A last minute holiday in France?

The weather forecast indicates sunny and warm Spring weather in most southern regions in the next 2 weeks. 24 degrees today in the shade. If you are frustrated at the prospect of being unable to get away by plane to somewhere in next few weeks, why not have a look at  our houses and cottages  where the pools are open , sparkling, and ready for swimming. Eurotunnel crossings and the Ferries still have spaces.  Contact us for prices and availability.www.accommodationinprovence.com

Good Gordes!

Gordes is another must see village, just 20 minutes drive from our houses,  it is listed as one of  'Les beaux villages de France' , there are spectacular views over the Luberon Valley.

Its houses of white and gray stone rise up in a spiral around the rock where the village is set. At the very top is the church and the castle which face out onto the hills of the Luberon.

While strolling around the tiny streets you will discover the beautiful old doorways, arcades and walls of the charming houses.

But whatever you do, you must not miss the fabulous Abbey of Senanque hidden in the green valley. Cistercian manks still live there producing honey, lavender essence, and liqueurs. The whole twelfth century ediface is open for visits.

The Owl and the pussycat!

This is the woodburner in our Lounge. Our three cats have been paying particular attention to it over the last few days. And then on Thursday we heard a scratching noise coming from the pipe which is set into the chimney. Could it be a squirrel? how were we going to get what ever it was out?

And then on Friday morning we were greeted by an Owl, sitting inside, absolutely terrified, especially when it saw me looking in! Thankfully one of our brave friends came and released it, apart from being a little sooty and hungry  it was in good health.

And so, Ginger, one of our three cats  could relax and catch up on her sleep

Spring Blossom - Finally!

It seems it has been a long time coming, but just a few days later than normal the Luberon is a blaze of colour with the fruit trees producing a magnificent show.

Luberon Villages

Our tour of the villages in the Luberon continues in the warm spring sunshine. Roussillon is one of the most popular and visited villages with the ocre cliffs and pretty coloured houses whose facades have been coloured with the local ocre pigment. There are many delightful shops, restaurants and bars. And an impressive sun dial.

Climbing the Luberon!

For the last five years since we have lived here we have looked inquisitively at the 'structure' that stands on the top of the Luberon, the Mountain range that forms part of the view from our home as pictured below.

And so this week, whilst Martin was visiting we finally made the climb, parking at Auribeau , which is at 588 metres we made the 5 km climb to the top ,  Le Mourre Negre at 1092M where there are spectacular views reaching the Alps in the North East,  the Alpilles in the West, Mont Ventoux and even the  water adjacent to the airport at Marseilles.

Karen and Martin on the final approach to the peak where they are greeted by.....................

Not the prettiest structure but none the less an essential one!

          The views of the snow capped southern Alps

The air is wonderfully clean with the trees covered in Lichen

And the views on the way down are pretty good too, a walk we would thoroughly recommend, allow 3 to 4 hours and be reasonably fit!

Favourite Luberon village

Everyone has their favourite , we are of course biased towards the one we live in Saint Saturnin Les Apt.

We took advantage of the recent sunshine to go and explore one or two others. This is Menerbes from which there are stunning views over the vineyards and valley with the magnificent Mont Ventoux behind.

The village is certainly home to many fine impressive buildings.

A very typically French Epicerie

Delightful quiet streets

Characterful Provencal roof tiles and super views
It's well worth a visit!

Easter Monday 'Paques'

Bank holiday Monday, the shops are closed, and with the first signs of the Spring blossom so comes the first 'Fetes' of the year. It is also an opportunity for an exhibition, one of many taking place in the region.

 The Marche de Potiers (pottery) took place in Bonnieux. We arrived just as the exhibiters were taking lunch, the most inportant part of the day!

Restaurants

We are always on the look out for new restaurants to recommend to our guests. This involves us having to go at least once if not twice to ensure it's consistency. This is the La Petite Ecole, just outside Gargas and 10 minutes drive from home. The restaurant is in one of the old classrooms and seats about 30 people, with the walls covered in old maps and memorabilia. The meus range from 18 to 29€. The food is good 'home cooking' with a well priced wine selection.