greentapestry : A Postcard From Provence

Friday 14 September 2012

A Postcard From Provence

Field of rice, drifts of sea lavender, grazing white horses, black bulls and pink flamingos ~ just a few of the fascinating sights that we were treated to when we visited the unique landscape of the Camargue last Sunday. We are just back from a river cruise along the Rhone which started at Lyon (the second largest city in France), sailing in the direction of Arles before returning to Lyon. Chugging on gently through days of glorious weather, we had an excellent vantage point of the surrounding countryside, sitting under the canopy of the sun deck. The boat moored regularly during the cruise, offering passengers the chance to join planned excursions or to wander about doing your own thing. We usually went for the latter option but a trip the Camargue would not have been feasible, unless we had own transport. so we joined the coach excursion. We were lucky to have a most knowledgeable and charming guide, who commented in both French and excellent English as we travelled along.

This was our first experience of river cruising which proved to be most relaxing. We were on a relatively small boat, our fellow passengers (mainly French, British and a good sprinkling of Norwegians) were excellent company and the food was reasonable, especially the continental breakfasts. The only downside for me was a chronic lack of sleep - the sound of the air conditioning at night did not exactly lull me to sleep, neither did the experience of going through some huge locks on the nights we sailed overnight. Still if you have nothing much to do but appreciate the sights, eat, drink, and read you can more than cope. Himself is already contemplating where we might drift along in the future.

9 comments:

  1. It sounds wonderful, so relaxing. The only boat I've been on was on the Norfolk Broads.

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  2. It all looks so lovely Anna, a beautiful place!

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  3. Your photos brought back memories from our holiday there about 20 yrs ago, happy times with lovely scenery and people.

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  4. I've always wanted to visit that part of France. I sympathise about the lack of sleep. I'm a very light sleeper so struggle to sleep whenever I'm not in my own bed.It's so annoying because I want to come home feeling refreshed but generally feel like I need to sleep for a week!

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  5. It sounds a delightful way to see the French countryside

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  6. How beautiful - Provence is on my list of places to visit - especially to see the fields of lavender and the horses of the Camargue - thankyou for sharing your post card - Jane

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  7. Hi Anna, What a wonderful trip. Despite not getting much sleep it sounds fabulous. Love your postcard.

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  8. Sounds lovely and your pictures are fab. Although, I sympathise about the "sleep" thing (or lack of) I am rubbish at sleeping anywhere other than my own bed!
    K

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  9. Sounds like a great time. Did you get to any bistros in Lyon?

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All your comments are much appreciated and treasured. I wil try to reply to everyone who leaves a comment, but it may take me a few days, especially when I start spending more time in the garden and at the lottie. I know that you will understand :) I am sure that I will also visit your blog if I have not already done so. If you have any specific questions I will either reply to them here or you can email me at : thegreentapestry@gmail.com

Namasté

- Anna.