Saturday 26th August (Day 1)
So the start of our ‘long’ European trip. We are starting by going to ………..Sandringham Camping & Caravan Club. We left around 1045 for the 75 minute trip. Although we could not get on site until 1300 with the need to get lpg, and with potential busy Bank Holiday traffic and the music festival at Sandringham resulting in road closures we thought it sensible to leave early. Horror! Just approaching Wisbech (11 miles) Chris asked if I had locked the car. Well I couldn’t remember doing it so back we went. Well I had but it gave Chris the chance to pick up a cardigan she wanted. Off again at around 1115. Gas was easy to get at Morrisons and then we joined the ‘merry throng’ driving to wherever they were going. We had two bíts of slow traffic; the first around Kings Lyn and the second approaching Sandringham. As I mentioned road closures were inplace and so traffic diversions were signed. It was not a great delay but all traffic had to drive by the right turn to the camp sites / Sandringham and go up to a roundabout and then back again. As we approached the turn (after the added roundabout trip) some wally was trying to ignore all the cones and the no right turn signs! I pointed out the error of his ways. All this meant we were not on site until about 1320. We quickly set up and warmed the curry and cooked the rice for quick lunch before waking the twenty minutes to Sandringham Estate where we were to see Robbie Williams. Well we were there by 1415 with thousands others but still got near to the stage and settled on our car rug. Shame about the rain that started! 1715 saw us entertained by a singer called Dagny. She was Norwegian and yesterday had performed at the Norwegian Royal Palace and tomorrow at Colchester Castle. She was good. She was followed by Mark Owen (from Take That). He was very camp in his jumpsuit but again really good. Then it was Robbie’s turn. He was absolutely brilliant a really polished entertainer and raconteur. He worked the crowd with singing and dancing. By 2245 we were walking back to the camp site, about a mile in the pitch black. Absolutely broken for standing / sitting on the ground for so long.
Sunday 27th August (Day 2)
So a good nights sleep was needed as we were knackered from last night when we got home. So this meant that we did not get up until 0930. A nice shower using the site facilities. Then some time spent drying things out from yesterday. We planned a route to the local village of Castle Rising and the Black Horse pub. We were lucky as it had been closed for many months and only opened a few weeks ago. With a view to support local enterprise we had a drink and then it started to rain. Unfortunately, this meant we were ‘forced’ to drink more! While being ‘brave’ we spoke to many people about the concert and other things which was all good. One conversation was with a lady called, Nicky Day (neé Hills). She worked in the chateaux at Charras in France. Our friend Jo Chessel lives there and they know each other; such a small world! Eventually the rain stopped and we made our way back for steak meal plus the trimmings. Still tired meant bed by 2145.
Monday 28th August (Day 3)
So after a ‘rest’ yesterday we are now ready for The Lightning Seeds, Richard Ashcroft and The Who (with the London philharmonic orchestra). As that was in the afternoon we went for a walk to Wolverton. A pleasant three to four mile stroll. We had some cinnamon bread for breakfast and then at abut 1300 a (small) big boys breakfast so we didn’t have to pay the exorbitant prices in the Sandringham Estate. We left abut 1600 and got into the arena about 1620 to find The Lightning Seeds had started (and very good they were); Richard Ashcroft followed and was average. During his set a helicopter landed with The Who. They started at 2030 and played right through to 2240. At one point they had to pause between tracks as Pete Townsend was having trouble with hisPhone which controlled his hearing aids! The Who and the orchestra were absolutely off the scale. The walk back was through the woods rather than along the road which was much better and on reaching the motorhome, apart from a drink of water, we went straight to bed for an early start tomorrow. (We had already closed all the blinds etc before leaving for the music.)
Tuesday 29th August (Day 4)
We were up before 0800 and showered, ate and then went for the routine of filling and emptying. We were still n the road just after 0900. We had targeted the Canterbury New Dover Road Park & Ride as the stop for tonight which is about 150 miles away. A pleasant easy run arriving at 1245. There were quite a few motorhomes already parked up and a £4 to stopover which included the bus journey to and from the city centre. In addition black and grey waste and fresh water was available (well done to Canterbury Council). We had a light lunch and then went into Canterbury for a few things we needed, one of which was to get a working Data only SIM; which we got with EE and also a new, better, dongle - well we hope so.Back at the motorhome we watched a bit of TV before a meal and then walked over to the pub, The Old Gate Inn, by the P&R for a ‘last’ UK beer. We then had an early night for a prompt start tomorrow.
Wednesday 30th August (Day 5)
So a good nights sleep was hoped for but……… with over thirty motorhomes some left at 0400, 0500; 0600 for their ferry / Chunnel. That said it is a good stopover. Just after 0810 we left for the tunnel and our 1040 train. Arriving at Le Shuttle we were offered an 0950 train so a result. That said there was an issue delaying things and we didn’t leave until 1034. Still over in France and whizzing along by 1115 We had programmed Lyons-La-Forêt to avoid Rouen. It is a bit longer but very a pleasant route. We decided we would arrive too early there to stop so opted for Evreux. As we went over a bridge a La Pont de L’Arche, which goes over the River L’Eure, I remembered there was a pleasant motorhome stop there so we diverted. It is about thirty minutes before Evraux so not too far short of the planned stop. We had a pleasant walk around town and a beer and then paid a visit to the church. It was founded in the 16th century and in need of some tlc but had some great stained glass windows and the organ was a gift from Henry IV. It was a nice couple of hours and then after a meal a restful evening involving planning tomorrow and the start of the International Scrabble Championship which I won narrowly 210:209.
Thursday 31st August (Day 6)
During the night I found I had developed a cold and was ‘bunged up’. I woke with a headache (unusual for me) and it was decided some purchases from a pharmacy was required. After a shower etc I walked into town and bought some croissants and pain au raisin. They were absolutely lovely. While eating there was a loud crunch and some shouting and we looked and saw a German in his car banging the steering wheel. He had turned too soon / too sharply and ripped off the back corner of his caravan. Others rallied round and gaffer taped the corner back together. It was at this point we left for Angers as we were stopping just north of it tonight. We had tried to book the mechanical elephant and animations but it was fully booked (last weekend before the French went back to school). We stopped in a lay-by to discuss options and decided to got to Montreuil-Bellay, Camping Les Nobis D’Anjou, where the COGgers were. A stop for some provisions and lunch and we then arrived about 1430 having driven through some really wet weather. We settled in, amongst the group (they were out somewhere) and as they arrived it was amusing to see their reactions. We had our evening meal and then just sat around with them chatting and catching up.
