Miguel arrives! Montpellier & Arles

On July 19, Miguel arrived in Montpellier! We spent two nights in town before heading off on our Provence tour.


Miguel in front of fountain, Antigone, Montpellier.


Denis and me in Jardin des Plantes


Miguel in Jardin des Plantes


Denis and me in Le Heaven bar.

After a couple of fun days in Montpellier, during which we managed to sleep through the highest profile event happening in the city all year (namely the arrival and departure ceremonies as the Tour de France passed through the city), we left for our Provence tour. We spent Saturday afternoon at L’Espiguette beach, then continued on to Mas du Petit Grava, a small guesthouse just outside Arles.

Miguel and I loved Mas du Petit Grava! It's a converted centuries-old farmhouse in the countryside near Arles, owned and operated by an incredibly friendly and welcoming couple, Jim & Ike. We really felt like we were staying with old friends who just happened to have a gorgeous home in the heart of Provence.

Miguel in front of Les Arènes, the 1st Century amphitheater in Arles, where they still host bullfights each summer.

Me in old Arles

Miguel in Arles

Nighttime street scene in Arles, the inspiration for many of Van Gogh's later paintings.

One of the best meals Miguel and I had on our trip was sidewalk dining at a pizzeria in Maussane les Alpilles, just a short drive from Arles.

Having evening wine, cheese & fruit -- and good conversation -- with our hosts and some of their friends.

Miguel with a new friend at the Mas.

Ike, Jim, me and Miguel just before we left Mas du Petit Grava for our drive to Avignon. I really hope to return for another stay in the near future. :o)

Next stop: Avignon!