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In May 2013 John and I enjoyed a short break in Avignon and explored some of the nearby towns and villages
including Arles, St Remy de Provence,
Les Baux de Provence, Orange, and
Chateauneuf du Pape. We also enjoyed dining at some
wonderful restaurants. Avignon
is a very well preserved medieval city.
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The Pont d'Avignon also known as Pont St Bénézet
The bridge only stretches approximately half way across the Rhône river.
Sur le pont looking at the Palais des Papes.
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During the 14th century the popes left Rome and lived in this huge palace in
Avignon.
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Place du Palais
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Arles
Arles has some impressive Roman monuments.
The Theatre Antique is mainly in ruins with only one pair of columns still
standing.
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Across the road is the amphitheatre known as the Arènes.
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The amphitheatre is very well preserved and is still used for performances
today.
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The town hall is located on Place de la Republique.
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Vincent Van Gogh lived in Arles and we walked around the town looking out for
familiar scenes.
L'Espace Van Gogh is the hospital where Van Gogh was taken after he cut off
his ear. It was interesting to see the courtyard where he painted.
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Les Baux de Provence
is a fortified medieval village perched on the top of a rocky plateau.
The citadel on top of the hill.
The village has many interesting buildings and winding streets to explore.
Stunning views of the surrounding countryside and amazing rock formations.
St Remy de Provence
is a pretty medieval village.
In Rue Hoche is the house where Nostradamus
was born in 1503
The Roman arch just south of St Remy is next to the old monastery of St Paul
de Mausole, where Van Gogh lived and painted.
Orange
is the town where the Dutch monarchy originated is also famous for its Roman
architecture.
The Triumphant Arch
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The huge Roman Theatre has one of the best preserved examples of Roman stage wall.
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Chateauneuf du Pape
takes its name from the summer palace of the popes of Avignon and is also
well known for its wines.
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Naturally we went on a wine tasting tour and sampled some of the fine wines.
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Recommended restaurant
Avignon
Fou de Fafa
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Restaurant-Fou-de-Fafa/169519143081071
A British run small tastefully decorated restaurant offering excellent modern
cuisine at affordable prices.
See other restaurants I recommend.
See photos of other holidays we've enjoyed.
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