Friday 1st September (Day 7)
I am still not fully well. After breakfast we strolled up (it really is ‘up’) into town to get a few things from the supermarket. Then we went to the centre of the town looking for a pharmacy. Not finding one we went to the tourist information who informed it was just further on from the supermarket. We sat and had a coffee before walking up to the pharmacy and then returned to the site. A lazy late morning chatting before a light lunch. 1400 saw a lot of us gathered for a short walk to the canoes. We had a good time and a few of us took a dunking in the river. 1700 and we were back. We had a snack and at 1900 walked up for a medieval meal with about forty others. After a meal we all, well not all of us, adjourned to the local bar (2 for 1). We eventually got back around midnight.
Saturday 2nd September (Day 8)
We did not get up until gone 0930. A simple breakfast and then a sit and relax. That said 1100 saw a group of about thirty of us gather on our bikes for a cycle ride to Saint-Martin-de-Sanzay where we had a beer and watched as a wedding party gathered. By 1330 the return was to occur but a group of six off us decided to cycle past the site to Le Coudray-Macourd. Last year we went to the tea room there and it was really quirky and lovely. Again, last year a group of us cycled there but it was closed. This time it was open and all who came with us agreed it was a trip worth the effort. A lovey quirky cafe (Roseanne) run by an older couple. Food to die for and great beer as well. The lager you part poured into your glass and then ‘swished’ the bottle to include the yeast sediment. We spent about two hours there before the cycle back, having covered just over twenty miles in total. Then it was ‘great gathering’ for drink, a chat and a quiz or two. We left the group for our evening meal before just sitting and chilling in the warm evening air.
Sunday 3rd September (Day 9)
So off today to join the others at Ill de Ré. It is first of a “Happy Birthday’ to Chris 67!. Breakfast was a bacon and sausage roll. Then we slowly packed and by 1030 moved off. A short hop to begin with to the Super U for a few ‘essentials’. That said they do not get a delivery on a Sunday and it looked like they have been burgled. Off again for a three hour trip to Camping Flowers Le Bel Air. An easy run with a stop for lunch. At the stop I discovered our bike warning board had decided to leave us somewhere along the route. And then the fun began. Arriving at the site we had to park away from the camp site or block the site access. Chris went to book us in and was asked to pay. (We had paid in full!) We set up on the allocated site and then went to query the fact we had paid twice. Well we had, but they had booked us on twice; one paid and one not! So a refund was duly given. Then we were given the wrong pitch! So a quick pack up and a move. Set up again, which sticky as it was 32 degrees and very humid. We felt a beer was deserved and so sat and enjoyed one (or two). 1800 saw the ‘Chausson group’ welcomed for drink (rubbish sangria). Later we all mooched around the motorhomes and went to bed around 2330
Monday 4th September (Day 10)
Another hot one in the offing (yesterday was 33 degrees). After breakfast we all (well a lot of us) gathered on our bikes for a ride to Saint-Martin-De-Ré. It was only about three miles. Then, for some reason, they all stood around outside the town chatting. Chris and I left them to it and cycled in and parked up by the harbour. Here a coffee was had before an explore of the town - mainly shops. We did climb the clock tower in the church for a view over the town, harbour and across to mainland France. On the return we tried Decathlon for a saddle bag for Chris. (She wants a ‘très joli’ one and not just black - no luck. Then a bit of food shopping before a swim in the site pool. Chicken for tea and then we agreed to meet a group by La Flute’s harbour for a drink. We found them without much difficulty and were soon in the groove until 2030 when the bar closed (!). We relocated to another bar for a last drink and a few bowls of chips. It was about 2230 when we sauntered back up the lane to the site.
Tuesday 5th September (Day 11)
After breakfast we had agreed to go to Le Bois-Plage-De-Ré and the largest market on the island. The main group were going to a beach at Sainte-Marie-de-Ré. So Chris decided we would join in with them. A short cycle ride where, at one point a car stopped as usual to allow us to cycle across the road. While doing so he slowly, ever so slowly rolled back in the car behind which was furiously sounding its horn! Having got to the beach it was quite disappointing, quite stoney. A bit of a group discussion and off we went. Thirty minutes saw us securing our bikes at ……. Le Bois-Plage-De-Ré. The market was still going but they were getting ready to pack up. We selected a café and Chris and I had a ‘gallette complet’ and a beer. A return to the bikes and a cycle down to the beach which was much nicer. Off into the Bay of Biscay waters. Cool not cold with big rolling waves. After half an hour or so we stood on the beach drying. We all wanted a coffee and one of the group, from another campsite which was nearby, suggested the bar outside their campsite. We all followed and it was shut. Saying our goodbyes to them we made our way home looking for a coffee haunt. We never found one and so settled for a swim in the pool - even the site bar was shut. We then went for a short walk to a supermarket where we picked up some prawns for tea.
Wednesday 6th September (Day 12)
The plan is quite a busy day. A prompt breakfast the we met six others at 1000. Off for a cycle ride. The first stop was at Ars-en-Ré (I kid you not). Here we stopped for coffee before setting off again for the lighthouse at Le Gillieux called Phare des Baleines. Here we had a meal, moules and frites for us. Then we walked up to the lighthouse; four euros each and the the pleasure of 257 steps to the top. Great views and we then stood with our legs apart and could feel the structure swaying. Back to terra ferma and we met with the others/ Some wanted to return home but other wanted to go to La Pantache (the end of the island). So off to Pantache it was. The return was through a bird reserve where we saw many breeds including the avroset and egret. On the route back we stopped at St Martin-en-Ré for a beer before finally getting back after 1900 having coated 42 miles.
Thursday 7th September (Day 13)
We opted for an ‘admin / lazy’ day today. So the morning was mainly taken with cleaning and tidying. Then it was sit and enjoy the sunshine. A bit of chatting, reading and a few games of Rummicub. The evening was a ‘COGgers’ get together for a knockout boule competition. They play ’English’ rules where the players take it in turns to throw irrespective of who is closer! (Naff!) Chris had a bad back so couldn't play and it was then an ideal time for me to offer my services as a referee. Everyone enjoyed a couple of hours of boule. Bed followed for all.
Friday 8th September (Day 14)
A cool start to the day but still in the 20’s. After breakfast we had a chat and decided to go to Bois-Plage-en-Ré to the market. A short ride of about forty minutes. We secured the bikes and walked the market and I escaped unscathed as Chris found nothing to purchase. We sat in a café for a coffee and to watch the world go by. We thought we would then ride to Loix, one of the few places we have not been on the island. As we left the market Chris found a dress! Then it was off to Loix across the salt marshes and, in part the cycle path was quite narrow. Loix was small and pleasant. Here we shared a hot panini and beer which was very good and quite cheap. We then were making our way back to the site when we cycled by an oyster bar overlooking the sea. While we don’t eat oysters we stopped for a beer and ‘pin dropped’ our location to Martin and Caroline who, as it turned out, were about fifteen minutes away. We all soaked the sun and view over a nice beer. Onward then to Saint-Martin-en-Ré as Caroline wanted to look at the shops. A quick Intermarché on the way home, where I fell off my bike and apart from a bruised toe appear to have escaped ok.. 1730 saw us in the pool for a cool down. The evening meal, chatting and bed followed.
