
Provence Gourmet, Tel. +33 (0)6 09 60 60 84
www.provence-gourmet.fr Food Wine & Cooking day Tours in
Provence
***Most Villages have designated parking
areas
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence: Wednesday farmer’s
market- highlight in the region of Provence & not to be missed!!! If the gently rolling
wheat fields and gnarled olive groves surrounding Saint-Rémy-de-Provence look familiar, don’t be
surprised; Van Gogh spent a year here during one of his more creatively
productive periods, during which he composed Starry Night, among other
famous works. After perusing the town’s surprisingly cosmopolitan boutiques and
eateries, venture further afield to explore the nearby ruins of Glanum,(S)
a Celtic-Roman city with an intact triumphal arch dating back to the first
century B.C.
Route
des Artistes-200 artists exhibit & sell their works in the street on a
Sunday in May & June
St.
Remy de Provence Weekly Artisan & Craft Market
Best
Place for Walking in Provence
The rugged landscape of the Alpilles makes the perfect backdrop
for walking in Provence. Wander between the olive groves, cypress trees, hills
and valleys that inspired many a Van Gogh painting. magnificent views, hidden
waterfalls, forgotten caves and the famous rock with two holes. Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is the perfect base
for exploring the Alpilles region and its walks. This typically Provençal town
has been beautifully restored and its a pleasure to stroll its attractive
town centre with craft shops, cafes and boutiques. Don’t miss: The Alpilles
were brought to life with Van Gogh’s paintings. Get an insight into the life of
Saint-Rémy’s most famous artist at the Musée Estrine.
Where to Eat
in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France Lourmarin: (50 Min.from St. Remy NE) Market-Friday Morning 50 km. east of Avignon, on route N100 heading towards Forcalquier (26km). "one of the most beautiful
villages in France", nestles in the middle of vinyards, olive groves and
almond trees. 15th
& 16thc. Castle. A very animated village in the summer due to its
numerous cafe terraces, restaurants and boutiques, Lourmarin attracts many
visitors.
•
Restaurant de Tourrel: A lovely restaurant with modern
interiors and classic cuisine.
•
The Manor at Le Château des Alpilles: idyllic setting &
incredible cuisine, splurge not to miss reserve in advance. Tel: +33 (0) 4 90 92 03 33 contact@chateaudesalpilles.com, Route du Rougadou 13210, http://www.chateaudesalpilles.com/
•
Bistrot Des Alpilles: A well-rounded restaurant, with a
wide selection of classic French cuisine.
•
Lechamo: Head here to cool off with yummy ice cream.
What to Do
in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France
•
Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole: monastery surrounded by
lavender fields, perfect mid-morning visit.
•
Glanum: Explore ancient ruins from the 6th century right
outside of town.
•
Musée Estrine – Présence Van Gogh: Head here to all things
Van Gogh.
• *Carrières de Lumières: A short drive from town, exhibit spectacular.
Art is projected inside large quarries, with music and lights in sync. Route de Maillane, 13520 Les Baux-de-Provence, France
•
Théâtre Antique. Located next to the Amphitheatre,
this 1st-century Roman theatre Les
Baux-de-Provence: A short drive from town, head here to tour a castle and
quaint hilltop village.
•
Driving the Cotes du Rhone wine
road (Wineries & Beautiful Hilly Scenery)
NORTH~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sights-Palais des Papes, the Roman Avignon Cathedral & the famous four arches of the Pont
Saint-Bénézet. Don’t miss: Les Halles Market is a covered food market in the heart of the
city. INDOOR
– EVERY MORNING-Saturday-Food Demos. It’s a
popular meeting spot and an absolute must do while visiting Avignon. Sample the
delicacies of Provençal cuisine while mingling with the locals. Leisurely
lunch at a restaurant on Place de l’Horloge or stroll through the Parc Rocher des Doms-a
seven-acre park. famous bridge, Pont Saint-Bénézet, Wine
bars on Rue des Teinturiers. Sip at Manguin
Distillery (Île de
la Barthelasse)- famous Poire Williams Eau de Vie, an amazing pear
brandy, over 50 yrs (Pears grown inside the bottle) Lush gardens of Rocher de
Doms. Catch: light show/ front of palace (Les Luminessences). Tea at famous La Mirande
hotel./ La Cave des Pas Sages wine bar/
VILLENEUVE-LÈS-AVIGNON: Just outside the
Avignon walls. 7 square miles. Fort Saint-Andre-views, Chartreuse
Notre-Dame-du-val-de-Bénédiction-monk’s cell and see the wonderful frescoes
that decorate walls, Gardens of the Abbey Saint-André. The Tower of
Philippe le Bel is “a must see” medieval tower- stunning views when you reach
the top, especially of the Rhone river. wisteria hanging from doors and
windows
Le Barroux-(47 Min.from
St. Remy N)
Few
places in Provence feel further removed from the well-trod tourist path than Le Barroux. The tiny village is
seemingly one giant looping street, with impossibly narrow alleyways punctuated
by mint green and robin’s egg blue shutters, and window flower boxes hanging
from the rugged stone facades. The Château du
Barroux,
from the 12th century, sits precariously on the top of a hill with the town
circling its base, before giving way to sweeping vineyards and olive groves on
all sides. On a sunny day, you can see Mont Ventoux in the distance. After a
stroll through the sun-kissed streets, where you’ll encounter gurgling
fountains at every turn, head to Entre’ Potes for fantastically
prepared Provençal food.
