This was our destination, the sunflowers of Provence.

Sunflowers of Provence
Before we arrived in southern France the scream of car engines and the exhilaration of speed had to be experienced one more time at ‘24 heures du Mans’.
Entrance to Le Mans Circuit, 2014The track, start finish line, at 24 heures du Mans 2014
The dazzling châteaux of the Loire Valley held more appeal ‘pour mois’ – Château Le Lude, owned by the same family for over 260 years and still their main residence.
Chateau le Lude, Loire Valley
Château de Chenonceau, unbelievably stunning
Chateau de Chenonceau
A glorious night stop in Le Canard au Parapluie Rouge, (The Duck with the red umbrella!) thanks to Mr Sawday and of course the delightful proprietors Kathy and Martin  Location Map 
Le Canard au Parapluie Rouge, France
On route the following day we discovered this fairy tale gem, Martel in the Lot Valley,
The medieval town of Martel, Lot France
We were pampered at Moulin du Goth, yet again thanks to Mr Sawday, with wonderful Anglo/Australian hospitality from Coral and Bill.
Moulin du Goth Creysse, Lot France
It was hard to leave this beautiful garden of the Moulin du Goth.

A breath taking journey through the Tarn Gorge took us from one side of the Valley to the other, on hair pin bends and roads that left no margin for ‘overly enthusiastic’ French driving!
The Tarn Valley France
River Tarn Gorge, France
We only had one short delay where roads were being resurfaced, in the accompaniment of a group of Swiss ‘Harley’ drivers…even older than us!
Stopping for road gritting in the Tarn!
The mist kissed the valley floor early next morning, as the man next door steadfastly collected his cherries for that night’s supper.

Then by lunchtime we were back under the resplendent, golden arches of Place aux Herbes, Uzès,
Fountain in Place aux herbes, Uzes (1)
walking the golden cobblestones of this very special place. For over 15 centuries this, the first Duchy of France, has been a rich and prosperous town beguiling all who visit with its rich heritage and charm.
Cobbles of Uzes
Its limestone streets warming my heart and soul just as before…………..
Rue de Petite Bourgade Uzes