It's A WONDERful 2015 - Feb Cruise, May WDW grand tour, and France/DLP! NEW 10/25 Nice & End!

[Imagineer5]

After checking out our amazing room, we changed and freshened up and went outside to look around.

Oh here was part of the bathroom (there was a large soaking tub too)

They have a (sadly unheated) pool that was so pretty

At the chateau there were two dogs, Shar Peis named Sushi and Soya. Aria loved them and we could tell she definitely was missing having our pets around!

Back at the entrance to our room

More of the interior of the common areas

Love this antique puppet theater

Funny enough, the owners were actually Dutch (as is Andrew) so they had some things in common and enjoyed talking about the Netherlands and their travels to France and how they ended up there.

Now, we had asked ahead of time if the owner could make us reservations at a nearby restaurant that was Michelin starred but again had a children's menu and had a terrace to eat outside. They didn't take emails, and whole website was in French so I didn't want to chance calling and getting hung up on lol. The owner mentioned she had called a couple times and never received a call back. She tried once more this afternoon and left a message. We decided to skip it as we weren't up for a 3 hour meal anyway (and it didn't open until 7:30) and instead went into Avignon.

It took us WAY too long to find a parking spot. We fought a bit on deciding where to park lol. It was a tense drive in.

Avignon is a neat medieval walled city

The main "attraction" is the Pope's Palace, which was the center of the Christian religion in the 14th century. When they went back to Rome, it became obsolete but is still held in high regard today. We did not go in however, not really feeling up to a museum.

Andrew and I weren't talking at this point. I think it had to do with the hour searching for a parking spot, then he went in and immediately bought himself a sandwich without asking If I wanted some and ate the whole thing. Aria and I rode the carousel.

We ended up just walking around and doing some shopping, finding a nice pedestrian area. I had a couple restaurants written down for dinner, but all opened quite late and we were tired.

Along the way we also made up and were talking again. We enjoyed some ice cream too (I had Mango and Aria had Raspberry). We stumbled across a playground too so Aria enjoyed that.

We stopped at an olive oil shop and got some flavored oils that we still enjoy today (garlic, spicy pepper, and basil - which is amazing on Caprese!).

Then we headed out. We decided to just wing dinner (though I was very hungry and in a mood because of it) and ended up stopping at a grocery store for some snacks, and then went into a restaurant nearby. It had a TGI Fridays feel.

Andrew enjoyed some on-side brewed beer and we split a fried food appetizer. it felt so good to eat such awful food I guess we were craving some fried onions and chicken. The place didn't have milk, and had only 1 English menu. It didn't seem like many tourists stopped in here, more like a French family restaurant. They had some odd things on the menu and hardly any chicken or vegetarian options, so that is why we chose the fried platter.

Afterwards we headed back to our Chateau. It turns out Camille from the restaurant called back while we were out saying "of course they are welcome to eat dinner!" lol. Oh well! We put Aria to bed and then relaxed for a bit overlooking the garden before falling asleep ourselves.

 

[schmass]

Not caught up, but wanted to answer your milk question - Rory typically just had milk in the mornings and then would drink water throughout the rest of the day. So we would order through Garden Grocer, or buy the little boxes of soy milk (at Boardwalk Bakery in our case). At restaurants he just had water. If she needs milk at the restaurants, I know they sell the individual shelf-stable cartons, so maybe you could bring some of those along?

Maybe we can come to the party!

 

[elriel]

Long time lurker! I think i have commented once before but i love your report(s). It looks like this was an amazing trip

 

[Imagineer5]

Not caught up, but wanted to answer your milk question - Rory typically just had milk in the mornings and then would drink water throughout the rest of the day. So we would order through Garden Grocer, or buy the little boxes of soy milk (at Boardwalk Bakery in our case). At restaurants he just had water. If she needs milk at the restaurants, I know they sell the individual shelf-stable cartons, so maybe you could bring some of those along?

Maybe we can come to the party!

Okay thanks! It will be a tough transition time - I know Aria transitioned from bm (bottle) to whole milk (sippy) over a weekend. Maya is on Neocate and I'd like to transition her to a form of milk but she turns 1 11/19 and we leave 12/8 so I guess this will be a play-by-ear. Not the end of the world if she's still on Neocate, but I'd like to get her off of it ($$ wise and also she is SO lazy and won't hold her own bottle...LOL). Good to know they had little boxes of soy milk. I remember when I went last Feb. and was dairy/soy free and they offered me Soy milk for my coffee (um, duh?!) so I wasn't sure if I could request it in a cup for maya at restaurants.

