Shopping is of course something to do when in France, I didn't actually buy much (really) but I just loved the shops. From a simple cheese shop to a basic butchers, there was charm aplenty.
Even the signs were delightful.
Of course there were certain shops that one felt obliged to visit, those special places that can add inches to the waistline and an unwanted extra chin to the face. Alas, I met the Chocolatier and loved it. The cake shops were devine too.......
Don't they look too good to eat. Not so, they tasted fab!
Dragging myself away from the food I did notice an abundance of flower shops. The French do love their flowers.
There are delightful flower shops in every village. They rather put Interflora to shame.
Flowers in general are very much in evidence. Everyone has flowers outside their houses. Whether it is geraniums on the balcony, or in pots on the steps. There seems to be an almost national urge towards charm and prettiness.
One shop I did buy in was at the vineyard.
This was a huge place where all the local wines were brought together, interesting and tasty.
And you can even buy your wine from a pump, just like the garage. Choose your red, white or rose and the kind lady will fill up your bottle/tank. What could be better, the European wine lake on tap!!!
See Karon stagger back to Scotland, somewhat heavier with maybe a touch of a hangover, ah but with some fabulous memories.
Karon x
Ah, Karon...you are so right!! The French just KNOW how to do stuff. My DH is a Frenchman so we go often...cant wait for the next time.
Thanks for sharing,
Louise x
Posted by: Louise at The Vanilla Tree | July 06, 2009 at 10:11 AM
Karon
Your trip looks wonderful I am so pleased you had a great time. All my favourite things there too, wine flowers chocolate cakes - and they do look absolutely divine those cakes! Love the wine filling station idea!
Thanks for the lovely pictures and the virtual visual holiday!
Take care
Sarahx
Posted by: Sarah | July 06, 2009 at 12:29 PM