As the world starts re-opening its doors and as summer quickly approaches, I cannot help but think about
Vacations in Provence France as a European essential. As we are in uncertain times, I wonder if the summer will include more car trips, less air travel and for Europeans this means, the South of France.
The beauty of this part of France in undeniable and when I think of Provence, I cannot help but think about the smell of lavender, bathing in the Rhône River, visits to Avignon, and sipping on a glass of Cote du Rhône. The Rhône River cannot be missed literally, it flows from the Swiss Glaciers all the way to the Southeast of France which brings us to one of the most celebrated cities in the South of France, Avignon.
Avignon is on the Rhône River in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d’Azur region, Avignon is known as the “City of the
Popes/ Palais des Papes”. Why the name “City of Popes”? because from 1309-1377 the popes
lived and worked out of Avignon. It is located on the left bank of the Rhône and is an appealing city with ancient
streets, architectural beauty, theatres, museums and is a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995
Summer in Avignon consists of visiting the Palace of the Popes in the medieval city, taking a walk along the famous Pont d’Avignon due to the children´s song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon” and of course the Festival d’Avignon. Sadly, the annual Festival d’Avignon is not happening, this year would have been the 74th edition however there is always summer 2021.
If you venture out of the city, there is another UNESCO World Heritage site, Le Pont du Gard. “Le Pont du Gard
a three-level stone aqueduct bridge and one of the best-preserved pieces of ancient Roman architecture in the
whole of France.” Located about 30 minutes from Avignon.
Avignon is a city of wine, also known to be the Capital of Rhône Valley wines and produces around 89% red wine, 7% rosé wine and 4% white wine. Côtes du Rhône wines have been produced for over 2,000 years and are primarily full-bodied wines which makes for a sensory experience. There are plenty of full day or half day wine tours at your finger tips.
If you are looking for a place to stay, what about the 5 Star historical hotel La Mirande, an old mansion with (26) rooms in the centre of Avignon? The restaurant is a real gastronomic experience with the option to eat at the Chef`s Table, la Table Haute. It is a real historical experience at the heart of the city centre.
For more information contact your travel advisor at Travelbylac, LAC Travelbylac@outlook.com or www.travelbylac.com.
As the world reopens, rediscovers, and redefines how to create memorable experiences for now we dream,
eventual travel and ensure we keep this close to our consciousness.