Originally published on Evening Standard by RICHARD GODWIN
The scented slopes of southeastern France hold a special allure in spring, when the boundless blue skies, wildflower meadows and picturesque villages form the perfect antidote to the long London winter. There are few more idyllic destinations than the chic hilltop retreat of Crillon-le-Brave — and with three weekly Eurostars direct from St Pancras International to nearby Avignon and Marseille, it’s never been so easy to get a taste of la vie en rose. Or rather, la vie en rosé — you’ll want to wash it all down with the matchless local wine, naturellement.
L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known as the Venice of Provence on account of its canals, is famous for antiques. Sunday is market day: enjoy a morning potter followed by lunch in one of the bustling bistros. A little further west is Châteauneuf-du-Pape, whose rich spicy reds (and whites) form the grandest appellation of the Northern Rhône. The Domaine du Banneret vineyard is worth a visit. Aix-en-Provence is a town with a leisurely, cultured vibe, best appreciated on a pavement table outside the famous Brasserie Les Deux Garçons on the ever-buzzing Cours Mirabeau .
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