Geo: 47.5859, 1.3301Bill decided we would go back to Calais avoiding the tolls to make the most of the scenery. The scenery was amazing - sunflower fields, corn bales, blue sky and chateaux. The city of Blois was a lovely surprise. It was so beautiful with so much to see, our 30minute stop off didn't really do it justice. Good job we didn't give in and stay for longer though as we only made it to Calais with about 10mins to spare! There was a heart stopping moment when we were 2 miles until no petrol and running very late driving in the middle of nowhere! Luckily a petrol station appeared like magic! In Amiens, I eventually persuaded Bill to give into the toll roads and our little Panda mobile flew along the toll road at ... read more

Geo: 46.4424, 1.58252There are loads of festivals going on in the Limousin during the summer. We were thrilled to see that we would be there in time for the Crozant Medieval festival. It made for a super day - lots of people dressed up, great medieval grub, 1 euro medieval wine, Medieval acting, singing, dancing and a horse and costume filled Medieval parade. Crozant was the perfect backdrop. Tired from the festivities, we spent the evening having a BBQ in the amazing garden wonderland of our gite. ... read more

Geo: 46.4424, 1.58252The nearby Sedelle valley was once an inspiration for the Impressionists. Fred gave us some super suggestions for walking in the valley. We followed the Artists path through the Sedelle Valley towards Crozant and back. The shaded forest and bubbling river were very welcome in the blistering heat. We were given a quick lesson in crayfish catching when we spotted some pond dippers. Definitely a must for when Isaac's a bit older! Boil them up and dip them in some ketchup! We were probably the first people to have ever attempted this walk with a pushchair! The views from the top towards the ruins and the river were fantastic. Crozant became a favourite place of ours.... read more

Geo: 46.5889, 1.51901A stunningly beautiful riverside town, just 20mins from the gite. The photos speak for themselves! We pretty much had the place to ourselves as most of the shopkeepers were on annual leave! I could definitely get used to the French way of life! ... read more

Geo: 46.4424, 1.58252The drive seemed never ending at times but at 9pm, we made it to Walnut Cottage. In the hamlet of Parchimbaud (thankfully St Sebastien locals had heard of it!), the cottage was definitely off the beaten track, along winding one track roads past the corn fields and watchful gazes of the Limousin cattle, but this all added to its charm. The ideal hideaway! (catch us if you can immigration officials and Father in law!!) The cottage is pure magic. Set in the beautifully landscaped grounds of the friendly and hospitable owners, the former barn conversion is picture perfect and exactly what you're looking for in a holiday home. The gardens were a particular highlight - lots of different areas for sitting, relaxing, lighting the bbq and enjoying time together. We were greeted by a ... read more