Pootling in Provence

A long time ago I read Peter Mayle’s ‘A Year in Provence’ and have wanted to visit the Petit Luberon ever since. Cycling nearly always makes me happy and today’s ride was up there with one of the best.

Gordes is apparently one of the most photographed views in Provence and is popular with French celebs.

My favourite place was Oppède-le-Vieux, above the vines and quite a climb with a great view of Mont Ventoux.

There are some amazing houses with amazing prices to match - post lottery win, this would work well with the Butlers Wharf penthouse...

I pottered on eastwards through Ménerbes and did a detour to the Abbaye de St-Hilaire which was deserted and peaceful.

Next was Lacoste with its chateau previously owned by the Marquis de Sade and now Pierre Cardin

One of the things I love about France (as well as baguettes, wine, cheese and strawberry tarts) is the priority given to cyclists, this empty cycle path was pothole free and apparently just for me!

Meanwhile back at the hotel, the Support Crew had been shopping so I returned to the requisite baguette, cheese, pate refuelling and then we did an afternoon walkies around the ochre quarries

Followed of course by cold beer with another view of Mont Ventoux - it’s calling me!