Saturday 9th September (Day 15)
So a cool start to the day. A walk over to the local Bricomarché to see if we can replace the red / white striped bike board that we lost on the way to the site. We couldn’t find a bike section. A few items in Intermarché and return to the site. On the way back we met Glynn and Teresa. He stated that there was a bicycle section in Bricomarché so we returned. While we found it, they did not have said board we were after. Back to the site and we then cycled to Decathlon and then a L’Eclerc. Neither had a board (we have now given up). After lunch we had a ‘goodbye’ meeting of all the COGers at the (closed) bar. All were there except two of the group who had covid. A group photo and a big thank you to Nigel and Jackie Paris. Nigel has a bad back and will not be organising any more meets. Who will take over? We we will have to wait and see. We had arranged a ‘Thank you’ collection for them and Jackie was moved to tears. Afterwards six of us rode to La Flotte and went for a swim in the sea which was so refreshing. An evening meal and then we sat at the bar area and watched the sun set.
Sunday 10th September (Day 16)
We said our goodbyes yesterday; so we did it again today! By 1000 we had left and driven the 18kms to our next stop. An aire at Port Neuf just outside La Rochelle. (€13 for all services with electric). We walked into La Rochelle which was about forty minutes along the promenade. A coffee and a walk around the old town was next. Lunch was a shared filled roll and then a beer overlooking the port while people watching, a much underrated activity we think. The port was a major one in the past and Henry II was the driving force to build it when he married Eleanor of Aquitaine. More walking around before returning to the aire and sitting in the shade in the 30+ degrees before an evening meal and bed.
Monday 11th September (Day 17)
Well, not the best of nights sleep. Around 0200 we had a storm to equal most others; almost biblical. Thunder and lightening and the ground shook. In addition, there were a thousand monkeys using the motorhome roof for a drum! About two hours it went on for and we had to batten down everything. Morning, however, was bright and pleasant. After breakfast we made our way onward. This is a good value, safe, stop for a city. We had another short run of about 90 miles with a food stop on the way, and some heavy rain also, arriving at a Camping-Car Park in St Jean D’Angély. It was situated just on the outskirts and on a small lake / river. After sitting in the sunshine having lunch a few spots of rain fell so chairs etc were put away. It was still 25 degrees. The rain only lasted a short while and did not amount to much so we were soon walking into the town which has some pretty bits. That said it was not somewhere to go out of your way to visit; an old abbey, a clock tower / city gate; 15th century half timbered houses; some wash houses and an art-Deco cinema opened on 1931 (that took only 76 days to build). The town was bought in 1199 by Eleanor of Aquitaine as part of her dowry when she married Henry II. A simple meal at the motorhome and then round two of the International Rummicub championship. I didn’t go well for the male side of the championship. From 2 - 0 up to 3 - 2 down!
Tuesday 12th September (Day 18)
After two short hops we had opted for a longer four hour run. We therefore were up and and on the road by 0930. A good journey which was mainly in the sunshine. A brief stop to stretch our legs and then the final push. Chris saw the sign for Evaux-Les-Bains and thought that was our destination. We stopped briefly and looked and thought we would give it a try as it was about a 35km shorter journey. We pulled into the town, parked up, strolled in and quickly decided it was not for us. Nothing wrong in itself but a bit small with little to do /see. So onward again to our original destination Bernis-les-Bains. This detour, while adding a bit of total journey time, proved to put us on a lovely route away from the main Route National and along country lanes with both heathers and trees starting to adopt their autumnal colours making it very pretty indeed. We parked up at an aire, adjacent to a camp site, and had full services including toilet and shower for €9.50. What a bargain! We strolled into the town to the Tourist Information where a lovely lady gave us lots of local suggestions. One reason for coming here was for the 'thermal waters’ and we went to ‘La Neriades’ for a 90 minute dip in the water. Not cheap at €14 per person. Whether it was the hot water, the water jets, a good soak, or some healing qualities of the waters itself my hands are now the best they have been for weeks. Back to the aire, via a G+T / Ricard stop, and a very simple evening meal of fresh bread and ‘bits’. While eating the sky rumbled and looked ominous but it came to nothing. A lazy evening before bed.
Wednesday 13th September (Day 19)
So the decision was another day here and a cycle into Montluçon. I went and paid for our extra night and, while doing so, the heavens opened. Chris hadn’t realised I had taken the bicycles off and by the time I ran back I was (a) soaked through and (b) so were the padded bike seats. We sat and waited as the rain stopped, started, stopped, started over and repeated several more times. After coffee we decided to ‘go for it’. A good decision as it turned out. A gentle 6+km ride along a disused railway, all downhill, and we arrived at Montluçon in lovely sunshine which remained for the rest of the day. First impressions were not overly good, in that it was a typical city in any country, ie quite unremarkable and, dare I say, bland . We eventually locked our bikes by the tourist Information office (closed for lunch). This was on the outskirts of ‘La Cité Medieval’. A walk around this area was lovely and all you would expect. I had read about the MuPop Museum all related to music through the ages. For €10 a couple with a gadget to select items to hear we sent a coupe of hours, and could have spent much longer, looking at the transition and development of music. Hurdy gurdys, bagpipes, brass instruments, guitars, accordions, other instruments also. Then how music itself developed from the early medieval times to pop, blues, jazz and much more. It was the best €10 we have spent in a long time. Montluçon = ok; Montluçon old town = pretty good; Montluçon MuPop museum = absolutely fantastic and well worth a detour. Soon after, we cycled back (all up hill) the 6.5km to Bernis-les-Bains where we sat and soaked up the last of the sun’s rays. A good end, weatherise, to the day despite ‘moderate’ thunderstorms and warnings of property damage’. We walked the short distance into town and had pizza. It was really a great pizza, I am sure I have had better but if so it was a long time ago. While eating, hundreds if not thousands of Ravens flew into the trees outside the restaurant for their bed time. For a while it was very noisy. A stroll back and then bed ourselves.
Thursday 14th September (Day 20)
We had a good few hours travel today with the need to shop for food (for our stay with Ash and family) and also to get diesel. By about 1000 we were off. Very quickly we found a good Intermarché for the food but the diesel was expensive. The satnav was programmed for ‘no tolls’ so were surprised to find we were on a ‘Peage’. While only costing us 90 cents it was annoying it occurred. A stop much later on for a spot of lunch at a lovely small aire de picnic and then off again. We passed a fuel station with diesel at €1.87 but were passed it before we could turn in. I said the prophetic words “I hope we do not regret that”. We then had the low fuel light up and programmed in a fuel station on the route, arriving with less than 50km in the tank. It was at €1.92 per litre so we filled up only half a tank. The exit was narrow with a tight turn and a broken fence. I caught the rear of the motorhome on the fence causing minor but annoying damage (prophetic words indeed). We finished the day in the sunshine parked in a vineyard for free with wine tasting thrown in. That said it would be rude not to buy five litres of quite passable wine for €22. We are here with, originally, three other motorhomes but later three more arrived. Good business acumen for the small wine producer.