Vaison-la-Romaine-(1 Hour from St. Remy N) It wasn’t the Romans but
the Celts who were
the first people to settle this picturesque hill in the Vaucluse department.
Today, Vaison-la-Romaine is a charming mix of the
old and new, with the steep Medieval-era streets leading up to the Colline de
Chateau on the south side of Ouvèze River. Over the Pont Romain, dating back to the first
century, you’ll find the older, original Roman settlements and the bulk of the
town packed with al fresco cafes and shops selling the region’s lavender and
olive-based products. Ruins of an original Roman villa and theater can be seen
just outside the city center.
NORTH-EAST~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
THE
LUBERON-(48 min. NE-Next to Gordes) Luberon Valley Village to
Village” WALK. The Luberon countryside is absolutely beautiful with incredible,
often unexpected variety of landscapes and architecture. -The Bories
village,
a very unique village, is composed of seven groupings of huts, each having a
very precise function. You will find houses, stables, sheepfolds, barns, grain
lofts, silkworm factories and bakehouses, vat houses and tanning mills,
henhouses, pig sties and goat shelters. The existence of this village shows
that, outside of just a sporadic use of a borie, as a temporary dwilling, for
example, or for agricultural purposes, there was a whole social and economic
system built around and based on these dwellings of former times. Ancient
bories, a Roman oppidium-(Roman prehistoric fortified hilltop settlement), old mills, a 700-year old
chapel, a truffle farm, and charming villages, vineyard and lavender, poppies
& sunflowers (in season-June-July) along this walking trail. poppies and
sunflowers (in season), and scenery that will completely contrast the Alpilles
and along the Mediterranean coast. Enjoy time to discover and visit Gordes and
Roussillon villages pre- and post walk. OR-Artist
HILLTOP VILLAGES- Shuttle from
village to village- visit Gordes and Roussillon villages/artisan “perfumery”/
Cruise the Calanques (Roman Fjords)-45 min.
Ansouis-Tiny
Village w/extraordinary, quirky museum w/sculptures & a collection of sea
artifacts.
Small towns- Apt- -Saturday Farmer’s Market. Saint-Saturnin-Lès-Apt , close to Apt, A quiet beautiful place not crowded by
tourists, it has a beautiful elevated region with a windmill that provides
breathtaking views of the Luberon valley. Small lanes, pastel colored homes,
specks of bright door and windows and lots of blooming flowers adorning the
streets and balconies made this village so special. A must visit,
Cucuron, Fontaine-De-Vaucluse, Goult, Villars
alleyways are filled with shops selling books, gifts, arts and
crafts, and many a souvenir to remind you of your time in Provence. It’s the
perfect place to linger for a while and observe day-to-day Provencal life, with
its courtyards of brasseries, cafes and restaurants opening out onto the
streets. Just outside of the town is a 15th century château with
views onto the fields of surrounding vineyards,
olive groves and almond trees. Famous for
its boutique stores linen (Provence is famous for French linen) from here.
There is also a chateau in Lourmarin (a
converted castle) which hosts wine tasting and performances in the evening.
Bonnieux
If you are driving from Roussillon to Loumarin, Bonnieux is
impossible to miss, with the spire of the 12th century Vieille Église
(Old Church) rising into the sky. Once a fortified village, this
charming town offers
plenty to see and do as it’s a little bigger than the previous
villages mentioned in this post, with many more restaurants, cafés and a market on Friday mornings. Or you
may enjoy simply wandering the winding streets, noting the
oh-so-quaint architecture of the 16th century houses, and gazing at the
expansive views of the fields of crops and distant Luberon mountains.
Oppède-natural
beauty/ famous for the church Notre-Dame-Dalidon which you can hike up to for
beautiful sights. The fresco inside the church is very impressive.
L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue: (37 Min.from St. Remy NE) 25 km. east of Avignon, between Cavaillon and Carpentras.. "island
city" lies at the foot of Vaucluse plateau in the plains of Comtat
Venaissin. Several canals running through its center, runs between narrow ancient streets. Little
bridges to cross & great wheels, Market on Thursday & Sunday
mornings. One of the main reasons
everyone travels to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is for their market day. Here you will
find everything from antiques to fresh fruit, and people will be shoulder to
shoulder as they examine the goods. The town is built along the river Sorgue
and the canals flowing through the town only add to its charm. watching
the people, meandering over bridges and exploring the old waterwheels. Antique shopping.
As legend tells it, the fiery tones seen in this unique area of
Roussillon come from the blood of Dame Sermonde who jumped to her death
after being confronted by a jealous husband. Or you could go with the more feasible
explanation that the color is a result of iron oxide deposits dating back
millions of years. Theories aside, this particular spot in Provence has taken
on a peculiar pigment that provides a startling contrast to the green
vegetation that grows from it. The Ochre
Trail deceivingly consists of two walking routes. Neither is strenuous, with
one taking around 30 minutes and the other just less than an hour. Both
tracks provide a scenic hike through the amber colored cliffs and parched
looking canyons.
Entrance to the Ochre
Trail costs €2.50
Tips for enjoying the Ochre Trail-Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Ochre
Conservatory where you can learn how ochre is formed and how to use it to
create art. A joint ticket can be purchased for €7.50 – saving you €1.50.
Don’t wear light
colored clothing or shoes – as the ochre will leave a (washable) pigment on
you.
Walking along the burnt orange path is like stepping into
another (very colorful) dimension. Choose the short or the long path (30 or 60
minutes) and stroll to your heart’s content. Don’t wear any light-colored clothes because white and red don’t
mix well.
Getting there:If time allows – skip the tolls and use the smaller local
roads. This way your drive will be part of the experience as you wind through
enchanting villages, past grand chateaux, and alongside canals, while rows
of vines and olive groves line the road. Rich in hematite (the mineral form of
iron oxide)
Visit Luberon in
the same day (Save some time for Wine tasting.
A short drive down D2, D15, & D177 leads to View of the hillside village of
Gordes & the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque.(12th. C. Abbey)
Sault- northern
most village, the Lavender capital of Provence. Surrounded by acres of lavender
fields,
Lourmarin: (50 Min.from St. Remy NE) Market-Friday Morning 50 km. east of Avignon, on route N100 heading towards Forcalquier (26km). "one of the most beautiful villages in France", nestles in the middle of vinyards, olive groves and almond trees. 15th & 16thc. Castle. A very animated village in the summer due to its numerous cafe terraces, restaurants and boutiques, Lourmarin attracts many visitors.
NORTH-WEST~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Vers-Pont
du Gard- (40 Min.from St. Remy NW) the most spectacular
section of the aqueduct built by the Romans in the
1st century. The village, which revels in its stone, has kept all its small
shops and businesses and traditional crafts and is full of life throughout the
year. Strolling its little lanes, some of them cobblestoned, you will discover
the Clock Tower, a vestige of the medieval wall, the church and its
murals, statuary and paintings. The market
in Vers takes place on Saturday mornings on the Place des Platanes. Many springs supply the village with water
and the main ones gave birth to three remarkable washhouses built in the 19th
century, the Grand Font (1882), the Font d'Izière and the Misserand, in
addition to the frog fountain. - the Pont du Gard, situated 4 kilometres
from the village and listed as a World Heritage Site, as well as many remaining
parts of the aqueduct.
Several hiking trails leave from the village for a beautiful walk to the
Pont du Gard.
