Bluebell the motorhome is parked up with 5 other vans on a beautiful France Passion vineyard in the heart of the Ardeche valley. We absolutely love it here!!! We had a great drive from Florac this morning through the town of Ales, and then up north slightly into the Ardeche region, and into Vallons Pont D’Arc. We’d noticed in our French passion book that there was vineyard right in the town centre, so naturally went to check it out. It turned out to be lovely, and when we arrived at 1239 we couldn’t believe that we were the only ones here! We got set up and were just cooking up some lunch when another van turned up- it only turned out to be the same British van that we parked next to last night at Florac! We had a chat with our neighbours and were totally envious when they told us they were 2 months into a 3 month tour! One day! 😉
After lunch we went for a spot of wine tasting! Our pitch is surrounded by vines, and we were interested to learn that the grapes directly behind us were the Sauvignon grapes, and to our side are the merlot grapes. We tried both, along with the Syrah which are looted at the front of the shop. The wine was really smooth and tasty, and we bought a coupe of bottles- a Sauvignon and a Syrah. We’ve just drunk the Sauvignon with tea, and it was great drinking it whilst sitting literally 2 foot from the vines!
After our tasting (which were generous portions may I add…hic!) we unloaded the bikes and basket and cycled the 5 km to the Pont D’Arc. Despite it being the largest natural arch in France, its size was still quite overwhelming, and we were lucky to bag a spot right next to it to sit, chill and swim for a coupe of hours. Jazz had his first official swimming lesson- he’s still got some way to go! and Keith and I both enjoyed the swim under the arch. It’s a fantastic spot, and would definitely recommend seeing it if you are ever this way.
After our cycle back, we arrived back to our van to see lots more vans had joined us- I can hardly blame them, this is a fabulously located site, and to think we are staying here for free (well the price of a couple of bottles of wine – which we needed anyway!) we’ve definitely got the best pitch though, our side door opens to the vines and we’ve got the an as privacy, so in effect we have our own private pitch, to which we’ve celebrated by cooking al fresco again tonight and enjoying the last rays sunshine. Keith’s just seen a shooting star so we are going to crack open the next bottle of red and spend the evening star gazing. Perfect.
Until next time – which may be Italy!
Bonna Noche
Lx
