tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11163206473476646862024-03-19T01:47:57.267-07:004 Wheel CampingAdventures In A Van Called KrystalDenis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.comBlogger105125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-22117635250940387062023-09-24T07:28:00.000-07:002023-09-24T07:28:02.201-07:00Ile D'Oleron Part 3. Homeward Bound<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;">Looking for the sun and finding it! This year we have been so lucky. Having found the sun in France we decided to call it a lucky day and head for home. Actually, we looked at the weather forecast and decided if we were heading home we would rather do it in the sunshine. As the end of September approached, we thought a gentle amble home was better than a frantic dash before of the rain. Being purely practical it is always better, we think, to unpack the van and get the washing and cleaning done in the dry.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We decided to do the journey home mid week and then hopefully tackle the M25 and A303 before the weekend rush. We quickly changed our tunnel booking. Easy to do online and it only cost us £25, which we thought was quite good!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">First stop on the way home and back to Tours. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://www.onlycamp.fr/en/camping-tours-val-de-loire/">Only Camp Val de Loire Tours</a></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> I have to say this site is really growing on us. Clean, easy to find and open all year. The only downside is the outside loos, but the showers and water is always hot. I believe the heated block is open in the winter. Of course we arrived on a Monday when the lovely restaurant across the road is closed. Never mind, the wine was good and we made do with home cooking. On a positive note we got ACSI prices so only 22.22 Euros including electric.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgGezL9bIxbrjAqu2xHkNSfWb9E8I1GU2-LT_yntORYuE8wbNGhb9WgP1XPYW4PBehRRvEkU3WP2JdKgfAUW3vVfLJlsaVH1PlR6_68gHR-RinVLUXfegVBtKhQPT-KXYrj8nZKpgeIr5bnFWA57fYf2fG_9hGVfWsP4xrrPx95LEDIGXJyLMhYbRZqQ/s6240/IMG_5641.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQgGezL9bIxbrjAqu2xHkNSfWb9E8I1GU2-LT_yntORYuE8wbNGhb9WgP1XPYW4PBehRRvEkU3WP2JdKgfAUW3vVfLJlsaVH1PlR6_68gHR-RinVLUXfegVBtKhQPT-KXYrj8nZKpgeIr5bnFWA57fYf2fG_9hGVfWsP4xrrPx95LEDIGXJyLMhYbRZqQ/s320/IMG_5641.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">We actually got a very nice pitch and could have spent a couple of days here.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">The next day we had a relatively leisurely start as we were just going to Saint Nicolas south of Rouen.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="https://www.campingsaintnicolas.fr/en-au">Camping Saint Nicolas</a><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">An easy drive and we were soon happily settled. Table booked for a meal in the camp restaurant and all was right with the world. Incidentally, the pool looked very inviting and it was warm and empty! After a lovely meal and a bottle of red we were set up for the last leg of the journey.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><a href="http://www.camping-les-erables.fr/?lang=en">Camping Les Erables</a><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Our last stop Les Erables at Escalles. A favourite stop for us on the way back. Sadly the site had been closed on the way over.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">This site has hugely improved over the years. The toilets and showers have had a massive face lift. The pitches are well laid out, terraced but big. There is a new Reception block where you can buy essentials and bread is available each morning. The barrier is open at 8.15am so an early crossing home can be made. The site is now very popular with Dutch and German visitors alike. A 10 minute drive to the tunnel and Calais port, a great place to start and end a holiday. Sabine the owner speaks good English and they now take ACSI cards off season. 18 euros a night, so we were well pleased. Open April to October.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Beautiful views of the channel, you can actually see the white cliffs. We got a sea view pitch and some sunshine.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXYSl3SSW5W9UOXo5u66XtJ3ROED7Dm5LbhTVYgOml1RJat8X1wtHYD_IB1AONMmjTVYqCm0yoHnh_GC8aROxG062yBsFJZm3hjGBnm8NKm62ZhBrGSCQ56vnf0dN_9T9tvSsMXn9reCIDDTkCKjSCIZXhiNxZpvlvwXtwarD-xiY0Cb5FSqMlUvCxlM/s6240/IMG_5645.tif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVXYSl3SSW5W9UOXo5u66XtJ3ROED7Dm5LbhTVYgOml1RJat8X1wtHYD_IB1AONMmjTVYqCm0yoHnh_GC8aROxG062yBsFJZm3hjGBnm8NKm62ZhBrGSCQ56vnf0dN_9T9tvSsMXn9reCIDDTkCKjSCIZXhiNxZpvlvwXtwarD-xiY0Cb5FSqMlUvCxlM/s320/IMG_5645.tif" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Me, getting excited about our room with a sea view. Please note the cardigan, definitely getting chillier, though not time to put the heating on in Krystal yet.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We wandered down to the beach for a last wistful look at the sea and setting sun.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfIw2CAxLdI9sB-J8FUag7EsSEiPKA-4uq6NP8W3R8R8heIPiJlHomrkF3bOJyqGxiHHsUJkyWDuSeIVzgvmzD_rvRwMGUFrqHgzOxhiizP_GhBOsu6hjgG7rv820W-13F85vB9wZEnGzHyWRcPeKzYXRp7gXGowUvAfXDCenI4xgT--c96YyENoKw38/s6240/IMG_5669.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYfIw2CAxLdI9sB-J8FUag7EsSEiPKA-4uq6NP8W3R8R8heIPiJlHomrkF3bOJyqGxiHHsUJkyWDuSeIVzgvmzD_rvRwMGUFrqHgzOxhiizP_GhBOsu6hjgG7rv820W-13F85vB9wZEnGzHyWRcPeKzYXRp7gXGowUvAfXDCenI4xgT--c96YyENoKw38/s320/IMG_5669.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqn45lj20YIgG5VolunyauMq9ZEOxwLccmEZ0X-EdO5Wfh3Pq_bE5HttL_65ynBbEGhmXLXIqfbAyXCpAIiDSl3Pf_V-5nEvekkiECbLhExweST1X3qXNBi3WNY37RGAeYqsYAyrIK9cyRhdm_MVnC92YTalfs_G2if2KOydLcugeQV03fFDOOyKepy_I/s6240/IMG_5670.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqn45lj20YIgG5VolunyauMq9ZEOxwLccmEZ0X-EdO5Wfh3Pq_bE5HttL_65ynBbEGhmXLXIqfbAyXCpAIiDSl3Pf_V-5nEvekkiECbLhExweST1X3qXNBi3WNY37RGAeYqsYAyrIK9cyRhdm_MVnC92YTalfs_G2if2KOydLcugeQV03fFDOOyKepy_I/s320/IMG_5670.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZJtCxeoAFRh3o_PvE-1waQ8iZ1losGF9fL9VXD5VF4vN5wo4hnQURHiL6rKMcbGxyKcNEDDrBVdTx6w5V5Vbh2aTRcN_rUnBzRTnevbAZfHa2Tal4N5ikvSkgOkzLlZrEYvLtUvcHK_eWc1Br2gcBb4j859c3qqyCgdyngYSMmkeykyf9MB7mxxipc4/s6240/IMG_5675.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBZJtCxeoAFRh3o_PvE-1waQ8iZ1losGF9fL9VXD5VF4vN5wo4hnQURHiL6rKMcbGxyKcNEDDrBVdTx6w5V5Vbh2aTRcN_rUnBzRTnevbAZfHa2Tal4N5ikvSkgOkzLlZrEYvLtUvcHK_eWc1Br2gcBb4j859c3qqyCgdyngYSMmkeykyf9MB7mxxipc4/s320/IMG_5675.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">A perfect end to our holiday would have been a meal in our favourite restaurant.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftf7qOsvkFzvJIo-QQeY1OLdywwb61lbqWrVG18Q9w_PYiVndFScM4x_Jj6oK-iIqqebGRUukeYeZ5kkzHi3EKZzAHftr5efQQ5AzeagUTI6oPciC9WMQM47EVJOqr1NgMzYl0oKw4uGkNb4WJUqzza4fF6LE2RQ6Ji8pf2FdP1EvTzcsopwiZmqprjI/s6240/IMG_5665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgftf7qOsvkFzvJIo-QQeY1OLdywwb61lbqWrVG18Q9w_PYiVndFScM4x_Jj6oK-iIqqebGRUukeYeZ5kkzHi3EKZzAHftr5efQQ5AzeagUTI6oPciC9WMQM47EVJOqr1NgMzYl0oKw4uGkNb4WJUqzza4fF6LE2RQ6Ji8pf2FdP1EvTzcsopwiZmqprjI/s320/IMG_5665.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"> Sadly it was shut! So not the perfect end we hoped for. We will have to come back next year for seafood!!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Looking forward to next year.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-36286993520844884582023-09-12T08:04:00.001-07:002023-09-12T08:04:36.886-07:00Ile D' Oleron by Default. Part 2. Saint Denis D' Oleron<p> We were toying with the idea of trying Ile d'Re again. All the sites we tried appeared to be full and generally very busy. New plan, North on Oleron! Ile D'Oleron is a much bigger island than the Ile de Re, busy but not completely rammed and the campsites seemed quieter. We headed North to Saint Denis Oleron ( there should have been a clue in the name!) Camping Les Lauriers. This site had a good write up in both Camper Contact and Searchforsites.</p><p>After a busy hours drive up to the top of the island, we found it. Loads of French wrinklies on the roads in campers and the odd caravan, no Brits!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXOyajW_-FmQxEbD8JxzVwl2j3fVjHtPzcPKGf23y0aOWOelEZsXd4zgKd4OVaxGg9uzGsKPQpbivALTznvusltf-ZCrtKnWoC6uLYWuUReE8I9pmyZ_fVBRy4PwmN6QsVrHY7KYsuaVepKQZJOi45xLSy8mYy57MuNcHaEhF5UBpd7aJMjV8zqtH9-mE/s6240/IMG_5595.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXOyajW_-FmQxEbD8JxzVwl2j3fVjHtPzcPKGf23y0aOWOelEZsXd4zgKd4OVaxGg9uzGsKPQpbivALTznvusltf-ZCrtKnWoC6uLYWuUReE8I9pmyZ_fVBRy4PwmN6QsVrHY7KYsuaVepKQZJOi45xLSy8mYy57MuNcHaEhF5UBpd7aJMjV8zqtH9-mE/s320/IMG_5595.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>We had soon set up our camp. Nice large pitch with a hedge, good toilets and showers with hot water. The village of Saint Denis was around the corner and the beach a five minute walk from the site. The site was family run and was a mixture of statics and touring pitches. Very busy and we actually stayed 2 weeks with the site very often full.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgutXRG_5HXhuLK3EC5xp8JlM9ph-SL2taGBZDOUvyzmLmfIH_ezroEZeo623PaDYaYuWq6TebBDxiGJXR34-jXru1l1P1dBUFqocUHVuLhfxpyTAhT3z2EfDmmoMlz7fXT7CJMjBw3THmoMWEZjjxDI30VhriOuOc4-Amr84slWQ262GiNPpyRzfWX4Tg/s6240/IMG_5617.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgutXRG_5HXhuLK3EC5xp8JlM9ph-SL2taGBZDOUvyzmLmfIH_ezroEZeo623PaDYaYuWq6TebBDxiGJXR34-jXru1l1P1dBUFqocUHVuLhfxpyTAhT3z2EfDmmoMlz7fXT7CJMjBw3THmoMWEZjjxDI30VhriOuOc4-Amr84slWQ262GiNPpyRzfWX4Tg/s320/IMG_5617.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The village was a typically small French place, with a super market and a large daily market. There was a harbour with lots going on and loads of beach bars and restaurants. The beach was fine sand but a bit dirty in places. We did try the water but for us a bit on the chilly side, for the rest of the world probably fine!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NFiC7GnghVfamIx-sykTY8j_EgI9xgeGR6kcW4WmlYgXd8mQDu7uM2D9u_QB2zkaYV5NQIqcX3y38LdUa41x40RJoPwxzy8VAA0Dqn0lEjGebPTH1OKeM1PBgzIBdRwy4ZRIysmnWyERHc_6lML3Adx2gBMq0If257TpRb4YwDYP5ET34DTgPbT_-Ro/s6240/IMG_5604.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3NFiC7GnghVfamIx-sykTY8j_EgI9xgeGR6kcW4WmlYgXd8mQDu7uM2D9u_QB2zkaYV5NQIqcX3y38LdUa41x40RJoPwxzy8VAA0Dqn0lEjGebPTH1OKeM1PBgzIBdRwy4ZRIysmnWyERHc_6lML3Adx2gBMq0If257TpRb4YwDYP5ET34DTgPbT_-Ro/s320/IMG_5604.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhktLWkRIaNxa-Eo-SIvNF4UgYkWXH1raDJiOHCUEBpO9mqGEDVukopJm9_lhQAUYALbUyfXFCkWxYPQmhMFD0fhI6GCURpGSgTFDfQeR2U0S_53bYhUsWpvSatMKTn4gK3Hi6m6fKDfzr51vHiqJcWziFvel-nbk6tGGRO-JEtRbtNhdpfWDxJr8B58wY/s6240/IMG_5608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhktLWkRIaNxa-Eo-SIvNF4UgYkWXH1raDJiOHCUEBpO9mqGEDVukopJm9_lhQAUYALbUyfXFCkWxYPQmhMFD0fhI6GCURpGSgTFDfQeR2U0S_53bYhUsWpvSatMKTn4gK3Hi6m6fKDfzr51vHiqJcWziFvel-nbk6tGGRO-JEtRbtNhdpfWDxJr8B58wY/s320/IMG_5608.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iSEjqMtmxStu0UtmeMCMU-GXSzg49ZDj7UQZSkKck2j0QVNU6xyHUXgOlI6EJrNWLYQstoqS-VJTi9M7s3Bcm9Fn2-hXqVipJyERZ0NdMf0WFCivCpnL1MxbvlhvV_IYOjv6hqFB-7nfghebHYYbs9lkE5NcoOAB_KTVBRNw6zTse8D9LR-4HIGJ5hg/s6240/IMG_5611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3iSEjqMtmxStu0UtmeMCMU-GXSzg49ZDj7UQZSkKck2j0QVNU6xyHUXgOlI6EJrNWLYQstoqS-VJTi9M7s3Bcm9Fn2-hXqVipJyERZ0NdMf0WFCivCpnL1MxbvlhvV_IYOjv6hqFB-7nfghebHYYbs9lkE5NcoOAB_KTVBRNw6zTse8D9LR-4HIGJ5hg/s320/IMG_5611.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The harbour just around the corner.</p><p>Two weeks here passed in a flash. We were very lucky with the weather with some days being almost too HOT.</p><p>Lots of interesting things happening here. We watched two weddings in the village. One on horseback!!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKQLmJ8cYrcD6kZ_Bq44rMjKdJWkTCFGw2CfKSbNmT9L_p3ZuPtOtnkl4e5_OKNwoB2lgQFN0XVOV53CjERN0BnYzE06JcJ1RtZldGfEfGzWdpiC87W8soCWe8BsuOgQN5CD7vqTp4HQXu2LeIxBpA9uun4tcBEYZMAeQKH82PgGK7PD_EUfhNbEO8Tk/s6240/IMG_5602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaKQLmJ8cYrcD6kZ_Bq44rMjKdJWkTCFGw2CfKSbNmT9L_p3ZuPtOtnkl4e5_OKNwoB2lgQFN0XVOV53CjERN0BnYzE06JcJ1RtZldGfEfGzWdpiC87W8soCWe8BsuOgQN5CD7vqTp4HQXu2LeIxBpA9uun4tcBEYZMAeQKH82PgGK7PD_EUfhNbEO8Tk/s320/IMG_5602.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4B_Bj3AK1Nnk9jnVm1rNIB4CStTBQJiOsd2wX-aDDpyhx8YR-Vxr4P888zTCeYWcsikkAIoDjQsEX1I4DVKAlUAWwd-BO9FE2eFFvVbgiA6qbuqr6Nl2DphvYk5GXLMOTLhaKbgJf2u7YRAoY0dNr8vd2ZHu_XXvCLm1kkoga4x3Hsz3dfWpX8pJOxNw/s6240/IMG_5599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4B_Bj3AK1Nnk9jnVm1rNIB4CStTBQJiOsd2wX-aDDpyhx8YR-Vxr4P888zTCeYWcsikkAIoDjQsEX1I4DVKAlUAWwd-BO9FE2eFFvVbgiA6qbuqr6Nl2DphvYk5GXLMOTLhaKbgJf2u7YRAoY0dNr8vd2ZHu_XXvCLm1kkoga4x3Hsz3dfWpX8pJOxNw/s320/IMG_5599.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Bride and bridesmaids all made it to the church on horseback.</p><p>D ' Oleron is of course made for le velo. Bikes and bike paths everywhere. We road up to the Chassiron Lighthouse it was busy.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3MTjTRS6EEUoOmfMdfRYfbr7tahw5tziURCJmb3fo_1Mzj9wE9lXr-BPcGYQ7pbEctFntdeDNGCmmoUsa3lsr7BPjKjhjd-Ta1y_YTK6cRRS0lpKW_ue_R4J-CdM9D-uCVL9dBjRDfY-JJvn89JOMa_F1w6nYLQBJmN6Olcl5JdAP7sVyxQkQYfhMTM/s4624/20230907_105529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3MTjTRS6EEUoOmfMdfRYfbr7tahw5tziURCJmb3fo_1Mzj9wE9lXr-BPcGYQ7pbEctFntdeDNGCmmoUsa3lsr7BPjKjhjd-Ta1y_YTK6cRRS0lpKW_ue_R4J-CdM9D-uCVL9dBjRDfY-JJvn89JOMa_F1w6nYLQBJmN6Olcl5JdAP7sVyxQkQYfhMTM/s320/20230907_105529.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Built in 1836 it's the oldest lighthouse on the island. 224 steps up and 46m tall. It was too hot to climb to the top so we wandered around the grounds and had a beer in the shade.<div><br /></div><div>Lots of places to visit on the island. We took another ride to La Bree les Bains, another beach down the coast.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6PCXzDJa5S2a8GW9xFmQQy53Ag9YlZpe7q2FvgZiT9s5sSarpbj7qMm7olaDDMKOxKqzKmYa-mcVVzlYRQ4Y6jd4kLlWpWcEN79Pd4JP0wfC9uas4MtgmPZ3LCaTVA5uRZMP6nXMTqZ8MfnIwUMNi5bQXs1sIC6JtBFtQPM5Lz7xhYj-hHnULeLDgMw0/s6240/IMG_5632.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6PCXzDJa5S2a8GW9xFmQQy53Ag9YlZpe7q2FvgZiT9s5sSarpbj7qMm7olaDDMKOxKqzKmYa-mcVVzlYRQ4Y6jd4kLlWpWcEN79Pd4JP0wfC9uas4MtgmPZ3LCaTVA5uRZMP6nXMTqZ8MfnIwUMNi5bQXs1sIC6JtBFtQPM5Lz7xhYj-hHnULeLDgMw0/s320/IMG_5632.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>We had a couple of meals in a very nice Brassiere around the corner. Very French indoors, outdoors.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/e51kAxZgD0M" width="320" youtube-src-id="e51kAxZgD0M"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlluyKJS6IeVxicgSs3SqOsrH8u27vkqbYzYCt_7pUJco7xLen5zgstCfrzBE-DlxMR32fC5YQooG33lHTKc_xrZtwIc9h50GXSISQit6tsJPe1lLxCdoFNCo7K0sNCmri7N5ce-EqAc2vrVLp6SnKpAF8lXEDaeSJqJHrUT-klQ2K7VPD4yIpdKi0W0/s4624/20230905_205016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlluyKJS6IeVxicgSs3SqOsrH8u27vkqbYzYCt_7pUJco7xLen5zgstCfrzBE-DlxMR32fC5YQooG33lHTKc_xrZtwIc9h50GXSISQit6tsJPe1lLxCdoFNCo7K0sNCmri7N5ce-EqAc2vrVLp6SnKpAF8lXEDaeSJqJHrUT-klQ2K7VPD4yIpdKi0W0/s320/20230905_205016.