Monaco, Menton, Goult en Provence,Southern France
May 6 Today we woke up to the fresh sea breeze and brilliant sunshine. Breakfast was waiting for us downstairs in the sunny kitchen, a good selection of fresh healthy items to choose from to start our day right. After breakfast Mandy headed to the spa for a massage and time of relaxation. Téo and I headed out on a walk along the sea to soak in the sunshine and the fresh sea air. Our exploring led us to the outdoor tennis court and a large outdoor chess game. It would be fun to play a match with these large pawns.
Soon our exploration excursion came to an end and it was time to head back to our room for a Téo's nap and time to pack the bags to leave this gorgeous oasis. The family back together Mum looking really relaxed, we loaded the bags in the car or should I say the Bell Boy did. (Which seems a little unnecessary in my opinion but they are so happy to be of assistance.) Our next destination is the small village of Goult in Provence. Where our Airbnb for 1 night is located. We took the long journey of getting there. Since we were only 15 or 20 minutes drive from the tiny but very wealthy country of Monaco, we just had to visit. This is where Princess Grace resided. An American actress who fell in love with the Prince of Monaco,Prince Rainier III. She had quite an impact on this little country.
Interestingly enough in 2 weeks time the annual Grand Prix will be held here on the central streets of the city. This Saturday however the electric races were being held. So unfortunately we weren't able to drive into the central parts of the city. It was interesting, nonetheless, good exercise for the driver to navigate lots of traffic, pedestrians, motorbikes etc on the narrow streets.
We continued our eastward direction along the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea until we reached Menton which borders Italy. This area is known for pastel-colored buildings and lemons. It was so nice to slowly drive along the sea with the Mini Fiat in full convertible mode. (This car has won us over so much fun to drive. We need to have these in the USA.)
Soon we found ourselves heading westward towards Provence. Passing the signs for the towns of the French Riviera and Côte d’Azur region, Nice, Cannes, Marseille, Saint Tropez etc..The drive was an easy 3 hour drive to Goult. With the Fiat in the wind, the tunes playing,and the baby sleeping the time and scenery flew by.
We found the BnB easily in the small village of Goult. It was located on the cutest street with climbing roses and many varieties of plants along the street.
Xavier met us at the door, helped move in and explained how he remodeled and decorated this character home. He added an in-ground pool in a relaxing atmosphere.
After we settled we headed out to see the tiny town. There was a grocery store, several bakeries, restaurants, cheese store, crafts etc all within a few minutes walk.
Stopped by the grocery store and bought a few things then headed back home to give the baby a break before going out for dinner at the restaurant called La Terrassa 19:30.
They seated us out on the terrace which was fine. Soon it filled up. This is when Teo decided he'd had enough. French etiquette is quiet during meals, talk in low tones so as to not disturb the neighboring table (which we really like the concept and show of respect for others). This however has proved to be challenging at times with a baby. The French people seem to be understanding with us having a baby, still we traded off this meal to take Teo out while the other ate. He helps keep things interesting and it was still a delicious meal. .
Back to our place of lodging for the night, we settled in and said Bon Nuit to the day. Tomorrow we move on to a country cottage not far away. Where we plan to stay at for 3 nights in the beautiful Luberon Valley of Provence.