Most scenic drive from Aix-to Villefranche de Rouergue
 

I will driving from the TGV in Aix to Villefranche de Rouergue by myself. I have a couple of options and was hoping someone may be able to shed some light on the 'most scenic' route. My choices are: quickest about 4 hours - which runs from Aix, through Arles, Nimes, Montpelier and then up through Millau and on to Villefranche de Rouergue. The other option is slower: 5 and a half hours up through Arles and Nimes again but heading due north up to Florac through the Cevennes National Park and then west to Villefranche de R. I have read a couple of reports saying how pretty some of the scenery is through this second route, especially the village of Sainte Enimie.

I shall be leaving Aix about 10.00 in the morning and whilst I am not in a hurry I would like to be at Ville de R by mid late afternoon.

Does anyone have any comments on these two routes? Any input would be appreciated please. For the sake of an hour and a half if one way is much prettier than the other I would like to know.

Thanks, Schnauzer

Anyone???

I would opt for the second route, as there is some amazing scenery there. I would also not count on being able to make it in 5-6 hours. Alès can be a total PITA to get through/around, and once in the Gorges du Tarn, the going is slow (I hope you're not afraid of heights). Lucky you going to Villefranche-le-Rouergue, a very nice relatively unknown place!

thanks St Cirq. Don't like the sound of Ales - always hard when you are driving navigating by yourself. I have good maps and wasn't going to get a gps as I don't have one at home and prefer the 'open road' style of driving but since I am toute seule do you think it a good idea?

Yes, it won't be troubling, just maybe a real slow-down (or maybe not). You'll be fine. I never use GPS myself, either. Hate it!

But will you have a chance to see the bridge at Millau on this trip at all? I would absolutely choose the Cévennes route over the other one, but that Millau bridge is really something!