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div>Den found his own place 😊😊😊</div><div><br /></div><div>All in all, we enjoyed our stay and would go back as there is loads more to explore.</div><div><br /></div><div>The beaches on the West side of the island are the best but the villages all have something different to offer and the wine is good!!<br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-34788882069013733552023-09-09T08:47:00.001-07:002023-09-09T08:47:31.531-07:00Ile D'Oleron by Default. Part 1. Saint Trojan les Bains.<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We had decided to make our next stop on the Ile De Re. However a bit of research and a few searches online, threw up the information that most of the sites were full and the Ile De Re was packed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Time for a rethink. We decided to give the Ile D'Oleron a go. A lot bigger, less crowded, more campsites and not quite as popular with holiday makers, but plenty and sea and sand. It sounded good.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A bit more communication with Google, Camper Contact and Searchforsites and we came up with a site.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://europe.huttopia.com/en/site/oleron-les-pins/">Huttopia Oleron des Pins</a>. Sounded good, an eco friendly site in the south of the island near the village of Saint Trojan les Bains. We arrived to find the campsite relatively empty. We were surprised Oleron was so big, a very impressive bridge announced it's arrival and it was toll free.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The trip over the bridge was interesting. Our first time on the island, so all was new.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Wr5ZfS8csGA" width="320" youtube-src-id="Wr5ZfS8csGA"></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Camping Les Pins was a very large family site with swimming pool, bar and all the facilities. The toilet block was clean and the showers were hot. Quite expensive at 40 euros a night. We booked in for 4 nights.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A very nice pitch under the pins with some shade. Sandy but not too sandy Krystal managed it OK.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cogryBU68EClwD2aigM9o38b9_Vh5R1DxhzZYguVKhgzopczCYG9yO1qp1LA8zSwjxGCyK6yYH7L16rjLKwAdcolsJSOPeEQlHuNKOeuyiy2jfy9RP2j95p9SxvncEybgHUPBuFWL9o0UHQAbeKdU9pJbZ7Ya03C1e51Jp3h-nbSyZfoCPLYFm8zz4U/s6240/IMG_5521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5cogryBU68EClwD2aigM9o38b9_Vh5R1DxhzZYguVKhgzopczCYG9yO1qp1LA8zSwjxGCyK6yYH7L16rjLKwAdcolsJSOPeEQlHuNKOeuyiy2jfy9RP2j95p9SxvncEybgHUPBuFWL9o0UHQAbeKdU9pJbZ7Ya03C1e51Jp3h-nbSyZfoCPLYFm8zz4U/s320/IMG_5521.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaj3xGMyPsnZEMHWu-gxVawtxW7_j2zPxtxrVgi5HR8_YT4oGiTLmpSwcXeOL-Fq_VKR5oCjgDhxNfc8Wy_u3wXiygYCyl2eTyvglq0WdB8vr10m5iPrMucT75iHe_mfFqvPtjIbCCNZTb3UVfG8eLLROjmlgYsmZx8b_WM16kMBvyW2fOUCI0wI4yrio/s6240/IMG_5529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaj3xGMyPsnZEMHWu-gxVawtxW7_j2zPxtxrVgi5HR8_YT4oGiTLmpSwcXeOL-Fq_VKR5oCjgDhxNfc8Wy_u3wXiygYCyl2eTyvglq0WdB8vr10m5iPrMucT75iHe_mfFqvPtjIbCCNZTb3UVfG8eLLROjmlgYsmZx8b_WM16kMBvyW2fOUCI0wI4yrio/s320/IMG_5529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The campsite was very family orientated with loads of small children enjoying themselves.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHJJP-Y1c9wLtDPBZ3wwQl9ipS9ta5DdPfMAJY23AEcgb7ZyfQGFZnzkK0_G2i48yR02xTSvSY4Rdgo1on8Dm0vegEMtImFWqxgOvlyLEAHy5ajRhLkZJdA-T-GUvLFQIUU3cos6cutIxsvP736CmENAIguNLy740cXiFFcrXXdU7T-7CSLs4JomLEtn0/s6240/IMG_5528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHJJP-Y1c9wLtDPBZ3wwQl9ipS9ta5DdPfMAJY23AEcgb7ZyfQGFZnzkK0_G2i48yR02xTSvSY4Rdgo1on8Dm0vegEMtImFWqxgOvlyLEAHy5ajRhLkZJdA-T-GUvLFQIUU3cos6cutIxsvP736CmENAIguNLy740cXiFFcrXXdU7T-7CSLs4JomLEtn0/s320/IMG_5528.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">There was a bar and entertainment on our first night. Not much choice of food though and I guess that was the only downside to this site. We did try the bar food one night and got a very disappointing burnt pizza!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Lots to like here though. A fabulous beach up the road 10 mins on the bikes through the forest on a bike path.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Plage de Gatseau.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1z5o4xIYoh20YMrPTxib8TgM7KsaMqpkZsT8SAUa7fgrXmQCwMa1AuaWpqNJKrffc6FYvMEpPNwca0G6PZD7SAHvFXSsZZUNkuoDDfM8jelhf_1Wm_t0tIRwCWHaN7tqg5aMw0qEaftz0X8fgBwTco7yz9kwEawhZEhQeHaD3b1YaOOfjl1mPgzntAc/s6240/IMG_5537.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV1z5o4xIYoh20YMrPTxib8TgM7KsaMqpkZsT8SAUa7fgrXmQCwMa1AuaWpqNJKrffc6FYvMEpPNwca0G6PZD7SAHvFXSsZZUNkuoDDfM8jelhf_1Wm_t0tIRwCWHaN7tqg5aMw0qEaftz0X8fgBwTco7yz9kwEawhZEhQeHaD3b1YaOOfjl1mPgzntAc/s320/IMG_5537.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgubYbDmu6BnCBGH9FVw1qRlGBjtnPNwiFxaPiaxtXN2ZjXb-lqqMbXztfZ-GWU8HASybe2O3nHgW9L21DW5Ot_r4IFMfda53WlMxCcHio0_XCs8fZHi1_crMhN-BXJVvL-02eCNAlyTlfWWmHy51feccOrNkR5oPvFDvO-LNBvR8PWOewR6Wbwm3GVh0/s6240/IMG_5538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgubYbDmu6BnCBGH9FVw1qRlGBjtnPNwiFxaPiaxtXN2ZjXb-lqqMbXztfZ-GWU8HASybe2O3nHgW9L21DW5Ot_r4IFMfda53WlMxCcHio0_XCs8fZHi1_crMhN-BXJVvL-02eCNAlyTlfWWmHy51feccOrNkR5oPvFDvO-LNBvR8PWOewR6Wbwm3GVh0/s320/IMG_5538.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Further around the coast another massive fine sandy beach Grande Plage.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMlCBFjCRIikRgKjGWnkJLWNWjdO97FH3dq91lpKsm7AKUUjsHDDh_W9jxTIpHmICB9kBsPb4JbedA44xvw4mrXsJP5pC4TvR3P4xmJQcbcQe9KFKRkkiHtwprtbxLfVA3jraf8gaSyd6S0Xv9rj0YiqCeRO7EFQFZDdOFD2QQt_oJBEMZ0p6T9rket4/s6240/IMG_5547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgMlCBFjCRIikRgKjGWnkJLWNWjdO97FH3dq91lpKsm7AKUUjsHDDh_W9jxTIpHmICB9kBsPb4JbedA44xvw4mrXsJP5pC4TvR3P4xmJQcbcQe9KFKRkkiHtwprtbxLfVA3jraf8gaSyd6S0Xv9rj0YiqCeRO7EFQFZDdOFD2QQt_oJBEMZ0p6T9rket4/s320/IMG_5547.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP1VyE5CeRqDYJpDdrHTqILJjH8gWyS1WxbQRl3pLhCmhn_oBCuo0LZ88KPVhN-svhvwauOQUBXr1waihREO-CdJMCgQM05F2OXhkwOBi1OfP1mK0tuNCaG0FFWA4vtf5l4ZUDmGADF3wafhQ0mu1yKBLEWFIJXEyFzuVBphDylhYpV9eksGKASvbiZSc/s6240/IMG_5555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP1VyE5CeRqDYJpDdrHTqILJjH8gWyS1WxbQRl3pLhCmhn_oBCuo0LZ88KPVhN-svhvwauOQUBXr1waihREO-CdJMCgQM05F2OXhkwOBi1OfP1mK0tuNCaG0FFWA4vtf5l4ZUDmGADF3wafhQ0mu1yKBLEWFIJXEyFzuVBphDylhYpV9eksGKASvbiZSc/s320/IMG_5555.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div> Truly spectacular and very empty mid week. We were so lucky though as the temperature was well into the 30's.<div><br /></div><div>The nearest village down the bike track in the opposite direction, or a 20 minute walk was the town of Trojan les Bains. A seaside resort surrounded by St Trojan les Bains national forest. The national forest was planted to protect villages from being blocked by sand. There was a small collection of bars and restaurants with the added attraction of a big market. There was also a night market. Shopping was tricker but there were a few large supermarkets. A little train ran from here up to the coast and we went for a run.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.le-ptit-train.com/">The Little Train of Oleron</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Through the forest and up to the coast making stops on the way. Lots of people and families use it for a day out. We did the round trip which took around an hour and 40 minutes it was a very hot day, so we were pleased at the breeze. Another time we would take a picnic and stop off at one of the beaches on the way.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcLCMYs7WzsmWEuOMl24mG8aWHhSBXwS5e9ZLqxAiSVVcJGoVqAsrS0mOJjrDrowuclWpJljqFLpwEtgbhVp9ak5Y09DN6Y_JtDkBALLsdd5rgHCP0Sk_WERGH63ZKpAP57Ttyj1ZNJo3lhZvjzeiFZH2KQk0i9pHKfnnS3l61roROhwzlwBREtDx7dA/s6240/IMG_5563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcLCMYs7WzsmWEuOMl24mG8aWHhSBXwS5e9ZLqxAiSVVcJGoVqAsrS0mOJjrDrowuclWpJljqFLpwEtgbhVp9ak5Y09DN6Y_JtDkBALLsdd5rgHCP0Sk_WERGH63ZKpAP57Ttyj1ZNJo3lhZvjzeiFZH2KQk0i9pHKfnnS3l61roROhwzlwBREtDx7dA/s320/IMG_5563.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL-Q160EZWsr23wA9e1e7w-THoPj9KCWQvRKqlhzDlg8Gq0mA0XkOK0aOEvPdCvS_6mpVs9SEaKNQIBYSd1EQQ2taQ6U6Pi4jLW55OIGJFk-OR9CuJVLnSBSWPIS7tyO6kETSfIjUp6vmiPO_hGtV2ayDG3nNNlip3_lZBOJmEfo14KaAwzgeQfsdFLmA/s6240/IMG_5571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL-Q160EZWsr23wA9e1e7w-THoPj9KCWQvRKqlhzDlg8Gq0mA0XkOK0aOEvPdCvS_6mpVs9SEaKNQIBYSd1EQQ2taQ6U6Pi4jLW55OIGJFk-OR9CuJVLnSBSWPIS7tyO6kETSfIjUp6vmiPO_hGtV2ayDG3nNNlip3_lZBOJmEfo14KaAwzgeQfsdFLmA/s320/IMG_5571.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7WeKBqIT-Yx9NAY6kXnqt8Sao2NlVAFXUmsjvSCgOvmrzJU8Tm6GoJGC294uktZETIedCEmwWOHFyXFYi9F-mB9i6TMyFFqGXAOPIGAF7r-7cK4aGZKlN04Ok1I6ulUjEAj70nEpycb7RBLf_-w5nmmQGAJqIlbIyv4nZnobi9fBZviadOFRxb8MBI8/s6240/IMG_5585.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF7WeKBqIT-Yx9NAY6kXnqt8Sao2NlVAFXUmsjvSCgOvmrzJU8Tm6GoJGC294uktZETIedCEmwWOHFyXFYi9F-mB9i6TMyFFqGXAOPIGAF7r-7cK4aGZKlN04Ok1I6ulUjEAj70nEpycb7RBLf_-w5nmmQGAJqIlbIyv4nZnobi9fBZviadOFRxb8MBI8/s320/IMG_5585.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P0Vy8FbujDk" width="320" youtube-src-id="P0Vy8FbujDk"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>We really enjoyed our time on the island and decided to explore a bit more. Our next site would be further north, near Saint Denis D'Oleron, Les Lauriers. Ile de Re would have to wait for another day D'Oleron had obviously won this time.Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-27803031778618422682023-08-29T09:00:00.001-07:002023-08-29T09:00:42.112-07:00Chilling in Coulon<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Continuing our little ramble around France we headed for our next stop Camping Venise Vert near Coulon. Situated in the Marais Poitevin ( Green Venice), a large nature reserve that lies between Niort and the Atlantic Ocean. The area covers over 100, 000 hectares of land and is the second largest National Park in France.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Coulon is one of the "Character Villages" of France. A very French holiday area in the heart of the Marais Poitevin with numerous windy rivers and streams running through it. A great draw for canoes, paddle boards and fisher folks.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Our campsite was about a 20 minute walk from Coulon on a lovely French site. Complete with very hot water, clean loos and showers, a swimming pool, jacuzzi, a small bar and restaurant we were soon set up. It was very hot and humid!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvj48OJpfLw13ad9qeQOehINcz59WcH9lnlK7ZBr9hXC6diRL4-1fkIYn_RvF4ZcLlOpyWiNJb8vYgUmSIlzSTXw5TV03jaAK5Tq_znvNGAtih6UVW1-dUUmzYOVfP2LEU8f_fmoLOmZ75YPm4IdsP1mOMYZfSARddMnXG-UROYfJRRs0QIb_8U2I9AIc/s6240/IMG_5500.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvj48OJpfLw13ad9qeQOehINcz59WcH9lnlK7ZBr9hXC6diRL4-1fkIYn_RvF4ZcLlOpyWiNJb8vYgUmSIlzSTXw5TV03jaAK5Tq_znvNGAtih6UVW1-dUUmzYOVfP2LEU8f_fmoLOmZ75YPm4IdsP1mOMYZfSARddMnXG-UROYfJRRs0QIb_8U2I9AIc/s320/IMG_5500.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /> Enjoying the hugely unseasonable very hot sun.</span><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWCNrwr7BfcOajkEpGvFoa3DNNCKS-iC-xLAKxjn3MWtAsOueO2ipMtjf13t0fU_loHDNsmqnug7bMa_mjr-m2mOL0hOsHlINE56yqCeFiSwk7g6KxAyZxeUO5lw6fHEbBjIFbnp_miY-OrU7-l1a_6AkYZYmgsA2z--ETZsF42K_GQp9GPXmS6mocJtI/s4624/20230824_185313.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWCNrwr7BfcOajkEpGvFoa3DNNCKS-iC-xLAKxjn3MWtAsOueO2ipMtjf13t0fU_loHDNsmqnug7bMa_mjr-m2mOL0hOsHlINE56yqCeFiSwk7g6KxAyZxeUO5lw6fHEbBjIFbnp_miY-OrU7-l1a_6AkYZYmgsA2z--ETZsF42K_GQp9GPXmS6mocJtI/s320/20230824_185313.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Having a meal in the very nice camp restaurant. Confit of duck!<br /></span><br /><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLO3q14paag-Xmy_wawKxg2H8XYgF1BwAgoTsZNHPlCnsjdaUmJH0L5QlnSC1QDuUNbtCb2FeujakOtqtsjvx8A6v0TlQfvPM7_Mzy1gZaI2-rmFOHHkktKTi_WUAvcKDK-xxySJa-pSQkDNeq5_0VA2ysRVChmNOokc2UueD-mydrQAeO_mNhimw-hc/s6240/IMG_5507.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkLO3q14paag-Xmy_wawKxg2H8XYgF1BwAgoTsZNHPlCnsjdaUmJH0L5QlnSC1QDuUNbtCb2FeujakOtqtsjvx8A6v0TlQfvPM7_Mzy1gZaI2-rmFOHHkktKTi_WUAvcKDK-xxySJa-pSQkDNeq5_0VA2ysRVChmNOokc2UueD-mydrQAeO_mNhimw-hc/s320/IMG_5507.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We set off to explore Coulon. A very interesting village and quite busy with mainly French tourists. There were dozens of boats waiting for passengers, so obviously it was a very popular place.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMmW34t-tEZD6fQBf5BVFBNOPYerjesI0KLWrYDbysrA7tuShxnEytHi5cPvcBS4UmZKCyK_oWSZWYmJ_EGr-HMugV8D7e7VczdmkGFzB32hzAd4jdWKoISqGmmyeabNTVi79PfC6yqyge6ZBRVAqd11rrFar-QZ60Wlda-DvfeMLCqDj--pbNaz39og/s6240/IMG_5513.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwMmW34t-tEZD6fQBf5BVFBNOPYerjesI0KLWrYDbysrA7tuShxnEytHi5cPvcBS4UmZKCyK_oWSZWYmJ_EGr-HMugV8D7e7VczdmkGFzB32hzAd4jdWKoISqGmmyeabNTVi79PfC6yqyge6ZBRVAqd11rrFar-QZ60Wlda-DvfeMLCqDj--pbNaz39og/s320/IMG_5513.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">There was a massive local fayre going on which looked very well attended. The donkey racing looked like it could have been worth finding, although we didn't actually get round to it! Apparently Coulon is big in the "donkey" world.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmD5EaGO7ljymLV1k8Krxs61l8vAgqHwYNxT8wOmZ-Yg0oKff3ypbTtshyUlR5cXsjOHsfuR8tcWlwBMfYl07XPNejmDHnjOeiXC4-zNErW8iP2dDy2pBe-SAGSjJ4gSInlH1S14kQYZU608-WMH1F1lutRSut6o7xOJ7x7tbWsuf6mu0FC_EOjiuFWlw/s6240/IMG_5512.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmD5EaGO7ljymLV1k8Krxs61l8vAgqHwYNxT8wOmZ-Yg0oKff3ypbTtshyUlR5cXsjOHsfuR8tcWlwBMfYl07XPNejmDHnjOeiXC4-zNErW8iP2dDy2pBe-SAGSjJ4gSInlH1S14kQYZU608-WMH1F1lutRSut6o7xOJ7x7tbWsuf6mu0FC_EOjiuFWlw/s320/IMG_5512.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">There were loads of visitors enjoying the river and the general atmosphere.</span><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">I am always surprised how these small French villages go to so much trouble with their environment. This little bee sculpture for instance.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKQNawNG_BtEF14tLfSKDDzqg3rKXjh9i9p33XrrsupnjSZS5XFzh74sGp2QE92uRq_nZ8HJ_PZEmObb7iQSs2eLwh-bCzy9LVSDDEnRD-4ST5LgJOY_1XBxjOpynIjSMM051ZIwgHG8O5Eobxu9l6S89ecWn0YHYCTab-hBD5DxaVZ7OzJVq_bW8qJI/s6240/IMG_5514.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKQNawNG_BtEF14tLfSKDDzqg3rKXjh9i9p33XrrsupnjSZS5XFzh74sGp2QE92uRq_nZ8HJ_PZEmObb7iQSs2eLwh-bCzy9LVSDDEnRD-4ST5LgJOY_1XBxjOpynIjSMM051ZIwgHG8O5Eobxu9l6S89ecWn0YHYCTab-hBD5DxaVZ7OzJVq_bW8qJI/s320/IMG_5514.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRZn7UrpiO5nt95oUBxdHALcsUPZ2uYbaQJ0bsdE9RkI4kwSDuiiwO_WYAfy_NRTD066ac1g8vUicZrZXay7uwXFJIp_Y-xTsaoPzeAlvnp6tJ96vCbCmuyxXc2uw_XMfQkV9UmDtn9HlqXPmj-g0iwWIUFjy8hfbenQP4O3UGfAAV3FIRRD9o5cYdUI/s6240/IMG_5502.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRZn7UrpiO5nt95oUBxdHALcsUPZ2uYbaQJ0bsdE9RkI4kwSDuiiwO_WYAfy_NRTD066ac1g8vUicZrZXay7uwXFJIp_Y-xTsaoPzeAlvnp6tJ96vCbCmuyxXc2uw_XMfQkV9UmDtn9HlqXPmj-g0iwWIUFjy8hfbenQP4O3UGfAAV3FIRRD9o5cYdUI/s320/IMG_5502.