Autumn Week South of France
How do you spend an autumn week in the south of France? I will visit beaux villages, go to brocante stores and outdoor markets, dine with friends, and eat great food. That’s how!
Have I told you lately how much I love France? After a few stressful months in the States, I looked forward to returning to France. Most of all, I yearned to be here because autumn is my favorite season. There’s something about autumn that makes France look more beautiful to me. I’m sure it’s the colors. The browns and beige, golds and burnt orange. They trim every tree and grapevine. They blend with aged stones on buildings and ancient streets. Crystal blue skies highlight the outlines of steeples and towers. It’s truly a glorious time.
Favorite things on an autumn week south of France
“Brocanting”
This past week, I did some of my favorite things, including browsing through brocante stores and markets. A great find at an out-of-the-way store in Uzes was discovering a panetiere — a decorative “breadbox” introduced in the 18th century in southern France to keep bread safe from children and pets. I sadly admit I left it behind. Remember, I’m done with collecting “stuff”!
Just as exciting but less compelling were the old wheelchairs. Apparently, they were not freewheeling. It took two people to operate one of these ancient chairs. One pushed from behind while the person in the chair steered.
Wining and dining with friends while eating some of the best ever foods.
Exploring towns and villages
I’ve promised to try to visit as many of the designated Beaux Villages de France. There are hundreds of them, but if I start now…
Then there are the villages next door that are just as charming …
Favorite things to do on an autumn week south of France
Discovering hidden Roman ruins
Just outside Uzès, the remains of a Roman bridge still stand. The two-thousand-year-old structure spans the creek bed between two large fields. Wear from wagon wheels dragging heavy loads across the bridge is a reminder of early civilizations that lived and toiled on this very spot.
Checking out seasonal foods and merchandise at the Uzès Saturday Market — yes, that’s a must!
But the best thing about autumn in France is being in my little tower apartment. Just me, the white pottery cat, and a mouse.
More on autumn in the south of France:
The Cevennes: Saint Jean du Gard
7 Great Ideas for An Awesome Autumn Weekend Around Uzes
Halloween Train to the Cevennes