Friday 15th September (Day21)
So today we make it to Prangins to see Ash, Hayley and the grandchildren. We left about 1000 for the four hour drive. On the way we filled up with diesel as it is much cheerer in France than in Switzerland and did a final meat shop. Then a very pleasant meandering road through hills, valleys and mountains to Switzerland. We need to enter via a manned customs border to get a ‘Heavy Vehicle Permit’. The route took us in through GEX (not manned). This meant we had to drive along the motorway passing Geneva out into France and back in through the same Geneva Border as we knew this would be manned. Next issue making someone understand what we needed. Eventually we paid and got the permit. Then the drive to Prangins where parked up outside their address and walked to meet the girls from school. What a welcome they gave us. Returning to their house we loaded up the car and drove to Lac Leman for a swim and play n the water. Ash joined us after 1800. Then we had a pleasant meal sat by the lake in the sunshine before heading home. A quick chat and then bed.
Saturday 16th September (Day 22)
So we were in the house before 0900. We watched a bit of TV while things were being sorted (and Chris did some washing - much needed). Late morning we went to some local woods behind the rugby ground. We had equipped ourselves with food, charcoal and a grill. We found a clearing and cleared away the dead leaves. Then placed a couple of logs for the grill to be supported. We lit the charcoal and the girls were impatient to start cooking but had to wait. Ash got some sticks and sharpened them into points for the sausages to go on. We all then cooked our sausages and ate them in bread. We then went for a stroll in the woods, with some complaining from the girls that their legs hurt. Back at the cars and we drove to the nearby farm to see the cows. Then to the ‘pick your own flowers’ and home. Here we had a raclet quite early. The girls then ‘went cooking’ in the garden using some of the bits of flowers and grass. We all had to sit outside where we had ‘mint’ tea, and ‘soup’. Then it was bath and bedtime for the girls and Ash, Chris and I played Exploding Kittens.
Sunday 17th September (Day 23)
So today we were joined in the motorhome bed by the grandchildren. A nice treat. Then when we went into the house for savoury pancakes. Hayley bought this would be done in the motorhome as she does not realise the lack of space for such a meal.Due to this she was not in a good mood. We then played card games for a couple of hours before it was decided we would cycle down to the lake. There is a women professional cycle race there. It took time to get the bikes sorted and then to cycle down. It was a big event with TV coverage, helicopters and thousands of people, In addition, most sports were there for people to try; chess, rugby, shooting, aikido, basketball; climbing and many many more. Then there were food and drink outlets it was a real sporting festival. We locked the bikes and got to the roadway with a few minutes to spare for the main riders to whizz through. At one point the girls and Hayley went for a swim. Then it was a stroll around the event tents. Both grandchildren took part in some gymnastics, wall climb and pistol shooting. Ash left to start the evening meal and we all followed on soon after. I used the bike power to push Chloé up the steep hill. It wasn’t long before we ate and then the girls went on the trampoline until it was beyond dark. So bed for them was around 2115. By the time we were in bed the thunder was rumbling and wet weather was clearly on the way.
Monday 18th September (Day 24)
The night was a noisy thunder, lightening and heavy rain. Today Ash, Chloé and Olive are off work / school. That said the forecast was heavy rain for most of the day. So we stayed in and played games and Ash prepared a couple of curries for the evening meal. Around 1600 the weather brightened enough for the girls to go on the trampoline. Chris went later on to read stories to the girls before bed and came down with them both ‘asleep’. By now I had finished the curry and rice Just as we were dishing up food Olive woke up and Hayley disappeared returning later to eat on her own. Bed was around 2230 and agin the sky was rumbling with the threat of ran again; which indeed did happen during the night.
Tuesday 19th September (Day 25)
We were up ‘early’ to walk the girls to school for 0830. Back home we had croissants and then a long chat with Hayley about issues she was dealing with. Eventually Chris & Hayley turned to chores and I spent the morning looking at options for our journey when we leave. The current thoughts are a few stops in Switzerland and onto Germany. We had a picky bits for lunch and then we cycled to a local store to try and replace their washing line and pegs. We only managed the pegs. Back at the house we soon left for the school and walked them into the village for ice cream. That meant back indoors by 1600. Chloé then went to ballet with Hayley and we stayed in and ‘did ’things’. Due to children going to bed late we did not eat until almost 2100.
Wednesday 20th September (Day 26)
Up again to walk the grandchildren to school and then Chris and I walked into Nyon for a coffee, returning in time ti pick them up from school at 1155 as they only have a half day today. We then cooked pasta in the motorhome for them and taught Olive how to play Exploding Kittens. The afternoon Hayley tool Olive to a friends for a ‘party’ and Chloé stayed with us and we played games and planted bulbs. Then Chloé and the two of us cycled to the local park and Chloé negotiated the first roundabout she had ever cycled (so we did four). After the evening meal the usual ‘go to bed in five minutes’ which was sixty occurred and we were in bed around 2200.
Thursday 21st September (Day 27)
The day stared with Choé and Olive ‘waking us up in the motorhome. They wanted to cook toast in the Motorhome . This meant they were dressed and ready for school in good time, a feat in itself. A walk to school and then lunchtime we picked them up as Ash and Hayley went for a meal. Having fed them we took them back to school and again collected them after school. The evening was games playing until Chloé had to leave for ‘Circus School’. More time with Olive. The evening was a BBQ (cooked by me under an umbrella). Slowly slowly they went to bed and slowly slowly the rain got heavier. The forecast for tomorrow is more of the same.