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagtGDlGmOIS8qeyHLnqOllFowrKzyMjCI3kIrSDzXVtS3yX3auKQmIYgThGRZUzXDEqzAYT6uiFPwczsaaZYtdMQJM9GjrdAi3vJwAD9Kh25xy1E-BNXsj35itVahExsIt0DLErfkpBN02Q2g_i2hPpkmOrrpSvB4_F4uEC4EcM-gspdfB42ZMbNJ0mI/s6240/IMG_5503.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagtGDlGmOIS8qeyHLnqOllFowrKzyMjCI3kIrSDzXVtS3yX3auKQmIYgThGRZUzXDEqzAYT6uiFPwczsaaZYtdMQJM9GjrdAi3vJwAD9Kh25xy1E-BNXsj35itVahExsIt0DLErfkpBN02Q2g_i2hPpkmOrrpSvB4_F4uEC4EcM-gspdfB42ZMbNJ0mI/s320/IMG_5503.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiENAMyIP3WFq8IrqN_GNodHxOgjy_-bZnjfVP770V3PqufCquzaBo4arLt4V4N5DranJ6crz8YzmXhEk-aOLeFG7haWvLmOJdjynOdacoxj3ExItXHlBfPPjPvZSdIPnMQ-6Sou218SzD-CRpYzmqAtHXiZ-_tNA6jv6b-HvL2J_EOrjoFqdpwj_JbNyY/s6240/IMG_5504.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiENAMyIP3WFq8IrqN_GNodHxOgjy_-bZnjfVP770V3PqufCquzaBo4arLt4V4N5DranJ6crz8YzmXhEk-aOLeFG7haWvLmOJdjynOdacoxj3ExItXHlBfPPjPvZSdIPnMQ-6Sou218SzD-CRpYzmqAtHXiZ-_tNA6jv6b-HvL2J_EOrjoFqdpwj_JbNyY/s320/IMG_5504.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>Interestingly the corn was so much bigger than the Somerset varieties.<p></p><p>Houses were carefully placed on both sides of the many rivers and small streams with small boats moored for the trip across. In olden times even cattle were transported that way. Now it looked like predominately holiday homes.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FcXQA_MI4E8lj0RR-2mWH14hy7MViWjDmlGCFRzBtG_9VgX57gXrMBWSFaFGYmcOGuxWl6eY_68Sq0YuuNGhYzWsDMOaS-ceBO6gkgsV7LS9J3MqBngu7hMBkHQNw-259sR_Y_2nBvYhhkgnTf6lUJK3Ex-QZEuHXgViZK60IVYQt7g1p1C01xKGrLs/s6240/IMG_5506.CR2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5FcXQA_MI4E8lj0RR-2mWH14hy7MViWjDmlGCFRzBtG_9VgX57gXrMBWSFaFGYmcOGuxWl6eY_68Sq0YuuNGhYzWsDMOaS-ceBO6gkgsV7LS9J3MqBngu7hMBkHQNw-259sR_Y_2nBvYhhkgnTf6lUJK3Ex-QZEuHXgViZK60IVYQt7g1p1C01xKGrLs/s320/IMG_5506.CR2" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>At least the postie didn't have to actually row across the river to deliver the mail.<div><br /></div><div>Lots to see in Coulon from the wine shops to picture galleries. It's only a small place but they even had their own land train.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzOylSt1YFQvPiR6wV_rj3MLDY7oJ1C7SB95asGvyudD6dO3YqkQFfsjssHA0IKIcMRUYBWXSAE5n0vlQF89SEF8m1f_7LOuniNdb4FzL_S40E1gCxwbhD7DoGYghy8X1CrvbaNk67D8l68fKNKpLYG5mPVMTq3wSGy_4dICOKMOnoOhYMFVl6gQEWw58/s6240/IMG_5510.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzOylSt1YFQvPiR6wV_rj3MLDY7oJ1C7SB95asGvyudD6dO3YqkQFfsjssHA0IKIcMRUYBWXSAE5n0vlQF89SEF8m1f_7LOuniNdb4FzL_S40E1gCxwbhD7DoGYghy8X1CrvbaNk67D8l68fKNKpLYG5mPVMTq3wSGy_4dICOKMOnoOhYMFVl6gQEWw58/s320/IMG_5510.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5i-Deb4Uw8yYUubNovV9ZuVJT20-Np9rJIdNRp-pSb-pTes5Ck_QocwuNLlvNsGTeNLmQSe6znjnxM3ieKuGfXQM7p9LeuGc6fqPIvCqbUPa0641YG5Rs4JMuARgghtbBWKgxa7e5PZiDR-PEu7fGkMgo8a25w5z_PLLI4G-EU4Xm1dOsKzUKksoDXtM/s4624/20230825_122138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5i-Deb4Uw8yYUubNovV9ZuVJT20-Np9rJIdNRp-pSb-pTes5Ck_QocwuNLlvNsGTeNLmQSe6znjnxM3ieKuGfXQM7p9LeuGc6fqPIvCqbUPa0641YG5Rs4JMuARgghtbBWKgxa7e5PZiDR-PEu7fGkMgo8a25w5z_PLLI4G-EU4Xm1dOsKzUKksoDXtM/s320/20230825_122138.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div><br /></div><div>On our second morning we got the bikes out and rode into the village to suss out a French car boot sale. It was massive. Lots of very interesting items sadly not enough room in the van to bring any home.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVp8wXRGbCESoYjOUZKAL7LGa6xfv0uvSyVrw81QbYbKwTc5AG6yWH2tx5lhGDRFbiww1aKC2Hb_pNv8X273-RL5r-LfvLev6N2siOVHb881M-SvEUJ1xe54akX-lqKUoBVhvj8p2TD-Flx6GkhtXnZtHfPS_QYGT8ivL6EqC4Z32I0NA6-tXbm7CUZU/s4624/20230827_125215.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyVp8wXRGbCESoYjOUZKAL7LGa6xfv0uvSyVrw81QbYbKwTc5AG6yWH2tx5lhGDRFbiww1aKC2Hb_pNv8X273-RL5r-LfvLev6N2siOVHb881M-SvEUJ1xe54akX-lqKUoBVhvj8p2TD-Flx6GkhtXnZtHfPS_QYGT8ivL6EqC4Z32I0NA6-tXbm7CUZU/s320/20230827_125215.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJG6cRtcFVw-_2h23YBPJ4J3yJ3TyCjs4HHj0P8RLP1Q1gEWWjYf8zSjPxrnEdMb3mNRi9OxjE26H5OqgHMeywIwjSa3SGrawjXTssAxmvW59GGTKiZerh95FjKdldeNmNxs9-i6C_2u7sX1zMYNKzn5tIGOq_ff0xDNX4FE-Njyyk4tvUmWV0AMPfvU/s4624/20230827_125221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjJG6cRtcFVw-_2h23YBPJ4J3yJ3TyCjs4HHj0P8RLP1Q1gEWWjYf8zSjPxrnEdMb3mNRi9OxjE26H5OqgHMeywIwjSa3SGrawjXTssAxmvW59GGTKiZerh95FjKdldeNmNxs9-i6C_2u7sX1zMYNKzn5tIGOq_ff0xDNX4FE-Njyyk4tvUmWV0AMPfvU/s320/20230827_125221.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Certainly an area of France well worth exploring and one we are sure to visit again.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p></div></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-41820840867996522482023-08-25T10:59:00.001-07:002023-08-25T10:59:29.987-07:00Trials in Tours<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We had always promised ourselves that we would return to Tours and have a proper look around. This year provided just the right opportunity and we arrived in Only Camp Tours on a very HOT afternoon.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnbsMIyAW2i21BogPTkK4MMggiz6u1N1QTojnu5s68wdF9SVEtx9LvMis0m1T4C_dhFfzvoxClHhv-_NVwiIlOr2BSUUjZM5kvM-XNp5y1htjhw70U-S8sYSy0zUIJqfVbAFbETwFuoMGrPYLVQJMMl-G9p2ZX7rt1LFd9SOvQydFKpA8dwhbfHkzWBno/s6240/IMG_5475.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnbsMIyAW2i21BogPTkK4MMggiz6u1N1QTojnu5s68wdF9SVEtx9LvMis0m1T4C_dhFfzvoxClHhv-_NVwiIlOr2BSUUjZM5kvM-XNp5y1htjhw70U-S8sYSy0zUIJqfVbAFbETwFuoMGrPYLVQJMMl-G9p2ZX7rt1LFd9SOvQydFKpA8dwhbfHkzWBno/s320/IMG_5475.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Only Camp Val de Loire is around a 20 minutes bike ride from Tours Centre Ville in the suburbs of Saint Avertin. The camp site is right on the river, not luxurious but pretty spacious with just about adequate loos and showers.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2zPv7tWEoK6y4n0j3X8VNIa2KXgphy3TNOJ6o6r38o-C8C8aw8z0P-gDljOWg_BBQUl3pOyGKmtZOJe7IoIegbYTHzm2Cyy5Q77PURiEnHT5HavmCOlFsLWzU_VdY7eK-z0Hq_C-njB4lSmix1VuzcDOQBsxIGDXprVbXevxfdbAXVadBAfvRZrjAL6U/s6240/IMG_5476.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6240" data-original-width="4160" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2zPv7tWEoK6y4n0j3X8VNIa2KXgphy3TNOJ6o6r38o-C8C8aw8z0P-gDljOWg_BBQUl3pOyGKmtZOJe7IoIegbYTHzm2Cyy5Q77PURiEnHT5HavmCOlFsLWzU_VdY7eK-z0Hq_C-njB4lSmix1VuzcDOQBsxIGDXprVbXevxfdbAXVadBAfvRZrjAL6U/s320/IMG_5476.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><p><br /></p><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicwMIligIgNJsEhtofJwJWv0vk62FT1c8UWvnqCel-y3Q7nGWwmAbrUweNZ4IzodKPGX1sunR1gSxILNEZUUKtB2t_sBB_1ErWj2dPFhjq8TYws8VmCbUjzT5zQPH8WIs2aKpbGRBwehEmdPS2rwBdf-6ea8HFQHE99Gj0XYS_G42I2tAzFQOkblzvcD8/s6240/IMG_5490.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicwMIligIgNJsEhtofJwJWv0vk62FT1c8UWvnqCel-y3Q7nGWwmAbrUweNZ4IzodKPGX1sunR1gSxILNEZUUKtB2t_sBB_1ErWj2dPFhjq8TYws8VmCbUjzT5zQPH8WIs2aKpbGRBwehEmdPS2rwBdf-6ea8HFQHE99Gj0XYS_G42I2tAzFQOkblzvcD8/s320/IMG_5490.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Spot Krystal, view from the river bank.</div><div><br /></div><div>After a restful night which was very hot ( thank goodness for our fan!)</div><div>We set out on our bikes to find Tours. Directions appeared pretty easy, turn right under the first bridge and straight on. Easy to get lost then !! We started on the right route but soon got confused ( its doesn't take much !!) Should we really be entangled with French fishermen on a tiny track. I was following Den. Then there were the bridges!! Loads of them, we negotiated the island in the middle of the river and then found ourselves on the back streets of Tours. With a bit of help from a local and a few minor words from Google we eventually found our way to a main road. Bear in mind here, I am not the best on le velo. I did manage in heavy Tours traffic on the bike tracks quite well all things considered. The 20 minutes progressed to about an hour. Finally we found the Centre Ville.</div><div><br /></div><div>I suppose the riot police, dogs, bikes and police cars should have been a clue. We were suddenly in the middle of a full French protest. ( something to do with climate change we think ) There was a lot of singing and jumping about in the fountains, with a few tractors parked around the place.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7Ymw4f357jHmvFfJ0h8eSrbuXPeqeS_VM7MJr9w2AH1fnPgd1lw8K0ON7EeRW7-_1WArkz3rXXpqrmqc1ni9g9ePEvssNTrlijsz0ltFB4Tjv0G9naKky3ykufCarEOUUliqkl8mY8uzKHoin6FNYbJc-jAGc_P6WJcdvbsJ0wUOpoUjElH0mdTolnw/s6240/IMG_5478.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH7Ymw4f357jHmvFfJ0h8eSrbuXPeqeS_VM7MJr9w2AH1fnPgd1lw8K0ON7EeRW7-_1WArkz3rXXpqrmqc1ni9g9ePEvssNTrlijsz0ltFB4Tjv0G9naKky3ykufCarEOUUliqkl8mY8uzKHoin6FNYbJc-jAGc_P6WJcdvbsJ0wUOpoUjElH0mdTolnw/s320/IMG_5478.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG4xNm7mL8s5L_WQUkkzhb23KlIXI0iA0_XOH0cd6Le6FzmA2lc4ouEpKtSYhfpIhY0suGMLEk_Gmv_ASJL1IxzGmfa55ekxO4uEHawINWGV7uus97jvTNZML90cqIHetbTFlw7JenHRhStgafayKMB7ua8Mhck2DNGU5pGFg68zwn9-ldy8gmgXDsCEs/s6240/IMG_5479.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG4xNm7mL8s5L_WQUkkzhb23KlIXI0iA0_XOH0cd6Le6FzmA2lc4ouEpKtSYhfpIhY0suGMLEk_Gmv_ASJL1IxzGmfa55ekxO4uEHawINWGV7uus97jvTNZML90cqIHetbTFlw7JenHRhStgafayKMB7ua8Mhck2DNGU5pGFg68zwn9-ldy8gmgXDsCEs/s320/IMG_5479.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Police bikes and tractors on display.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HlN0dd6vzlzDUMHhEUID8EwUGVDzeR8Y1UKUdPh2z0DVP4DpQ3ZeNm4s8asB__cJyQhpjP91fQLdPIG3AbE8vZBgr4jzelQ46lG8l2OqKASq_THBFQVRRrfq5edC5CM4LVWo65RvgEut5bWv-gzHEZ0EYKIf0mESgqVEKyBx0YHnWnqghx_tH57wC5Y/s6240/IMG_5480.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3HlN0dd6vzlzDUMHhEUID8EwUGVDzeR8Y1UKUdPh2z0DVP4DpQ3ZeNm4s8asB__cJyQhpjP91fQLdPIG3AbE8vZBgr4jzelQ46lG8l2OqKASq_THBFQVRRrfq5edC5CM4LVWo65RvgEut5bWv-gzHEZ0EYKIf0mESgqVEKyBx0YHnWnqghx_tH57wC5Y/s320/IMG_5480.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dOHoPqIo8xw" width="320" youtube-src-id="dOHoPqIo8xw"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /><div>Den took a few pictures then we snuck around the corner and found a quiet bar for a large drink. I really deserved my Aperol Spritz.</div><div><br /></div><div>I actually took us 16 minutes to cycle home. We never did get to the old town, but now we know the way, there's always another day. We will have to come back to Tours.</div><div><br /></div><div>Day 2 in Tours found us cycling along the river bank in the opposite direction. We passed the very nice looking large Municipal swimming pool, next to the camping. Certainly worth further exploration.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnjxR0fM8dLRBfhVdXiJpo_cZxyZbKCKi4IO-19NQ2U7KA6geUdJJUEG1jw7DyxFwZqQGJANegcN2sxPXUFDwEkj3YZphp26cglABDTSlNHYECyEr-Xuon0u8xZ05Vj-BG_D-UobBiqh-ywug63PsLx1gmFWm5Iy2ystBaOT4K4eRGL_453H1kUakJ9vI/s6240/IMG_5493.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnjxR0fM8dLRBfhVdXiJpo_cZxyZbKCKi4IO-19NQ2U7KA6geUdJJUEG1jw7DyxFwZqQGJANegcN2sxPXUFDwEkj3YZphp26cglABDTSlNHYECyEr-Xuon0u8xZ05Vj-BG_D-UobBiqh-ywug63PsLx1gmFWm5Iy2ystBaOT4K4eRGL_453H1kUakJ9vI/s320/IMG_5493.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rcHyhLwoULa1crm1MBxtzUDHzybrripZqc6C94nJOL4QCPIi0moMy7oShEcOyXvEVsupjO_GEQ2D_zyiFzXwNMS-4N0NNivAXyXn4eTs14nGNBSctMKkdPvC0S1C6ccFES3Wmbt9JgiO8guE0f3_zWjISV53_jl5O1qmyjqUqY29cnAPvGIvgR3PmHA/s6240/IMG_5483.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rcHyhLwoULa1crm1MBxtzUDHzybrripZqc6C94nJOL4QCPIi0moMy7oShEcOyXvEVsupjO_GEQ2D_zyiFzXwNMS-4N0NNivAXyXn4eTs14nGNBSctMKkdPvC0S1C6ccFES3Wmbt9JgiO8guE0f3_zWjISV53_jl5O1qmyjqUqY29cnAPvGIvgR3PmHA/s320/IMG_5483.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrRZn9v0zEdAUPb5H5MAwseOL_ujioQDBn_LnL7WFsU8im17ohqA8n336np1ZmWx9V40Osicowa_FTj_WRoifRFTcs6igW6FWAeGGgr2V4zw-a-ZvRkoNpBEajTtOIMUWjuh1paC_rp4BY39uz-DaZKR59Drp3HR8RPgqc0c4esLSdpSdJ0d352RhbK0/s6240/IMG_5485.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrRZn9v0zEdAUPb5H5MAwseOL_ujioQDBn_LnL7WFsU8im17ohqA8n336np1ZmWx9V40Osicowa_FTj_WRoifRFTcs6igW6FWAeGGgr2V4zw-a-ZvRkoNpBEajTtOIMUWjuh1paC_rp4BY39uz-DaZKR59Drp3HR8RPgqc0c4esLSdpSdJ0d352RhbK0/s320/IMG_5485.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gbIZAU44lWQhcADtQGjxrURy2TdTxdZMx3aCD18G2aMkFUAXsKx87NyuyX4Npc8siPqh-No8xozr2svbyl5gzRtqbHoH1wgKL5_3v3J_HQt6ZbWePmWczk8m1_pkYDL2utfqpQyLF5NwpgvF_yM1RKbxjUYyf4o4P87a7u6KG9NK3ZG8EYtr2-l9ot4/s6240/IMG_5486.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0gbIZAU44lWQhcADtQGjxrURy2TdTxdZMx3aCD18G2aMkFUAXsKx87NyuyX4Npc8siPqh-No8xozr2svbyl5gzRtqbHoH1wgKL5_3v3J_HQt6ZbWePmWczk8m1_pkYDL2utfqpQyLF5NwpgvF_yM1RKbxjUYyf4o4P87a7u6KG9NK3ZG8EYtr2-l9ot4/s320/IMG_5486.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Loads of water sports going on in the river.</div><div><br /></div><div>We had a lovely lunch in the local restaurant by the river. Tours has plenty more to give. Next time we will make it to the old town.</div></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-83529872955553345612023-08-20T06:45:00.006-07:002023-08-20T06:45:42.239-07:00August Expedition. South of Rouen<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Set off for the next stop after Guines near Calais on a dull, dry, morning. Minor excursion via Guines to find the new Aldi supermarket in the village. What we hadn't realised was it was market day. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Den stoically waved through manically parked French cars, to find the road closed, due to a market. Eventually we weaved our way amongst the "one way" and "no entry" signs and gave up on shopping! Aldi would have to wait. Just outside Guines and heading for the motorway, we encountered the dreaded "route barre" signs, no diversion signs to be seen. Without Madam SatNag's help, we eventually escaped to the right motorway and were on our way. Then the torrential rain started!!!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Happily, the weather gods were on our side. After finding our way through Rouen, navigating the bridge and traffic we were through. Thank goodness we did have the correct Crit Air ticket, then there was a new Madam SatNag, comment.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> " Do you wish to enter the Crit Air Zone?" she asked. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">"Oui" we said, not sure what would have happened if we had said "Non". </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Our little yellow ticket performed as expected. I don't think anything would have happened if we didn't have one, but we were already stressed enough. There were cameras around, but not sure if they were turned on. Also little signs saying we were entering a Zone. C'est la vie, we survived!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Three hours of driving later and the sun had come out. We arrived at Camping St Nicolas in a place called Le Bec Hellouin. Home to a beautiful Benedictine Abbey, owned by the French Government, a peaceful pretty place.. Not a massively well known tourist destination, but well worth a visit. We were soon duly signed in and soon set up amongst the shady trees.