That would be really cool to meet up, finally! What town do you live in again?

Long time lurker! I think i have commented once before but i love your report(s). It looks like this was an amazing trip

Aw thank you so much!! I appreciate you commenting. It really was, and I'm excited to take more trips as my kids grow up a bit. This one was at a really great age for Aria, so I just have to bide my time for more trips in the future!

 

[chookie94]

That Chateau looks amazing! How special to be staying in such a place.

 

[TheMaxRebo]

I can't believe Maya is already nearly 1! time does really go fast - sounds like a cute idea for a party

Not sure about other restaurants but I know Starbucks is carrying Soy Milk now and I assume the ones in the parks would have it as well so that could be an option. I just did a quick google search and saw an article that said some quick service and most table service locations carry Silk Soy Milk and charge the same price as for regular milk - so that should be ok for you. It mentioned that some places won't have it on the menu but might have it if you ask about it

Oh, and everything I have been seeing is pointing to Rivers of Light being open for your trip (seeing a min-November opening being targete) - but after the last fiasco with it not opening I can see your thought process of wanting to plan for it to not be open and if it is, then it is a nice bonus

*****************

Looks like a bit of a happy accident so that you wound up getting to Valrhona - makes me think of a fancy Hershey as you can smell the chocolate as you get close

Wow, the weather really did clear up - perfect way to arrive! The Chatteau looks really nice .... like a super fancy bed and breakfast I suppose - but huge and with furnishings and paintings that are centuries old. That is neat the owners were Dutch though and chatted with Andrew

It's amazing how parking can create such arguments (definitely been there/done that) - though Andrew has to know you never go get food for yourself and not the pregnant lady!

Too bad dinner didn't work out better but seemed nice just walking around the city

 

[Dugette]

So off we went on a very short walk (maybe 3 "blocks" total) and found the fresh market out and bustling. They had a HUGE olive stand. You could try anything (we witnessed one woman trying an olive and putting the pit BACK IN THE BASKET OMG).

Yuck on the pit, but love the olive sampling! I love olives!

The first dish we ate (it was more like a working lunch, where we would do some cooking, sit down to one course, then continue cooking etc) was probably my least favorite, but I don't eat eggs like this (practically uncooked). Apparently this is common in France.

Yeah, I'd be squeamish about those eggs too!

I can't get past the thought of "snail".

I just really had to use that smiley. But I'm with you on the snail aversion too.

We then made fresh pasta with just semolina flour and water, she brought a pasta press and we did that, boiled it for a minute and had a simple cream sauce with shaved truffles. This was heavenly.

Now that looks delicious!

It had been a perfect experience and something so different! Claire was fantastic, very smart, and very good at this niche market she has gotten herself in!

Fun way to get a unique experience in that area! Glad it worked out pretty well!

She said "once upon a time there was a princess..." lol as if that is what it was telling her.

Love it!

And we bought a couple bottles. We also spotted a travel wine suitcase that holds 12 bottles. When full, it is just about 45 lbs. We decided to think about that purchase.

I have to admit I'd wondered how you got all this wine home safely.

But on that note, yesterday we spent 4 hours at her allergist's office doing a "baked egg challenge" and she passed!! That means she can now have baked products with egg! Wahoo! We're doing a baked milk challenge in 1 month, too!

Yay, Maya! Hope the baked milk one goes well too!

It was by far her favorite ride!

I look forward to riding it with her!

If you're local or just want to visit MA, you're more than welcome to come to the birthday party LOL!

Wish we were closer! (Though, you know me, if some crazy bargain fare to your area pops up, we'll show up at your door. )

It turns out that shortly after Lyon, also near the highway was the town of Valrhona. Yep, THAT Valrhona! The rain let up some as we neared, and we could smell chocolate in the air as we exited the highway. We arrived around 11:30 due to traffic from the rain. Aria told us as we arrived "guess what? my leg hurts! But chocolate will make it all better" lol.

This sounds like my dream come true. Also, love the quote from Aria.

And once through, there was of course, a giant Valrhona chocolate shop. We decided this would be a great place to pick out small gifts for family and friends.

Smart - great souvenirs! I told Dug about this (he's behind on reading) and he was like, "Valrhona is there?! We need to go there!!"

Now I will say, this was a splurge. I had wanted to cover all bases on our trip, and staying in a chateau was a must-do. This is a fairly small chateau, but seriously stunning. Wait til you see our room!

Very cool!

