My motorcycle revved up as I began my day’s journey from Albenga, a charming town nestled in the heart of Liguria, Italy. My destination was Avignon, a city known for its rich history and cultural significance.

As I navigated through Liguria, the journey was marked by a series of tunnels that wound through the rugged landscape. These tunnels offered occasional respites from the sun, revealing glimpses of mountain villages and towns with their distinct charm. It was a continuous transition between darkness and the sudden emergence into daylight, each time revealing a new scenic delight.

The route led me through coastal towns like Imperia and Ventimiglia, acting as stepping stones into France. Crossing the border, I passed Monaco on my left and admired the beauty of Nice along the way. While these coastal cities were captivating, my ultimate destination called me forward.

Continuing north, I rode through Aix-En-Provence, renowned for its remarkable architecture and artistic heritage. The landscape underwent a noticeable change, shifting from the rugged Italian coastline to the rolling hills and vineyards of southern France. It was a visually dynamic journey, showcasing the ever-evolving beauty of the region.

At last, I arrived in Avignon, the endpoint of my day’s ride. Avignon’s historic allure, highlighted by the Papal Palace and medieval city walls, provided a striking contrast to the coastal towns I had encountered earlier. The city’s rich cultural heritage was palpable in its lively streets, creating an atmosphere that combined modern vitality with historical significance.

The journey from Albenga to Avignon was a captivating adventure, filled with diverse landscapes and cultural transitions. It served as a reminder of the remarkable range of experiences that this part of Europe has to offer, leaving me eager to continue my road trip to Spain.

Roads in Italy vs. France: A Vibrating Journey

On a somewhat related topic, I want to extend my appreciation to the diligent maintainers of Italy’s highways. The streets are truly impressive, especially when compared to the ones in France. Today marked the first time during my journey that I experienced discomfort in the saddle (specifically, in my posterior). My motorcycle was vibrating and shaking quite vigorously for most of the ride on French roads. To make matters worse, the strong gusts of wind made me feel like I was playing a balancing act with the handlebars. My approach was to reduce my speed significantly and travel at a leisurely pace, well below the prescribed speed limit.

Well, I suppose it’s all part of the adventure. We’ll see what tomorrow has in store.

The route