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7Mcu1Yzllc_PIRf6MSPV_IR1FSUq9TBIokE34hQwWU_ihAWcOGBVf42P2AUBiRVXGGIs3x0SScyVEHURiFrnmxJoydzCdlNM6vYN2V3NGLd7Mto45qeSNDB0zAol0eROtji1K_9blbXE7N2aaoA0kmM0aTTYaW4BNBQC-krZDTmUuR0KZiZEZ1PFxA4/s6240/IMG_5445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij7Mcu1Yzllc_PIRf6MSPV_IR1FSUq9TBIokE34hQwWU_ihAWcOGBVf42P2AUBiRVXGGIs3x0SScyVEHURiFrnmxJoydzCdlNM6vYN2V3NGLd7Mto45qeSNDB0zAol0eROtji1K_9blbXE7N2aaoA0kmM0aTTYaW4BNBQC-krZDTmUuR0KZiZEZ1PFxA4/s320/IMG_5445.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Really nice site, set in an old apple orchard. We had stayed here many years ago. Pleased to see the site has been updated. Restaurant ( small but perfectly formed ), bar, mini shop, swimming pool, tennis courts and loads of room. All for 30.10 E in the high season. Wine and local cider for sale.We booked a table for the evening meal and chilled!!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Dinner was lovely, Den got his mussels fix, I had fish. Lots of late arrivals mainly French but still many spaces. A relaxing 3 day stop. We walked down through the trees down a very steep path 500k to the village.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucAXASkCNXCxyHADd3W9whqsjghmxYEAcvpSwjFi7lQvJmJrjXzw5GgR7QOC81Y-kmtByHI3_EQ1G9f-QhctNO7W6UahwVUl0Ur6iCdO8OAJ3A4MOe25DSEPfRwsirBSrgcX96wdM0ruH5mI_jnlRn03hOQ-_dV1VHB32o24suhkhKgwP98XDe3dZDmE/s6240/IMG_5453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhucAXASkCNXCxyHADd3W9whqsjghmxYEAcvpSwjFi7lQvJmJrjXzw5GgR7QOC81Y-kmtByHI3_EQ1G9f-QhctNO7W6UahwVUl0Ur6iCdO8OAJ3A4MOe25DSEPfRwsirBSrgcX96wdM0ruH5mI_jnlRn03hOQ-_dV1VHB32o24suhkhKgwP98XDe3dZDmE/s320/IMG_5453.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFcWce8BJSMo4tVYXUDRGBCG1WfD2FC8nNh90ULZViXqiaayEG_3CGCLGacuFTJO3qR_clMk8AFO8aTwv5fo53PaJWIx2G4fqbdNO8CUUCJ_6yE3cKHr9FDtNIxHepWf5qvTBHDOLbUY23syNKSFejK1AZfF-vCwQDjuTf3-fgmEIsc2QeuMLYhpY3l3w/s6240/IMG_5456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFcWce8BJSMo4tVYXUDRGBCG1WfD2FC8nNh90ULZViXqiaayEG_3CGCLGacuFTJO3qR_clMk8AFO8aTwv5fo53PaJWIx2G4fqbdNO8CUUCJ_6yE3cKHr9FDtNIxHepWf5qvTBHDOLbUY23syNKSFejK1AZfF-vCwQDjuTf3-fgmEIsc2QeuMLYhpY3l3w/s320/IMG_5456.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">On a lovely day a beautiful walk, very uneven under foot and very steep in places. Coming home was fun but we'd had a beer by then so we were very sure footed!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The village was much as we remembered. Beautiful Abbey grounds and church.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElxz8MzeLT1cDnwJ2cO_yaYbpdAAUYg_7t30pEt7LNaaIusRsiNkfIqlKkJnft0_mH-KJQcjNPl5vxK10xfqf1g8dKLvHsbZod4L6TEflVE624SxUjXkC6On18lqXCin4te0_bqYV1jVgtuGItee0iCUlB3JjS-WzfWwTuP8i7-dOXkrusngyOWeiPzo/s6240/IMG_5461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6240" data-original-width="4160" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiElxz8MzeLT1cDnwJ2cO_yaYbpdAAUYg_7t30pEt7LNaaIusRsiNkfIqlKkJnft0_mH-KJQcjNPl5vxK10xfqf1g8dKLvHsbZod4L6TEflVE624SxUjXkC6On18lqXCin4te0_bqYV1jVgtuGItee0iCUlB3JjS-WzfWwTuP8i7-dOXkrusngyOWeiPzo/s320/IMG_5461.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2oQF1328tBEo1MlnZaeN9_49pRMVp1aNSLJ-VdqT8h0ZTJyEUybSPuKH5GnOHm3gVIwYb0OjSXaBmCTylx28YhCi-132fT2Ie6QZNLrx7gtvH_2K21i3dntYoO1NHSU13Le1BliCSt3M0PwAZJOw2fHpuZNJLLW0olrfQOlOdCBFvXvJJb-2_MTY0I0s/s6240/IMG_5463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2oQF1328tBEo1MlnZaeN9_49pRMVp1aNSLJ-VdqT8h0ZTJyEUybSPuKH5GnOHm3gVIwYb0OjSXaBmCTylx28YhCi-132fT2Ie6QZNLrx7gtvH_2K21i3dntYoO1NHSU13Le1BliCSt3M0PwAZJOw2fHpuZNJLLW0olrfQOlOdCBFvXvJJb-2_MTY0I0s/s320/IMG_5463.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6rB2zw_ybN3Z16AheNKCsQ9BO2ju8sQl9AtnRmK9BZn2yLxlghzaSd2UsC5jSs5bnBwysFH_WUJLf0ZAzxPmhjQyFtECC2HHzsPeGPBzTJMx043PLFq3W_Ms9FVKOmg7GxUOXcdeokvive2hBOZbFYIHiKnliBnz2ad0mOKBBhp61uL9WyzVKkTpDpk/s6240/IMG_5465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6rB2zw_ybN3Z16AheNKCsQ9BO2ju8sQl9AtnRmK9BZn2yLxlghzaSd2UsC5jSs5bnBwysFH_WUJLf0ZAzxPmhjQyFtECC2HHzsPeGPBzTJMx043PLFq3W_Ms9FVKOmg7GxUOXcdeokvive2hBOZbFYIHiKnliBnz2ad0mOKBBhp61uL9WyzVKkTpDpk/s320/IMG_5465.JPG" width="320" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Y7mXd-Cx1-rLbbkrwSYSemu-dRcDdz2kquvpL6f5F9OQCly_-A1elk1zE5sbYsr1r_h86YOHJgAudGZWyHK6G_IKABIj9PhoRC-eTZSiFAObHxyu8ssBD2OlfzdIGaJsJzQVWUCAUUCGV7G0PBxA-ptuaYB6vH0m1JQhwKg-9G7bVEgbeBbNmFJGLEk/s6240/IMG_5472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Y7mXd-Cx1-rLbbkrwSYSemu-dRcDdz2kquvpL6f5F9OQCly_-A1elk1zE5sbYsr1r_h86YOHJgAudGZWyHK6G_IKABIj9PhoRC-eTZSiFAObHxyu8ssBD2OlfzdIGaJsJzQVWUCAUUCGV7G0PBxA-ptuaYB6vH0m1JQhwKg-9G7bVEgbeBbNmFJGLEk/s320/IMG_5472.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We thought this was a clever touch. Framing a flower. These were scattered around the village.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">All in all, a very nice chilling three day stay. Dinner again tonight in the restaurant and moving onwards tomorrow. Back to Tours. It's been beautifully warm here top 20's but thankfully not many biting insects. We will be back.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVpKdTcNJZpb4zel64wR1XavkKlTPETsF2pEi8t1BN4c5Qdi0_sElnGZOI1jmCRpLCC7o2IFP1-1A3JRjTh-WawIUvKklApTc-MCNaQDpTt91vemiWd4dtCywJRHPAiu8X05NW7IksiSETGl6oE-VBVU_xbZe2tirFWak_Dowt1DMEkMw394JdNL5lnWY/s6240/IMG_5448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVpKdTcNJZpb4zel64wR1XavkKlTPETsF2pEi8t1BN4c5Qdi0_sElnGZOI1jmCRpLCC7o2IFP1-1A3JRjTh-WawIUvKklApTc-MCNaQDpTt91vemiWd4dtCywJRHPAiu8X05NW7IksiSETGl6oE-VBVU_xbZe2tirFWak_Dowt1DMEkMw394JdNL5lnWY/s320/IMG_5448.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p>Restaurant, Bar and Shop. Swimming pool behind which is also used by locals but very quiet and almost empty during our stay.</p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApIUsEMj0-JOJVk1AX903dQHhG7anGJ2vy17doCsrXjiqpp9c5IYqNLNW5X6Z_5psIWCFbUF6IUo0YB2SIUYPwK7VXmnbuUIeGmaxqZhu5849lzmtkO95iwx80xzSWmhsYiy0AXA57S21mmutEDjLMBuem6LgT3pdZOFGqYvMyj0RjD9kzK1MwJOnnFE/s6240/IMG_5451.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjApIUsEMj0-JOJVk1AX903dQHhG7anGJ2vy17doCsrXjiqpp9c5IYqNLNW5X6Z_5psIWCFbUF6IUo0YB2SIUYPwK7VXmnbuUIeGmaxqZhu5849lzmtkO95iwx80xzSWmhsYiy0AXA57S21mmutEDjLMBuem6LgT3pdZOFGqYvMyj0RjD9kzK1MwJOnnFE/s320/IMG_5451.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Path to the village.</span><p></p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-19113096193102094792023-08-17T05:28:00.000-07:002023-08-17T05:28:12.266-07:00August Expedition. France Guines near Calais.<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">This year we have decided to do a little French Tour as a shorter alternative to our planned Greek trip. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">An easy drive to Folkstone found us boarding Le Shuttle on a beautifully hot day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The camp site we were aiming for was Bien Assise just outside Calais. Not a site we would normally stay on but we were meeting our son and family for a couple of days. At 50.40E a night, slightly more expensive than the last time we stayed. We had last been here around 30 years ago, surprisingly not many changes. The same swimming pool, bar and toilet block. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijuG6da4dSLZOtqjhjq6s8FdDudP0Y3FhSs3Qc-Il94Vp9fJrWIn6BFFAE_QUPBjUDo2f31-kuadL_DvUqeNCnDbXkR2n0TXEec6j1I82bjBH1LkonUV08p5zauVaVTy3QxvKZd-EJFYRvmxypDOrf99vNhF4hMSy_KHQHIYZMdXNpVkj7yVWfxps1uU/s6240/IMG_5439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijuG6da4dSLZOtqjhjq6s8FdDudP0Y3FhSs3Qc-Il94Vp9fJrWIn6BFFAE_QUPBjUDo2f31-kuadL_DvUqeNCnDbXkR2n0TXEec6j1I82bjBH1LkonUV08p5zauVaVTy3QxvKZd-EJFYRvmxypDOrf99vNhF4hMSy_KHQHIYZMdXNpVkj7yVWfxps1uU/s320/IMG_5439.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHM3eV6VCSo6aXlVl2mR3jEJc5hkIXa9geIyuApgV2imXSzwoCk6r7bV_LB9BUW_5eY9bFnqoFRsG94p_sTQoOoiHnCrPCHPt-tM-YQUwqgXWX-hyRhwhwGKbKmENwrDmRlzKyaykUTFpNxfrO8vqbZk5lYn3KnrSuFVoNBqeoMa9fIreNH6PPXSx6aDA/s6240/IMG_5437.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHM3eV6VCSo6aXlVl2mR3jEJc5hkIXa9geIyuApgV2imXSzwoCk6r7bV_LB9BUW_5eY9bFnqoFRsG94p_sTQoOoiHnCrPCHPt-tM-YQUwqgXWX-hyRhwhwGKbKmENwrDmRlzKyaykUTFpNxfrO8vqbZk5lYn3KnrSuFVoNBqeoMa9fIreNH6PPXSx6aDA/s320/IMG_5437.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Restaurant here. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The site was more spaced out with huge pitches and very well kept grounds. Far fewer caravans around than the last time we were here.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw2Ybgq5lrNSvQ5_ckCPTPGI_VCvspY2ulKVP32hviWvNNo4mpbgSeQsMGkMDEZ5lZTqsWCdHVGzujOKJu_Bn0XZhQmOnj_H45tSigW40AEV2pp-ITaB7Pw4VvWK2apHOgbo_S_lIKf4vZ_N4FSOA4b5NOjhxnBcPEyVbVebIamScEMLwSCFLyII9ZxpM/s6240/IMG_5434.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw2Ybgq5lrNSvQ5_ckCPTPGI_VCvspY2ulKVP32hviWvNNo4mpbgSeQsMGkMDEZ5lZTqsWCdHVGzujOKJu_Bn0XZhQmOnj_H45tSigW40AEV2pp-ITaB7Pw4VvWK2apHOgbo_S_lIKf4vZ_N4FSOA4b5NOjhxnBcPEyVbVebIamScEMLwSCFLyII9ZxpM/s320/IMG_5434.CR2" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3M3hmdrVtTmD8lLGZJuyAQKhG5oYlZRhLSz8yOQXKsggxo1En8SnF2oxaV42PfucjxP5x_cGlDDphJs9e1qaz48iOpdQINHzU8a0-Pd-3gBRkIuJYEJ_ZCdLp0tAZwd__IrCn83x62dESeVtClM-dlrKfCAOWw-M6jHW766QgA8g7zNM8baJHSacJQ0/s6240/IMG_5441.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw3M3hmdrVtTmD8lLGZJuyAQKhG5oYlZRhLSz8yOQXKsggxo1En8SnF2oxaV42PfucjxP5x_cGlDDphJs9e1qaz48iOpdQINHzU8a0-Pd-3gBRkIuJYEJ_ZCdLp0tAZwd__IrCn83x62dESeVtClM-dlrKfCAOWw-M6jHW766QgA8g7zNM8baJHSacJQ0/s320/IMG_5441.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p>Our son had a deluxe pitch, for an extra 10E a night he got a shed, BBQ, picnic table and benches with onsite drainage. Must be a family, genetic thing, he has a converted van and a tent for the kids.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTm4VeSUU--vw4voHbEZH5bofeigHpCBjqVaV58CRA61Q3v4oVMJcMQabG6mre2SVApDfF9mGxL-8xFM5ElNsLSxO4eVIudgClznrnFX0Hf1uN3sMQOsM0g_PCJ5dulENJyC_GFcEXCgbTFQ8B5mVhObUhPywuVzj8hVPTHCTyuzhbfNG5ItL235_FdLE/s6240/IMG_5444.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTm4VeSUU--vw4voHbEZH5bofeigHpCBjqVaV58CRA61Q3v4oVMJcMQabG6mre2SVApDfF9mGxL-8xFM5ElNsLSxO4eVIudgClznrnFX0Hf1uN3sMQOsM0g_PCJ5dulENJyC_GFcEXCgbTFQ8B5mVhObUhPywuVzj8hVPTHCTyuzhbfNG5ItL235_FdLE/s320/IMG_5444.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We slummed it in the cheaper seats!!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We had a little wander into town, nothing much had changed, a lot of the small shops had closed although a new Aldi and Lidl have opened. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsT0zn5UJmQMVzaCjpFrZYQc1kWumfigoWNCoaj2XI283MVv7BWk8GVmXR0kAjzPfNwOSqvdQSvsa2ZnZEirSOdYIgM5j9ZFe3O_Lugm30mqgN4OUHjvwe3vfjpqkh5p2sUX7jppZ4CDZyVEDRChK73_MjYh4ylf1HFIBfG3fsBtshNtGU0Kr1g6Cx1c/s6240/IMG_5442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsT0zn5UJmQMVzaCjpFrZYQc1kWumfigoWNCoaj2XI283MVv7BWk8GVmXR0kAjzPfNwOSqvdQSvsa2ZnZEirSOdYIgM5j9ZFe3O_Lugm30mqgN4OUHjvwe3vfjpqkh5p2sUX7jppZ4CDZyVEDRChK73_MjYh4ylf1HFIBfG3fsBtshNtGU0Kr1g6Cx1c/s320/IMG_5442.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The French are so imaginative about their roundabouts.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Lots of happiness with the weather though, well into the 20C with a slight breeze so quite comfortable. Meal out tonight and moving on demain!! ( tomorrow)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-45133718042488822072023-07-31T05:51:00.000-07:002023-07-31T05:51:37.139-07:00Vantage Habitation Check, Leeds, Cheshire, Barmouth and Hereford<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Time for our annual pilgrimage, back to Leeds. Krystal all set to visit her birth place and be checked over. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The 2023 Habitation Check.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We always go back to the Vantage factory for this as we get such terrific service from Vantage. Not too much on the list for this year, no majors! We have just had two new tyres, a service and an MOT, so all is well on the Fiat front.......we hope! Time for Vantage to do its bit.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Usually we go up to Leeds on a Sunday, stay at the Turnpike ( Premier Inn ) in Knottingly and take Krystal up to the factory on a Monday morning. For the last two years we have really struggled with the Leeds rush hour traffic, finding it very stressful to make the factory by 8.30am, last year it took almost an hour . This year we decided to try a change. Habitation booked for a Tuesday morning and a Premier Inn in Leeds City Centre booked for Monday night. This meant we could drop the van off at the factory on Monday afternoon and make a long leisurely stroll into Leeds centre and have a meal and a night at the hotel. It also meant we could have breakfast in the morning and lounge about watching daytime TV until 11.30am before going to pick Krystal up on Tuesday afternoon after her check up.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Another small diversion. We decided rather than a 5 hour drive to Leeds, we would go on Sunday morning and break the journey just North of Birmingham at Kingsbury Water Park, that meant a much more comfortable 2/3 hour drive first and about the same the next day.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The journey to Kingsbury Water Park was pretty uneventful with very little traffic. Luckily for us the motorway which runs just behind the campsite was closed for the night so it was very peaceful. Nice Camping & Caravanning site which was pretty empty although I did book.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt0ZcYx4atAXne5oUKm5czo8ddBr1K2FIXA2I5SrU8CNcnu3ssNPsPhfFHLIdhIF5M0oTr1C7FgB-RGHXqYd_coCsqUt160VHehgGfisFqUkq1MHArQse9rhL2vOFx5pNjd2xxqYFA3_AXj-1FpSmXfJUXcBbdWWStpP8EWNmfT58CKgKwPgey2ZDOo0A/s6240/IMG_5343.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt0ZcYx4atAXne5oUKm5czo8ddBr1K2FIXA2I5SrU8CNcnu3ssNPsPhfFHLIdhIF5M0oTr1C7FgB-RGHXqYd_coCsqUt160VHehgGfisFqUkq1MHArQse9rhL2vOFx5pNjd2xxqYFA3_AXj-1FpSmXfJUXcBbdWWStpP8EWNmfT58CKgKwPgey2ZDOo0A/s320/IMG_5343.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Krystal happily settled on her pitch for the first night.<p></p><p>We walked up the lanes to a very nice pub The Dog and Doublet and managed to get a meal. It was very showery so we did have to do a bit of dodging about under the trees.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLhcbEwGQVom2IsSQ5YcGeehn79eyu820SLTUKQ5P1hRa8Rol0FSBzr3oZMVqeqH35Ucm5MAnKicxXxhPrYpiwIN4xNqfToXnSA0N5ZmqVBIMj1fOVpaRYs7lcQHfEgsPEt-TltMVNA1EwDa2VoAQCKYDAt4RRpa4zkCCUxkZoklsuAvZGOpyo3LlnvWA/s6240/IMG_5346.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLhcbEwGQVom2IsSQ5YcGeehn79eyu820SLTUKQ5P1hRa8Rol0FSBzr3oZMVqeqH35Ucm5MAnKicxXxhPrYpiwIN4xNqfToXnSA0N5ZmqVBIMj1fOVpaRYs7lcQHfEgsPEt-TltMVNA1EwDa2VoAQCKYDAt4RRpa4zkCCUxkZoklsuAvZGOpyo3LlnvWA/s320/IMG_5346.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><p>Great site for fishing and bird watching. Sadly not really enough time to have a proper look around, maybe next year!</p><p>The next morning we made a prompt start heading for the Vantage factory. A bit of traffic but not bad, We stopped for sandwiches on the way and arrived at Vantage around 3.00pm just in time to bed Krystal down for the night and have a chat with Julie and Ian who would be doing the hab check.