Day 13 Avignon & Beaume

We leave Nice at 7.30 am for a journey of over 600 kms today. One last look at Nice and the boardwalk by the sea before we enter the motorway which runs along the coast of the Riviera and so we can see the city of Cannes as we pass by.

Tour Guide Debra has more entertaining and informative stories to tell as we travel. We think she should write a book as she weaves history and culture and art and quirky insights and the odd joke all together.

We spend a couple of hours in the historic city of Avignon home in the 14th century to the papacy. At one time there was a Pope here and another one in Rome. We have lunch in the square where Popes would have celebrated mass and given their public blessings. Ray tackles a complex little sketch. One of the other well known features of Avignon is the now half bridge (pictured) famous in the song 'Sur le pont Avignon'. It is a walled city with an ancient wall that seems to be still in excellent condition.

Next stop many hours later is Beaune in the Burgundy region. Despite the rain and cold weather this turns out to be a real surprise. A gorgeous old village exuding charm around every corner. We love the way the French spend so much time and energy on their shop windows and store displays.

Dinner is at our hotel and the cuisine is very French .... lovely.

 

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