After nearly 30 years of dreaming we've finally bought our own bit of Provence and spend as much time there as possible. A lover of everything about the area especially the markets, the Brocante hunting & cycling the quiet lanes. Blogging about my favourite things in the area from places to visit, shopping and cycle trips
Its been a whistle-stop last few days, but all of a sudden, we know where, when and how our summer cycling adventure will start. As ever, we have given ourselves plenty of planning time, as it starts this Friday! In 4 days time, we’ll be on our way. Let me explain why this all may … More Starting in Toulouse: Rugby, Roads, and a New Cycling Journey
Tucked among the dry, sunbaked hills of Provence, Les Jardins de l’Abbaye de Valsaintes feel like a secret discovered by accident. At Valsaintes we visit an unexpected rose garden, blooming in the middle of the rugged Provençal landscape. Fragrant pathways, climbing roses, and quiet abbey views and a natural spirituality make it one of the region’s most magical hidden corners. … More The Secret Rose Garden Hidden in Provence
My perfect day in Aix-en-Provence unfolded through exploring the historic streets, market, and classic Provence atmosphere, visiting the Toulouse Lautrec Exhibition at the Hotel Caumont— before ending in unforgettable rugby scenes as Provence Rugby secured a dramatic barrage victory. A glimpse of our life in southern France at its absolute best. … More My Perfect Day in Aix-En-Provence – Ending in Rugby Euphoria.
Day 11 of our cycling adventure through southern France ended with a huge puncture just 20km from home, turning the final ride through the Luberon into one last unexpected challenge. Would we make it back in time for the rugby we had returned to see … More Day 11: Only one bike made it home
Day 10 of our cycling journey through southern France — a scenic ride from Capestang to Béziers, taking the long coastal route through seaside landscapes and along quiet roads. … More Day 10: Taking the Long Way to Beziers via the Coast
A sunny Day 9 cycling around the Canal du Midi, exploring quiet villages, peaceful backroads, and the beauty of slow travel in the south of France. … More Cycling the Canal du Midi Villages – Day 9: Sunshine Ride in the South of France”
Some days, like today may not be quite what we planned, but they still turn out to be rather wonderful… even in the rain, with wet feet ! After a lovely couple of days in Pezenas, it was time to hop back on the bikes again today, to continue on to our next stop, at … More Day 8: Riding Through Rain to a Canal Boat at Capestang
Today, was the reason we had pedalled over 300km from Provence to Pezenas; the May Grande Deballage in the town. We love Pezenas, and twice a year brocante and antiques’ traders come to the townto ste up theis atnds, filling the town with bustle, and lots of wonderful things to tempt us. In the past, … More Treasure Hunting at the Grande Deballage in Pezenas
After a rather lovely last 5 days, pedalling across the South of France, we are in the stunning medieval town of Pezenas. It’s an atmospheric little town, with elegant buildings, narrow cobbled streets, and we never tire of visiting. For the third time, we’ve arranged our visit around the Grand Deballage, where around 200 traders … More Day 6: Slowing Down… A Market Morning and a Walk to Caux
After yesterday’s soggy ride, we found ourselves enchanted with the little village of Montpeyroux. After a warm shower, and throwing our sodden kit into the washing machine, we ambled around the village, enchanted by its peace.. Almost every house was covered in Jasmine or Honeysuckle, and the early-evening, post-rain scent was wonderfully heady… The swifts … More Day 5: the most beautiful ride yet from Montpeyroux to Pezenas
Postcards from Provence and beyond 