</p><p>We had packed our overnight stuff in our ruck sacks and headed down the road to the City Centre. Luckily no rain. It was an easy flat walk and the hotel was just behind the railway station, a few minor detours and we found it. A nice meal, a few drinks and a peaceful night. The next day we strolled back to the Vantage factory to find out how Krystal had faired. All was well although it turned out she did need two new batteries, Julie had phoned the previous day to give us the good news, one battery OK, one dodgy. We decided on two new ones. Our credit card company love us!!</p><p>Next stop, a drive to Cheshire and we were heading for Shays Farm. Another lovely well run, really clean site, the other side of Chester. A good stop for us as Den's brother and sister-in law live in the village of Tarporley. There is also a very nice pub walking distance from the site called The Shrewsbury Arms. Incidentally the pub has a nice little camp site attached too.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ddCOmdj-FxIBljalCh-sOIkQBu1Ru3RdytbP2YehQMGAq0mk1mKBSQGjA6LAPSGhtC98pfWVsvcZRy9HPPqA3TRT9SfboGh5x0TrcD8JdYGxeEY6GifxufB-odfq4JgM0IMW_eVpBGskxIcb9mxIcQ1vzpY0QkKs722gET45WGGl4I9GVfGIQqwQ4vw/s6240/IMG_5348.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ddCOmdj-FxIBljalCh-sOIkQBu1Ru3RdytbP2YehQMGAq0mk1mKBSQGjA6LAPSGhtC98pfWVsvcZRy9HPPqA3TRT9SfboGh5x0TrcD8JdYGxeEY6GifxufB-odfq4JgM0IMW_eVpBGskxIcb9mxIcQ1vzpY0QkKs722gET45WGGl4I9GVfGIQqwQ4vw/s320/IMG_5348.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>We went to the pub with Paul and Anne-Maria had a very filling and lovely meal. On the way back through the fields ran for shelter as the rain poured down. Luckily it was a passing shower. We curled up in Krystal and watched telly ( which we rarely do when we are away) courtesy of the TV hook up point on our pitch....leads available from the site wardens.<div><br /></div><div>The next morning we experienced Cheshire's finest taxi service, driven by Albert's wife Suzanne (village taxi service) who picked us up at the camp site and took us to the bus stop in Tarporley. Den's brother Paul arranged an away day to Chester, followed by a meal with more Schwarz's ( Den's cousin Chris ) in Wales. So we did a taxi to the bus stop, bus to Chester ( used our bus passes for the first time) train from Chester to Flint, then car back. Great fun. We trekked the Chester walls had coffee in various venues and lunch. Chester for those who don't know is well worth a visit.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXb2TrWsRsTrn0uti9aibM1_w58RUWiOOLb-Yc38MoMO2LZhyT31hZ6oyPVBHtrQ1QfawTmgsY9BjwHSQoPW_4NKkG5eRcuIAuQ6Ysyja9hJ8QIJLWlzqRb1WLJKg2-kPC6lll2_BpbsLtROlKs6XlBJpyXMQaB3uu2tGcsHqZFTVv4VAIK3uroqk0OVo/s6240/IMG_5350.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6240" data-original-width="4160" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXb2TrWsRsTrn0uti9aibM1_w58RUWiOOLb-Yc38MoMO2LZhyT31hZ6oyPVBHtrQ1QfawTmgsY9BjwHSQoPW_4NKkG5eRcuIAuQ6Ysyja9hJ8QIJLWlzqRb1WLJKg2-kPC6lll2_BpbsLtROlKs6XlBJpyXMQaB3uu2tGcsHqZFTVv4VAIK3uroqk0OVo/s320/IMG_5350.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div>Chester clock. A must for the selfie. We resisted but took a pic instead.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_pdTSsVG7c_ZlKz9WYIS6bA2AKtPy88xfeB1QB15q9Kxkix0WP2iiHbAcWeOJ5wooNcTyvu1Nt5_bq69CZHRNpR0lBL7K65XwGJprnfFcaSZwt0QOvX9hGUnQht0YUQRuf5lLeuKAoqkFDz83WIAnyFGY2wbdzCe6-Srlsri0fyeuKDQwtesWRTXf_w/s6240/IMG_5356.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV_pdTSsVG7c_ZlKz9WYIS6bA2AKtPy88xfeB1QB15q9Kxkix0WP2iiHbAcWeOJ5wooNcTyvu1Nt5_bq69CZHRNpR0lBL7K65XwGJprnfFcaSZwt0QOvX9hGUnQht0YUQRuf5lLeuKAoqkFDz83WIAnyFGY2wbdzCe6-Srlsri0fyeuKDQwtesWRTXf_w/s320/IMG_5356.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>A view from the walls.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGW40f_mdR_Afv9kJK-gK0LPDEZ98dKCWfzmhxNwOb4lfw7vo6FQTlmqPV35198jEjrvV5bDEdHEIOwz6iYJLiFhQK0zNi7R1W9W11stt50Gj6nlry0BjrcVGezQVhpJzDNUNzvHHtayzALEqTLsrlGWsmBMrrYxlu1BT9Pu0llelBCEyDbKCanD-8iJ4/s6240/IMG_5358.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGW40f_mdR_Afv9kJK-gK0LPDEZ98dKCWfzmhxNwOb4lfw7vo6FQTlmqPV35198jEjrvV5bDEdHEIOwz6iYJLiFhQK0zNi7R1W9W11stt50Gj6nlry0BjrcVGezQVhpJzDNUNzvHHtayzALEqTLsrlGWsmBMrrYxlu1BT9Pu0llelBCEyDbKCanD-8iJ4/s320/IMG_5358.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Chester race course right in the middle of town.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUDx8GUhF-R1Ru9uSgU9IuvNyIRTKXQxsKerDml1konH9DcCJpFcfIGMUjuWpUglt7DQq9u7Lx7INDUnb6y8o14859PirNx3yuajNBWGE8C7U_6cxF9-yXIpEzSQ5x_5i9x9i1An56deO0qMSDyf47qmMCEDqqJZaQ3RYRsrtufuAZTeE3M9GzA9uxgM/s6240/IMG_5368.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUDx8GUhF-R1Ru9uSgU9IuvNyIRTKXQxsKerDml1konH9DcCJpFcfIGMUjuWpUglt7DQq9u7Lx7INDUnb6y8o14859PirNx3yuajNBWGE8C7U_6cxF9-yXIpEzSQ5x_5i9x9i1An56deO0qMSDyf47qmMCEDqqJZaQ3RYRsrtufuAZTeE3M9GzA9uxgM/s320/IMG_5368.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div>Kids dressed as Romans having a fabulous time.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTsUn2J7T7WGKjzf533GKnY65SD-FegR6xn-UQu6qrdLIDoxmGG_T-tfrBCqCNHTCWrZshe_nI_lNNzkohSEiPRyyl-vsTOynCOSVeNU9NmO5tZ4wzwOHGrXU4gpNsVw-1U8BmH7QVsm1h85ZhyhDwBwxJ7YiSFBduFkU9uVluY0I0ACURc1v0yIwIPns/s4624/20230713_134553.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTsUn2J7T7WGKjzf533GKnY65SD-FegR6xn-UQu6qrdLIDoxmGG_T-tfrBCqCNHTCWrZshe_nI_lNNzkohSEiPRyyl-vsTOynCOSVeNU9NmO5tZ4wzwOHGrXU4gpNsVw-1U8BmH7QVsm1h85ZhyhDwBwxJ7YiSFBduFkU9uVluY0I0ACURc1v0yIwIPns/s320/20230713_134553.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Of course we had to try the cocktail bar. Sadly too early for cocktails so we had coffee instead....WE DID!<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We went into the museum and looked at a bit of old silver and some bones!!</div><div><br /></div><div>All in all a lovely day out. Thanks Paul we did enjoy it. Train to Flint and another great meal with Anne-Maria and Chris, time for a family catch up.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our next destination was Barmouth. A place we have not visited for around 20 years. Camping Hendre Mynach. A 20 minute bracing walk along the sea front to the town. It was BRACING!!! Very wet and windy. The camp site was much as we remembered it and the staff were very friendly and helpful. We managed to get a hard standing with a TV hook up point, which we used as the weather was wet. The campsite was pretty quiet when we arrived although filled up as the day went on. Facilities were passable, clean with plenty of hot water, if a little dated. Reception sold a few basic necessities,</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkJpITYyXMd8ToviOriBUBq48iblmIzAd5Crf4JVG_7taq1HpmqSM0fIchsF3SEeVblYQ5EQB89je8aM1ndRBwyAdb6xQQVRlsnVSUFpJIJyytW_cQ2av7MpB7B6Vmj7VMMZwkNKoh1kh3ImFEKTHhcYxbtPPVZluythOyZvvaJs7nyOcGh5bz6FueNk/s6240/IMG_5372.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEkJpITYyXMd8ToviOriBUBq48iblmIzAd5Crf4JVG_7taq1HpmqSM0fIchsF3SEeVblYQ5EQB89je8aM1ndRBwyAdb6xQQVRlsnVSUFpJIJyytW_cQ2av7MpB7B6Vmj7VMMZwkNKoh1kh3ImFEKTHhcYxbtPPVZluythOyZvvaJs7nyOcGh5bz6FueNk/s320/IMG_5372.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Hard standing pitches definitely needed.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WC1FbvOIqAHFYdSojCrK0zD_4z2GYVSXGbSUK5ld89FmoKTwbJiSbopsO6dYELsbYp3kFejPKKGdHx4aAWACiRXjbS3r0m-bobCsn2jHL6MoYZZD2fwnSN8RCNBLPwgvEPLj0U-aJ39ORNIzxcqtSMrTHc7kAYtBsXW3i6eej0LI0heuPFWRKgHJQYM/s6240/IMG_5374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_WC1FbvOIqAHFYdSojCrK0zD_4z2GYVSXGbSUK5ld89FmoKTwbJiSbopsO6dYELsbYp3kFejPKKGdHx4aAWACiRXjbS3r0m-bobCsn2jHL6MoYZZD2fwnSN8RCNBLPwgvEPLj0U-aJ39ORNIzxcqtSMrTHc7kAYtBsXW3i6eej0LI0heuPFWRKgHJQYM/s320/IMG_5374.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kJupnWnRpENueeuJMTxKfuI0OuNftWsl1n7rkL2Z3M6cyAiT2CKMhz7XeKlzx2e8j9sZjE1nysaEaTosEZMvc5-5_SuLSVTyOjbK5FmvwO6LZ-By-skLCOtwJyA6UFJXh2U1B5hcXwM9pw5O5DxmiVC2dEU5HDxWyxzzkUXQhv2lFAvhTzrACv7kPPY/s6240/IMG_5375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9kJupnWnRpENueeuJMTxKfuI0OuNftWsl1n7rkL2Z3M6cyAiT2CKMhz7XeKlzx2e8j9sZjE1nysaEaTosEZMvc5-5_SuLSVTyOjbK5FmvwO6LZ-By-skLCOtwJyA6UFJXh2U1B5hcXwM9pw5O5DxmiVC2dEU5HDxWyxzzkUXQhv2lFAvhTzrACv7kPPY/s320/IMG_5375.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Shepherds huts now on the site for rental.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGF-1O7-1rcyLl1zlhwYlzYYJNxLfKWiZUl_uf9A1WF4dE4DBe5VmOmVhJiPg6cUazTIA2vL3uUMQtF6lphaHyn5FuMd8E-LUGCWLc_BgZpK5ks0SV037lVrIxSqwF-u1BKBKHKaRKFy6CVYK93Cfm0MdE5yJ9T14lbYp10Dy4QScdyGjh1zlgxt3aHzc/s6240/IMG_5380.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGF-1O7-1rcyLl1zlhwYlzYYJNxLfKWiZUl_uf9A1WF4dE4DBe5VmOmVhJiPg6cUazTIA2vL3uUMQtF6lphaHyn5FuMd8E-LUGCWLc_BgZpK5ks0SV037lVrIxSqwF-u1BKBKHKaRKFy6CVYK93Cfm0MdE5yJ9T14lbYp10Dy4QScdyGjh1zlgxt3aHzc/s320/IMG_5380.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi54fRb1KPCqKW4ss57lvU-SM_k3cqInL4TGBpCucR6Gb8f0DhDVJ9uLtOtb34gNjNxgfEEQO_T28LBUbeLxKquP8buPThhUHv7MetGJMxDCh3lqkCK9oPzmZeOZVBDjhxigm-sBavnUCdiIva7hH3FPH0AraWPt0uOm5dwmmeZngAC-l4Jh_GFJ9Oru14/s6240/IMG_5381.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi54fRb1KPCqKW4ss57lvU-SM_k3cqInL4TGBpCucR6Gb8f0DhDVJ9uLtOtb34gNjNxgfEEQO_T28LBUbeLxKquP8buPThhUHv7MetGJMxDCh3lqkCK9oPzmZeOZVBDjhxigm-sBavnUCdiIva7hH3FPH0AraWPt0uOm5dwmmeZngAC-l4Jh_GFJ9Oru14/s320/IMG_5381.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>A blustery blow along the front.</div><div><br /></div><div>Barmouth we discovered was an interesting place. Very much like Blackpool in some places though on a tiny scale. Loads of fish and chip shops, a few up market over expensive restaurants and not much in between. The pubs were generally very scruffy and not that inviting. We eventually managed to find a place for lunch. The Dolphin Bar, which was actually a fish and chip cafe that served wine with the meal which was very tasty if somewhat basic!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKoIK2tFBNZRoN5bYqRMFeS2MHnR8H1qVLh9AmudK-jUWou9BfUke7J2e1SzocA3hcuqGzj5De8LqETgnPOxE9Ra9PguV_CQ6o8vFsDKt9n_h1k_4KSVl34rgVh-FxUn3MkO7sFE3z2jeSRceUvP9CR4kWIEnIs8kveJCklLO1pn1EnYmOdhWdhyFnh4M/s6240/IMG_5382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKoIK2tFBNZRoN5bYqRMFeS2MHnR8H1qVLh9AmudK-jUWou9BfUke7J2e1SzocA3hcuqGzj5De8LqETgnPOxE9Ra9PguV_CQ6o8vFsDKt9n_h1k_4KSVl34rgVh-FxUn3MkO7sFE3z2jeSRceUvP9CR4kWIEnIs8kveJCklLO1pn1EnYmOdhWdhyFnh4M/s320/IMG_5382.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>A few hardy souls ventured out into the sea, they were wearing wet suits. A few more were actually on their paddle boards.</div><div><br /></div><div>Our short stay at Barmouth was soon over and we trundled off the next day back to civilisation and our last stop near Hereford.</div><div><br /></div><div>Lucksall Caravan Park by the River Wye. A beautifully kept site with brilliantly clean and tidy facilities. There was also a restaurant on site and a couple of pubs within hiking distance across the fields.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jgLmwfJtCeLbw8Kd1HDbdeSd3RVETyThanlw3y0u_V64xWRQzdffYJm0mKByq-EeudMT5ppDRAsJYiy7-VYeEXTB0AEF_4HI3HR3GHk4LMkm_68cx4doO6osH27FxzYDAZjlw1CBaH8j9f6t5ji4-ikSLXvVep093MUdi4kIAbg-qsCynmRHVSSrs38/s6240/IMG_5385.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jgLmwfJtCeLbw8Kd1HDbdeSd3RVETyThanlw3y0u_V64xWRQzdffYJm0mKByq-EeudMT5ppDRAsJYiy7-VYeEXTB0AEF_4HI3HR3GHk4LMkm_68cx4doO6osH27FxzYDAZjlw1CBaH8j9f6t5ji4-ikSLXvVep093MUdi4kIAbg-qsCynmRHVSSrs38/s320/IMG_5385.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>This is the second time we have been here and is a site we will go back to. We had dinner in the restaurant and walked across the fields to the local village. We were lucky with the weather as the sun did try to come out.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaLHd9txMli8sjwru9GFr_Eg7l7IvNNP0mSaAJpJvOSEw_-vnoGOp60_-96yivpPnhZcDslF5s5bQu1ISK3ID-B1BvDNZnxkCo_QN0WqGiEQQTeu_5i00eZnYqhw7zrN2cXWaLl-LY1r2SXFgkgdSmK_n1QW-Xjn6HyXdDll0G3pkZrJp5cQBQOGIbuO8/s6240/IMG_5388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaLHd9txMli8sjwru9GFr_Eg7l7IvNNP0mSaAJpJvOSEw_-vnoGOp60_-96yivpPnhZcDslF5s5bQu1ISK3ID-B1BvDNZnxkCo_QN0WqGiEQQTeu_5i00eZnYqhw7zrN2cXWaLl-LY1r2SXFgkgdSmK_n1QW-Xjn6HyXdDll0G3pkZrJp5cQBQOGIbuO8/s320/IMG_5388.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoR0Rpfar4QoHE8tDOtwV7TMHIvTgXW6fnfxt_ZWwUQO4Go9CpGgv8-msxzGQfN1KOHr3iJO5TPHBVvhBKp6EvMrX929cdXEQbBfP0ie2ciPZvUqAHA7O_blv4M6qD-Rj5qR00WOPzEyjCM6ESNZW5KARW3spW3T5toMGGQNk4EzA_1wJvHr_eDOZ8A0U/s6240/IMG_5391.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoR0Rpfar4QoHE8tDOtwV7TMHIvTgXW6fnfxt_ZWwUQO4Go9CpGgv8-msxzGQfN1KOHr3iJO5TPHBVvhBKp6EvMrX929cdXEQbBfP0ie2ciPZvUqAHA7O_blv4M6qD-Rj5qR00WOPzEyjCM6ESNZW5KARW3spW3T5toMGGQNk4EzA_1wJvHr_eDOZ8A0U/s320/IMG_5391.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7TOaRM-QBXk8Pc0p2DLJlKzIUBeji7bbTr7a7k4uuMjpMscbAWYrcwaJX84HLAY434GkAG-ctw-K2sz9OGwMK3QyB0T-NKJYnKs_C_QB0BoxD-QOYdWtNcdp-Z6OMzJaj1Z-uCapdR07X66raMWHGkpZEp2D5VdG9CpOtfkOfkmmtpjPUZvf1v17H-g/s6240/IMG_5402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7TOaRM-QBXk8Pc0p2DLJlKzIUBeji7bbTr7a7k4uuMjpMscbAWYrcwaJX84HLAY434GkAG-ctw-K2sz9OGwMK3QyB0T-NKJYnKs_C_QB0BoxD-QOYdWtNcdp-Z6OMzJaj1Z-uCapdR07X66raMWHGkpZEp2D5VdG9CpOtfkOfkmmtpjPUZvf1v17H-g/s320/IMG_5402.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfEUn9E4CVWeliw5h_WeR3qUoB31ZfamodOrXWshO_BuJAHD2UBdlHcwv_dVx547OcJKema25_ffg_A6SkDPKxRg11bilHKPyAiCWR-WgheBGvYzr8jGt-uMXKq1geQyW3_h4X8UR67RvH83GnXtMycmTuQtR5FO1EJ-pr7zRzAoYMmnansJURa-na5A/s6240/IMG_5398.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwfEUn9E4CVWeliw5h_WeR3qUoB31ZfamodOrXWshO_BuJAHD2UBdlHcwv_dVx547OcJKema25_ffg_A6SkDPKxRg11bilHKPyAiCWR-WgheBGvYzr8jGt-uMXKq1geQyW3_h4X8UR67RvH83GnXtMycmTuQtR5FO1EJ-pr7zRzAoYMmnansJURa-na5A/s320/IMG_5398.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>A very nice break, just a shame the sun had deserted us. There's always next year.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div> <br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-9528109228548124802023-06-25T09:59:00.002-07:002023-06-25T09:59:50.847-07:00Motorhome Escorted Tours. Fun or Folly? <p> We have just returned from a lovely two month stay in Portugal. A month at Touristcampo in Lagos and a month at Camping Ria Formosa near Tavira. If you want a review of both these sites look back at previous blog posts 2022 and 2023. On one of the stops travelling up through France at Only camp Tours, we bumped into a lovely couple who had the same marque van as our Krystal. Of course we had to stop for a chat, this was only the second "Vantage " we had met on this trip.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHsCr6tNTmeMQYLkAO8jet1HzCAhTCK0BeDHKbwhSUsxrXrfHrDJhD8fXXGgr93aN22snRAHs1En0_n1fYsQk_tqydw85gAF7JlskEdWkHNoaH0zlHEBA_ftmq_628hbNkmQIC2IqYSC8ZtG9sSb-ooPGi4UWMswcB-Qy8yJvzUt0grY5M04n0Ztlb_w/s6240/IMG_5110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHsCr6tNTmeMQYLkAO8jet1HzCAhTCK0BeDHKbwhSUsxrXrfHrDJhD8fXXGgr93aN22snRAHs1En0_n1fYsQk_tqydw85gAF7JlskEdWkHNoaH0zlHEBA_ftmq_628hbNkmQIC2IqYSC8ZtG9sSb-ooPGi4UWMswcB-Qy8yJvzUt0grY5M04n0Ztlb_w/s320/IMG_5110.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Only Camp Tours incidentally is very handy stopping place on the way North or South. Easy access and open all year and they accept ACSI <a href="https://www.onlycamp.fr/en/camping-tours-val-de-loire/">Only Camp Tours</a> . Great facilities and lovely local pizza place a five minute walk away.