It took us WAY too long to find a parking spot. We fought a bit on deciding where to park lol. It was a tense drive in.

Andrew and I weren't talking at this point. I think it had to do with the hour searching for a parking spot, then he went in and immediately bought himself a sandwich without asking If I wanted some and ate the whole thing. Aria and I rode the carousel.

We stopped at an olive oil shop and got some flavored oils that we still enjoy today (garlic, spicy pepper, and basil - which is amazing on Caprese!).

Mmmm, Caprese with that oil sounds awesome!

We put Aria to bed and then relaxed for a bit overlooking the garden before falling asleep ourselves.

Great way to end the evening!

Okay thanks! It will be a tough transition time - I know Aria transitioned from bm (bottle) to whole milk (sippy) over a weekend. Maya is on Neocate and I'd like to transition her to a form of milk but she turns 1 11/19 and we leave 12/8 so I guess this will be a play-by-ear. Not the end of the world if she's still on Neocate, but I'd like to get her off of it ($$ wise and also she is SO lazy and won't hold her own bottle...LOL).

I know nothing about Neocate, but could you put it in a sippy cup for a while to help Maya transition off the bottle? That's what we did when we switched Izzy from BM to whole milk. Once she got used to a sippy, we switched the contents and she didn't even notice. You might be able to play up the "be a big girl like Aria" aspect of the sippy cup?

That would be really cool to meet up, finally! What town do you live in again?

I hope you guys get to meet up!

 

[Imagineer5]

That Chateau looks amazing! How special to be staying in such a place.

It really was! I would love to go back here and stay longer (we only spent 2 nights here).

I can't believe Maya is already nearly 1! time does really go fast - sounds like a cute idea for a party

Not sure about other restaurants but I know Starbucks is carrying Soy Milk now and I assume the ones in the parks would have it as well so that could be an option. I just did a quick google search and saw an article that said some quick service and most table service locations carry Silk Soy Milk and charge the same price as for regular milk - so that should be ok for you. It mentioned that some places won't have it on the menu but might have it if you ask about it

Oh, and everything I have been seeing is pointing to Rivers of Light being open for your trip (seeing a min-November opening being targete) - but after the last fiasco with it not opening I can see your thought process of wanting to plan for it to not be open and if it is, then it is a nice bonus

*****************

Looks like a bit of a happy accident so that you wound up getting to Valrhona - makes me think of a fancy Hershey as you can smell the chocolate as you get close

Wow, the weather really did clear up - perfect way to arrive! The Chatteau looks really nice .... like a super fancy bed and breakfast I suppose - but huge and with furnishings and paintings that are centuries old. That is neat the owners were Dutch though and chatted with Andrew

It's amazing how parking can create such arguments (definitely been there/done that) - though Andrew has to know you never go get food for yourself and not the pregnant lady!

Too bad dinner didn't work out better but seemed nice just walking around the city

Ok thanks, good to know!! I've started giving her a little vanilla soy milk here and there and she seems to like it. I should give her regular stuff too just so she is used to it.

Haha yes RoL would be amazing, if open. I've heard reports too that all point to a yes, but we'll see.

Yuck on the pit, but love the olive sampling! I love olives!


Yeah, I'd be squeamish about those eggs too!


I just really had to use that smiley. But I'm with you on the snail aversion too.


Now that looks delicious!


Fun way to get a unique experience in that area! Glad it worked out pretty well!


Love it!


I have to admit I'd wondered how you got all this wine home safely.


Yay, Maya! Hope the baked milk one goes well too!


I look forward to riding it with her!


Wish we were closer! (Though, you know me, if some crazy bargain fare to your area pops up, we'll show up at your door. )


This sounds like my dream come true. Also, love the quote from Aria.


Smart - great souvenirs! I told Dug about this (he's behind on reading) and he was like, "Valrhona is there?! We need to go there!!"


Very cool!








Mmmm, Caprese with that oil sounds awesome!


Great way to end the evening!


I know nothing about Neocate, but could you put it in a sippy cup for a while to help Maya transition off the bottle? That's what we did when we switched Izzy from BM to whole milk. Once she got used to a sippy, we switched the contents and she didn't even notice. You might be able to play up the "be a big girl like Aria" aspect of the sippy cup?


I hope you guys get to meet up!

We've done a few other trips bringing home wine in the suitcase wrapped in clothes and zero breakage so far, but this is so much easier knowing 12 bottles in the case is right under the weight restriction.

Valrhona was a great stop for everyone, so nice to do something we all enjoyed!

