Returning to a place that holds a treasured place in your heart is a bit like re-reading a well loved book. Even though you know what to expect, you can’t quite believe that it’s all just as you remembered it. Comfortingly unchanged, with the same power to draw you in although you still find yourself discovering things that you missed before. Last week I was back in Uzes, the enchanting bastide town just outside the far west corner of Provence, in Languedoc Roussillon. Special to me because it had been my home for 6 months and special to all who visit because of its magical ambience which quickly captivates all who become acquainted with this delightful town. Like turning the pages of a book, as I wandered through its well remembered cobbled streets, those carefully stored images were suddenly there before me, so many of the things that often spring to mind when one thinks of southern France.
Shutters
Streets full of shutters painted from a pallet of soft Provencal hues
Shuttered windows fastened back allowing the late September sunshine to pour in
Golden limestone buildings along meandering cobbled streets
along which you will find too many boulangeries to count!
Provencal Markets
Offering an abundance of fresh local produce;
Olives
Baskets
Tablecloths
and of course bunches of this summer’s recently gathered lavender
Brocantes
Assorted treasures filling the market place, Place-aux-Herbes, on a Sunday morning
Charming shops displays
enticing you in to explore further!
And as you are about to leave the defining French automobile, the 2CV, whizzes passed.
With one more lap of the town I glance back over my shoulder and wonder when I will next return to this beguiling place?
Download The Uzès, Travel Guide for Uzès and the surrounding regions of Languedoc Roussillon and Provence.
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