Friday 22nd September (Day 28)
Well a wet night but we woke to a pleasant day. We walked Chloé to school (Olive was ‘too tired’). After breakfast we finished our packing to leave and by 0945 were off. Gruyère’s and an overnight stop was our selection. We arrived after just over an hour. To park overnight we had to use an app called ‘Easypark’. Easy it may have been if our phones worked! We walked into town and spoke to the lady in the Tourist Information. Easypark was the only way to stay overnight but it would work around the Tourist office. we left and went to the Geiger museum. This is the main who, amongst other things, designed the alien on the film ‘Alien’. What a weird mind he had, not just weird but, for some, depraved and obsessive. Teenagers had to go in with an adult and even then one section was curtained off. An unusual experience and, if in Gruyère’s, not to be missed. Across the road we had a coffee in the Geiger Café. Interesting is all I can say. We walked up to the Chateau but decided it was for another time. The church and then the Gruyere cheese factory for a tour. well they only do it the morning and that was up to 1230 and now it was 1400! We decided to go to a stop at Freiburg about half an hour away. We parked up next to the river but in a tight space. A walk around the town, with an extremely challenging ‘up’. Having looked around we decided that while pleasant we could do better. We left for Rhein Camping Waldshutt in Tiengen which was just over the border into Germany. So ‘just over the border’ that our mobiles still think we are in Switzerland. It is a German ‘aire’ (Stellplatze). The journey was a tad challenging with rain and the worse traffic to date experienced (almost reminiscent of the UK). We arrived at abut 1845 and found the place really busy but there were about four places left. We parked up and went to pay and found the reception closed at 1900, we made it by two minutes. For €16 you get a 9m x 11m plot surrounded by a hedge (in places) with grey and black facilities, EHU was extra but still cheap. Back to Billina and chips, burgers and ratatouille was prepared before a nightcap and bed.cool down.
Saturday 23rd September (Day 29)
Some rain though the night but a bright start. That said when I asked Chris the time it was 0653 Sometime later when I asked it was ……0653 …. actually it was 0920. Up and over to the reception for the croissants then a clear the decks and off. Back into Switzerland to Neuhaussen am Rhienfall about 25 miles away. This is the waterfall on the Rhine that Sherlock Holmes met his end. We parked up and rushed down to view. It was a spectacular view and worth the trip. I though the parking was expensive (it turns out the parking wasn’t but the aires were). So we opted for the shorter 15 mint boat trip and went right up almost into the falls getting wet from the mist that was rising. (The other trip was 30 minutes and audio described or would drop you off in the middle of the falls to climb a rock.) I think we did the right thing. Back to the car park and only €5 for the hour. We then were off to Lake Constance in Germany. As we crossed the border diesel was 1.87/l the cheapest we had seen it by far so we filed up. A stop at Lidl for supplies and then to an aire on the Lake Constance. As we journeyed diesel was only 1.77/l! We needed a stop for lunch and found a pleasant little place. While eating the rain absolutely hammered it down. Arriving at the aire we were not impressed and, indeed, as we missed it first time we had been through the town which also was not inspiring. A quick chat and we moved on to an aire at Überlingen about eight miles further. This was more to our liking. We paid at a machine and registered online as our mobiles are back working now we are in the EU. We tried to watch the England .v. Chile rugby but the dongle refused to work and asked for a password which it did not accept. I then spent over an hour on the phone to EE. It started with them claiming we owed £52! While it took a long time and a chat with a very nice gent we eventually got it sorted (we did owe £19). By the time this was resolved the match was almost over. So we walked down into the town and found a restaurant by the lakeside where we had pork schnitzel chips and rice with a bottle of wine which was dearer than the two meals. That said the meal and wine were great. We then faced a long uphill walk from the lake to the stellplatze where we were parked. We got in just before the rain returned. A glass of wine, South Africa .v. Ireland on the tv and a nightcap. A good day,
Sunday 24th September (Day 30)
Another slow start (not up until 0900). A totally blue sky with not a cloud in sight. That said it is a cool start but clearly the promise of better things to come. After breakfast we had decided to cycle to Meersburg which is about nine miles away on the lake. Like the French the Germans have cycle routes well sorted and the drivers are most considerate which is totally at odds with the British attitude of vehicle drivers. A most pleasant cycle partly along the lake to Meersburg. Here we secured the bikes and walked along the lake side and then climbed to the old town at the top of a steep hill. It is a lovely town and worth the effort. We sat in the sure outside the ‘new castle’ for a coffee and were entertained by a saxophonist who was really good. Then a general stroll around the town. We bought two ‘seniors’ tickets for the old castle. What a great experience. Most of it was as near original as you would hope (the toilets though were five star). To bring the castle to life there were locals dressed in authentic clothing doing chores that they would have done way back when. People making nets, chain mails working forge. Even a man writing with ink and quill wearing wooden glasses. It was a couple of hours of thorough enjoyment. Before leaving we went to the café and had some french onion soup with toast (croutons) and cheese. Again a real treat. We made our way back down to our bikes and started the return journey. About halfway back, on the hill, was a church and we cycled up to it. Not knowing what to expect I left Chris guarding the bikes and stuck my nose in. That was enough to lock the bikes up and go in as it was absolutely stunning. (No picture allowed so I only got three or four!) As we left there was a group men in ‘uniform’. Clearly a choir. Asking if they were going to sing n the Basilica Birnau and when they responded with ‘Yes’ and ‘Now” in English. So back in we went and were treated to twenty minutes or so of lovely male voice choir music. Continuing on we stopped in Überlingen and sat in the sunshine at the front of a bar by the lake doing two things we love; having a cold beer (well lager) and people watching. The it was a long slow slog up the hill to the motorhome.
Monday 25th September (Day 31)
So off to Zech (near Lindau). After breakfast we queued to do the waste, poo and fill with water. We just made it in front of two mammoth four wheel drive trucks. Off we went around 1030. A short drive of only forty plus miles. It took longer than anticipated due to a traffic queue and, as usual, no reason for it. We missed the turning for the stellplatze and quickly were at the Austrian border as it was only 41km away. We eventually arrived around 1230 and we paid our €20 for the night. A lady came to check and I had done it wrong but she was very understanding and changed our ticket. We then opted to walk to Lindau which is about three miles and had a very pleasant walk along the lakeside. Lindau now spills onto the mainland but in 882 it was an island (and still is). Lindau means ‘island of Linden trees’. We walked around the edge of the island and through the centre using a guide we collected at the information office. The Old Town Hall was a real ‘wow’. A pleasant time. Chris then wanted a coffee sitting at a table in the sun. This proved to be a challenge which we eventually achieved. The coffee changed to beer. Sitting in the sun ‘people watching’ was really nice and we spent more than an hour doing so. After a while an old couple walked by and the man was clearly struggling with crutches. Chris, for whatever reason, offered them a seat at our table. They were not intending to stop and sit but the man clearly relished the rest so they did. They had a flat in Austria and live in Brentwood and so we had a good chat. Around 1700 we said our goodbyes and walked back for a simple prawn mayo salad and a drink or two. Then another round of international Scrabble putting me 3-3 being that I recovered and won. Tomorrow we are off to the lower end of the ‘Romantic Route’ at Fussen.
