A weekend break to Gibraltar was the holiday I needed.
Recharging your batteries needn’t take you across the world when you have unspoken wonders on your doorstep.
Two hours west of Paris lies Nantes, one of the major cities of the historic province of Brittany. Dubbed by the Times in 2004 as the most liveable city in Europe, Nantes has continued to flourish and is now a buzzing destination for art, culture and culinary delights. On a recent press trip to the 2013 European Green Capital, we were treated to an eventful history as well as a glimpse into a sustainable and fruitful future.
Between our visits to notable landmarks and towns just outside of Nantes, there was time for deliciously rich food, which even in the blazing heat went down an absolute treat. Granted, Nantes isn’t a halal haven, there is ample choice when it comes to vegetarian and/or seafood options. Let’s not forget we’re in France, which can also only mean one thing – dessert and pastry BLISS!
La Boulangerie d’Antan was our first stop for lunch on day one. I admittedly scoffed my baguette down before capturing a picture, but trust me when I say it was absolutely delicious. Fresh tomatoes and mozzarella was perfect for a hot summer’s day and dessert didn’t disappoint either; Tarte au citron.
Dinner was a delicious affair at Le Bouchon where I fully delved into the seafood options. For dessert we all opted for the Sable; a French shortbread biscuit, with a cream cheese-like topping and fresh strawberries.
Crab starter with an avocado mousse
Filet de dorade royale (Gilt-head Bream)
Sable
Next was wine tasting – without the wine. We headed to Clisson the next day to meet with a family owned vineyard that has been passed down through seven generations. I prepared myself for some astonishing pictures – what I didn’t prepare for was the thoughtful glasses of red grape juice throughout the tasting experience.
Lunch at the Great Western Villa Saint Antoine in Clisson was another three course feast with fresh mussels, soft risotto and a minty dessert. Our view of the historic castle and calm waters made for the perfect view.
Mussel and anchovy salad
Risotto main
Mint chocolate panna cotta
On our last day we headed to see some stops on the well known art trail around Nantes. Lunch was at La Civelle, our last stop before departing to the airport. Known for their seafood, I couldn’t not try their sea bass. Soft, melt in your mouth with a smooth butter sauce to compliment the entire dish, this was the ideal meal. Light but filling and bursting with flavour and overall goodness. Just when I thought I couldn’t eat anymore, I laid my eyes on the profiteroles. I’ll let the images do the talking for this one…
Sea bass with a butter sauce, potatoes and vegetables
Profiteroles with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream and chocolate sauce
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