Over the Rhone and through the woods...

"Thou Royal River, born of sun and shower
In chambers purple with the Alpine glow,
Wrapped in the spotless ermine of the snow
And rocked by tempests!"
-Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, To the Rhone River

Yesterday I found my escape from the bustling city by discovering (what I believe to be) the only free thing in France. Can you guess what it is? A ferry across the river (the Rhone) to Ile de la Barthelasse! This was an amazing time; the sun was shining, fresh air hitting my hair, and I was finally somewhere where there was grass! In the city, and pretty much everywhere, there is no grass; everything is stone. The streets, the stores, the homes, the sidewalk, you name it. Stone. So, I finally got to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
The island is huge. Much bigger than I previously thought. There were acres and acres of vineyards, farms, orchards, and beautiful homes (I thought I accidentally stumbled upon Johnny Depp's chateau). There was hardly anyone around; a bicyclist here and there, cars passing occasionally, or a walker like me enjoying the views, basking in the soothing scent of lilac and thym, etc. Needless to say, I loved this place, and I thought it was worth mentioning on the blog and bringing you all here as well.
Next week, I'm renting a bicycle, coming back to the island and enjoying a picnic. For now, I hope you guys enjoy the pictures and stay tuned (as always).

Your traveling companion,

The guy lost in France