And though this route

And though this route celebrates the historic tasty treasures of France, it also honours a constantly evolving gastronomic scene, innovative chefs and ardent artisans. To be included on the list requires the offering of a ‘remarkable experience’ to visitors, and every applicant is carefully vetted before acceptance. What was most remarkable to me was how I discovered that everyone involved in gastronomy was fervent about supporting local producers, protecting traditions and practicing art de vivre, the art of living well, but also being innovative in creating food, being organic, recycling and respecting the land and the people who work on it. It was an ethos I encountered over and over, almost a movement that is people led – and people supported. Frankly, I could write a book about my journey but there isn’t room! At the centre of the trail is Lyon, AKA the foodie capital of France, and to the south of it, like a string of pearls, are a plethora of towns and cities that pack a big food and wine punch. Here is a tasty teaser of Aix-en-Provence what I discovered on my epicurean voyage of France in the southern half of the Vallée de la Gastronomie (the northern half will be in the Autumn 2023 magazine. Aix-en-Provence The sun-kissed cultural, cosmopolitan and elegant city of Aix is the Paris of Provence. Cut in half by the Cours Mirabeau – an avenue of stately mansions and bustling restaurants which separates the renaissance and medieval quarters, Aix is brimming with museums and art galleries, boutiques and a fabulous market, sunny terraces and tinkling fountains. Chocolate heaven Who doesn’t love a tour of a chocolate workshop?! At Chocolaterie de Puyricard, a film, tour and tasting (available in English – book in advance), will satisfy your inner 24 | The Good Life France The Good Life France | 25