Uzes: (1 Hour from St. Remy NW) Between Alès, Nimes and
Avignon, the discreet but oh so elegant town of Uzes has preserved in
its centre much evidence of its rich past. Market every Wednesday & Saturday, centered at Place aux Herbes. Uzès, the oldest duchy in France, attracts visitors
from around the world who come to stroll its medieval lanes and admire its rich
heritage. Enjoy the colors, the fragrances and the smiles in this beautiful
corner of Southern France where you can relish an unparalleled quality of life.
Secreted
away in the Gard department west of the Rhone River, Uzès is a
hidden-in-plain-sight gem with as much authenticity as you’ll find anywhere in
the dozens of small towns scattered over the Provence region. The village of
8,000 was at different points a Roman settlement, a Jewish enclave, a
bishopric, and a dukedom, evidence of which can be found in the stately homes,
chateaux, and 17th-century chapel still preserved in the city center. A
mid-century investment from the French government turned the town into a
secretly hip hamlet, where many expats now own homes, but the atmosphere is
still entirely French. Don’t miss the Sunday market, one of the best in
Provence. Several
castles & towers: the Bermond tower, the King’s tower, the Bishop’s tower, &d
the Fenestrelle tower. Must stop by La
Fabrique Givree: ice cream.
* Grottos of Provence
From ancient underground rivers and
petrified waterfalls to rock formations and prehistoric
paintings. What lies beneath Provence’s hills divulges secrets of the
region’s history. Today, guided tours allow visitors to safely navigate
this mysterious underground world of stalactites and stalagmites. Below-a
few of the most captivating looking caves.
Les Grottes de Thouzon. 45-minute family friendly tour for €8.90 Adults,
(30 min. NW. St. Remy) 142, Impasse des Sablières - 2083 Route d'Orange 84250 Le Thor/ Provence, Vaucluse
(30 min. NW. St. Remy) 142, Impasse des Sablières - 2083 Route d'Orange 84250 Le Thor/ Provence, Vaucluse
EAST~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Gordes: (48 Min.from St. Remy E.) Market-Tuesday The village of Gordes is set around a rock
where the houses rise up in a spiral. Gordes is a beautiful and old village in
the Provence- Alpes- d'Azur region in southeastern France. Often
listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Gordes is a charming mix of
sleepy French hillside village and posh resort town. The area is a favorite
among celebrities as a quiet summer retreat, but the atmosphere is still
unpretentious. The idyllic
setting is dominated by the fortress standing guard over the city—a Roman
foundation that was significantly renovated during the Renaissance; it now
houses an art museum. Be sure to look down every tiny alleyway as you stroll
through Gordes, as some of the best views of the countryside can be glimpsed
through the narrow corridors leading out from the city center. Don’t miss Abbaye of Sénanque just outside the city, where monks still
live and produce local honey and liqueurs. the Lavender Museum of Provence: 276 Route de Gordes, 84220
Cabrières-d'Avignon, (9am-7pm. Daily)
Moustiers Sainte-Marie: (2 Hrs from St. Remy E.) Dramatically
situated below two cliffs in the Natural Regional Park of Verdon and on the
western side of the very scenic Gorges du Verdon. one of the most beautiful medieval villages of France. 100 metres
up the high limestone cliff.
Verdon Gorge: (2.5 Hours from St. Remy E.)
These gorges in northern Provence are one of the most
impressive scenic highlights in France.
Menerbes: (47 Min.from St. Remy E.) Market
Day – Thursday mornings -3 km from the N100 which links Avignon (42km) and Apt (23km) by the D103. Built on a hill, surrounded by
countryside. Rich historic past has been well-preserved. The Dolmen de la
Pichouno (unique to Vaucluse) shows that Ménerbes has been inhabited
since prehistoric times. Archeological excavations have uncovered the remains
of villas and an ancient cemetery dating back to Roman times. Saint Hillaire is
rich on architectural styles, from Roman to classical Gothic. During the Middle
Ages, access to the town was through the two doors, St Sauveur et Notre Dame.
Do not leave Ménerbes without making a tour of the picturesque "corkscrew
museum" (Musee du Tire-bouchon), It’s located at
Domaine de la Citadelle, two kilometres outside the village. More than
1,000 different varieties on display. The corkscrew was invented in the 12th
century... by a Frenchman of course !!! For a town of less than
2,000, Ménerbes has experienced its fair
share of brushes with fame. A group of quasi-celebrities, Picasso’s models to
high-profile English businessmen, settled in the otherwise forgotten village in
the middle of the 20th century, before Ménerbes was put back on the map by Peter
Mayle’s writing (it was the setting in A Good Year). The charming village, whose
buff-colored buildings seem to almost disappear into the leafy landscape, is
dominated by the Protestant-built citadel, a remnant from Ménerbes’ time as an
important Protestant stronghold during the French Wars of Religion
* Lacoste -Small Town- Market Day –
Tuesday mornings
SOUTH~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Les Baux de
Provence: (15 Min.from St. Remy S.) 15 km Arles /25 km d'Avignon Heart of the Alpilles son a rocky plateau 245m high. A
brilliant view of Arles, Camargue and the Alpilles can be seen from the look-out points!
