Avignon

Travel by TGV to Avignon ('city of the Popes'), then get around by local transport. This guide describes walks and restaurants in the surrounding area, from the Roman cities and sites of Nimes, Arles, Pont du Gard and St-Remy to the 'must-see' villages of Gordes, Les Baux and Barbentane and the gorgeous countryside of the Alpilles mountain chain.

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This pocket-sized full-colour guide is designed for short-break holidays in Provence. Avignon is just 2-1/2 hours from Paris by TGV (6 hours direct from London in summer); it is served by daily coaches from London as well. For those who want to fly, low-cost airlines serve both Avignon and Nimes. Once at Avignon, travel to the other cities, towns and sights in the book is quick and easy, with frequent, fast local train and bus services - so there is no need to hire a car. Although all the walks described are easy, even 'non-walkers' will want to stroll around the cities, so will find the city plans, descriptions of the sights, and restaurant recommendations useful. For each suggested restaurant there is a photograph of the decor and one of their dishes, plus sample menu, price guide, opening times, and a recipe for one of their specialities. Besides the three major cities, the book visits many other highlights of Provence: St-Remy, Les Baux, the Alpilles, Barbentane, Gordes and the Pont du Gard (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). All areas have been chosen for their easy accessibility by public transport - train or bus.
Other sections include: planning your trip, getting about, food shopping (including health foods and local markets), glossary of food terms and a restaurant mini-vocabulary. A special feature is the emphasis on natural local foods suitable for those with food intolerances. All recipes have been made by the authors and are known to 'work'. On-line updates keep readers abreast of any route or restaurant changes. "Sunflower have led the field for years with their brilliant Landscapes walking and car touring guides. Now, they have raised their game even higher with a superb new Walk & Eat series." (Frank Barrett, Mail on Sunday)