Charming Picturesque Provence in 40 Deg!

We are currently in St.Remy, enjoying our stay in a very cute Cabanon for the next 7 days. It is a simple, all-in-one-room accommodation, but the setting is charming; we have access to a refreshing plunge pool and are very lucky to have a continuous supply of produce from the lovely Jordanes vegetable garden. The fruit and vegetables are warm and delicious. The peaches and nectarines are not only massive but also perfectly ripe and dripping with juice. We were also generously given an enormous bunch of grapes which enhanced our simple cheese and baguette dinner.

Heading to Saint Remy, we decided our journey would go up through the Maritime Alps. The towering rock faces of the Alps were both impressive and slightly daunting as we navigated the winding roads. The local French holidaymakers had filled up the camping grounds, drawn to the stunningly blue waters of Gorges du Verdon. Our trip was made even more unexpected by the expansive farmland nestled high in the mountain valleys and the wonderful blue Eryngium growing wild on the side of the road. There many charming villages to choose from to stop for lunch.

After descending to flatter terrain, I found myself disappointed and amazed as we passed km upon km of rows of cut lavender. I had hoped to see the lavender fields in full bloom, but was aware our timing might not be quite right. Nevertheless, I’m eagerly anticipating my next visit during the lavender flowering season, which I’ll include in my confirmed tour itinerary.

We didn’t arrive in St. Remy until 6 pm, an undoubtedly long journey. Thankfully, the plunge pool provided much-needed relief, and we enjoyed a pleasant 20-minute walk into town for dinner.

The European temperatures have been exceptionally high, consistently reaching 38-40 degrees each day. Navigating as tourists under such scorching conditions has proven challenging. After our initial morning exploration of St. Remy’s historic district, we found ourselves succumbing to the local custom of an afternoon siesta. While we could attribute our tiredness to the long drive the previous day, this delightful practice could easily be adopted in Tarras this upcoming summer.

A daily routine now involves a morning coffee and croissant, usually accompanied by a 20-minute walk to and from St. Remy. I was particularly delighted to experience the local Brocante market (though I refrained from making any purchases, despite the collection of outdoor furniture).

Yesterday, we ventured to Arles, a 30-minute drive away. Despite our best efforts, the heat left us rather sluggish, even after a couple of beers. Our self-guided walk of Arles’ ancient streets was cut short, and even the colosseum failed to hold our interest in the sweltering heat. Fortunately, we stumbled upon a shaded spot for a fantastic lunch, and in the afternoon, we sought refuge in the air-conditioned Van Gogh Gallery and the Roman Antiquities museum, both of which were well worth a visit .

A valuable lesson learned: most shops in France are closed on Sundays. While you can find bread in the morning, acquiring it in the evening is a different story. Restaurants are open for lunch, but supermarkets close at 5 pm.

A simple dinner for us ended up consisting of, slices of tomatoes on a grilled baguette, topped with marinated white anchovies (which we had purchased earlier). It was actually amazing.

I think these experiences highlight the best of travel. By immersing ourselves in new cultures, savouring their culinary delights and traditions, and gaining insight into a different way of life we want to take our time and hopefully get to know a few locals .