aixcentric

Here’s an idea for a splendid day out in Provence right now – the tourists have in the main gone home and there are still sunny days to enjoy.

Boating on the lower gorges du Verdon isn’t as well known as Lac St Croix but all the better for that in terms of easy parking and access to boats.  And it’s very beautiful.

A couple of weeks ago we hired an electric boat which seated 4-5 comfortably and comes with a sun canopy which we needed.  Other people chose kayaks, pedalos or paddle-boards for exploring the gorge.  A handy map gives details of all the natural features you will pass and also indicates key points at which to turn round in order to get back to the start – you pay by the hour.

By the side of the gorge is the canal which brings the water down to Aix.  What a job those labourers must have had digging tunnels through rock.  Their paths and tracks have recently been overhauled for safety, and have proper steps and metal railings along the edges – some people prefer to hike the gorge instead of boating.

We took a picnic for our 2.5hr jaunt which was blissful in the September sun. 

Info:  Boat hire is subject to favorable meteo. Details on http://www.locationnautic.fr, 04-92-74-40-76. Costs vary with type of boat and hours booked: our boat was electric and cost 56€ to hire. Various restrictions for young children – see website. Open 7/7 until beginning of November when it’s closed until April.

And now for that lavender ice cream!

There’s a snacking-cafe and a restaurant beside the boat-hire, but le fils Aixcentric wanted to show us Quinson which is a seemingly-prosperous little village.  There were various places open but we happened on Le Petit Duc with its small terrace under a shady tree.

Their speciality is artisanal ice-creams and we loved both the lavender and calisson flavours.

What a perfectly Provencal ending to our day out!