Blogs from Epernay, Champagne-Ardenne, France, Europe - page 5

25th August A day of rest - we needed to do some washing, get some food. It took us ½ day to do the washing. The camp site we were in had access to a lake so the afternoon was spent down there. The boys took their skim board and were running from the beach onto the board. There were groups of people everywhere and the boys were being watched by a group of young men/boys who were playing soccer. Eventually one of the braver ones came over and in sign language asked for a go on the skim board. Mason and Anton had acquired enough skill by this stage for it to look easy. Unfortunately these guys didn’t know this and off they went - flat tack down the beach onto the board and straight ... read more

Chateau Thierry to Senlis (Chantilly) 26th May 2007 (Saturday 20º Sunshine with some cloud). About 70 kilometres from Châteaux de Thierry we find a little gem, a haven for weary travellers. It is called Senlis. After some recent disappointments, which have only been made possible by our complete lack of planning, Senlis offers a big pick-me-up for both of us. It is quaint but not twee, urbane but not pretentious, happening yet peaceful. It is full of cafes and bars, good shopping and has a wonderful Cathedral. Straight out of the LPG we chose a Hotel. It is a converted 18th Century Mansion called Hostellerie de la Porte Bellon and we score the last available room - Room 11. We check in and also book a table at the Hotel Restaurant for that very evening. A ... read more

Monestier de Clermont to Epernay 24th May 2007 (Thursday 30º Sunshine followed by Storms) We wake up in the grand old house feeling like Royalty. This special feeling is diminished somewhat during breakfast where we are joined, unbeknown to us, by the house Labrador. He sneaks under the breakfast table and proceeds to leak bad air for the duration of our brekkie. Bonjour Monsieur et Madam - would you care for a dog fart with your croissant this morning? He is cute however and does lend the place a certain homeliness. The views to Needle Mountain are more spectacular in the clear morning air and I take the opportunity to walk around the house until it is time to hit the road again. Today will be a short diary as most of the day is spent ... read more