This immense and superb stone fortress is without doubt one of the
"must-sees" on the Provencal tourist trail! Its cultural heritage is
exceptionally rich, with 22 architectural treasures classified as
"Historic Monuments" (including the church, chateau, town-hall,
hospital, chapels, houses, doorways... The village can only be visited by foot
and you will admire the ancient houses that have been carefully restored,
beautiful Renaissance façades and several magnificent "hôtels particuliers"
which today serve as art galleries or museums. While wandering around you will
come across many craft shops selling Provençal products and souvenirs...
Food-lovers will soon discover that several restaurants at Les Baux boast
international reputations... such quality dining is so hard to resist!!! Les Baux-de-Provence is a very picturesque Medieval village at a
fortified rocky site between Arles and St Remy-de-Provence. Les Baux is well
worth visiting, for the ancient village, the extensive fortified-chateau area,
the magnificent setting and views, and the museums. It's very crowded here in
the Summer, so coming off-season is advised if you have a choice.
Alpilles-16
Carrières de Lumières (ILLUMINATED CAVES)
The
remains of the fortress & former city of Baux are now featuring medieval
horse shows, trebuchet launching, and archery. Explore the ruins & even
though in French, loved the falconry show.
SOUTH-EAST~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Historic old town centre with
its wonderfully curved and cobbled streets, the many cultural events held throughout
the year, the secret gardens, the almost daily markets, and the masses of
museums and art galleries! Jas de Bouffa-The former country home of painter Cézanne,
Cathedral
Saint Sauveur,
Place
de la Mairie-local souveniers, Le Garde Manger-Coffee & Sweets-Upstairs
lounge with great views,
Forum
des Cardeurs (Square)- restaurants, cafés and shops
Café
Saint Honoré, Pâtisserie Weibel,
LE GRAND MARCHÉ (Cours Mirabeau)– TEXTILE, ARTISAN,
(CLOTHING AND TEXTILE MARKET) IN AIX-EN-PROVENCE (Must-DO) Tuesday, Thursday
or Saturday 8-1pm.
Cassis-(1.5 Hours from St. Remy SE.) Market-Wed, & Fri
Mornings-No longer a true hidden gem, Cassis still offers a
pleasant respite from Provence’s more
popular port cities in its dramatic
seaside setting, framed by the imposing white cliffs and the series of
calanques tucked among them. Winemaking is now the primary activity in the
region, but Cassis has maintained its idyllic fishing village vibe, with
pastel-colored buildings lining the harbor. Be sure to sample the local
specialty, a very particularly prepared bouillabaisse, before you leave. (Boat Trip of Fjordes-2/3 Hrs.) MEDITERRANEAN
COAST – CASSIS (500 BC, )- Cassis Weekly Artisan & Craft Market/ surrounded by vineyards, and bordered by the
Mediterranean sea, colorful cliffs and beach. Stroll through this art deco
style village’s pedestrian streets. not to miss visiting one of the French Riviera’s
oldest and most famous.
-Cassis has it all – stunning natural features, adorable
seaside restaurants, a twisty mountain drive, and a bit of history thrown in
for good measure. The most unique feature of Cassis is its calanques, white cliffs of limestone that plunge dramatically into
the Mediterranean. You can walk the trails, hike, or take a cruise to see some
of the largest ones. After your excursion, relax at one of the cafes with some
fresh seafood while you marvel at the colors of all the boats in the marina.
After lunch, drive on La Route des Cretes, a breathtaking mountain drive that
takes you high above the town for one of the most picturesque things to do in Provence
***Alternatively- beachside village of Sainte Croix - iconic Mediterranean beach
experience. Plage de Sainte-Croix is a popular spot in the summer months but
outside of the school holidays, it’s a true oasis.
