Annual visit to Viviers – Part 1

David, Roger, and Tony found a lovely auberge in the village of Viviers on their bike ride from Lyon to Arles.  David was so impressed with it that he booked two nights to celebrate Anna’s birthday and their anniversary.  And, we’ve gone there every year since then.  Michelin has been impressed, too, and continues to list it in the vaunted Red Book.  The owner knows us by name now and takes especially good care of us.  (Life is rough.)

First a little background about Viviers…It is on the Rhone River an easy drive south from Lyon.  It was established as a supply depot by the Romans so it’s been around a while.  A Roman bridge just outside of town is still in use!  Today it is a lovely little village with lots of narrow, winding, medieval streets, old houses of note, its share of ruins, and the smallest cathedral in France.  (The bishop preached a sermon in favor of the revolution early on, and the church and village survived unscathed.)  It also has an active artist population, and paintings and ceramic items are on display and for sale in a variety of places.

Now on to the auberge…it is located on the outskirts of town (steps away from the Roman bridge

Our patio and view of pool and grounds.

that is still in use).  It is actually on the highway that goes through Viviers, and we are always amazed that huge semis can actually navigate through town.  It can be a bit noisy close to the road, but the grounds are an oasis of peace and relaxation.  David always makes sure to get unit #5 which is one of the newest and largest units, with its own patio with grape arbor, and in the back with easy access to the pool.  The chef prepares dishes using local products, and, weather permitting, meals are served outside under umbrellas and shade trees. 

Outside dining area.

After we got settled in, we sat on our patio sipping a nice, cool Rosé, while we discussed what side trips we might want to take.  Last year it was so hot that we spent most of our time in and around the pool, but this year the weather was much more conducive to exploration.  We had wandered through the village of Viviers on a previous visit so we decided to check out other options.  The local Tourist Office was very helpful with maps, pamphlets, and lots of suggestions.  And, our hostess recommended we visit Aubignas, and very, very small village to the north.  We certainly didn’t lack for options! 

(To be continued)