Welcome back! Want to pick up where you left off?

Where will you go?

It's that time of year...September going on autumn, when the summer holidays seem a distant memory, winter skiing is there and thereabouts of course and maybe you might steal a city break away (oh...and half term to think of) but have you pondered summer hols 2018 yet?

As a public service (no need to thank us) we are glad to offer the inspiration and first up this week is Provence. 

Ever since Peter Mayle's 'A Year in Provence' made it onto the best sellers list, or was it Russell Crowe in A Good Year...or maybe the last time a bottle of Beaumonde Rose was opened at 360 towers, but this part of the world has held a special fascination for many of us. Whether its the emblematic lavender fields with a touch of Cezanne, the scented pine trees, or the peaceful villages and hamlets of the region with their enticing restaurants serving classic local fare, its hard not to love the place.

Our top tips for a visit to the region include:

Palais des Papes in Avignon
A series of gothic buildings owning UNESCO heritage status, showcasing the best of medieval architecture when the popes were exiled from the Vatican. More than 20 rooms are open to visitors and its a number one visit point. Read more here about opening times.
Gorges du Verdon
In the Verdon national park, this is stunning national park to explore - perfect for hikers or if you prefer by boat up the river Verdon itself. There are some 1500 climbing routes. More info here.
A day out in Aix
At some point, culture would have to give way to a little indulgence, so we suggest amalgamating the two. Have a stroll in Aix and retrace the steps of some of its most famous sons - Camus and Cezanne for example - before retiring to one of the many fabulous pavement cafes for a little restoration.
Mines de Bruoux
This is no ordinary subterranean exploration: a unique experience is to be had in the ochre mines of the Bruoux. The galleries are cut in a grid shape extending some 50 kms underground, however only a smaller section of some 65 m is available for public visitation. Visit in the summer months and enjoy outdoor theatre which often takes place here. NB its also a lovely cool 10 degrees on average in the tunnels - a welcome respite in the summer heat. Find out more here.