We've started giving Maya a little sippy of vanilla soy milk at dinner times and she is just like Aria was in that she doesn't get the lift-to-your-mouth thing (she also refuses to hold her bottle) so I think we need to stick with straw sippys, so back to the drawing board on that again for the best non leaking straw ones. We liked Zoli last time but they went like a volcano once warming up a little in the room. At least the WDW trip is a couple weeks after we hopefully make the switch, so whatever she is drinking by then she should be used to it (hopefully).

 

[Imagineer5]

On Friday 9/18 we had our full Provence day pretty loosely planned. I wanted to visit the Pont Du Gard, one of the largest Roman Aqueducts, and possibly the Haribo (candy) factory (seriously what would I have done on this trip if I had to watch my sugar hahaha). Possibly Uzes, a quaint town nearby, and I had it in there to visit Avignon but we had knocked that off the day before. Once again we had a big fancy dinner planned, but this time there was no children's menu, so that morning I switched plans up after talking with the chateau owner and getting a closer recommendation.

Anyway, this morning we actually slept in!! Well, Aria and I woke up around 5, when she crawled into our bed, but then we fell back asleep until 8:15! This was mainly because breakfast wasn't until 8:45 (which is super late for us, btw!) and we wanted to enjoy it. Plus our plans were so loose it didn't matter.

Getting ready in the morning

At breakfast, Aria was excited to see the dogs again

There was a nice spread for breakfast including bread baked that morning, fresh juices, cheeses, yogurt, fruit, etc.

Afterwards we made the drive over to the Pont Du Gard, it was beautiful out!

Where we parked, we had to walk quite a ways to get to the bridge, then cross it and walk even longer to get to the museum. I hadn't intended to be here that long, but this ended up being a multi-hour visit!

Took a family photo and apparently I was having issues looking at the camera, as this was the best we got

Before we crossed, we climbed a trail on the left side that took us up to the top

We descended to grab the stroller and Aria hopped in while we kept on walking

Once on the other side, we headed into the museum. It was actually really well done, newly renovated, but no photos allowed. We learned it took the Romans 15 years to complete and it's the highest of all the Roman aqueducts. it was part of a 31 mile system to bring water from uzes to Nimes, then Roman occupied. It's from around 40AD.

After the history museum, we found a small well done childrens museum and let aria play in there for a bit.

After the museums, we checked out the gift shops and bought a couple postcards but nothing else. Then got some quick sandwiches for lunch. Aria was being weird and unruly and refusing to eat completely (which she hadn't eaten well the last day or so). I noted she went in time out (due to her attitude) and then she came back to the table and was better.

Then we made the (long) walk back stopping for photos along the way

Back at the beginning we had passed a play area, so we stopped now for her to do a little climbing

We asked if she wanted to go to the candy museum or back to the hotel to the pool, and she chose pool. Once in the car, she fell right asleep however so we decided to check out the GPS and see what is nearby. Uzes was close and was known for antique shops, so we decided to go in that direction. While we were driving, we literally drove right past the Haribo place and had to make a quick stop in! I hopped out first and went into the shop.

These are GIANT BINS of candy. Like 5-10lbs worth

So naturally I searched to see what I wanted to buy and ended up with a very large container of black licorice swirls and another one of sour strawberry belts. I also got a small bag of gummies, figuring Aria would want some and we wouldn't open the big bins until we got home.

Andrew saw my purchases and immediately went in to search for some of his favorites lol. Moreso than wine, these things were the issue in our suitcases coming home! We had to carry two of them on! LOL.

Anyway then we continued on (Aria still sleeping). In Uzes came across this antique shop and again took our turns inside. I found an antique Pinocchio puppet and a couple pieces of jewelry - one for my mom and one for Andrew's grandmother, so all of these became Christmas gifts. Aria is a bit creeped out by her Pinocchio puppet though, after it was hanging in her room for about a week she suggested we hang it in Maya's room hahahaha.

 

[Imagineer5]

After this stop, we headed back to the hotel. Aria woke up just as we were pulling in, perfect! And we got our swimsuits on and headed outside.

Despite the heat of the day, the water was just too cold to enjoy, so we instead just relaxed. In the room were some big comfy robes so I wore mine, and ANdrew went to ask about a bottle of the Chateau Talaud wine, as he wanted to try some and if good, buy some to bring home. We also blew bubbles with some toy we had purchased earlier.

He deemed it delicious and we bought two to bring home.

