Television presenter Sandi Toksvig embarks on an enchanting railway adventure in her new Channel 4 series, Sandi's Great Riviera Rail Trip, offering viewers a delightful journey along the stunning French south coast that cleverly disguises itself as a literary pilgrimage.
A Bibliophile's Coastal Adventure
The four-part travelogue begins in Marseille, where an exuberant Toksvig immediately sets the tone for the journey ahead. Her genuine enthusiasm shines through as she marvels at the picturesque landscapes, constantly expressing wonder at the region's beauty. Unlike many celebrity travel shows that feel contrived, Toksvig fully embraces the joy of discovery, her infectious laughter and genuine excitement making viewers feel like travelling companions rather than distant observers.
Her first proper stop takes her to Sanary-sur-Mer, where she experiences what every traveller dreams of – waking up to a perfect harbour view from her hotel window. The azure waters and charming boats create an idyllic setting that exceeds even her expectations. Here she meets local craftsmen maintaining the traditional pointus wooden boats, navigating language barriers with good humour and Clouseau-esque French pronunciations that add to the programme's charm.
Uncovering Literary History
The series quickly reveals its true nature as a literary tour in disguise. What begins as a simple railway journey transforms into an exploration of the Riviera's rich literary heritage. Toksvig discovers how Sanary-sur-Mer served as a refuge for intellectual giants during the 1930s, including Aldous Huxley, Bertolt Brecht, and Thomas Mann, who escaped Nazi persecution.
In one particularly moving moment, Toksvig visibly marvels at the thought of Brecht possibly sitting in the very café she visits, composing satirical songs about Hitler to entertain fellow exiles. This connection to literary history clearly resonates deeply with the presenter, who frequently expresses her bookish enthusiasm throughout the journey.
The literary theme continues in Hyères, where Toksvig visits the estate of American author Edith Wharton. Her excitement reaches peak levels here, declaring it "one of the best days of my life" as she explores the gardens and chateau established by the Age of Innocence author between the wars. Her meeting with American arts writer Lanie Goodman adds depth to these literary explorations, though some narration occasionally relies on familiar phrases like describing places as "the beating heart" of intellectual life.
From Bohemian Retreats to Modern Encounters
As the journey progresses to Saint-Tropez, the focus shifts slightly from pure literary exploration to include the town's Bohemian heritage. Toksvig discovers how exclusive beach clubs once hosted counterculture icons like Allen Ginsberg alongside Hollywood stars such as Marlon Brando and Brigitte Bardot.
While some segments, like a boules game with local Frenchmen, feel more conventional for a travel programme, Toksvig's encounter with holidaymakers from Bradford provides a delightful moment of connection. The self-professed QI fans receive an impromptu history lesson about how Saint-Tropez was named after a headless knight, showcasing Toksvig's trademark blend of education and entertainment.
The first leg concludes at a hilltop vineyard where organic rosé, flavoured by warm salt breezes, provides the perfect ending to what many book-loving travellers would consider an ideal day. Throughout the journey, Toksvig's charmingly retro suitcase and practical approach to packing – "I have a theory that France has got shops" – add to the programme's relatable appeal.
Sandi's Great Riviera Rail Trip continues on Channel 4, offering viewers both stunning scenery and intellectual nourishment in equal measure, proving that the best journeys are those that feed both the eyes and the mind.
