And what a day this was! Have you dreamed of a mas in the south of France like this? Everyone in our merry band of travellers agreed they had. This was a dream come true … Mas de Valériole … on the edge of the Camargue. Established in 1456. Yes. The owner then was a doctor in Arles. Please click on this link to see a wonderful portrait of the three generations of the Michel family now in charge of this organic vineyard and rice farm. Read the history here.
Here’s how our memorable day played out. We were welcomed graciously by Madame Michel and then learned about the grapes grown here. A wine tasting followed. After that we were invited into the vineyard to learn how the grapes are harvested. The photos tell the story.
There’s a grape stomper in every group …
Quality control …
But that wasn’t all … next came a lovely buffet lunch in the shade of the magnificent centuries old trees …
And how could I ask for a better promotion shot for Drawing Lessons than this amazing collection of awesomeness? I’m grateful to each one of these ladies and the wonderful bond of friendship they generated during our days together.
No afternoon in France is complete without a game of pétanque.
But the day wasn’t over yet.
Nancy McGee had a surprise planned for our last evening that I didn’t even know about. Dinner in the courtyard garden at the 18th century Hotêl Particulier in Arles. Again the photos tell the story.
Is it any wonder no one wants to go home?
Deborah, you were in our thoughts all day and evening. We know you are recovering, but you have been missed.
p.s. Does anyone have a shot or two of the birthday “cakes and candles”?
Remember to visit Deborah’s Barefoot Blogger website for information on all of the places we have visited during our tour. When she isn’t in the hospital, that lady gets around!