Then we relaxed for a couple hours just enjoying the room. After a while we decided to head to dinner - we took their recommendation down, and I had also written down a highly-rated place so we tried there first but it was closed, so instead we parked and walked to the other one. It was a very eclectic place with an almost north African menu, definitely different from what we had been enjoying. It was also completely dead but we had arrived just at opening (7).

Aria was being silly

They had non-alcoholic mocktails on the menu which was fun, so Aria and I both ordered one.

The menu was actually totally in French, so I deciphered it as best I could. I ended up with a chicken with oriental spices, Andrew thought he ordered duck but it ended up being steak. Either way though, our meals were SOOOO delicious. Seriously so flavorful and different. They both came with veggie and potato sides, different for each dish, and they were great too. Aria had a small plate and we gave her some of everything and she had a little bit.

For dessert Aria split my dessert this time, a chocolate molten lava cake (popular option here apparently) with ice cream, and Andrew ordered an ice cream with fudge. All delicious and afterwards we headed back to the room, did a little packing and went to bed!

Up next- we head to Nice! Wait until you see the stunning villa we stayed in for our final 3 nights!

 

[TheMaxRebo]

the aqueduct seems really neat - but a lot of walking. I was thinking Aria was doing really well with it but then you mentioned her acting up a bit at lunch (not sure if related). Definitely something cool to check out and not something you find in the U.S. of A.

Nice of Aria to want to share the scary puppet with Maya

Dessert sounds really neat - type of food I love - but would be intimidated by the only-in-French menu ... glad it worked out though!

 

[Dugette]

so I think we need to stick with straw sippys, so back to the drawing board on that again for the best non leaking straw ones. We liked Zoli last time but they went like a volcano once warming up a little in the room.

We had the Zoli ones too and I only remember the volcano thing in airplanes. Otherwise, they were pretty good. But I have no idea what other options are out there - hope you can find something Maya takes to well.

Well, Aria and I woke up around 5, when she crawled into our bed, but then we fell back asleep until 8:15!

Wow, glad you got some more sleep. If Izzy crawled into my bed, that would be the end of sleep. She doesn't do it often, but when she does, she talks non-stop.

Cute!

Where we parked, we had to walk quite a ways to get to the bridge, then cross it and walk even longer to get to the museum. I hadn't intended to be here that long, but this ended up being a multi-hour visit!

Lots of walking, but SO cool!

Back at the beginning we had passed a play area, so we stopped now for her to do a little climbing

I love how you found so many playgrounds in France!

These are GIANT BINS of candy. Like 5-10lbs worth

Good thing you passed that gestational diabetes test!

Moreso than wine, these things were the issue in our suitcases coming home!

I bet! You need a special candy suitcase too.

Aria is a bit creeped out by her Pinocchio puppet though, after it was hanging in her room for about a week she suggested we hang it in Maya's room hahahaha.

I remember you said this before, but it cracks me up.

He deemed it delicious and we bought two to bring home.

Hope you got to enjoy some of these wines between pregnancies!

I'd be so scared of Izzy tipping that cup over!

The menu was actually totally in French, so I deciphered it as best I could. I ended up with a chicken with oriental spices, Andrew thought he ordered duck but it ended up being steak. Either way though, our meals were SOOOO delicious. Seriously so flavorful and different. They both came with veggie and potato sides, different for each dish, and they were great too. Aria had a small plate and we gave her some of everything and she had a little bit.

Glad that you ended up with such a great meal, even if you weren't entirely sure what you were getting.

Up next- we head to Nice! Wait until you see the stunning villa we stayed in for our final 3 nights!

I can't wait! I remember the sneak peak and it looked amazing!

 

[heaven2dc]

Love the update! Your daughter has the most adorable outfits! You have visited such amazing places - you are living my dream lol Those steps to that bridge would have worn me out I think my favorite part of your day was Uzes! So much candy to choose from!

 

[Imagineer5]

the aqueduct seems really neat - but a lot of walking. I was thinking Aria was doing really well with it but then you mentioned her acting up a bit at lunch (not sure if related). Definitely something cool to check out and not something you find in the U.S. of A.

Nice of Aria to want to share the scary puppet with Maya

Dessert sounds really neat - type of food I love - but would be intimidated by the only-in-French menu ... glad it worked out though!

She was a little off starting this day, unfortunately. It wasn't that much walking for her since we did bring the stroller although had to leave it a few times. LOL on the puppet, it still makes me laugh.

We had the Zoli ones too and I only remember the volcano thing in airplanes. Otherwise, they were pretty good. But I have no idea what other options are out there - hope you can find something Maya takes to well.