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU2AeRdFDGV6m5KUCVSYj0aCNw4qqS62TgEz8kN0QJSsFs5OuozSw568-PNZ53PSkInAAXD0fmtuw64UfQd4RK6jKS1nP1YzZUwYfRYD3Qcd37FFLraWJdRxUUWYp9_OMBy2jYpGB9N4RY6_-t-gme57MUaf81n8Qo6SN8u3OYp-oIf4p_E3EC-DEzB8Y/s6240/IMG_5109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU2AeRdFDGV6m5KUCVSYj0aCNw4qqS62TgEz8kN0QJSsFs5OuozSw568-PNZ53PSkInAAXD0fmtuw64UfQd4RK6jKS1nP1YzZUwYfRYD3Qcd37FFLraWJdRxUUWYp9_OMBy2jYpGB9N4RY6_-t-gme57MUaf81n8Qo6SN8u3OYp-oIf4p_E3EC-DEzB8Y/s320/IMG_5109.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The couple we chatted to in the Vantage Neo van just happened to be on an Escorted Tour of the Loire. Whilst having a chat with them, we realised we were surrounded by other Brit vans, I counted at least 10. The memories of our experiences with escorted tours came flooding back! In this blog I thought a very personal review of "Escorted Tours" may be useful to some. </p><p>There are loads of companies now offering Escorted Tours for motor homers and caravan owners. The prices vary greatly depending on what's on offer. Some offer meals, tours, ferry crossings and more. All of them come with the services of "tour guides" usually well experienced people either through organisations like ACSI or privately run companies. The length of the tours also seem to depend on where they are going. Prices vary from per unit to per person. It's a good idea to carefully check what is actually covered and to factor in additional personal costs i.e. getting to the start of the tour, fuel costs, visas, insurance, getting home, all these costs soon add up.</p><p>We did two escorted tours both in 2018 with the Camping & Caravanning Club. One to Russia via the Baltics and one to Greece. Both these trips were written up in this blog, scroll back to the appropriate year. I do not intend to specifically re write these blogs just a few things you may wish to consider if you plan an escorted tour. Other experiences we have of escorted tours are those we have met on our independent travels and our experience of touring Africa not "Escorted" but following in the footsteps of a tour again organised by the Camping and Caravanning Club.</p><p>In late 2017 I happened to spot an article in the Camping & Caravanning Club magazine advertising an information event by the club on escorted tours, at the Haynes Motor Museum. At £5 per person including lunch and entry to the museum, it was an offer not to be refused. We spent a very enjoyable day listening to all the presentations about the various tours and signed up for Russia and Greece both for the following year. So, 5 years later I can offer a few insights on escorted tours.</p><p>The reasons people go are varied,</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>To meet like minded travellers who share a common hobby</li><li>People who want to develop confidence for future tours</li><li>An easy way to see a lot of "sights" with little personal organisation</li><li>First time motor homers</li><li>Motor homers who for various reasons prefer to be with others who could help them if needed.</li><li>Single people who prefer to be with a group.</li></ul><div>We wanted to go on a well organised trip to places we would not necessarily go on our own.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPZ_kV57tIPWrpz9NYMEyT4dpAmch5Dx7UY5CE5OJtZoIGi_VqagDSzGTF68CxIIh-rZOkXvZWR_HzVxFjJjcFhaIfNehyELGeqhIfO6IDzNWIhXLdxaSG-NCOIfYxjWNSTqKiGJJck09KWNuFujqoVtNx2lAnEO2oa4V9WuvLp8WuX7WIE5sXn0zIRs/s6240/IMG_0875.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXPZ_kV57tIPWrpz9NYMEyT4dpAmch5Dx7UY5CE5OJtZoIGi_VqagDSzGTF68CxIIh-rZOkXvZWR_HzVxFjJjcFhaIfNehyELGeqhIfO6IDzNWIhXLdxaSG-NCOIfYxjWNSTqKiGJJck09KWNuFujqoVtNx2lAnEO2oa4V9WuvLp8WuX7WIE5sXn0zIRs/s320/IMG_0875.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></div><p></p><p style="text-align: left;">We did make it to St Petersburg. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjECnJ3Ikg53_588sXxr6XjUlJXHEu1Wl41PSW0fTjMih0n_wzmJCU53Z4BNO5vvWQdxtAHiTkItDk3EuK_0zSjJtQLahtKzqkakHeK46XZOgvko2As8csaEpjUfoY9hAtdm_E0Y-i11E1I54YrPOXmAO5slme6-dM_qulrVLqXyZo4KCAIWh7pKb0L7o/s6240/IMG_1501.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjECnJ3Ikg53_588sXxr6XjUlJXHEu1Wl41PSW0fTjMih0n_wzmJCU53Z4BNO5vvWQdxtAHiTkItDk3EuK_0zSjJtQLahtKzqkakHeK46XZOgvko2As8csaEpjUfoY9hAtdm_E0Y-i11E1I54YrPOXmAO5slme6-dM_qulrVLqXyZo4KCAIWh7pKb0L7o/s320/IMG_1501.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;">Later that year we did Greece.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Our first encounter with escorted tours was our trip to Africa. We decided we did not want to travel in a motorhome with a large group so we opted instead for a 4 X 4 with roof tent. We organised the holiday with Bobo Campers in South Africa through the Camping & Caravanning Club in 2017 using the same route and camp sites as the escorted group although we were on our own and just over a week behind them. This worked very well for us.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdH5xg2J2hJWNB-0l_QFNPPf5I82-XDWAm2RXWVKtBxTimTcTvyEDSs5V52pPwXijA0ww1xUruLGhXo3HX_M97VszV027MMbrEtskbXtjOdPdW2v86i3YINHs4SsC9gS59kGQpB2hnsbVSkv8ZyzqZpqeguI8IbIK5ZCVjo3DeLfVoVVzb8lf6kFE7ylg/s6000/IMG_0667_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdH5xg2J2hJWNB-0l_QFNPPf5I82-XDWAm2RXWVKtBxTimTcTvyEDSs5V52pPwXijA0ww1xUruLGhXo3HX_M97VszV027MMbrEtskbXtjOdPdW2v86i3YINHs4SsC9gS59kGQpB2hnsbVSkv8ZyzqZpqeguI8IbIK5ZCVjo3DeLfVoVVzb8lf6kFE7ylg/s320/IMG_0667_1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>We felt our 4X4 with roof tent worked better on the terrain of dust roads in Africa than a motorhome.</div><div>We were more than happy to manage ourselves!</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtAf3q9760A9GIhmoOYwisTi46FdwFyfB5rWE2-egahUmwDZKxq8cM_22VZTylwnW-19rsX2XbUrtTBNaaRtMchJo9ntvdMvZGtKFVTzFWACXoVhz-2PSmMDyRDQq__-J2sZNfUQiwNFH_2wPaFoEAaKrjpGa7SUt7jzydkbHSueR2ZSGPZiPq1_ucj3I/s6000/IMG_0668.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtAf3q9760A9GIhmoOYwisTi46FdwFyfB5rWE2-egahUmwDZKxq8cM_22VZTylwnW-19rsX2XbUrtTBNaaRtMchJo9ntvdMvZGtKFVTzFWACXoVhz-2PSmMDyRDQq__-J2sZNfUQiwNFH_2wPaFoEAaKrjpGa7SUt7jzydkbHSueR2ZSGPZiPq1_ucj3I/s320/IMG_0668.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;">The escorted tour used motorhomes but also had accompanying mechanics as well as tour guides. </p><p style="text-align: left;">To sum up this is our personal list of pros and cons. Every one will have their own views, this is just what we think.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>CONS:</b></p><p style="text-align: left;">Although you do not travel in convoy, vans will inevitably arrive and leave sites at around the same time each day.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Remember to factor in additional costs and time. Sometimes tours start far away. The Russia trip began in Poland and the Greek trip started in San Marino.</p><p style="text-align: left;">A large number of vans arriving on sometimes small sites, put pressure on the facilities. There will always be some competition for the best pitches. Electric hook ups sometimes have to be shared.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Social events are supposed to be optional, We did not want to join in with everything. 20 or so people travelling together have a large number of birthdays, anniversaries etc to celebrate. Be prepared for ultra socialisation.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Meals out mean large tables and often pre selected food. Seating 20 people presents challenges and tables for two not usually available. Joint mealtimes could be stressful for some. Veggies and people with special diets take note! </p><p style="text-align: left;">However social you are, you are basically living in close proximity with fellow travellers. Be prepared for a lot of give and take</p><p style="text-align: left;">A lot of the tours are to places that are high on the tourist agenda. Be prepared for crowds at popular tourist venues.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Conducted tours can be really enjoyable but you are always with a large group.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Early starts especially on tour days, some people find this trying and you always have to wait for someone.</p><p style="text-align: left;">We hated the group meetings but some people found they were the highlight of the day!</p><p style="text-align: left;">The trip was very dependant on the expertise and people skills of the group leaders.</p><p style="text-align: left;">No control over the campsites to be stayed at and the facilities.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Free time on tours mean you will still unavoidably be with the same crowd. We often found it impossible to find a small restaurant or cafe which hadn't already been discovered by our fellow travellers.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Can be very expensive, Do all the sums!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>PROS</b></p><p style="text-align: left;">A good way of seeing places you may not be confident enough to do on your own.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Usually well organised.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Sites and tours paid for in advance.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Maps and routes usually well provided.</p><p style="text-align: left;">People around to help out in an emergency. </p><p style="text-align: left;">Good for socialising if you are so inclined.</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;">All in all, not for us but it did help us to organise ourselves, we have been back to Greece on our own since. the last time we were there we met up with a touring French group. As they met up for their regular briefing we went to the swimming pool and breathed a sigh of relief, we were on our own!!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tI27PybYBsHivzDyOJnEejJgChtSx-ktOoG342Ksd8-hxXbyrWWpoc1ozDbPrWHlhDD1dSqfVSwIl5mE8_qEmD72w0bMNWaaL-TEkRNXpBtCZDcRg4kqF1cbjO1kZP5XfVpLkcvtkVH5A-eLp5pMJJt-wGlNQKBDFg1b5xSde7E-mZqvFiJ9_wr0SBc/s6240/IMG_3667.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8tI27PybYBsHivzDyOJnEejJgChtSx-ktOoG342Ksd8-hxXbyrWWpoc1ozDbPrWHlhDD1dSqfVSwIl5mE8_qEmD72w0bMNWaaL-TEkRNXpBtCZDcRg4kqF1cbjO1kZP5XfVpLkcvtkVH5A-eLp5pMJJt-wGlNQKBDFg1b5xSde7E-mZqvFiJ9_wr0SBc/s320/IMG_3667.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: left;">We really are not anti social and quite friendly in small groups. Always ready for a chat.😎😎😎😎</p><p style="text-align: left;">Would we do another escorted tour...NO!</p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-34124601105837334062023-04-20T04:21:00.002-07:002023-06-22T07:24:33.515-07:00Portugal Turistcampo. Days Out by Bus. Sagres and Lagos<p> Turistcampo<span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> is beautifully placed for bus trips. The bus stop is right outside the site Sagres in one direction and Lagos in the other.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Basically two different bus lines in this part of Portugal, a local bus service Onda and a coach service Vamus. The two services overlap but the bus tickets are not interchangeable. Both bus services operate and have stops outside the campsite and timetables are readily available from reception or online. The buses are not too frequent and are heavily used by tourists, back packers, locals and school kids. Early morning 7am to 10am are most frequent. You do need to check the timetables as sometimes there is a long gap between buses.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Turistcampo to Lagos by bus.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A relatively short journey about 20 mins on the Vamus 47 bus, marked Cabo S. Vincente - Lagos ( por Sagres) A trip to Capo S Vincente ( the most westerly point of Portugal ) is tricky as there are only around 4 buses that go all the way. We opted for a day out in Lagos a very easy journey. We caught 10.28 bus which was only 10 minutes late. The coach driver was very friendly and helpful. A point to remember if you have a dog. Dogs are not allowed on buses in Portugal as a Dutch family in the queue found out. The fair was 5.20 Euros one way for the two of us. It is easy to find the stop as its on the end of the line at the bus terminal ( Terminal Rodrigues) on the sea front at Lagos. The bus to get back stops at the same place.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtdEYRsvGu_lY1Ida8O5MIEF26g60V4s-6Cjn-RlQparOgdvICHsMeCFFWvl6aaIgSjoj-voEecTS7jWaZiW4uBzmSLzmritrkjtysiaMallRq4vsqJCX8DtxO9G2Q2EWkmGwhdpQYJj2Z64QOqHRv6BYwR7g3hB1EdftAjrSqEhKAvUGXE3MbI0n/s6240/IMG_5209.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjtdEYRsvGu_lY1Ida8O5MIEF26g60V4s-6Cjn-RlQparOgdvICHsMeCFFWvl6aaIgSjoj-voEecTS7jWaZiW4uBzmSLzmritrkjtysiaMallRq4vsqJCX8DtxO9G2Q2EWkmGwhdpQYJj2Z64QOqHRv6BYwR7g3hB1EdftAjrSqEhKAvUGXE3MbI0n/s320/IMG_5209.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Lagos is well worth a day out. You can get an old town map with a walking route, which we didn't do this time. It takes in all the major sites. Lagos is very touristy with loads of stalls selling various boat trips at various prices. For the hardy types you can even do a kayak trip. We opted for a leisurely stroll.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXT0IlIh52AwrViY3X6NomlNJeSdCNzas176v_LBk-zbooPUsXFytwJHjPmlLcZ05s5z4JKM6Rq-F-HBJRSatY46in3CFAFh4a6RUMow2biU5PNFHOehCeKWi2SvmBYxRA1G2h-W2HKZStoYSXnc3Y7hhh0MPj7e3mB_HpKU-u0QwKefRZ0aMZYeG/s6240/IMG_5192.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNXT0IlIh52AwrViY3X6NomlNJeSdCNzas176v_LBk-zbooPUsXFytwJHjPmlLcZ05s5z4JKM6Rq-F-HBJRSatY46in3CFAFh4a6RUMow2biU5PNFHOehCeKWi2SvmBYxRA1G2h-W2HKZStoYSXnc3Y7hhh0MPj7e3mB_HpKU-u0QwKefRZ0aMZYeG/s320/IMG_5192.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>The area around the harbour was very busy.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0G3JLUMkpyJHrUvAXVdTjLkDiYAdsdjB1vSGv85ji3rScpkNGMhWKkB3yDLBjGnhO0GvVO2kDUmt6BncCPGalJc0JwcEVQTjOMdhjdoglmvj8nbr_jjKUNR0j3kMC-YNvStEzbmQoF201VqHUgexCDLTrxTVm6w1w4T_AUj18SeKRFD_CQq2DThD/s6240/IMG_5190.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0G3JLUMkpyJHrUvAXVdTjLkDiYAdsdjB1vSGv85ji3rScpkNGMhWKkB3yDLBjGnhO0GvVO2kDUmt6BncCPGalJc0JwcEVQTjOMdhjdoglmvj8nbr_jjKUNR0j3kMC-YNvStEzbmQoF201VqHUgexCDLTrxTVm6w1w4T_AUj18SeKRFD_CQq2DThD/s320/IMG_5190.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Loads of places to eat, we opted for a small bar around the back streets which was lovely.</p><p>The beach which is very picturesque was also busy but being April I think the sea was rather chilly. We didn't try it!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3qSz-k45jTmO2KyNyRxj8CqA9HWIFKF9-X7iW8lep6mtt-NnjrUr_PBjs7bJXz0v_4PasyUGs2OCTUwYDnZJgGrfhD5FN4e2_2stMEwoTupHcmyWqWcuvZeHl2c8l-ySenWeUkoHJpJd0UxEAAUR6GX9zXQnssueIKV0HL7UU4vqaSFzMjBdeUSI/s6240/IMG_5204.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii3qSz-k45jTmO2KyNyRxj8CqA9HWIFKF9-X7iW8lep6mtt-NnjrUr_PBjs7bJXz0v_4PasyUGs2OCTUwYDnZJgGrfhD5FN4e2_2stMEwoTupHcmyWqWcuvZeHl2c8l-ySenWeUkoHJpJd0UxEAAUR6GX9zXQnssueIKV0HL7UU4vqaSFzMjBdeUSI/s320/IMG_5204.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZb7W8n917SQ0q0C2IXBs3pa9OFEWvdLe2RWSLbOeLDtf-MGzJwtj1HjpiczOg1It7q1yoIbjhc9zYg9wCeVZNfvLUOVZAtWPiCQoFaeDl_dAM36eAfyh7qgfkLzsQ00O28HenA3hLsGp5GLUFDv2awBqwUtg4PWAgngPX6ItDVcBz3bDa-6PxSjKM/s6240/IMG_5199.