Natural Attractions
*Les Calanques-, (1 ½ hr. SE. St. Remy) The rugged coast Sandwiched between
Marseille and Cassis lies one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of
France, The Calanques. A series of towering limestone
colored promontories cliffs meet the
turquoise waters of the Mediterranean sea, creating
sheltered inlets between the sheer rock faces. One of the
most breathtaking natural wonders of France, (Near Cassis)
The surrounding area, aptly
named the Parc National des Calanques, is a serene space that provides a
spectacular backdrop for hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing.
Alternatively, the protected waters of the National Park are accessed by boat
or kayak, affording visitors the opportunity to seek out hidden beaches
and secluded shallows. Three of the most
stunning calanques – Port Miou, Port Pin and En Vau – can be found a
short walk from the charming port side town of Cassis.
Port Miou is the most
accessible and doubles as a natural marina for the hundreds of boats moored to
its banks. But the real, untouched, beauty of the calanques lies over the hill
at Port Pin and En Vau.
To
route to Port Pin from Port Miou is well signposted and is
fairly easy to navigate. Despite the uneven ground and slippery stone surfaces,
people of all ages and abilities tackle this short walk to reach the pebbled
beach at Port Pin. It’s a popular swimming spot during the warmer months and
the views on the way are well worth the hike! Calanque d’En-Vau is the most famous, and undoubtedly the most
breathtaking calanque of the three. Its beauty can be admired from above –
after trekking straight up through the bush or navigating the longer route
around the coast. But to reach the hidden oasis at the bottom you’re faced with
a daunting descent! Be sure to plan your
trip with this in mind.
Alternatively,
boat tour out to the hidden beaches to
get a different perspective!
WEST~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Nimes: (53 min. W) a city in the Occitanie
region of southern France, was an important outpost of the Roman Empire. It’s
known for well-preserved Roman monuments such as the Arena of Nîmes, a
double-tiered circa-70 A.D. amphitheater still in use for concerts and
bullfights. Both the Pont du Gard tri-level aqueduct and the Maison Carrée
white limestone Roman temple are around 2,000 years old. Musée des Beaux-Arts of
Nimes-museum-3600 fine art & sculpture- Roman times to Old Masters, Don’t Miss! Jardins de la Fontaine, an 18th-century public park modeled
after the gardens at Versailles. The Pont du Gard is
near Nîmes
SOUTH-WEST~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Arles- (35 min.SW) Arles is a good example of
the adaptation of an ancient city to medieval European civilization. It has
some impressive Roman monuments, of which the earliest – the arena, the Roman
theatre and the cryptoporticus (subterranean galleries) – date back to the 1st
century B.C. During the 4th century Arles experienced a second golden age, as
attested by the baths of Constantine and the UNESCO-necropolis of Alyscamps-(Do Not Miss). In
the 11th and 12th centuries, Arles once again became one of the most attractive
cities in the Mediterranean. Within the city walls, Saint-Trophime, with its
cloister, is one of Provence's major Romanesque monuments.
*Wednesday or Saturday
morning market
*Van Gogh Walk. This walking tour is mapped out on little easels throughout the
town. Each point is one of the many sites where this troubled artist painted,
had a drink, or people watched. It’s like a treasure hunt, really. Along the walk, you will come across the
Espace Van Gogh, the hospital where Van Gogh went after cutting off his ear.
Here, he painted around 300 works of art.
*Starry Night Viewpoint-Almost a direct walk from the train station, the Rhone river ,
on our way into the town. It was here that Van Gogh painted the Starry Night on the
Rhone in 1888. so peaceful and magical to simply sit
on the bank of the river here and try to picture the red haired, sunflower
loving man painting on a nearby bench.
*Place du Forum is most
famous from Van Gogh’s”Café Terrace at Night.” That being said, it’s worth
visiting for many other reasons, too. During Roman times, the forum was the
center of social, political, and religious life. Today, it is a lovely shaded square, perfect
for sitting outside at a cafe and having a sip of coffee or wine at one of the
many restaurants inside.
TI-Map of Van Gogh walking tour of paintings.