Wow, glad you got some more sleep. If Izzy crawled into my bed, that would be the end of sleep. She doesn't do it often, but when she does, she talks non-stop.


Cute!


Lots of walking, but SO cool!


I love how you found so many playgrounds in France!


Good thing you passed that gestational diabetes test!


I bet! You need a special candy suitcase too.


I remember you said this before, but it cracks me up.


Hope you got to enjoy some of these wines between pregnancies!


I'd be so scared of Izzy tipping that cup over!


Glad that you ended up with such a great meal, even if you weren't entirely sure what you were getting.


I can't wait! I remember the sneak peak and it looked amazing!

With the Zoli cups we were pretty bad about leaving it out all the time, so the milk warmed up and started coming out the top, always leaving a ring of milk. If we keep it in the fridge and only pull out at meal times it would be fine but Aria likes sipping all day long...so we'll see about Maya. I need to find the ones we had, they've gone MIA in the garage.

At home, aria likes to come in around 6-6:30 on the weekends and from then on it's over usually, but this morning it was early enough she went back to sleep.

I don't think I had ONE bottle of wine before I found out I was preggo! UGH! It's all sitting in the cellar as I was intending to wait until special occasions, and for our anniversary I think we opened up an older bottle from our visit to Napa back in 2008. (Typically I drink a lot of wine, but not the 30+/ bottle stuff! LOL).

Love the update! Your daughter has the most adorable outfits! You have visited such amazing places - you are living my dream lol Those steps to that bridge would have worn me out I think my favorite part of your day was Uzes! So much candy to choose from!

Thank you!! The trip was really fantastic, though I think we'll be sticking to Disney for a few years while we have two littles (maya and new baby). Big expensive Europe trips will have to wait, I guess!

 

[Imagineer5]

Saturday 9/19 we leaved Chateau Talaud and headed towards Nice. It was another fairly long drive (this time I mapped it out and chose the Toll Route - it was about 17 euro worth of tolls -or- an extra 4 hours of driving lol! - but we had a stop on the way! Le Baux de Provence. We had plans to visit the Carrieres de Lumieres, which is the projection with sounds show I mentioned in the PTR, that I couldn't really describe further than that, then head into the town of Le Baux. This morning we were able to sleep in a little, since we still wanted to have breakfast at the hotel, so we were up by 7:45 and had the car packed by 8:30 then waited for the food to come out. We also bought a few more bottles of their wine lol. Breakfast was delicious - Aria enjoyed a hard boiled egg, croissant and freshly made vanilla yogurt. I had a rhubarb applesauce, bread with jams, olive bread still warm (they drive out each morning to a local baker for their bread). We chatted a bit with the Dutch owners and Aria got to play a little more with the dogs before heading out.

We had a gorgeous drive to Le Baux although arrived later than intended (due to the late breakfast). No biggie.

The town is built out of the stone in the countryside and up a large hill.

Soon we arrived at the first stop - Carrieres de Lumieres. We got there shortly after opening and it was already packed with cars but we were able to find a spot not too far away. Soon we were inside in the middle of their current project which was the art masters set to music. It was stunning. Again I have no words other than to say this is just something you need to experience? Andrew was very unsure about doing this but even he was amazed.

It's held inside a HUGE cavern, hard to get an idea for the true size of the place

Their ongoing show is also stunning, nature based videos and music

After this really cool stop, we headed into town. When we were leaving there was a line of cars waiting for spots, so I think we got there at a good time! Le Baux is a pedestrian only town but you have to actually drive higher than the entrance and park in some precarious spots. We ended up climbing up to the top and found a spot up there that wasn't so crazy.

Then we walked down into town

We made it to the entrance and it was so neat that it was all pedestrian. Basically a ton of shops, art galleries, restaurants and stunning views.

Andrew found a painting that he ended up buying and it's on display in our living room. (Small because well, we didn't want to spent hundreds of euros!)

I was feeling really hungry, bordering on HANGRY and was disappointed in myself for not planning out lunch here. In my plans, I thought we would make a quick stop into le Baux and then head to the town of Arles, where there are some Roman ruins, but we ended up spending a lot more time in Le Baux and I had no idea where to eat. We decided to pick a place with a view.

I ordered a fig soda by accident (surprisingly in this touristy town, menu was all French again). It was horrible and I was grossed out lol.