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZb7W8n917SQ0q0C2IXBs3pa9OFEWvdLe2RWSLbOeLDtf-MGzJwtj1HjpiczOg1It7q1yoIbjhc9zYg9wCeVZNfvLUOVZAtWPiCQoFaeDl_dAM36eAfyh7qgfkLzsQ00O28HenA3hLsGp5GLUFDv2awBqwUtg4PWAgngPX6ItDVcBz3bDa-6PxSjKM/s320/IMG_5199.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>All in all a lovely day out and perfect use of local buses! Make sure you wait for the bus on the right side of the road, easy to go wrong!</p><p>Day out. Turiscampo to Sagres by bus.</p><p>Another easy day out. A bit further to Sagres. It took us 35 minutes to get there but an hour and a half to get back ( the bus stopped at all the small stops to let kids off. We obviously picked the wrong time.</p><p>Buses in Portugal do a lot of turning around and doubling back on themselves to cover the small villages so don't panic if you think the bus is going the wrong way. A slightly longer journey this time it cost us 8.40 Euros. We also had to keep our eyes peeled for the bus stop to get off. The best stop is the one by the harbour in Sagres, we didn't know this and got off a bit early. Still it was a nice day for a walk.</p><p>Sagres is still a bit of a hippy place, full of surfers with lots of campers. It looks like since we were there 2 years ago the place has been tidied up. The waste ground where campers parked up is now a proper massive car park. I don't think overnighting is allows although it did look like some still ignored this. </p><p>Having visited the fort before, we decided to make for the beach this time and have a stroll around.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiMQT21UsaxoTy5BsrYM3Y8LNXnIZYtUh2bjLlFsrd3WAZGMbFC03FAcgc_CJj03boXQlh6GnHtkYkOA25mRsml-04s8dgto3blgj3IjNXgZb51k9QyKzS4oBtK9oCKXO4Nu6E2CbjYBtCXmhMeJVzR83sJw4i7DinQymu0VpK0jUpSFPiUslfKJN/s6240/IMG_5223.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiMQT21UsaxoTy5BsrYM3Y8LNXnIZYtUh2bjLlFsrd3WAZGMbFC03FAcgc_CJj03boXQlh6GnHtkYkOA25mRsml-04s8dgto3blgj3IjNXgZb51k9QyKzS4oBtK9oCKXO4Nu6E2CbjYBtCXmhMeJVzR83sJw4i7DinQymu0VpK0jUpSFPiUslfKJN/s320/IMG_5223.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The long straight road to the fort. Slightly reconstructed but very imposing!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYpaXGpeu_svPknJhcbRgbzvg_sTNw3YGl9JLovP6At_Wxkdepor9_ayuR4UKUFNd7BTSsv986FYYhl0-BXKj-B_Oq_i-1QQtIU0JSzDJ9QRaH8Ac27NsX3I835DqMct0857jYaRQvJGSgo5Cn80qoBnhv57eGYcnVUjN-pc-dOeXpp8GR8g4jYLIc/s6240/IMG_5225.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYpaXGpeu_svPknJhcbRgbzvg_sTNw3YGl9JLovP6At_Wxkdepor9_ayuR4UKUFNd7BTSsv986FYYhl0-BXKj-B_Oq_i-1QQtIU0JSzDJ9QRaH8Ac27NsX3I835DqMct0857jYaRQvJGSgo5Cn80qoBnhv57eGYcnVUjN-pc-dOeXpp8GR8g4jYLIc/s320/IMG_5225.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>I think this used to be a wild camping spot. Now a car park. No charge as far as we could see but it did say parking between specific times.</p><p>The beach was full of surfers although it was cold in the water. Very wavy!!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGzkPgojsByjsfQI_jGYWrXGypjb7juwQ_EtAFVq0rb9SESmLvXCO91iTwHrALJiqdr63cixd3ycu-Irqe5RphYvTMcyy6lFZRE3-7spGljUpPdesUlymnrpm22ii64-ZNuhX3Z0HKj1n6ssALdLzu6n3DciPZ_8CRWbwN54Ax7-zuOo5GoD92gYjE/s6240/IMG_5231.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGzkPgojsByjsfQI_jGYWrXGypjb7juwQ_EtAFVq0rb9SESmLvXCO91iTwHrALJiqdr63cixd3ycu-Irqe5RphYvTMcyy6lFZRE3-7spGljUpPdesUlymnrpm22ii64-ZNuhX3Z0HKj1n6ssALdLzu6n3DciPZ_8CRWbwN54Ax7-zuOo5GoD92gYjE/s320/IMG_5231.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Hardy souls. We opted for the beach bar and a cold beer.</p><p>View from the beach bar </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l41EPqP4LvE" width="320" youtube-src-id="l41EPqP4LvE"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>After a wander around we found a lovely spot for lunch which just happened to be a local brewery. As he wasn't driving Den managed a few tasters before we found the bus stop home. The journey home with school kids on board was quite interesting as it took in all the villages. Incidentally buses only take cash!</p><p>Another great camper free day out and we got to meet the locals.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-15021204170180287522023-04-17T09:21:00.001-07:002023-04-17T09:21:42.677-07:00UK to Portugal. Tunnel or Ferry Cruise? Pros & Cons.<p> For the last 4 years we have travelled from England to Portugal or Spain using the tunnel and driving through France. </p><p>The Western route through Bordeaux and across into Spain at Urrugne, has been our favoured route. We used this route as it was relatively easy to find French campsites that were open all year round and we were travelling in January and latterly in late March. We also tend to use Tolled motorways, we just find it quicker and less stressful. We have a toll tag for France, Spain and Portugal, Emovis, so this helps and is so much easier than hanging out of the window.</p><p>We have never really been great lovers of Aires although we have used them occasionally. We prefer campsites with decent facilities and EHU, especially if its a bit chilly. Consequentially, our journey to the sunshine has never been a cheap one. If you are on a tight budget, cutting out toll roads, using Aires or wild camping spots and only filling up in supermarkets would considerably reduce the overall costs.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDYFWoH8CAHy-VH0Vbps7a5bSGDjZK-oKzUWSgONliXnqmdEP1wH6lQVEe4x28C_AeDdGYlGlD6ZAWT_tcsKBk4mDImQAdL8XmPJ6__iihZn_BkM0Q5RZ2OZ0dPZq5oagdm0t1qf_PSN126C3VtC9MoLMjKU6ET02i32VwwOrkAR_snQ4fsd0U8zo/s4624/20230328_175031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnDYFWoH8CAHy-VH0Vbps7a5bSGDjZK-oKzUWSgONliXnqmdEP1wH6lQVEe4x28C_AeDdGYlGlD6ZAWT_tcsKBk4mDImQAdL8XmPJ6__iihZn_BkM0Q5RZ2OZ0dPZq5oagdm0t1qf_PSN126C3VtC9MoLMjKU6ET02i32VwwOrkAR_snQ4fsd0U8zo/s320/20230328_175031.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p>First stop La Source Wissant. An all year round municipal site.</p><p>This year I thought I would try and work out if it would be better and more cost effective to cruise to Santander or drive from Calais. Certainly cruising would cut down on the driving, but we have always felt that the journey was part of the holiday. It's so exciting getting lost down some narrow country track......NOT.</p><p>Bearing in mind we live just outside Glastonbury in Somerset, our first drive is to Folkestone and it usually takes in the region of 4 hours ( traffic permitting) We filled up with diesel before we left and I estimate that the full tank cost 109 Euros. Sorry can't be more accurate than that. That's the only bit of guess work!</p><p>We always allow a minimum of 5 days for the journey and try not to drive for more that 5 hours each day. We aim to arrive by early afternoon so that we are in with a chance of finding Reception open. We try and have food onboard and usually stop for a drink and sandwich for around 30 mins. We often stop for loo breaks and maybe a coffee. Den does all the driving so if he gets too tired or bored, we stop for a bit. We also try and have a brief stop at least an hour before getting to a campsite, so we are not too cranky when we finally arrive. If we are going to get lost and it can happen, it's usually just before you get to a campsite then it's "grumps" all round!</p><p>Fuel stops, we usually do at around half a tank. If a supermarket is handy we use that because fuel is always cheaper! However, we usually stop wherever its handy and even on a motorway, the prices vary. </p><p>This year we paid between 95 and 124 Euros per litre, depending where we stopped. In England we filled up at Costco and paid £1.66 a litre ( obviously a bad fuel day!!)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DiD_krugsYXHrHDiCC0RB7ScMyKqdkXkvJZvk7JOQI7k83v6jZTm8B27AjW-wOHxboT8sa88X_cUlLpBLbWdsXxvwUoLimKxOhVMBwINCKa6eWFgPahB_4pn5wkwHI-OSHwsrMAY7aqE-Aog2n_ILegxZlqKYNJAu0N4pEdQ_LtExLDyQCTFQKkO/s6240/IMG_5109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DiD_krugsYXHrHDiCC0RB7ScMyKqdkXkvJZvk7JOQI7k83v6jZTm8B27AjW-wOHxboT8sa88X_cUlLpBLbWdsXxvwUoLimKxOhVMBwINCKa6eWFgPahB_4pn5wkwHI-OSHwsrMAY7aqE-Aog2n_ILegxZlqKYNJAu0N4pEdQ_LtExLDyQCTFQKkO/s320/IMG_5109.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Second stop. Onlycamp Tours. Brilliant little site open all year. We discovered it by chance last year.</p><p>Third stop. Larouletta Urrugne. Open all year. Good facilities. I got ACSI rates here.</p><p>Fourth Stop. Olimpia, near Salamanca in Spain. Very nice meal on site for 13 Euros. Clean and just by a very handy fuel station. Closed first two weeks in June!</p><p>Fifth Stop. Alentejo near Evora. Lovely tidy clean site.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4aWtGFsEXPD3JpHP0nzVVMIVs0S1RpfRbuX0Bpzdiny9JVdzTHQyzyXqdKLmNjLLDstmtsP9qxOwHrmIdeXK7zKv-6SnvJcLfTWxOb-PZPEkZiEocn9jwWc5UdMJuNlmo2A3wNaXayegFlaORWoGfxFh4IJbPmAtY4sgS-Y6G1bnInnmT9mZkayOb/s6240/IMG_5114.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4aWtGFsEXPD3JpHP0nzVVMIVs0S1RpfRbuX0Bpzdiny9JVdzTHQyzyXqdKLmNjLLDstmtsP9qxOwHrmIdeXK7zKv-6SnvJcLfTWxOb-PZPEkZiEocn9jwWc5UdMJuNlmo2A3wNaXayegFlaORWoGfxFh4IJbPmAtY4sgS-Y6G1bnInnmT9mZkayOb/s320/IMG_5114.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Usually when we travel we try and bring at least a few easy meals. A bit more tricky this year with food rules for travellers into the EU. We try and eat out if we can but always have a few trusty standbys just in case. We cooked at 4 out of the 5 stops this year, mainly because we had food in the fridge I wanted to use up.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Gsz8uzTyQuUdc7qNrj-9nX4j6jp24kSozkFG_f4cNz2gA2HaBrlwLgGuWkQqlaj_GZLub6DLUQ9De8Injf-vpfexse-zC-UM-U_xDFuBIhx_R5jmFv4frYa4DO416UZFDXEpCQnATg3hO-GiKiCqAGECseN0_mKDUde8ADc24WUYXoT_yP5t9cXT/s4624/20230401_104902.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9Gsz8uzTyQuUdc7qNrj-9nX4j6jp24kSozkFG_f4cNz2gA2HaBrlwLgGuWkQqlaj_GZLub6DLUQ9De8Injf-vpfexse-zC-UM-U_xDFuBIhx_R5jmFv4frYa4DO416UZFDXEpCQnATg3hO-GiKiCqAGECseN0_mKDUde8ADc24WUYXoT_yP5t9cXT/s320/20230401_104902.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br /></div>A comfort break just over the border into Spain.<div><br /></div><div>We have a trusty Tesco credit card which I use for everything at home. This gives me a few Tesco points ( reducing by the minute, you can't win them all!) I use the points to reduce the tunnel costs. "Every little helps"<br /><div> </div><div>Here's a breakdown of costs one way <b>in Euros</b>. If you need it in £, ask a friend!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>FUEL: 100 MOTORWAY TOLLS: 175.21 CAMPSITES: 23.30</div><div> 124.10 24.99 22.32</div><div> 117.83 28.50</div><div> 94.93 21.01</div><div> 15.00</div><div> </div><div>Total 436.86 Total 220.20 Total 109.63</div><div><p> </p><p><br /></p><p> Fuel: 436.86</p><p> Tolls: 220.20</p><p> Campsite Fees 109.63</p><p>Eurotunnel ( one way) 166.49 ( £147)</p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>GRAND TOTAL ONE WAY! 933.18 EUROS😎</b></p><p><b>Hope this helps.</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>Almost the same price as Portsmouth to Santander Ferry.😎 You would also have to factor in one or two overnight stops and a tank of fuel.</b></p></div></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-33881924590685435442023-04-12T10:11:00.001-07:002023-06-22T07:40:33.969-07:00Tunnel to Portugal 2023<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Time for the great escape from a cold Spring to a warmer Spring ....we hope!!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">This year we have decided to go back to Portugal for an early Spring/Summer break. We have booked two long breaks one for 3 weeks at Turistcampo near Lagos and 4 weeks at Rio Formosa near Tavira, both on The Algarve. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Being creatures of habit and liking an easy life we plumped once again for the Western route, via Rouen, Bordeaux and across Spain into Portugal. A relatively easy route with 5 stops on the way, though lots of driving. We do use the tolls in France, expensive but much faster and usually quieter than the long slog through the villages.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We took the late afternoon tunnel crossing just making it in time and then a short drive towards Wissant on the coast. No real checks or problems going through customs at Folkestone, although I did get my passport stamped. No food checks, although they did insist we demonstrated our gas was off before we entered the tunnel, by trying to turn the hob on....odd, of course it was off.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Our first stop was Wissant, Camping La Source, a very French municipal. We were going to try the Aire which wasn't that busy but eventually settled on the camp site as it was nearer the village and had facilities.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe0O_y1AoEM4oPkGcBfVGy8Klr080aCaafrTSPOANUD1HCU5R-sveHa1aG1n43uk9FE_YipgnvAHqr4oGzCUCA8VISemmnP2KjlECgXB7hZC4sl-BxtjXTJEl0f8UrR-n1qJfSmR5p7zYrZ70VxqFGroFptVO5Qbn6l6_LJtppxvKpbr7OdwGE72WW/s4624/20230328_175031.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe0O_y1AoEM4oPkGcBfVGy8Klr080aCaafrTSPOANUD1HCU5R-sveHa1aG1n43uk9FE_YipgnvAHqr4oGzCUCA8VISemmnP2KjlECgXB7hZC4sl-BxtjXTJEl0f8UrR-n1qJfSmR5p7zYrZ70VxqFGroFptVO5Qbn6l6_LJtppxvKpbr7OdwGE72WW/s320/20230328_175031.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Actually quite a nice pitch and the facilities were OK. We wandered into the village and found a local restaurant something and chips, but it was fine and filled us up.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6uDIXP8TN0T1KNh24gbCHZGp3U9-Q2a14-weFUm1wjyayKnJ0CRypXPxOpoy5Utvx5lalkBFdektHujI2N3XJW7XPOwftUp9UN9IUEHqRLkrVVV-JhAynE1CSQyvIG28tnxdiYFm2tJ58xocuQTf-rRGHrtr00pcz4U7wglUi8L8YNR2RKZNXtxN/s4624/20230328_183216.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6uDIXP8TN0T1KNh24gbCHZGp3U9-Q2a14-weFUm1wjyayKnJ0CRypXPxOpoy5Utvx5lalkBFdektHujI2N3XJW7XPOwftUp9UN9IUEHqRLkrVVV-JhAynE1CSQyvIG28tnxdiYFm2tJ58xocuQTf-rRGHrtr00pcz4U7wglUi8L8YNR2RKZNXtxN/s320/20230328_183216.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Of course we managed some local wine too.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The next morning found us travelling towards Rouen which we navigated pretty smartly, heading for Tours. Madam Satnav performed well. On our last trip we found a campsite at Tours which was pretty handy and ticked all the boxes. Clean , tidy and easy in and out. Only Camp Tours, another good night stop. Nice bottle of local red from the camp shop!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4oyGfaThxTPPzBjeVW2aE429yJekfCFR5BdFwfPi9cJ3pFa1WNPL_hKpFcJHW8nq-0W79Ddh4QzqWa-n_LXG65vuvZZpraHoXD56NdOEL6VP6-imGTXVUfqQJfu-eej1HOjXPnbyL5eMRorgXHLeM42SVVK6cvZSvWPYa8veQCyuUI3KObW3Y3aG/s6240/IMG_5108.CR2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK4oyGfaThxTPPzBjeVW2aE429yJekfCFR5BdFwfPi9cJ3pFa1WNPL_hKpFcJHW8nq-0W79Ddh4QzqWa-n_LXG65vuvZZpraHoXD56NdOEL6VP6-imGTXVUfqQJfu-eej1HOjXPnbyL5eMRorgXHLeM42SVVK6cvZSvWPYa8veQCyuUI3KObW3Y3aG/s320/IMG_5108.CR2" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>The following morning the weather really perked up and the sun came out. We were heading for the Spanish border and the camp site Larouletta. A place we have been many times before, notable for the weird and somewhat spooky trees. A long drive again, but a bit more cheerful as the sun was shining.