Alba-la-Romaine, Bourg-Saint-Andéol

From Viviers, we then took two smaller trips, the first to Alba-la-Romaine, a small town in the Rhône hinterland. The town is romantically situated on a small rise in the wide valley of L'Escoutay, where the watercourse is noticeably constricted just before it flows into the river.

The route runs along the Rhône at first, before we leave the Rhône valley at Le Teil. Initially, the path follows side streets, later we were supposed to continue on the old railway track, but there was still the old track gravel. So we decided to stay on the main road. About 6 km before Alba-la-Romaine, there was a cheese factory signposted on the left, and we turned off. Upon arrival, we encountered a kindergarten having a picnic, the cheese factory closed due to wealth, and we continued towards our destination.

The castle and the historic old town of Alba are located on a basalt cliff of volcanic origin, about 200 m high, which dominates the river plain. The streets, seasonally, are still almost deserted; we drive through the narrow alleys and enjoy a coffee at les 3 souris.

Through Les Crottes we make our way back to Viviers on beautiful agricultural roads away from traffic.

The next day, Bourg-Saint-Andéol was on the agenda. Along the Rhône bike path, past Barrage de Donzère, we are accompanied by the original Rhône valley. This brings us on a superbly developed bike path to Bourg-Saint-Andéol. At Pl. du Champ de Mars, there is a market; we buy some olives and tomatoes, have a coffee at Le Brin D'olivier, and hit the road home on the highway.

The sun and wind have really taken a toll on my first officer, and the pollen are doing their part. Upon arriving at the Gustav, it’s straight under the shower and into the darkroom.

Later, the bikes will be packed up, preparing for departure the next day.

Adieu Viviers.