We ordered pizza for lunch, and again it was TERRIBLE. Worst pizza ever (how do you mess that up?!) and I was just feeling down and ready to go. Not to mention we hadn't thought ahead about eating outside = smokers - on one side we had a guy smoking a cigar (that smell makes me SO sick) and the other side were cigarettes. So basically we ate and paid as fast as possible. I had maybe 2 slices and didn't even take the rest with us it was just so bad.

We did a little more shopping after lunch though, first at a candy shop!

Popped into a beautiful tiny church

Aria found an Annie-like dog and made a friend

We came across this shop and ended up buying a few gifts and a bowl for ourselves that we use all the time!

And then we headed out. It was already after 1, and my original plan had us leaving Arles at 1 - oops. So we skipped that and instead headed straight to Nice. It was a beautiful drive getting to the highway and it was about 2.5 hours total until we got to Nice. So exciting to see the Mediterranean pop up. Aria slept the whole way there.

We got to the rental villa at 3:45, which was 15 minutes ahead of our ETA, and thankfully the guy was already there who was going to give us the keys. The road to get to the house was SO treacherous, I was holding oN! It was switchbacks that if you get too close to the edge you'll just fall straight down. I don't do well with those sorts of roads!

Once in the house - we were speechless. Continued in next post!

 

[Imagineer5]

Driving through the gates to the house

We got a short tour of the house and then were left to our own devices.

Excited to be here!

Andrew in the kitchen

Living area

Patio overlooks Nice

Pool wasn't heated, because he wanted to charge $100 euros PER DAY, Ugh!

Looking back at the patio

Back inside, dining area

Spiral staircase to one bedroom

Neat bedroom up here but we didn't use this one

This bedroom was off the main entrance, so most convenient to roll all our suitcases into.

View from the bedroom

Staircase from entry area to main living area

So there were a total of 6 bedrooms, but all were very separated, so I will tell you we ended up sleeping in various places but that was mainly due to my inability to sleep well.

Anyway after our tour, we decided to throw on swimsuits and give the chilly water a try.

It was actually not too bad, I did eventually get in!

After a while we decided to head into town for supplies and all went together since I didn't know what to get. We had no plans for dinners/breakfasts so we found a grocery store. It was quite the experience! Underground parking, then up into grocery store inside a huge mall. You had to insert a coin for the cart, and then you take a ramp that locks the cart into place while you're on it, then head inside. It was absolutely PACKED! Not sure why all of Nice shops Saturday nights but every aisle was just filled with people. We picked up pastries, juice, raviolis, sauce, meatballs, milk, cheese, breads etc. The line to check out was literally over 100 people long. After waiting a couple minutes, I spied a handicap / pregnant person check out line. Yes, seriously! There was a sign designating people in wheelchairs or pregnant women! LOL. So we hopped over there and Andrew walked off because he thought it wasn't nice to use that line.

Anyway we headed back and Andrew told me to relax while he and Aria made dinner! Aria was so cute, bringing out silverware, napkins etc and telling me all about the steps she helped with.

We watched the beautiful sunset during dinner

I took a panorama

We were so awed by the view we just relaxed and watched the night unfold

Aria found a blanket and we huddled under it for a bit before putting her to bed.

The first night, I tried sleeping in the bedroom off the kitchen which had a huge bathroom. Aria wanted to sleep with me, so Andrew slept in the room with all our luggage. Well that night I hardly slept as I kept envisioning ghosts, and falling off cliffs, and someone coming in to rob us, it was just awful! IDK what it was but I had a really weird feeling about the place, like there had been a murder there or something? I mean, it was REALLY old, over 200 years, so I'm sure something crazy has happened. I never get weird intuitions like that (and honestly not even sure I believe in ghosts) BUT there was just something about the place. Aria didn't sleep well either. The remaining 2 nights, we all slept in that first bedroom lol.

Coming up, we visit the town of Eze! More stunning views to come

 

[cindianne320]

What a beautiful house, but super creepy that you couldn't sleep!

 

[Dugette]

Pretty amazing looking place!

Was that one in front your vehicle?

Cute picture!

I ordered a fig soda by accident (surprisingly in this touristy town, menu was all French again). It was horrible and I was grossed out lol.

We ordered pizza for lunch, and again it was TERRIBLE. Worst pizza ever (how do you mess that up?!) and I was just feeling down and ready to go. Not to mention we hadn't thought ahead about eating outside = smokers - on one side we had a guy smoking a cigar (that smell makes me SO sick) and the other side were cigarettes. So basically we ate and paid as fast as possible. I had maybe 2 slices and didn't even take the rest with us it was just so bad.

Ugh, sorry your meal was so bad!

