A few years ago David discovered a wonderful auberge in the
Ardeche while on a trip with his biking buddies. He brought Anna there to
celebrate her birthday and their anniversary (both July 1st) that
 |
| View from our cottage. |
year, and we have made annual visits every year since. We always stay in a cottage away from the
main building and near the pool. Lots of
privacy and quiet with our own covered patio.
The food (especially dinner!) is great, prepared from local products,
and served with proper French flare. This
year we stayed for 5 days/4 nights, and it was wonderful.
We had developed a fun relationship with Michelle, the
owner/manager, so we were a little concerned to find that the auberge has
recently changed ownership. As it turned
out, Nadine and Patrice Emery, the new managers, are quite pleasant. Maybe not as funny and fun as Michelle, but
give them time.
 |
Anna enjoying le
petite déjeuner
|
France has been experiencing a “canicule,” or heat wave, so
we were especially appreciative of the swimming pool and air conditioned
cottage. Our neighbors, vacationing from
Belgium and staying in the other cottage near the pool, felt the same way.
The auberge is located just outside of Viviers, and there is
a lot to explore in this part of France. Chances are if you have taken a river cruise
down the Rhone, you have stopped for a short time in Viviers. Viviers itself is loaded with historical
significance, and we always make it a point to check out some of the other interesting
destinations in the area. We’ll do
separate postings on them – for now, we’ll just share fond memories of Relais
du Vivarais, the auberge.
We plan to return next year.
No comments:
Post a Comment