Bonnieux

Yes, I know the holidays are approaching and I should be posting a cookie recipe or a photo of holiday decorating, but I can't stop thinking about an old episode of Public Television's VICTORY GARDEN that was rebroadcast last week.  The program was on private gardens in Provence.  The garden I can't get out of my head was near Bonnieux and belongs to Judith Pillsbury.  The property was terraced and the full-time gardener kept all of the rosemary and lavendar plants clipped into perfect orbs.  The outdoor vintage French table and chairs invoked images in my mind of warm, lazy afternoons on the patio, dining on a salad made from the freshest produce found that morning in the village market, bread from the local patisserie and of course, French wine! 

Bonnieux is an incredibly charming and picturesque hill town. When you reach the top you will be rewarded with views of olive trees and cherry orchards, vineyards, and in the distance the villages of Gordes and Roussillon. Mont Ventoux is prominent 25 miles to the north. It isn't necessary to be invited to a private home to view beautiful landscapes.  The photos above and below were taken while driving through the countryside around Bonnieux. 

Well, I've dreamt long enough about being in Provence today.  Better get back to reality and start baking Christmas cookies.