Magnificent Lunch at Chateauneuf -du-Pape

After exploring the ruin of what was once the Popes' Summer Residence (when they were based in Avignon), we made our way just down the hill a little, to Le Verger des Papes. The waiter was warm and welcoming, and we were invited to sit amongst the olive trees, on the restaurant terrace. The view over what are arguably the finest red wine vineyards in the world, was breathtaking.

The wait staff attentive, and keen to explain the menu and specials. And the menu was typical Provencale, simple yet mouth watering. I had foie gras de canard with local pickled vegetables and toasted bread as a starter, while my wife had a tomato and chevre (goat cheese) dish, both magnificent. We had local lamb for main meals, roasted to perfection, and served with fine provencale vegetables. This was matched perfectly with local red wine, extremely reasonably priced.

Dessert was the most perfect crème brûlée served with local fruits. We could not have enjoyed the food, wine, service and atmosphere more. And after lunch, we ventured slightly further down the hill to Le Cave de Verger to sample, and invariably buy, some of the finest red wines in existence.

What an experience! And it's just so easy!