SITES-Arles Amphitheatre – 1 Rond-Point des Arènes
Place du Forum
– Place du Forum
Théâtre
Antique d’Arles – Rue du Cloître
The
neighborhood west of Rue Gambetta
Some of the most impressive sites are situated near the southern
city of Arles. Discover the Roman Amphitheatre that dates back to 90 AD. Visit
the iconic Church of St. Trophime, and make the journey out to the Barbegal aqueduct and mill. You
can also use Arles as a base to explore the ancient city of Glanum, located
near Saint Remy de Provence, the medieval castle of Les Baux de Provence
*Camargue Regional Nature Park-(50
min. SW from Remy)
If you’re short on time in the Camargue and want to make
the most of your visit, head straight to the Parc Ornithologique where you’ll have flocks of
flamingos at your fingertips
Vineyards, rice fields, salt fields, brine
lagoons & the iconic wild horses and pink flamingos
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Extras: Moustiers
Sainte-Marie (SE), La Roque Gageac (SW), Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
(SW)
|
FRENCH
FOODS:
***Baguettes, Crepes, pain au chocolat-Choc.
Croissant, Cheeses, Macaron-cookie,
Criossants/ Cafe Saint Regis: 6 Rue Jean du Bellay, 75004
& Les Deux Magots: 6 Place Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006
Kouign Amann/round crusty cake, Ladurée:
75, ave. des Champs Elysées 75008 &
Maison Georges Larnicol: 132 Blvd St.-Germain, 75006
Macaron: Pierre Hermé: PARIS 9e - Galeries Lafayette Gourmet/Ground floor/35
boulevard Haussmann & Ladurée
(Above)
Seafood & Neopolitan: Restaurant Le Duc
243 bd Raspail 75014
Grand Marnier Soufflé: Restaurant Astier: 44,
rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud 75011
Croque
Monsieur Or Croque Madame- sandwiches- stuffed w/ ham
& cheese & then fried with cheese on the outside,OR Croque Madame-egg
on top. Les Deux Magots: 6 Place Saint-Germain des Prés, 75006
Pizza: La Briciola: 64 Rue Charlot, 75003
Praline Brioche: Parlous: 44 rue Cler 75007
Ice Cream: Berthillon: 31 Rue Saint-Louis en l'Île, 75004
Bouef Bouguinon-Beef
braised in Red Wine & Beef Broth in a Stew
Ratatouille-Vegetable Stew
Coq Au Vin- Braised Chicken with Wine, Laardons &
Mushrooms
Tatiflette-Potato Gratin with Reblochon, Cheese, Onions,
Laardons & White Wine
Steak And Frites,
Duck-Canard
Sole Meunière-Fancy Fish
Quick Burger-French Fast Food Burger
SCARAMOUCHE-Ice
Cream shoppe- 22 Rue la Vieuville
How To Pick A Good Parisian Restaurant-choosing
local hidden gems over tourist traps:
•
Find a main tourist attraction-Walk AWAY at least 3 blocks
or so.
•
Somewhere SMALL. Parisian restaurants are known for their
tight fits and sharing tables with strangers.
•
Look for French menus (No Pics) on display. This means
that locals usually frequent this spot.
•
Look for a crowd of French people. If it looks like 100
Americans, then walk away.
Drive the Cotes du Rhone
•
A day driving France’s Cotes du Rhone wine road will take you
through the South of France to charming villages, passed vineyards, and over
beautiful mountain passes. Along the way, you can taste the wine that the
region is famous for – affordable, easy-drinking blends (mostly reds) known as
Cotes du Rhone. Don’t forget to stop and take in the beautiful views as the
road runs through the mountains, hanging high above the valleys before dipping
back down. It’s even better if you bring a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot
along the way.
Provence to
Paris 2 ½ Hour
TRAIN Ride
Corridas- (Bull fighting (Ferias) in
Arles or Nimes or Avignon)
Bulls Traditions
Originally, as a resurgence of circus games of antiquity, was
practiced in the area of "bullfighting", fighting games and other
animals and farmers with bulls. Not until the late nineteenth century that the
bull breeders are aware of the importance of race "Camargue"
predisposed to the race because of its morphology and its militancy. In the
early twentieth century in the Languedoc and in the east of the Bouches du
Rhone, the Camargue is truly form and becomes the main movie of the summer
holidays. Shopping around in the arenas, different bullfights liven the
festivities of the towns and villages in the region. For its proponents, the
Bouvine is a true art of living.
Encierro: bull run in the streets.
Abrivado: finished framed bulls to the bullring by the herdsmen.
Bandido: in contrast, return of bulls.
Camarguaise Races: takes place in arenas, the raseteurs dressed
in white and fitted with a hook should remove specific attributes (cockade,
tassels, ropes) tied between the horns of the bull. These races are often spectacular
