Friday, August 26, 2011

Day 23-24: Pignans France

Can't say enough good things about Au Mas Saint Pierre in Pignans. We wanted to see St. Tropez, but we did not want to say in the harried, ultra-touristy atmosphere of St. Tropez. Nor did we want to pay St. Tropez prices for a hotel. Au Mas Saint Pierre is a B&B 20 minutes from St. Tropez in the middle of the Rhone wine region.

We took a day off from our running around France to stay by the pool and enjoy the peaceful French countryside near Pignans, to listen to the breezes in the pine trees and the quiet music that is part of the ambience at this B&B.
Our hosts Stefan and Serge were both raised in Provence. In addition to creating a restful, calming atmosphere, they provide wonderful local cuisine rounded out with local wines, all set with flare and style.
The other guests were Josienne and Jean-Paul from Paris. They were delightful dinner companions and even spoke a little English. Serge translated for us so we all enjoyed the conversation.
Homemade pate to start.
I forgot what Serge called the second course, but it is similar to a vegetable omelet, but made in a double boiler and served with a sprinkling of fromage on top.

Three fishes in coconut sauce with fresh pesto tagliatelle and roasted tomatoes with zucchini. Dessert was lavender flan made with lavender right out of the garden. Delicious!

We also visited the Cressonniere vineyard next door to Au Mas Saint Pierre to sample local wines. There is an interesting grape grown in this part of the Rhone wine region--crignans--which they use in their wine mixtures here. We enjoyed the earthy flavors an came away with a few bottles to see us on our way. All in all, a very restful stop amid our touring.










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