NJGirl, yes, I did use Michelin maps. And quite frankly, I studied the map extensively before I left, to the point it was getting pretty torn up! I used the orange #524 (Vallee du Rhone), which covered what I wanted. But when I was there, I bought another, the green #113 zoom (Provence, Camargue), which was even easier to read. Study it and get to know the names of towns along the way. Those are used more than route numbers.

Market days are definitely something to take into consideration. They can most definitely get you screwed up with your "mapping out" plans. I had that problem more than just in Arles. There are other times when you see those "Deviation" signs, and might start to panic. However, the French system of round-a-bouts, signs pointing to different towns, etc. is so good that you don't get lost for long. There always seems to be another sign down the road pointing to where you want to go. It really is much more fun driving over there than here, in spite of the speedsters (I can say that now that I am safely back)!

I think my next trip might be to the Dorgogne - I'd like to do the same kind of thing, maybe for not quite as long.
I'll be counting on Dorgogne advice from this forum, as I don't know much about it at all. I did this in Burgundy and really loved it - driving was a little easier, and the roads weren't as busy. Burgundy also has many wonderful things to see (not just the wineries).

I too just returned from Provence. The weather was fabulous as you stated, cool in the morning and evening and wonderful sunshine during the day. I have a great "farmer's tan". I kept thinking that May weather was really the perfect time to visit.

I also drove solo and love the roundabouts with signs to the next town. I can deal with the tailgaters but when the cars from the side road run very fast and as far out as they can and then stop, it was nerve wrecking. I would still recommend to anyone to drive in France.

I visited Camargue and took the little 4X4 tour which I recommend. I was there on May 25, a great gypsy festival was taking place. Amazing.
I visited Uzes due to board recs. It was my favorite place. It was my "dreamed about" version of a charming, beautiful French town. I definitely want to go back and stay there on my next trip.

Sue4, I enjoyed your trip report so much. It was great reading and remembering.

Thank you again Sue4 for the useful advice. I'm off to the Michelin website with my credit card. Although, sometimes getting lost can be half the fun(unless it sparks an argument with a grumpy spouse). Thankfully(or not) I'm used to NY cabbies and NJ housewives in SUV's, so the French in their little Smartcars and scooters don't intimidate me too much. I'm glad to hear you're thinking of visiting the Dordogne as that is an area I'm also interested in. Can't wait for your travel report!

So will the #113 cover both Provence and the Cote D'Azure?? I went onto the B&N website last night and they listed another (I think it was 528#) that covered both places.

lbrawer, no, the 113 doesn't cover both areas, only Provence/Camargue. The 528 covers both Provence and the Cote d'Azur. FYI:, I found a great site for ordering maps: www.languagequest.com/traveler
They seem to have everything in stock (plus all sorts of travel books,etc.) and I got the maps I wanted very quickly.

Sue, we stayed in the very same room last summer, at La Presbytere, after uhoh's report. I am so glad you loved it...as did we. I think it is a wonderful place. Funny...we are going to the Dordogne this summer!

thanks! its getting close enough to be thinking of maps (29 days) and my husband is now jumping on the planning bandwagon<g>.reading everyone's travelogues is just fueling my excitement!

Wren, be sure to post a trip report after your trip to the Dorgogne! I can't wait to start planning my trip there - hopefully next May, and I'll be really interested to hear about places to stay. However, I'd better get this trip paid for before I start on the next!

Will do, Sue. I know I will be planning the next trip on the plane trip home...