French Road Trip Part 4 - Orange & Provence

There were many highlights during our trip, and Arles in the south western Provence was our accommodation highlight. It was truly by good fortune as our planned accommodation at Capelongue called in the morning to advise they had to cancel our reservation as the roads were closed due to the snow. Having only called at 6:30pm we were lucky enough to get rooms plus 2 upgrades at Hotel Particulier. Built in 1852 for the mayor of the town, it had the history, warmth, and staff to provide a memorable stay.

French Road Trip Part 3 - Lyon

Having lost access to media during our roadtrip, we were unaware of the blizzard that was hitting Europe. This was until we drove to Lyon. Driving at 40kmph on motorways next to abandoned semi trailers was the scene for most of the time and keeping an eye out for black ice. It was a huge relief once we arrived at our accommodation for the night. However, it did take 3 goes before we actually made it up the ramp and to the front door due to the snow. Keen to move on from the big cities, we had a brisk walk around Vieux Lyon to drive onwards to Provence!

French Road Trip Part 2 - Beze, Beaune, Mersault Burgundy

Day 2 - We leave Arcis Sur Aube with a stopover at Troyes for what was advised as big sales, a must go! This was more than enough to sway the Chinese in mum to go for the bargains. After prying her away from the shops and complaining that we did not have enough time, we continued the drive to Burgundy. On the way we stopped at the medieval town of Beze that proved to be a one of the beautiful places we visited. It was a picture in itself and most of all untainted by tourists. A small gem that has been tucked away in time that also made the best quiches and baguettes! Finally we arrived in Beaune and stayed at Jardin de Lois. During our time in Beaune we had a very special find in what was our dinner and next days lunch venue to learn so much more about wine. Based in a 1000 year old cave, the life of the place was the part owner Pascal who was a sommelier for over 20 years.

French Road Trip Part 1 - Reims, Champagne

Early start in London, and off to catch the Eurostar into Paris. At this point, I really admire the stamina of both my parents having been sleep deprived and no rest after completing a 10 day tour of western Europe. Once arriving into Paris, we pick up our trusty Renault Scenic and head for Champagne. We joined the tour of G.H. Mumm cellars which totalled 20km! At the end we enjoyed a few glasses of Grand Cru Champagne to find out that my parents can't handle their liquor. Our nights stay was in a beautiful 1890 built mansion that was run by a charming gentleman by the name of Charles. Each room had its own character, but it all came together bringing a warm feeling that was perfect for the wintry snow and cold outside.

Happy New Year!

As we wave goodbye to the noughties, we welcome another decade. We wish everyone a wonderful 2010! This is definitely going to be an exciting decade ahead!