Currently enjoying Linda Mathieu’s Blog, Frenchless in France in which her guest blogger, Emily is doing a great job of sharing Provence. I’ve only ever been to Provence in the winter (February, for my birthdays), but I actually really love it then. It’s when you get to really see the towns without fighting mobs of tourists or unhappy hosts. The smell of fireplaces going, the mistral winds, the seasonal cooking of food so thick and warm it sticks to your belly. But, I confess, I’m a little envious of those who get to see it in spring and travel the fields barefoot.

One of my favourite places to stay in Provence regardless of the seasons is the self-catered gite, le pigenonnier in Isle sur la Sorgue. The flat is beautiful, modern but still French and the breakfasts are amazing. The location is perfect (if you have a car) in which to explore the area. And the hosts? Amazing though you’ll have to learn (basic) French to speak with them.