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A roadtrip to Gourdon

January 28, 2012 by Patricia Sands Leave a Comment

If it’s Friday, it must be France …

My plan was to have you join me for a roadtrip to one of our favourite destinations when we had friends visiting. The perched village of Gourdon has, as the sign says, a “Panorama Grandiose” … say no more. The view is worth the drive and the drive is a treat in itself. There’s a great spot for the usual espresso stop while you enjoy the breathtaking vista with the hills of the Alpes-Maritimes tumbling down to the Côte D’Azur while the Mediterranean sparkles like a jewel on a perfect day.

You’ll find more information about the village and it’s 13thC castle that began as a Saracen fortress in the 9thC if you click here. Roman ruins indicate the area was well inhabited during those times. As well as a loved destination for tourists and locals alike, hiking and hang-gliding are also popular.

The roadtrip down from Gourdon brings us back to the coast ending with a sunset from our terrace in Antibes. The photos are all mine with the exception of the fantastic shot of the entire village which must have been taken from a plane (credit is given to cometofrance.com).

I’m late getting this post up for a couple of reasons but the most important is that as I was putting together my slideshow I received a very sad e-mail. A dear friend in London, England passed away yesterday after battling leukemia for several years. She was one of those people who make life better just by knowing her – and her husband, I might add. When I wrote him tonight I expressed how they always represented to me the best that a couple could be together. I hope you know someone like that too.

So if you are wondering why I have a Beatles song as the accompanying music for this French roadtrip, it’s because I’ve been thinking about my friend Adorée.

I’ve been looking after The Adorables this week (our youngest grandchildren, ages 2 and 4) as they’ve been home sick with a nasty virus. Consequently, I am SO far behind with writing and social media, it’s staggering! I won’t even bother going into the fact that I picked up their virus, just to add to the fun! I pride myself on never getting sick so that was definitely not on my agenda! So pardon my absence, fellow bloggers and dear readers, and things should be back to normal (whatever that is) very soon. How do you deal with the unexpected glitches life throws into your schedule?

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Filed Under: Blog, France, If it is France... Tagged With: 2011 Next Generation Indie Book Awards Finalist, Antibes, Cote D'Azur, facing problems, ForeWord 2010 Book Of The Year Finalist, French Riviera, Gourdon, lifelong friendship, living in the south of France, Patricia Sands, The Bridge Club

About Patricia Sands

Family, writing and travel are my passions ... okay, and chocolate ... and I'm seldom without a camera. I write women's fiction and keep in touch with readers by a monthly newsletter that also has giveaways and contests. Come and join us by signing up on the right. See you there!

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Tameri Etherton says

    January 28, 2012 at 6:32 pm

    What a gorgeous town and castle! I think I saw this on the Tour de France… not sure since they often look so similar. What a wonderful Saturday morning treat to take a little trip to France.

    I hope you’re feeling better and the next time your little darlings get sick, may they keep it themselves. I know we espouse sharing, but really, not the germs. ; )

    Hugs and healing thoughts to you and your family!

    Reply
    • patriciasands says

      January 28, 2012 at 7:25 pm

      I’m coming to the surface … ugh, this was not pleasant! Never mind! I think you would be a fab traveling companion and I’m glad you enjoyed the trip.

      Reply
  2. Marcia says

    January 28, 2012 at 10:46 pm

    What a beautiful town! And, of course your photos are always perfection!
    So sorry the grands shared their germs with you…been there, and it’s no fun. Feel better!

    Reply
    • patriciasands says

      January 29, 2012 at 4:20 pm

      Yes, it’s a tiny gem. A great place to go for a cappucino or a beer while you enjoy the view. I’m surviving, thanks!

      Reply
  3. Bonnie Trachtenberg (@writebrainedny) says

    January 29, 2012 at 5:05 pm

    Thanks so much for posting this, Patricia! I needed to get away–even just for a couple of minutes. And you chose one of my favorite songs. Now I’m itching to plan another European vacation. Just beautiful!

    Reply
    • patriciasands says

      January 30, 2012 at 10:41 pm

      Thanks Bonnie – I’m glad you took your wee break.

      Reply
  4. cheerfulchic says

    January 29, 2012 at 6:10 pm

    How wonderful … we’re driving from the UK through France this summer … will get out my map and take a look! Stunning!

    Reply
    • patriciasands says

      January 30, 2012 at 10:40 pm

      Oh how I envy you that roadtrip! Let me know if you want any info in the south! I haven’t forgotten that I’ll send you the restaurant info too.

      Reply
  5. Sheryl Browne says

    January 29, 2012 at 6:18 pm

    Beautiful photography, Patricia. A lovely break from another grey day. So sorry about your friend, sweetie. Hope you’re feeling better soon! 🙂 x

    Reply
    • patriciasands says

      January 30, 2012 at 10:39 pm

      Thanks for stopping by, Sheryl, and for the good wishes. I’ve somehow survived … now to catch up!

      Reply
  6. Natalie Hartford says

    January 29, 2012 at 9:12 pm

    Stunning! Patricia, you are an incredibly talented photographer. Love the slide show and the beauty of it! I felt like I was transported there. I can’t imagine what it’s like in person but your posts have totally given me the travel bug!
    I hope you are feeling better soon!! No fun being sick. Take care of you with lots of sleep and fluids and don’t worry about the social media world – we’ll be here when you are back up to full speed.
    Hugs!

    Reply
    • patriciasands says

      January 30, 2012 at 10:38 pm

      It’s hard to take a bad photo over there, Natalie! I’m glad you enjoyed the roadtrip and know you will have your own one of these days. I’m happy to say I’m better!

      Reply
  7. Patricia Caviglia says

    January 30, 2012 at 5:11 am

    I deal with the unexpected glitches in my schedule by getting upset (which doesn’t help matters at all!), getting over it and going with the flow. If you can’t beat ’em…

    Reply
    • patriciasands says

      January 30, 2012 at 10:37 pm

      Whatever works!

      Reply

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