Odds and Sods, then Upriver to Viviers

On reading what I have written so far, I see that I haven't yet written anything about the Mistrals.  Anyone who has read a novel set in France has heard about the mistrals (which apparently translates to "strong wind from  the North").  Once one gets as far north as Lyon, they are gone, but we had them  for three days, and they were, indeed, quite strong.  I would not have wanted to be out in a sailboat, trust me!  However, although we ourselves were blown about, the ship glided along smooth as silk.

About my co-voyagers, they have been a treat.  I am  usually not all that fond of groups, but this is the most varied, best educated, well traveled group - and well behaved as well (none of this keep everyone waiting while I do a bit of shopping stuff!).  They are gregarious and welocming.  It has been a real treat!

Back to the tour.  I think I left you tasting wine in Chateauneuf-du-Pape.  That afternoon, we took the bus to the Pont du Gard, another Roman landmark.  (and yes, Hank, I was thinking about you.  It was the tallest aqueduct in the Roman world, and was built in a mere 5 years, over 2000 years ago.  It supplied the citizens of  Nimes with running water for five centuries  It is set in a lovely, park-like setting (protected as a UNESCO heritage site, don't you know), and it was a lovely day  Alas, no pictures yet (Peter has promised to share his when we get home, so stay tuned).

On our return to the ship, we set sail for Viviers, and tour it on Thursday morning.  The city dates back 1600 years, and has a combination of architecture to reflect that, with both Roman and medieval influences readily visible. (The town's name comes from the Latin "vivarium", meaning roughly center of life, and was a food and supply center.

Today, Viviers is better known as the location where the movie "Chocolat" was filmed.  And, for the building buffs among you, this is where LeFarge cement was found (apparently so strong that it keeps getting more and more solid over 100 years).  If you look closely, you can see a trip on the mountain across the water.

We end our walk at St. Vincent's Cathedral.  (by the way, if you see this name again, it will not be a mistake).  Apparently St. Vincent is the patron saint of wine, so, as you can imagine, he is very big around here.

In any event, the cathedral is lovely, and we are treated to a lovely organ recital by Valery Imbernon, which we thoroughly enjoy.  (It is known as the best organ in the regions, and the local muscians fight to have time on it, and love having the audience.). 

We go back through the village to the ship, for an afternoon at leisure, which we all feel in need of.  The ship doesn't sleep, however, and we set sail shortly after arriving back to the ship for the next stop, where we are nestled between two lovely cities, Tournon and Tain Hermitage.

Back to the time at leisure, yes, John, Dennis and Tom, there were at least three tables of bridge, and, Bill, one game of Scrabble, one of backgammon, all in the lounge, with lovely music in the background and wine in the glasses.  (and no, I didn't get to play, no 4ths needed).  Actually, I am finding the pace of this all just right.  We are seeing lots but don't feel as if we are frantic!

Well, it is time for this afternoon (and yes, I know I was writing about Thursday in Viviers but it is already Saturday - we are leaving the ship tomorrow) wine and conversation.  If the Internet gods hold up, I will try to get us at least through Friday tonight.  Peter now tells me that when we leave the ship, the hotel in Beaune will have internet, so, in any event, to be continued.....