Some advice needed for a trip to the south of France please

[Jimbomofo]

I was hoping I could have some advice please chaps; the missus and I are heading down to the south of France at the end of the month. I will be driving down in my newly purchased Leon Cupra R, to say I’m excited would be an understatement.

The plan is as follows:

Days 1 – 2_Calais > Nice (764 miles)
I intend on doing the majority of the mileage on the first day, we have an early ferry (9am arrival at Calais). The other half wont be sharing the driving, so it will be all down to me, I plan to drive as far as possible on the first day, find a hotel and stay the night. Lyon seems like an ideal location. This will give me a more relaxed drive the following day.

Days 3 – 10 @ Nice
Once in Nice we will be staying in an apartment for 7 day. Other than the usual holiday activities, I plan to put some time aside for some nice drives. From what I’ve been told there are some amazing roads and places to visit.

Monaco is nearby so the mandatory lap or 10 of the F1 circuit is an obvious choice, however I would like to spend some time in the mountains on the Rally stages. Where could I find some information on their locations?

Are there any other places of interest or things to do during my stay in Nice?

Day 11 Nice > Aosta (250 miles)
We’ve booked a night in Aosta, this is one part of the trip, which I’m really looking forward to.

Days 12 – 13_Aosta > Unknown
Now this is the part of the journey which I have no made plans for, the only restrictions I have is that we must catch the ferry on day 14 at 9 ish. Ideally I would like to stay in a hotel on day 13 which is in close proximity to the ferry 1 – 2 hrs max.

So some suggestions of possible routes, places to stay would be very much appreciated.

Day 14_Calais > Dover > Home


The following information has been given to me by various different people:

- Toll roads cost loads of money
- Pass needed to drive in Switzerland, heavy fine if caught without
- Full replacement buld kit needed, Two warning triangles, First aid kit, possibly deflectors on the lights????
- Toll road speed trap.


So basically I after any advice, tips or suggestions you may have regarding the above.

Many thanks in advance for all advice given

Cheers

[Jimbomofo]

Some fantastic advise there people, it's much appreciated, keep it coming! i will have to review all the suggested roads and places to visit when i get home.