This colourful little known corner of France which lies just north of the border with Spain and the French Riviera. No-one can resist the rich colours of this region, the blue of the sky, purple of the fields whose air is rich with the scent of lavender.

Hotel:   Hotel & Spa Vatel, Nîmes ****
Located just a couple of miles away from the historic heart of Nîmes, Guests can relax in the heated indoor pool and enjoy city views from tables in the hotel’s traditional French restaurant. The luxury joins the elegance. The 42 roomy rooms are all equipped with air conditioning, television, mini-bar, hair dryer, individual safe.
Overnight outward:  Hotel Le Grand Val, Chaumont **
Situated in the southern region of Champagne, almost on the borders with Burgundy. Its comfortable and welcoming rooms, its "Texas Grill" restaurant with quality wine cellar, the attentive service and warm hospitality will make for a very pleasant stay. All rooms in "Le Grand Val" have a bathroom with shower or bath. soundproofed and air-conditioned. Balcony, direct telephone in each room and T.V.
Overnight return:  Ibis Auxerre Sud **
Located in the suburb of Venoy, all rooms are en-suite with direct dial telephone and satellite television.

Includes:
• All travel by executive touring coach                        • Short sea crossing
• 7 nights half-board accommodation
• 1 night bed and breakfast accommodation
Supplement: Single Room £165                                        Insurance: £30
Deposit: £60                                                                   Departure Code: A1

Day 1:  Travel to overnight hotel.
Day 2:  Arrive at our hotel in the ancient city of Nîmes.
Day 3:  At leisure in Nîmes, the majestic arena, the Maison Carrée and the delightful Jardin de la Fontaine.
Day 4:  A morning visit to the traditional Provençal town, Arles. Then after lunch to Aigues-Mortes, which when built in the 13th century, was the only port on the Mediterranean in France. Still within its imposing walls. the ramparts can be walked for great views.
Day 5:  The wonder of Roman heritage, the aqueduct, Pont du Gard is our first call today then on to Bannols-sur-Ceze and its market. We continue to Avignon, the lovely walled town with its famous bridge, tree-lined boulevards and delicious restaurants. Returning to Nîmes by way of the rival towns of Tarascon and Beaucaire with their old legends!
Day 6:  Today a scenic drive up into the Cévennes mountains along the famed Corniche, to the town of Florac. Here the Atlantic climate meets the Mediterranean, as three rivers plunge down from the mountains and join to tumble their way through the spectacular limestone gorges. Returning by way of Alès and the great Causses.
Day 7:  Taking you to the beautiful village of La Couvertoirade in the heart of the Midi-Pyrenees.. It is one of the finest medieval fortified villages that can be found in France. Returning through the National Regional Parc des Grands Causses.
Day 8:  Travel to our overnight hotel, where evening dinner can be taken at the Arche restaurant near the hotel.
Day 9:  Returning to your local area mid-evening.