Tuesday 26th September (Day 32)
Not a quick start but quicker than of late. Before we left I rang one of the three sites at Fussen to book a place. (As it turns out it was not necessary but all the info suggest it was, even our neighbour asked if we had secured a place. A really pleasant drive with no pressure and we were approaching the mountains. We arrived at around 1130 at Warhmobilsseen Fussen and settled in, we then made a couple of rolls as a picnic and walked into Fussen. (We have opted for one night on EHU as everything needs charging and we also need to balance our gas as in a few days we will replace the gas bottle but it needs to be empty.) A nice picnic in the park overlooking (just) the River Lech which s a tributary of the Rhine. Then into the old town. It is not big place, like many old towns, but very pretty. A visit to the High Palace which had 3D paintings on the walls to make it look like it had pillars and windows. Next the St Many Monastery which was very Baroque and beautiful. A general walk around the old town followed which (there is a clear habit forming here) involved people watching and beer. More walking and, well, a visit to Woolworths! The clothing and other items in here were so cheap it was ridiculous. We then strolled back and, after a Aldi visit, sat in the sunshine before a simple evening meal of omelette, using up fridge ‘stuff’.
Wednesday 27th September (Day 33)
So after breakfast we made up a small picnic as we are out on our bikes. We decided to cycle to ……….. Austria! Sounds a challenge but in reality it is only about four miles. Having entered Austria we had opted for a cycle over one of the mountains, about 1200m high, and back into Germany ending at Schloss Hohenschwangau (shloss means castle) and also Schloss Neuschwangau. But before that we had a lovely cycle up the side of the mountain stopping as we started on the downward journey and sat on a bench overlooking a lake (Alpsee). The silence was deafening as we ate our lunch. Mountains rising behind the lake covered in trees just beautiful. A short ride down to Schloss Hohenschwangau and we parked the bikes up and went for a coffee. We then walked up to Schloss Neuschwangau. This is the caste that Walt Disney based his castle in Disneyland on. The similarities are obvious. We tried to book a visit to it but even attempting it early September we could not get tickets until the end of October. In some ways it was just as well as they have quite a bit of building restoration going on and some parts are closed. We had managed to book tickets for Schloss Hohenschwangau for 1610 a tour in English. To get up to the castle we took a horse and carriage, a fifteen minute plod. Five minutes before we were due to go in I noticed that the QR Code on my mobile was for only one person! I could prove I had paid for two people with the Metro account app. It took nearly ten minutes to sort out and we almost missed the tour. What followed was an interesting 40 minutes. After it was over we walked back down and cycled the four miles back to the site arriving about 1740. Almost sixteen miles today. A quick wash and change and then the twenty minutes walk into Füssen where we had a meal. Not the best of service from the waiter so no tip. It was almost 2030 when we got back to the warmth of the motorhome (it is chilling down of an evening now). Tomorrow we start driving the ‘Romantic Route’.
Thursday 28th September (Day 34)
So a quick shop for a couple of items, shower etc and then off. As stated we are moving north on the ‘Romantic Route’. Our first stop was not far at Steingarden. A pilgrimage location. We parked up and nothing was obvious. Intending to walk to the church we spoke to an old man whose English made our German seem rubbish. He gave us directions and informed us there was a good car park there. Just as well as we drove over 6km to it. This location is known as the Weiskircke, a pilgrimage church and clearly one that, in the height of the season, would be busy and the car park was large. A spectacular place we thought and that did indeed prove to be the case. The interior was absolutely beautiful and very gothic. After a while we moved on. Our destination was on the outskirts of Ausburg at Freidland. On arriving we were less than impressed and, indeed, didn’t realise how big Ausburg was. We may have missed a treat but, not being city people, we gave it a miss. On we went to Schloss Halberg. On the way we filled with AdBlue which was much needed. We drove up to the castle (Schloss) Harlberg (at Harlberg) and Chris commented that there was no way a motorhome could stop here. Well she was proved wrong. A smashing level car park in the shadow of the castle and at €8 a night with electric. After lunch we walked down to the town (150 steps). On the way down there was scenes from various fairy tales; Rumplestilkskin, Cinderella etc indeed at almost every turn was something to catch out attention. A walk around the town and a beer by the river before taking the challenge of the return climb. We then sat out in the sun until it disappeared and our evening meal called us. The evening was finished with some rugby.
Friday 29th September (Day 35)
So a really quiet peaceful night. After breakfast, and proving to the man that we had paid our €8 ticket for parking and EHU, we left. A long journey ahead of us to Nördlingen of almost 20kms including a detour. We arrived at the Stellplatze on the outside of the ring road and commenced parking up. As we did one of the other vans moved off giving us parking with a nice grass area beside us we could use. Again only €7.50 for the 24 hours but extra for electricity. €1.50 for 1KWH. How many of those do we need? We will see. Off then into the city / town. It is completely encircled by a well with ramparts you can walk. A visit to the Tourist Information to get the map and then ‘walk the tourist route’. All round there were pigs outside shops and houses (not real). The story we found out was this. In 1440 a woman was getting a jug of beer for her husband (good lass). She found a pig by a gate bumping against it. The gate was unlocked. She loved it and called out “So,G’sell,So” (basically all is well). It appears that a count and his army had paid some guards to leave it unlocked to take the town by night - which clearly failed. The truth of this is not known but the pig is now a treasured part of the town’s history and in 1440 two guards were recorded as being executed for treason. To this day the call ‘All is well’ is still made from 2200 to 2400. A good tale. The walk took us around the places to see and we had a nice coffee and roll at one of the many bakeries. A climb up the Daniel’s tower, part of St Saviours church, gave a good view the surround (346 steps). Apparently we could see the crate that a major meteorite caused 15 million years ago *we didn’t see it. Along the ramparts we found (thanks to Gill and Dave) a cafe so had a pleasant beer overlooking the town. A quick shop for breakfast on our return to the motorhome and then a G+T to relax. After the evening meal we went to the Irish bar for a Guinness but it was still very ‘German’ and not like an Irish bar we have been in around Europe. Back at the motorhome and more issues with EE and the dongle. All sorted but again each of the three occasions we missed at least the first half of the rugby .
Saturday 30th September (Day 36)
Up bright and breezy for a drive ending in Dinkelsbühl. We were off before 1000 having filled and emptied etc. Our first stop was Wallestein all of four miles away. We parked up and walked a bit but it was a ‘one horse town (street) so we quickly left. A further fifteen or so miles and we were at our destination for the day. The first stellplatze we found was near to one of the town gates but the spaces were all too small. Off we went to option number two and this was ideal. We parked up made a picnic (wraps) and walked the ten minutes into town. As is normally the case we started at the Tourist Office first and got a map and idea of what there is to see. It is a walled town again, like Nördlingen, and the buildings are lovely. A walk around the suggested route saw us pass the hospital (1280); Cathedral (1220); Several gates in the walls (the oldest 1300); armoury (16th c); new town hall (1733) and much more. We stopped for coffee and then a bit later ate our picnic in the town square. We had been trying for several days to find a post box and still we have not (but see further down). Back at the motorhome we discussed food arrangements for the next few days as we thought Sunday the shops would be closed (correct). So off we went again to an Edeka supemarket to purchase a few items. On the way we found a letterbox! Then, having returned, we sat out in the sunshine and just chilled out. We had opted for a meal out tonight and so what better place in Bavaria, Germany than the Taj Mahal! We had a smashing meal, slightly different from a UK Indian but just as good. A slow walk back through the market place with everything lit up and back for rugby Scotland .v. Romania.