We did a little more shopping after lunch though, first at a candy shop!

Now this is where you should have eaten!

The road to get to the house was SO treacherous, I was holding oN! It was switchbacks that if you get too close to the edge you'll just fall straight down. I don't do well with those sorts of roads!

Yikes! And you had to go back on it for the store too!

Patio overlooks Nice

Beautiful view! And great house.

Ha, looks pleasant!

It was quite the experience! Underground parking, then up into grocery store inside a huge mall. You had to insert a coin for the cart, and then you take a ramp that locks the cart into place while you're on it, then head inside.

Sounds complicated!

The line to check out was literally over 100 people long.

I see no problem with a very pregnant woman using the pregnant women line. I mean, at Disneyland Paris, they didn't think you should even wait in a character line, so why would they make you wait for 100 people to pay for their groceries.

We were so awed by the view we just relaxed and watched the night unfold

Gorgeous!

Well that night I hardly slept as I kept envisioning ghosts, and falling off cliffs, and someone coming in to rob us, it was just awful! IDK what it was but I had a really weird feeling about the place, like there had been a murder there or something? I mean, it was REALLY old, over 200 years, so I'm sure something crazy has happened. I never get weird intuitions like that (and honestly not even sure I believe in ghosts) BUT there was just something about the place. Aria didn't sleep well either. The remaining 2 nights, we all slept in that first bedroom lol.

Scary night! I can see maybe the falling off cliff thing could be related to the drive to the house, but the rest is pretty strange.

 

[Imagineer5]

What a beautiful house, but super creepy that you couldn't sleep!

Yes it really was creepy! Andrew slept fine though, so go figure.

Pretty amazing looking place!


Was that one in front your vehicle?


Cute picture!


Ugh, sorry your meal was so bad!


Now this is where you should have eaten!


Yikes! And you had to go back on it for the store too!


Beautiful view! And great house.


Ha, looks pleasant!


Sounds complicated!


I see no problem with a very pregnant woman using the pregnant women line. I mean, at Disneyland Paris, they didn't think you should even wait in a character line, so why would they make you wait for 100 people to pay for their groceries.


Gorgeous!


Scary night! I can see maybe the falling off cliff thing could be related to the drive to the house, but the rest is pretty strange.

Yes the silver car was ours. It was upgraded to a mini minivan due to the wait (supposedly) but it was actually a really great car for our travels. Good amount of space and we secretly fell in love with the sliding doors lol.

haha yes, I agree on the pregnant line, maybe he felt like people would think HE could stand in the line since he was there? IDK.

It was a weird night filled with strange dreams. I still remember like it was yesterday that pitt feeling in my stomach over the location of the house and just that feeling I got while there.

 

[Imagineer5]

Our first full day in the French Riviera, we had plans to visit Eze. I wanted to visit this quaint town since Samantha Brown did a travel special years ago, so I was very excited to tick something off of my bucket list! But first, we woke up to this amazing view.

We couldn't have asked for better weather for our final days in France! 80's and sunny! After an easy breakfast of pastries, yogurt and coffee we headed off towards Eze around 8:40 and were there by 9! We even stopped a couple times just goggling at the view.

This is a little peninsula called Villefranche sur Mer

Once we arrived at the foot of Eze, we found a parking spot and started the ascent into town. It's quite a long walk into town. The road goes slightly up and then stops altogether making the actual town completely pedestrian. I know the hotels there have a service to meet you and grab your bags so that's nice, but we took one look at the prices to stay IN Eze, and quickly went elsewhere. 1000+ per night!

Here we are on our walk into town!

We decided to do the main "attraction" first because we didn't want it to get too busy, and it was at the very top of Eze so we figured we'd start at the top and work our way back down

The attraction is a really gorgeous garden called the Jardin Exotique. Today they were planning a wedding, and since there were a ton of people carrying wedding supplies up to the top, they opened the garden up to everyone for free! Which was awesome, except I had to use the bathroom SO badly, and there was no restroom except one you had to put a Euro in for, and we had no change! LOL. Once we got to the garden though (which I continued going up to, thinking we could get change when we paid) we decided to just see it then come back down to figure out the bathrooms.

The views around the garden were just stunning. We were at the highest point of the town, and just views in every direction!

Overkill of photos, but not apologizing

Saw this statue and had to get this photo!!

First order of business after the garden visit was for Andrew to buy something cheap and get change, and then I ran to the bathroom. Phew! Once that was done with we enjoyed visiting all the shops.

And admiring the details

continued in next post...