France, Provence & The Camargue

ITINERARY

Sunday - Very early morning departure from Dorset via channel crossing to Calais through France to Ibis Hotel Dijon Gare with 3 course set dinner and breakfast.

Monday - Continue southbound via Lyon and the Rhone Valley following the Autoroute du Soliel (motorway of the sun) to Uzes in Provence. After porterage of bags to your room enjoy a 3 course set dinner (choice all other nights) with a complimentary glass of wine.

Tuesday - We make the short drive to the iconic Pont du Gard, a UNESCO listed, three level aqueduct built by the Romans in the first century. It is one of the greatest remaining structures of the Roman Empire standing over 160 feet high. Explore the lower levels of this masterpiece of engineering with time to visit the museum to find out how it was built and used. Next we visit Nimes, known as "The Rome of France" because of its Roman relics. Discover its history, walk in the footsteps of gladiators, see the fabulous Roman arena and Maison Carree temple, mosaics, statues and more. It is romantic and atmospheric!

Wednesday - At leisure in Uzes. Relax by the hotel pool or take a stroll into the village centre where the traditional Wednesday morning market is held on Place aux Herbes. Uzes is authentic and a true gem, formerly a Roman, Jewish, Bishopric and Dukedom - more recently popular with expats - however still entirely French.

Thursday - Spend the morning in medieval Avignon, seat of medieval Popes - you can visit the vast Palais des Papes for a tour of the spectacular palace, its decorations and gardens. Alternatively head to Rue des Teinturiers with its graceful stream and waterwheels. The renowned food market, Les Halles, houses many artisan producers and is a great place for lunch. This afternoon we shall call at Les-Baux-de-Provence, the gorgeous rock-top village with narrow cobbled streets and terraced squares dating back to medieval times - one of the most picturesque villages of Provence. Later call into the Moulin Castelas boutique olive oil estate where we view the mill, enjoy tastings and receive a gift.

Friday - This morning visit Arles, blending Roman and medieval architecture - the narrow lanes are bursting with history, from the UNESCO listed Roman arena, to the Place de la Republique obelisk and Romanesque cathedral. Van Gogh lived and painted here and there is a museum to him.
After lunch we drive into the Camargue National Park - a designated UNESCO biosphere - a vast wetland forming the delta of the River Rhone. Known primarily for its white horses, back bulls, pink flamingos and French cowboys it is wind whipped and sandy. At Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a 4th century fishing village, we board a narrated paddleboat cruise of the lagoons and view the wildlife - stopping at a horse and bull farm. Back at Saintes-Maries take time view the ancient church of Notre Dame, dedicated to St Sarah, patron of the Roma gypsies who have pilgrimaged here since 1448 to honour her.

Saturday - We bid a fond farewell to our hosts and head northwards back to Dijon for overnight at Kyriad Hotel with 3 course set dinner and breakfast.

Sunday - Homewards bound via Calais for channel crossing to Dover. Return to Dorset that evening.

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner