Fancy French Candies!

On my recent biking trip to France, I did have the opportunity to stop pedaling occassionally and explore the territory. I don't know if it is characteristic of France in general, or just the towns we visited, but there were a heck of a lot of "confiserie"'s. Not that I'm complaining.

When we breezed into L'Orange, I spotted Clavel on the Avenue Jean Jaurés (actually located in the town of Carpentras). The window display of ornate confections beckoned me inside. Once there, I became fascinated with the above handmade lollipops. There was a Mont Ventoux sized arrangement of them in all colors and flavors.  I selected a cola, cocoa and coffee flavor and got them wrapped to go along with some expertly candied figs and peaches.

Once in Aix en Provance, we stumbled into the cookie bar insanity of La Cure Gourmande. But nestled along the sidelines were some enticing looking caramels and nougats, stuffed with fruits, nuts, seeds and a variety of other flavors.

I selected a sea salt and sesame caramel, and some beautiful pistachio and caramel nougats and wasn't disappointed. It's a miracle I could save them until I got home for the photographs. They did get a little smooshed in my luggage, but that didn't compromise their taste.

So I offer you this over-indulgent candied photographs to start off your Monday - a sweet appetizer, if you will. We'll be finishing up the remainder of our Italy trip this week!

Enjoy!