Sunday 1st October (Day 37)
So another short drive today of about thirty miles to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Our plan was to spend two night there at a campsite (campingplatz Tauberromantic). The stop today was for some clothes washing and tomorrow in town, about 2km away up hill. Well plan B came into effect. We moved to a Stellpplatz Rothenburg Parking P2. €12 a night and we were lucky to find a space. So the washing is delayed. We walked into town and using the Tourist map walked around. Lunch was Currywurst and Chips for me and bratwurst for Chris. The we walked along the ramparts and climbed one of the towers. Eventually we returned to the motorhome and sat in the glorious sunshine. That said we found a motorhome had shoe horned next to us and we could just open our hab door. Many more motorhomes drove in and around and then left for elsewhere. It is a really busy site. After a stir fry tea we watched Australia .v. Portugal not a great match. Then back into town to see it lit up. It was a bit of a disappointment. Outside the Rathaus (town hall) there we saw about a hundred people sitting on the steps. They were waiting for the ‘Night Watchman’ an English speaking guide. We joined in for about twenty minutes. One interesting point was that, before 1871, the distance from Rothenburg to Nuremberg was different to the distance from Nerumburg to Rothenburg. That is because, in Germany, there were 400 principalities and each used differing measurements. Back to the motorhome and the South Africa .v. Tonga rugby game.
Monday 2nd October (Day 38)
So today we move to the end of the ‘Romantic Route’ (or do we?) Shortly after 1000 we are off and stopped almost immediately at an Edeka supermarket. A quick (ish) shop and off for the 50km drive to Wurzburg. We arrived about 1120 and parked up in what can only be described as a chaotic car / motorhome car park. We walked into town and got the map with ‘what to see / do’. Off we went. Wurzburg is a big city and a magnet for tourists, thousands, so not really up our street. Before going into town we booked a camp site near to where we were exchanging the gas bottle but they would not let us in until 1500. In the city we almost got run down by a trolley bus at one point. An apple pie and cream for lunch and a chat and we decided this was not a place for us. I identified a stellplatz about thirty miles away on the River Main in a small village. So we paid for parking and left. A slight detour was forced upon us as the road was closed by a major accident but this delayed us only a few minutes. We arrived about 1430 and settled in at Freudenberg Municipal Stelplatz, all of €6 for the night. Electrics an extra €2 but we could not access that as the place was busy. We then sat overlooking the river watching the boats, both large and small, pass by over a beer or two in lovely sunshine - by now the Doom Bar was now all gone! Chris washed a few items out to ensure we could get home with clean clothes (ferry booked for Tuesday 10th October at noon). Another decision was to eat in the town as the reviews suggested good food. The main two places; one closed for a private function and the other at least a 60 minute wait. Back we went for steak and all the trimmings. We have been running our gas down as on Wednesday we were exchanging the gas bottle at a good saving (over £140) and it needs to be empty. Well, having cooked the evening meal the inevitable happened and the gas ran out, before the washing up even. A ‘lick and a promise’ tomorrow’s on the cards! We are fortunate to have a gas system to allow us to BBQ away from the motorhome so we used this for hot water to wash up.
Tuesday 3rd October (Day 39)
An overcast day in the offing. After breakfast we had the ‘lick and a promise’, dressed and left for Monzingen where tomorrow we hope to change our gas bottle. We trundled along the route quite happily with no rush as the reception did not open until 1500! We had previously discussed that today is a German holiday but Chris could find no record of this on Google. It was a holiday though and every shop, bar, restaurant etc was shut. (The evening meal might be a problem.) We were gaily following the directions of the satnav when we hear “in three kilometres take the ferry”! Yes, a ferry across the river Rhine for €12. Getting onto the ferry I grounded at the back but getting off was ok - no damage that I can see. We stopped just short of the campsite for lunch and then, as we drove into Monzigen, it tipped it down. We sat outside Camping Nahemühle at 1400 and at 1500 the reception door opened. we were quickly set up and started getting hot water for this mornings breakfast and lunch and the heavens again opened. That said the area has not much to offer unless the weather is good so we stayed in and cleaned the inside of the motorhome. The site itself is mainly permanent set up caravans etc with a field for motorhomes, caravans and tents. The field borders on the River Nahe which, at this point, could be easily jumped by Bob Beaman as it is so narrow.To get the gas bottle exchanged it needs to be (a) empty and (b) we need to find someone to undo one of the nuts as I do not have the correct size spanner. we have found two possible nearby auto repair places to help us with these nuts and the exchange place is only a couple of hundred metres from them. We cooked a bit of a hotch potch for the evening meal as we could not shop However it was good and tasty. A dvd passed the evening.
Wednesday 4th October (Day 40)
No rush to leave as it is 1400 at the gas exchange. As we still had gas we went to to one of the identified garages and they undid the nut on the inlet gas feed. We then drove to a remote location, disconnected the gas bottle, removed it from the motorhome, took it a distance away and opened the valve to empty it. It took about twenty minutes. As we were near the gas exchange we turned up in the hope that they could sort us sooner but ‘No”. We drove to Bad Sobernheim, parked up and by then back to the gas place. We got the bottle (saving around £150 UK prices. We then returned to Bad Sobernheim to fill the new gas bottle and also fill with diesel. Chris finished our shopping in Lidl. We then drove off to the Mosel (pronounced ‘Mowsle’ not ‘Mozell’). The site at Zell was full so we mooched off and found a Stellplatze at Pünderich about six miles away. It was a baiter entry system which recognised your registration number and then you paid in a machine and the exit barrier recognised (a) your number and (b) that the requisite fee had been paid. €14 for pitch, waste (Black and grey) and EHU, plus tourist tax. We went fro a stroll around and found it to be a small town with some buildings of character some going back the 1500’s. A beer by the river and then in the evening a meal at the local restaurant. The best meal to date. Not only the food itself, but the surrounding, ambiance and attentive staff. Back to our ‘home’ for 2100.
