I am looking for advice about the best small town to stay in Provence beginning of Dec, for 2-3 days. Parking a consideration. I am drawn to Aix but I am flexible. Also, we driving down from Beaune. Any recommendations for driving routes or beautiful towns on the way? We love to drive.
Posted by
Florida (previously California)
4307 posts
I would say that Aix with a population of almost 150,000 is not a small town for many people. That being said, having lived in New York City and knowing many people who live in places like NYC, Chicago and LA, I guess Aix could be a small town compared to home. I love Aix and like the idea of staying there but also suggest St Remy de Provence, population almost 10,000, for a small town as an alternate to Aix if you are interested but maybe not in December. I like Valence for a stop on the drive between Beaune and Aix. It's not especially beautiful but it's one of those towns that make me feel like I am in real France, not touristy France. Plus, one of the best meals of my life was had at one of the Pic restaurants in Valence. My daughter almost cried when her chocolate desert with raspberries was finished -- LOL! Also on the way, Orange has Roman ruins if that is your thing.
Posted by
L'Occitanie, France
11415 posts
Aix or Arles are the only places I'd recommend in December, and since Aix is a university town, it's a little better as long as you are there in early December before people leave on winter break. Too much will be closed in other towns. Beware and be prepared for the freezing Mistral Winds that blow out of the Alps and down the Rhone Valley every few days in winter.
Posted by
Paris
7654 posts
Regarding stops between Beaune and Aix: besides Valence (not the best IMO, but good food) and Orange, you have great Roman ruins in Vienne / St Romain en Gal, and the Valrhona Chocolate museum in Tain-l'Hermitage.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thank you for the input.