Charles de Gaulle Charles de Gaulle Airport, plus it’s only 7.5 hours from London by train! Avignon TGV (fast trains) station is on the outskirts of the city and connects via local trains (TER) directly into the city where the station is a short walk to the Popes Palace. Avignon © A Hocquel, Vaucluse Tourism LE CAR-FREE week-end in Provence… Discover the beauty, culture, museums, monuments, and gastronomy of Provence – without a car, says Janine Marsh I’m often asked if it’s possible to visit Provence without a car and still see the wonderful sights and sites – and the answer is yes! Absolutely. When it comes to exploring historic cities and lovely villages, here’s how to do it by public transport. And, whilst the lavender fields are in the middle of countryside, far away from train stations and bus stops, you can visit them by bike or take a half day or day trip with a tour company. Avignon, the capital of Vaucluse in the heart of Provence, makes for a great base, and it’s easy to get to by train with direct connections by TGV (fast train) to Paris, Marseille and Avignon The historic city of Avignon, surrounded by medieval ramparts, is small enough to easily walk around. Apart from its bridge, “Sur le Pont d’Avignon, L’on y danse, l’on y danse…”, it’s perhaps most famous for its monumental and wonderfully preserved 14th century Palais des Papes (both are UNESCO World Heritage sites along with several other sites). Explore the historic buildings, museums and picturesque streets and squares. Stroll along the photogenic rue des Teinturiers, rue Peyrolerie, place des Corps Saints, place Saint Didier and place de l’Horloge – in all these cobbled streets and squares you’ll find fabulous bars and restaurants, shaded by plane trees, hidden in courtyards and alongside streams – perfect for a taste of delicious Provencal cuisine. Whilst you might not want to leave this lovely city, there’s a lot to see and do within easy travelling distance. Villeneuve-sur-Avignon Across the river Rhône which skirts Avignon, Villeneuve-sur-Avignon is truly beautiful – a place that most visitors to Avignon never discover. The garden of the Abbey Saint André, perched on a hill, has a tranquil ambiance with wonderful views. The 17th/18th century abbey, a national Heritage Site, is where 6th century Saint Casarie once lived, she chose the hilltop above the abbey as a place of prayer and meditation. It’s an easy journey on line 5 of the Orizo network, taking just 11 minutes. 16 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 17