Thursday 5th October (Day 41)
So Chris had (another) good idea which was to leave and return to Zell early to get a place. After breakfast we did the usual empty / fill routine and by 1000 we were off back to Stellplatze Zell - Footbridge. If we could not get in we had lots of time to seek an alternative. Arriving at about 1040 we had the choice of the pitches. So we were soon set up and settled. We walked into Zell over the footbridge seeking a coffee. It is not the biggest of places but charming. That said there were about forty places open serving wine (and tasting) but to get a coffee was, well, a challenge. Eventually we did with ‘Mt Grumpy’ serving us. By now we had collected the tourist map of the town and decided to climb to the Schllos (castle). Chris was in flip flops - not the best as it turned out as it was quite steep. Indeed at one point the routes were ‘steep climb’ or ‘rock climb’ with metal ladders etc. Anyway off we went on the steep climb and climb was the word. Near to the top was a set of steps with a big drop and a wire hawser to hang onto. Chris went up like a mountain goat but I struggled so much I did not manage it. (I am sure that several years ago I must have been less risk averse but this was a step too far for me). As a result we did not make it to the castle. We had a pleasant route back where we saw how the vines were harvested on such a steep vineyard. Basically the workers walked down and picked the grapes and filled the containers and when they were filled a trolley was sent down on a wire hawser. A tractor slowly pulled the trolley up and the baskets were loaded onto it as it passed by. Back down to earth and we had apple strudel with ice cream, cream and vanilla sauce with a coffee. We are slowly being dragged into eating deserts. A slow walk over the footbridge back to the motorhome and then off on a circular bike ride to ‘Bullay’ A beer there and return in total about nine miles. The weather while ok was still cool. Back at the motorhome and we sat and watched the river traffic for another hour or so before going in for an evening meal. Plans for tomorrow already made.
Friday 6th October (Day 42)
We woke up to the hills covered in the clouds and a chilly 9 degrees C. After breakfast etc we left and drove to the local supermarket which turned out to be the biggest we have been in since coming to Germany. However, it was at the top the hill and so in the clouds. Very damp. A quick shop for all the items we needed including another shop next door for a rubber doormat to replace the one we have left somewhere. Off then for a forty minute drive to a Stellpltze at Graach. On arriving we realised we had been here before and it was quite busy with few spaces that were very appealing. A quick re-evaluation and we decided on an ACSI site about three miles further on at Kues, Campsite Keuser Werth for €23 a night. While queueing to book in Chris noticed a sign showing ACSI at €30 a night. We checked and that was the case. Off we went! Plan C was a Stellplätze another five miles on at Kesten, Wohnmobilepark Gemeinde Kesten. We parked up overlooking the river, unloaded the bikes and cycled the six miles to Bernkastel. We have been there before but it is a lovely place and a second visit wouldn’t hurt. They have the narrowest house you could imagine and, after seeng that, it was a walk to the castle. Every time I climb a hill to a castle it reminds me of the occasion when one of our group moaned “why are all the castles on top of hills!” It was a steep climb but gave great views. Back down in town we had a beer and watched the world go by. While the day had started out chilly, around nine degrees it was now a pleasant 18 degrees or so. It was then time to cycle back. At a roundabout I informed Chris to turn right. It was an ‘Eric’ right as I meant left. Some drivers were not impressed. We had a brief stop in Lieser to admire a building, ‘Castle Lieser’. (A grand building built between 1884 and 1887). Arriving at the site, after nearly fifteen miles, the ‘man was in his little hut’ so we paid for the night, €10. We then sat in the waning sunshine overlooking the river until the chilling down of the temperature pushed us in. A nice meal and then in the late evening France .v. Italy in the Rugby World Cup.
Saturday 7th October (Day 43)
A cool day is the start but still the promise of better to come. After hot rolls and sausages for breakfast we filled up with water and sorted out loo and then left. We had a long journey in front of us, nearly six miles. Our destination, potentially was Neumagon-Dron. This is two towns, Neumagon and Dron. We decided not to make this our destination if we didn’t fancy it. A very narrow main street to negotiate. We thought it ok so went to the cheaper of the two stops. One was at the Port €23 and the other in Dron at a vineyard €10, Stellpatz & Weinhaus Michael Kettering. We had a good clean of the cab area and locker locks (we know how to live). The a stroll into the town of Neumagon. Neumagon, while not the biggest of placers, is famous for two man things. One is the oldest one growing town of the Moselle and two a Roman war ship, used to transport wine, dating back to 220AD was discovered nearby. A replica is available to have a trip in. A beer at the café overlooking the port and then it was back to the motorhome, buying a apfelkuchen (apple cake) on the way back. Lunch was late but in the lovely sunshine and this was followed by a really lazy afternoon just sitting in the sun. A bit of rugby then bed
Sunday 8th October (Day 44)
One more stop on the Moselle before we leave Germany. After breakfast had to wait for the owner to arrive to pay. While doing so we filled with water. We had, notionally, identified to stellplatz next to each other at a town called Mehring, about fifteen miles. We ended up at Weingut Zellerhof and got a prime position, while not in the front riverside view it was just behind at the end of a row and so had a river view. We sat for a while. On the site was the smallest of chapel /churches and a service was going on. It was so packed they had taken folding stools to sit. It only took about thirty people. We decided to walk the town which we expected to be ‘sleepy’ and it was. There was nice hot / bar over looking the river so we sat in the warm sunshine for a beer. After abut an hour we thought that the food looked good and we would have a cooked lunch. It was a really nice one - ‘Gypsy’ Schniznel for me and A more traditional one with mushroom in a cream sauce for Chris. Back at the motorhome we sat and dozed in the sunshine stuffed. Late afternoon we went for a stroll along the river to walk some calories off. Then as the sun started to lose its power to a wine tasting before the last two rugby pool matches. Unfortunately the last match which decided whether England played Fiji or Australia did not play. (We will play Fiji.)
Monday 9th October (Day 45)
We had a long journey today (around 460km). We thought about four and a half hours but ‘lady satnav’ said “six”. This was more than we expected but for the site we stayed at and the great meal yesterday it is worth it. We stopped part way to buy a bit of alcohol and also some meat for this evening, in case we could not eat out. The journey was a bit far and Chris took over for an hour or so. Eventually we arrived at Camping Saint Louis, an ACSI site. Having arrived the reception which is open from 1400 to 1900 was closed (it was 1630). We waited a while and found out that the restaurant on the site, which we wished to use, closes on Mondays! We identified another stop less than two miles away. We drove there and found an aire at Rue du Palentin. This is a car park on the outskirts of Ardres. We walked into town to identify somewhere to eat this evening but like the camp site the town closes on Mondays. By the time we got back Chris had bad back pain. We sat out in the sunshine before cooking the evening meal (lucky we stopped to buy it). The watched a DVD of Sherlock Holmes.
Tuesday 10th October (Day 46)
Chris still had a bad back so we have decided not to go shopping but just go and sit at the port. So no shower and breakfast - our last croissant in France. A steady easy drive and we were on the dockside two hours early. But we had a result and got on the earlier sailing meaning we landed an hour and a half ahead of schedule. The Dartford Tunnel was kind to us and we had a good drive home, arriving about 1500.
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