Alps and Med Day 7: Côte d’Azur to Provence

From Provence …

Dinner last night was at Arabo Cafe in Nice. Limited bus parking in the heart of Nice, so a good amount of walking last night. But slept well and I’m regrouped this morning. Still smiling from a day in Monaco and Nice!! What a great travel experience!! And then to think we were up in the Alps just a few days ago … and in Cinque Terre the day before yesterday. Incredible!!

We start the day with a 4-hour bus drive, leaving Côte d’Azur and heading to the Provence region of France. We’re heading west on European Route E80, known in France as the A8 autoroute. Provence, with its landscapes and relaxed way of life, inspired post-Impressionist painters Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne. The area is know for its fields of lavender, Roman ruins, and pittoresco hilltop towns and villages. I’m hoping to enjoy some rosé wine, olive oil, and classic Provençal cuisine!

Just one stop today … a hike along the Ochre Trail. Located in the heart of Provence, within the department of Vaucluse and near the town of Roussillion, the trail loop features incredible rock formations with vibrant colors. We arrive about 12:30 PM. We’re advised that the ochre sand may temporarily stain shoes or clothes.

The trail walk takes about an hour. We finish just as it starts to rain. But the shower ends quickly and we walk into Roussillion. For lunch I have chorizo from Artisan Boulangerie to eat while exploring the village. Off in the distance I can see the peak of Mount Ventoux, a famous Tour de France finishing climb. Then Michelle and I enjoy a vino rosé at La Treille.

It’s a 2-hour drive north to our hotel in Avignon. The Hôtel du Palais des Papes is located on the Place du Palais. We check in and quickly get out in to the town to see Palais des Papes, Cathédral Notre Dame des Domes, and Le Jardin du Rocher des Doms.

Then it starts to rain again. Conveniently we are right outside Le Lutrin Restaurant and Bar. Time for an Aperole Spritz and dinner. Tomorrow we see more in Provence!