Television presenter Sandi Toksvig embarks on an enchanting railway adventure along the French south coast in her new four-part series, Great Riviera Rail Trip, offering viewers a delightful blend of travelogue and literary pilgrimage.
A Bibliophile's Coastal Fantasy
The journey begins in Marseille, where an exuberant Toksvig immediately sets the tone for what proves to be as much a literary exploration as a scenic railway trip. Her first stop in Sanary-sur-Mer reveals the programme's true nature - a stealth literary tour disguised as a conventional travel show.
Toksvig's genuine enthusiasm shines through as she discovers the harbour view from her hotel window, describing it as "slightly more enchanting" than she had imagined. Her interactions with locals, including a charming encounter with a boat maintenance expert, showcase her willingness to bridge language barriers with warmth and humour.
Following Literary Giants' Footsteps
The series reveals its intellectual depth when Toksvig explores how Aldous Huxley, Bertolt Brecht, and Thomas Mann found refuge in Sanary-sur-Mer during the 1930s, escaping Nazi persecution. Her palpable excitement is evident as she imagines Brecht composing satirical songs about Hitler in the very cafes she visits.
In Hyères, the literary theme continues with a visit to the chateau and gardens established by American author Edith Wharton. Toksvig's declaration that "This is one of the best days of my life!" captures the genuine passion she brings to these literary discoveries, encouraging viewers to bring their ice creams along for the tour.
From Bohemian Retreats to Modern Tourism
The journey continues to Saint-Tropez, where the programme briefly shifts from literary exploration to more conventional travelogue territory. While a boules game with local men and sampling the famous tarte tropézienne provide light entertainment, the most memorable moment comes from an unexpected encounter with QI fans from Bradford.
Toksvig redeems the segment with a characteristically educational anecdote about how Saint-Tropez was named after a headless knight, demonstrating her talent for blending entertainment with enlightenment.
The first leg concludes at a hilltop vineyard, where the organic rosé - freshened by warm salt breezes - provides a perfect conclusion to what bookish travellers will recognise as an ideal day. Throughout the journey, Toksvig's retro suitcase and witty asides about French shops add to the programme's charming, intellectual character.
Sandi's Great Riviera Rail Trip continues on Channel 4, offering viewers both stunning coastal scenery and a sophisticated literary journey through one of France's most celebrated regions.
