From the Languedoc-Roussillon Region of Pezenas, we headed west to Provence, the southeastern section of France bordering Italy and the Mediterranean Sea. It’s known for its diverse landscapes and we saw plenty on our drive, changing often from mountainous regions to flat farmland, rolling vineyards, olive groves, pine forests and lavender fields.
There are many beautiful villages to choose from in this region. Jeff chose Sablet, a small, rural village built on a hill (as are all medieval villages) built for protection and as fortresses so you can see your enemies for miles. This village was built in a circular fashion around the beehive shaped hill with the church perched on top. The narrow streets wind around the hill ending at the top.
This is a prosperous wine region in France and there are vineyards as far as you can see.
Our cosy two bedroom apartment in Sablet had been renovated inside the original city wall, using the turret as the bathroom. You guessed it – more steps, but our legs by now would make any Amazon proud. There were five levels in this apartment.
The little window in the round section is the bathroom. The window to the right a little above is the bedroom.
Chef Jeff tackling another creation.
You could see right across the valley from the living area.
The Church Bell Tower at the top.
There are so many small roads, often not big enough to fit a car.
Most resident’s drive very small cars.
It was fairly chilly some of the time in Sablet.Inspecting the building works
There were beautiful sunsets
The Maison des Vins – this is a collective of local vineyards that display their wines for tasting pre-purchase. You go there to sample 3 or 4 different wines before choosing what you would like for dinner that evening. So very French and civilised!
A walk around the surrounding vineyards of Sablet.
Would recommend Sablet as a perfectly located village in Provence. You can explore many other villages, towns and even Avignon from there.
Food and Adventures Along the Way 