Marseille C’est Magnifique

Bonjour from our first stop in France! It’s the 2nd largest city and filled with wonderful sights. The city can be a bit of a challenge as all the streets go from the port up to the highest points of the city. It’s definitely been a great calf and leg workout. Our wonderful host gave us some great tips on what to see and do as we decided to tour this one on our own. Our cute apartment was just steps away from Norte Dame de la Garde (the highest point of the city), the views were amazing and you got to see the 360 degrees of Marseille. We have been walking so much that my Apple Watch died both days before the end of the day. We have easily done 30,000 steps each day here.

Everyone always asks about the food, and how can you go wrong in the South of France with €0.39 croissants, savoury cheese and fresh fish. Rob and I shared a French cheese charcuterie board served with a fresh baguette that was out of this world. There was one soft cheese that we absolutely loved, I asked our server « Comment s’appelle cette formage? ». The response sent us both into laughter as he let us know it was homemade butter! We had been eating it by the chuck, the pigs that we are!

Our second day here in Marseille we decided to venture out, as we had taken in all the must see sights during our self guided walking tour the day before. My cousin Lou and our host both recommend we visit a tiny Mediterranean fishing port Cassis just 45 minutes away. It’s know for its beaches, calanques (caves and cliffs), and pastel coloured sidewalk cafes and restaurants. Great place for hiking or taking in a boat tour, which is what we did. We also found a nudist sunbathing on the cliff who stood up and waved to us. I was actually impressed that he had no tan lines…lol. If you zoom into the picture you can see what I mean. Our afternoon in Cassis led to more walking much to Rob’s disdain but for those of you who have travelled with me know I can walk forever! I did remember to feed him to help keep his stamina going. We indulged in Moules en Provence et frites (Mussels and French Fries) while overlooking the sea.

Last night we walked to Cour Julien where you will find Marseille’s trendiest neighbourhoods. It’s apparently where all the hip hang out, not sure how we fit in but we tried! The lively square filled with graffiti,many restaurants and bars was definitely a great place to spend an evening.

We are on our way today to explore Avignon, je suis tellement excitée! We are reaching the half way point of this adventure, 27 more days to go and Rob and I are still doing okay and enjoying each other’s company…in case some of you were wondering!