The Auberge de Banne

1banneTo lunch. I finally get to play the role of Ladies who Lunch.  But I needed to drive two hours to do it.

Never mind. I do love an outing. Even if it is a twisting and turning bone rattling road.  I distracted my car companions with Joni Mitchell and Carole King.

And this is in my second favourite region of the Ardèche. The hilltop village of Banne is just about ten minutes up out of the lovely town of Les Vans. And for those who know my blog and the region, that means it’s Andrew territory. 1banne1

We met him there for a meal.  The restaurant was busy and service quick and efficient. Drive two hours for some delicious hand cut chips? Well worth it. As were the charcuterie first course, the chicken and the dessert. All tasty. And it was great to catch up on Andrew’s garden design client news.

The village is picture perfect south of France and we were able to have a quick lap of the square and then go on to the church.

The church was shut, alas. But it was fun to admire from afar. And then scuttle back indoors to eat.

1bannechurchThe wind was up a bit – as it has been all week – so we decided to eat indoors, rather than brave their lovely outdoor terrace. It’s perfect in summer. But this really is still spring.

You can see the scudding clouds in the photos.

All this is a far cry from actually gardening, so you have to forgive me neglecting my patch. It’s all house guests, flowers and visits.  A sort of lady of leisure life which I do not normally lead.

I’ll be lounging indoors under a cashmere rug, reading novels, eating chocolates and having the vapours next.