Eurostar
trains between Ebbsfleet International and Avignon run during the summer, making it popular for tourists as the best time to book tickets is for June or July due to the Mediterranean climate- the route passes through Lille and Paris. Average journey times are between 5 hours 44 minutes and 7 hours 1 minute depending on the time of day.
Trains between Ebbsfleet and Avignon usually run around 12 times a week, but the train due to arrive at 22:07 also runs on Saturday 19th, 26th December 2009 and 2nd January 2010.
Avignon, or Altera Roma (City of the Popes) offers a variety of natural wonders which make it particularly attractive. The most famous sites are close to the town, which retains the mark of the Popes’ stay there.
It was for a while the capital of the Medieval world and is today the capital of the Vaucluse department and a prestigious cultural capital with its world-renowned Theatre Festival. There is also a good farmer’s market and wine trade in the area.
Points of Interest
The Saint-Bénézet Bridge
According to legend, a young shepherd heard a voice commanding him to build a bridge over the Rhône, and was guided by angels to Avignon where the townspeople refused to believe his story until he carried an enormous stone over to the river. Construction of the bridge was started in 1177 and completed in 1185. It is 920 metres long, 4 metres wide with 22 arches, and is called the “marvel of time” because it has threatened to collapse so often.
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Place de l’Horloge and Place Pie
The nightlife areas of Avignon. There are many bars and nightclubs, as well as live music venues such as the AJMI Jazz club (Association for Impovisational Jazz Music).
Nîmes
The Nîmes Arena is the best preserved example of a Roman amphitheatre. It was built under the reign of Emperor Augustus in the 1st century A.D. An audio-guided tour is available with information in the gladiators’ section on the games. The Maison Carrée is the only completely preserved Roman temple in the world which now shows 3D films on a giant screen inside and the Magne Tower gives a stunning view over the city of Nîmes. Children are encourage to take part in the history of the Arena through the Cultural Treasure Hunt.
Palais des Papes
This Papal Residence is a key attraction for visitors interested in religion and art, but also has magnificent architecture. The Palace of the Popes was built due to the removal of the Curia from Rome to Avignon under the reign of Clement V, and has been expanded with each papal visit. Parts of the residence to view include:
Facade of the Palais Nouveau
Interior frescoes and sculptures
The Chapelle St-Martial
The former Banqueting Hall (Grand Tinel or Magnum Tinellum)
The Robing Chamber, the ante-room to the Papal Bedchamber
The Cloister of Benedict XII
The Consistoire (Consistory)
The Great Audience Chamber
Attractions
The Historic Centre a UNESCO World Heritage site
The Rocher des Doms formal gardens
Provence Day Trips showing tourists the best of Avignon and the region
Wine safaris and wine tours to Chateauneuf du Pape
Les Halles, the largest market in Avignon
Top Attractions
Aime la Plagne Main Attractions - Aime la Plagne Main Attractions
Arapaho Scooters
These scooters are fun to rent for a day. The best idea is to rent one for every member of the family and spend the day cruising around taking in sights on these fat-tired mountain bike-like scooters. They are especially fun for coasting down hills, but are practical for any type of trail. When you rent a scooter, the rental includes helmet and gloves.... Aime La Plagne, France
Arbre Adventure
The arbre adventure is for adventurous people who want to fly above the trees on a circuit of zip lines, ladders, ropes, and monkey bridges. This adventure allows you to travel through the forest without placing a foot on the ground.... Aime La Plagne, France
Horseback Riding
There are two main centers in La Plagne that offer horseback activities. The centers offer lessons for inexperienced riders, or family rides and half-day treks for more experienced riders. All attending children require adult supervision and it is suggested that you make an appointment before arriving.... Aime La Plagne, France
Hot Air Ballooning
There are several local companies in La Plagne that offer hot air ballooning. This is an activity that is serene and exciting all at once. The pilot will control the balloon, and all you have to do is enjoy the views of the forest and scenery below. This is usually a good opportunity to see wildlife below, along with other sights you didnâ??t see on the ground. Depending on the company and package you choose, these tours can last around two ... Aime La Plagne, France
Ice Caves
The Grotte de Glace is located atop the Bellecote Glacier, and is an extraordinary place to visit. Each year the exhibits change because they are all carved by hand. At the beginning of each season, passageways are carved and the interior is a gallery of ice sculptures.... Aime La Plagne, France