<div><br /></div><div>The site was rammed with mainly Dutch and German vans on their way home from winter sun holidays. Never seen it so busy and the restaurant was closed!! Back to home cooking then!</div><div>Still we managed a pleasant evening, tomorrow Spain.</div><div><br /></div><div>At this point of the journey it feels like we are actually making progress although the next bit through Spain is a pretty boring long drive. Eventually we made Salamanca and things took a turn for the better. Our preferred site, Olimpia, a small camping hotel on the outskirts was open! A very cheap and pleasant meal with wine 13.50e with wine for two courses, served with a smile.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bohIiTLvFEOnfJFM7g3tn_QMcunzUMOu83Jedjsjv7EYOSOKcHlx8QxQQ7FUfu20S7bugYl4vpWcUrPd4zKsVPpmY1vKoXDEqMODk0ifudbcV5BJalq-hCOi4xsQBz4qZNa31vf2CX1EdS3aSkkFP6upYR_wnVRBiMeY0a7WOjOFeyekaDXbtoDx/s4624/20230401_104902.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4624" data-original-width="3468" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7bohIiTLvFEOnfJFM7g3tn_QMcunzUMOu83Jedjsjv7EYOSOKcHlx8QxQQ7FUfu20S7bugYl4vpWcUrPd4zKsVPpmY1vKoXDEqMODk0ifudbcV5BJalq-hCOi4xsQBz4qZNa31vf2CX1EdS3aSkkFP6upYR_wnVRBiMeY0a7WOjOFeyekaDXbtoDx/s320/20230401_104902.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div>Another sweep across the Sierras and we were actually in Portugal. A very nice Dutch site at Evamonte called Alentejo. Very tidy in a pretty setting for 15E a night. Another place quite busy with travellers mostly staying for a night or two.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLJB3MB1P-gRoKq5_rtLqVU4OS7rULinSwerI86yGY7ORmBu0yiy1iP5GFY-nNAc0roc9XEohdQpCx6nsAu_iXfKflKzowXK3hNViJSx1aOeH8vDF3lX_YQco46kwnNseVOCMPjrKmwM0vwA3wkmsrr5wiHVlkR48OjxRAu-NFSvzbW5ZX_-2iXaRM/s6240/IMG_5114.CR2" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLJB3MB1P-gRoKq5_rtLqVU4OS7rULinSwerI86yGY7ORmBu0yiy1iP5GFY-nNAc0roc9XEohdQpCx6nsAu_iXfKflKzowXK3hNViJSx1aOeH8vDF3lX_YQco46kwnNseVOCMPjrKmwM0vwA3wkmsrr5wiHVlkR48OjxRAu-NFSvzbW5ZX_-2iXaRM/s320/IMG_5114.CR2" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FjOT24ORR9OcwgxOmp0MlvzaSWwp6PltH7oksNdB8pviGJpa2CJAl8x0HakWHnNOgBr52OQuaoRCAuJ6U0JMKcNaEQuZlD520Hoj5sHjtRybaYn-zxqdwaamPKdWjYD5-6yqU_Fz2m44qPKdMeY4jei-rSSxRP886onR1WAYUJUooMWoI84DQshN/s6240/IMG_5115.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9FjOT24ORR9OcwgxOmp0MlvzaSWwp6PltH7oksNdB8pviGJpa2CJAl8x0HakWHnNOgBr52OQuaoRCAuJ6U0JMKcNaEQuZlD520Hoj5sHjtRybaYn-zxqdwaamPKdWjYD5-6yqU_Fz2m44qPKdMeY4jei-rSSxRP886onR1WAYUJUooMWoI84DQshN/s320/IMG_5115.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Our final stop before Turistcampo near Lagos our home for the next 3 weeks.</div><div><br /></div><div>The suns up, the wines cooled busy but looks good!!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7a9ZT9qPkgh5cqRZ8x7Yj_3s2Tq0RKNg0fZ_u5qbG_LRaTvaquOyxAgHFGwaYUQ9fkNCxkQIhfS1ZcFdaKJ34vIeTyls1dMQsyrGWwjQj2At5MLVtYK6w-9Sb8vYPjR3vyQLxtEh7fP0SRsw5XV_EhP8RvRUMxvw4_qcK4eKut9got5OSTKXUfJ7b/s6240/IMG_5155.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7a9ZT9qPkgh5cqRZ8x7Yj_3s2Tq0RKNg0fZ_u5qbG_LRaTvaquOyxAgHFGwaYUQ9fkNCxkQIhfS1ZcFdaKJ34vIeTyls1dMQsyrGWwjQj2At5MLVtYK6w-9Sb8vYPjR3vyQLxtEh7fP0SRsw5XV_EhP8RvRUMxvw4_qcK4eKut9got5OSTKXUfJ7b/s320/IMG_5155.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After a bit of fiddling about, we have a small tent out, ground sheet pegged down and a sunny spot.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Turistcampo is an extremely well kept site. Staff are constantly tidying up, keeping the weeds down and even pruning the trees. We encountered a very friendly bunch of locals who turned out to be English tree surgeons. The girls were vey apt at climbing up the trees and using a chain saw. We made a short video and took some pictures.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EGL3JPlmw7A" width="320" youtube-src-id="EGL3JPlmw7A"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7nMUKG8dgXJJxQ8Dg-tJTecg3iq0YiEdOTohwQVlDkwNTV2mkH1SWZq5gI8l7octm2LEHPQXXLjO7qrgpEqFx6NjquMYaLXytMy0vkB9EDG0fmYEjdkW97GIFKfhIk3sTuwTdjwBv9UX7L7cfn57e8Y7tqdOD-ItXBdhr4z-EFtesJL54vg7z1XQR6I/s6240/IMG_5220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7nMUKG8dgXJJxQ8Dg-tJTecg3iq0YiEdOTohwQVlDkwNTV2mkH1SWZq5gI8l7octm2LEHPQXXLjO7qrgpEqFx6NjquMYaLXytMy0vkB9EDG0fmYEjdkW97GIFKfhIk3sTuwTdjwBv9UX7L7cfn57e8Y7tqdOD-ItXBdhr4z-EFtesJL54vg7z1XQR6I/s320/IMG_5220.JPG" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><p></p></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOBjWFcmd7Bb0ZgGscifUW0gpNzPeaiA7A86zNy8p0FWA_kHFsAXaNJCjYnyvZTOVJPVvcqrfMVcdL3Gow6yvfHpgj88TrNoZptoYznuz4E0w7uP-3wQOV4Hjh9JIO1NHghKMbbJnBitMucvvFMblQM3S0tdePmMiR1mHzgrWJOlSIzHV-zrH8gUbuFF8/s6240/IMG_5216.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6240" data-original-width="4160" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOBjWFcmd7Bb0ZgGscifUW0gpNzPeaiA7A86zNy8p0FWA_kHFsAXaNJCjYnyvZTOVJPVvcqrfMVcdL3Gow6yvfHpgj88TrNoZptoYznuz4E0w7uP-3wQOV4Hjh9JIO1NHghKMbbJnBitMucvvFMblQM3S0tdePmMiR1mHzgrWJOlSIzHV-zrH8gUbuFF8/s320/IMG_5216.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div>Well done to the girls and guys!</div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-74661316797240138542022-08-13T09:12:00.004-07:002022-08-13T09:12:46.108-07:00Vantage Habitation Check. Return from Leeds via Cheshire, Shell Island & Hereford.<p> We could hardly believe that 3 years has flown by and Krystal was due for a first MOT. Happily she passed with flying colours. A slight blip, with the oil warning alarm light but hopefully that will resolve itself! Colin Edwards in Street, highly recommended by a neighbour and easily sorted out service and MOT, Krystal was legal again, fit and healthy!!</p><p>The next hurdle was the habitation check and a trip to Leeds back to her birth place at the Vantage factory. Quite a hike for us but we decided to take a week off from "decorating" and head for some R&R. We always book the habitation check a year in advance. I had booked a Sunday night at a Premier Inn at Knottingly (about 8 miles from Leeds) for the princely sum of £29, Easy parking and a relatively easy drive into Leeds on a Monday morning arriving at the factory by 8.30 am.</p><p>Krystal was soon settled in by Jamie. We only had a few minor things to be fixed. A droopy over head cab carpet and a dodgy TV ariel. Not bad really. We did the usual canal stroll into Leeds and had breakfast and a wander. By mid afternoon we were done and back at the factor. Jamie had been very thorough as usual, completed our jobs and had changed the shower head, which had been leaking and tightening up the oven handle which had been loose. While we had been strolling around Leeds we decided to change the plan for next years habitation. Arrive Leeds, Monday late PM and leave Krystal at the Vantage factory. Stroll down to the Holiday Inn Express around the corner and pick Krystal up on Tuesday after her checks. This would avoid the heavy traffic we had encountered coming into Leeds Central on a Monday morning. Worth a try.</p><p>Habition done we headed for Moor Lodge and our normal stop over at Bardsley a few miles away. A lovely spot very rural round the corner from The Bingley Arms ( no meals on a Monday)</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMN_3GZ0_YM52lOF6xdAT0GeqIk6Rc5hANgckm1-WzoGvDFkJPpx_cw-4b-adAjG433hk112i-KJGFyU-diu1QuoJ7tuKzMXABYFyLqFVnoBJdYlhONPwuHBaYcvLisVTZv8VVGnH91AXJVCiXX3pnhXkFFeP62WhqIUsyx0H4Id8NbTTWx7A00is/s640/Moor%20View.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMN_3GZ0_YM52lOF6xdAT0GeqIk6Rc5hANgckm1-WzoGvDFkJPpx_cw-4b-adAjG433hk112i-KJGFyU-diu1QuoJ7tuKzMXABYFyLqFVnoBJdYlhONPwuHBaYcvLisVTZv8VVGnH91AXJVCiXX3pnhXkFFeP62WhqIUsyx0H4Id8NbTTWx7A00is/s320/Moor%20View.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p>We enjoyed the sunshine and wandered down The Gunnell ( rather overgrown) for a cold beer.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4c4gyG39Ge6cfVI5oqyAuJ9JrTAbs6IoA0RjPwOFTENkEF6xHoevkNZg_Hck762W5PbAsDAt8_NnUYF3Kx8uhxm153IpIh-ZJ1DSdt9KMtA3phwGjj94SFteULsOvnasg-Tu2deYbfxjy6JFWW0iFha_OFX4DYKcAd3RtKD_xGbiTwLosHUPpBNt/s1440/FB_IMG_1658155784208.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4c4gyG39Ge6cfVI5oqyAuJ9JrTAbs6IoA0RjPwOFTENkEF6xHoevkNZg_Hck762W5PbAsDAt8_NnUYF3Kx8uhxm153IpIh-ZJ1DSdt9KMtA3phwGjj94SFteULsOvnasg-Tu2deYbfxjy6JFWW0iFha_OFX4DYKcAd3RtKD_xGbiTwLosHUPpBNt/s320/FB_IMG_1658155784208.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiSHX2BxdzT2eblkZjDy4_t4Gc7812sysRXml7dequFMS3qBpP9UuujHbpLSEMdsY07gitGs3saXEhdJgFu9UJMEZl4hbGMu5pJUlG86W1C0S8Y4oQax7vaZqV85dVt_f9fKr0Pn14ln9TkTowH5ISIN_8DKevWG5LSJJ651N1ZHwOtZ1VkE_2DXc/s1440/FB_IMG_1658155788278.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiSHX2BxdzT2eblkZjDy4_t4Gc7812sysRXml7dequFMS3qBpP9UuujHbpLSEMdsY07gitGs3saXEhdJgFu9UJMEZl4hbGMu5pJUlG86W1C0S8Y4oQax7vaZqV85dVt_f9fKr0Pn14ln9TkTowH5ISIN_8DKevWG5LSJJ651N1ZHwOtZ1VkE_2DXc/s320/FB_IMG_1658155788278.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><p>An easy stroll down, a bit of a hike on the way back...... it could have been the beer.</p><p>The next morning we were off to Cheshire, Shays Farm, and a visit to Den's brother Paul and his wife Ann-Maria at Tarporley. We always enjoy seeing them and catching up with family gossip over a couple of good meals. Shays Farm is another lovely site, very up together and quiet.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDDkh6sbz9g9bI6x2Zodh6hynILKXWgB9EZRCu5W0q2AEJbtijqWHBXWEIqg5w3MAa4ryqy7qSL2Y7Gmru8w8gMBu-_pp2vGFG_n7GZ_c-X8RS5mAWrIUpsEvQEBEOsiJGZ9V00l6YnABDstqIrd45mCzU9JAqkMZSQtnPmgnt9u5gQJQrPrE7HTh/s6240/IMG_4768.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguDDkh6sbz9g9bI6x2Zodh6hynILKXWgB9EZRCu5W0q2AEJbtijqWHBXWEIqg5w3MAa4ryqy7qSL2Y7Gmru8w8gMBu-_pp2vGFG_n7GZ_c-X8RS5mAWrIUpsEvQEBEOsiJGZ9V00l6YnABDstqIrd45mCzU9JAqkMZSQtnPmgnt9u5gQJQrPrE7HTh/s320/IMG_4768.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>A good fishing site and great for kids with a big ball field.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEKWnSdb5JCsSB6jhSyuz-_SwTMjaelUZ8RF7drQAFOpgMpc41X6MgEnu2fbKWZg1WJZ4eC1sO-rMT-pQt6613ZoYoLAueEKMUFk39LqoOllJfCKcTBxXmylPcL5QQsgLK3awyYL2hmJw0r20-rSLcHCNc6gPCUvtmfulBu-PGcBmDytUWTUfOlo6/s6240/IMG_4764.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEKWnSdb5JCsSB6jhSyuz-_SwTMjaelUZ8RF7drQAFOpgMpc41X6MgEnu2fbKWZg1WJZ4eC1sO-rMT-pQt6613ZoYoLAueEKMUFk39LqoOllJfCKcTBxXmylPcL5QQsgLK3awyYL2hmJw0r20-rSLcHCNc6gPCUvtmfulBu-PGcBmDytUWTUfOlo6/s320/IMG_4764.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Whilst we were there we went out with Paul across to North Wales to a place called Holywell. Sadly, Holywell is not thriving as it used to be. Still we took a nostalgic tour of some of the sites that were so familiar 50 years ago.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjFDIbUEZbSNUDmjRChbSzrY7ZmBR7GU8h36FRNCsBzzsrYGOcGE7cnWAcbcEYvFeTpaJ9r3KIDJpqxNFuTKoeyrAZxtoGko7a9twb9FP4ZzYej61ARmRv5AGFBKS1SROiFNNjvJIaLHK79SIDc76Ib4Vz3i2haeFKfz7CXNg4AxdLPm6TbrbioQd/s6240/IMG_4730.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6240" data-original-width="4160" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjFDIbUEZbSNUDmjRChbSzrY7ZmBR7GU8h36FRNCsBzzsrYGOcGE7cnWAcbcEYvFeTpaJ9r3KIDJpqxNFuTKoeyrAZxtoGko7a9twb9FP4ZzYej61ARmRv5AGFBKS1SROiFNNjvJIaLHK79SIDc76Ib4Vz3i2haeFKfz7CXNg4AxdLPm6TbrbioQd/s320/IMG_4730.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Here is the site of the old bakery, café and bread shop. Now an Indian restaurant. This was where Matthew Schwarz Den's Dad was born.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijTmTAQ24zx0bsKEDo-61dan4zRXbVDd3fr0YdDeEXrZqQsHlnkIBT0ahiO5nfD8Fw1jg_jlYOvuC_qrQeAtOCmmkAkFuToHZR-s_F91_G83xg1FqN8re25cwvxMi--1MpZjjjsdde0J2jj5HRQ07BJcbDsD06zrOhYFywpQGcBW0aCwUsn1rzvI0/s6240/IMG_4737.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhijTmTAQ24zx0bsKEDo-61dan4zRXbVDd3fr0YdDeEXrZqQsHlnkIBT0ahiO5nfD8Fw1jg_jlYOvuC_qrQeAtOCmmkAkFuToHZR-s_F91_G83xg1FqN8re25cwvxMi--1MpZjjjsdde0J2jj5HRQ07BJcbDsD06zrOhYFywpQGcBW0aCwUsn1rzvI0/s320/IMG_4737.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Next door was the Opticians also belonging to the family. In the window was some of the family history.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rf-4hsti5iagbAa54aNA4r-KKl-F00PHX696qusfOUmy_77VyyVO0-lMsQCX07uIoQIIBkM6lwjpo39bCgFlXBTshCHtXpUiZbEV88w5GV5YMM296U81lEMG1DhtTeryjFzUS6-CzPho8BN8jckpQ_8TPnBtpeZAxgje0fKQd6kaPI-E92ThVjkE/s6240/IMG_4729.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rf-4hsti5iagbAa54aNA4r-KKl-F00PHX696qusfOUmy_77VyyVO0-lMsQCX07uIoQIIBkM6lwjpo39bCgFlXBTshCHtXpUiZbEV88w5GV5YMM296U81lEMG1DhtTeryjFzUS6-CzPho8BN8jckpQ_8TPnBtpeZAxgje0fKQd6kaPI-E92ThVjkE/s320/IMG_4729.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYmoZqFCCjzLX5OPLpQFQRuAy6U0YmkIBR8FN8_-GzEAa-7eFK-nEaJYDoXKKQFkoLR1_MxngxftpWxXQsn8sKngMEOCyqiYz-6oik13rhAt9CQXWum9RmG_dX5L6nAEi3szVFOBhMPt7nAMjZf9EGu38IC_P6Y1vrigvqKb5niEgsp5s1kGcvD0n/s6240/IMG_4727.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjYmoZqFCCjzLX5OPLpQFQRuAy6U0YmkIBR8FN8_-GzEAa-7eFK-nEaJYDoXKKQFkoLR1_MxngxftpWxXQsn8sKngMEOCyqiYz-6oik13rhAt9CQXWum9RmG_dX5L6nAEi3szVFOBhMPt7nAMjZf9EGu38IC_P6Y1vrigvqKb5niEgsp5s1kGcvD0n/s320/IMG_4727.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>While we were taking photos the door to the opticians opened and we met old cousins and spent some time talking family history which was lovely.</p><p>We then went up to the monastery at Pantasaph where many of the family are peacefully lying. We paid our respects in this very peaceful place, which has changed very little over the years. A beautiful final resting place.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikWfQRjQNoaUlIdSDOXaPZjsQ2N2Ek1L1fRtzDRE_quxJi5VDspPNpF77AZWm4lc_TvMv_gyH1x7HMb5okpAhnGcy1rauBIOV2ohibvw1dJQGRWaXXS5AT9S5AGzGJ6PNd7cdvhqOquE5bc7g2miX172FebNMR-jbegvFcGUpafHetQZnIY9NevUq6/s6240/IMG_4739.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikWfQRjQNoaUlIdSDOXaPZjsQ2N2Ek1L1fRtzDRE_quxJi5VDspPNpF77AZWm4lc_TvMv_gyH1x7HMb5okpAhnGcy1rauBIOV2ohibvw1dJQGRWaXXS5AT9S5AGzGJ6PNd7cdvhqOquE5bc7g2miX172FebNMR-jbegvFcGUpafHetQZnIY9NevUq6/s320/IMG_4739.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>Our last destination in this part of Wales was to meet up with Den's cousins Christina and Kieran. We looked around Christina's cottage at Brynford where we hadn't been for many years. Finally, we had a lovely meal in a local hostelry and chatted about old times and memories past.. Altogether a great couple of days we will have to do it again soon. North Wales is a lovely part of the world and even better when the sun shines. Big thank you to Paul and Ann-Maria and the cousins we met on the way, We enjoyed your company.<p></p><p>From Cheshire we ambled back to Wales and soon we were on our way to Shell Island. A unique HUGE campsite just north of Barmouth on the coast. The campsite is only assessible at low tide. We had booked a spot and checked the tide times so all was well. "Camp anywhere", we were told. Sand dunes or mountain views. We opted for the middle ground and pitched up on a hill, sea behind us mountains in front.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaIvBpD-uBokcIOYMVhpUPggODy6UxVYITeR8m6RdQErzPdkjxrXq_sJStx9lgA7ZtZRP5mbMFnYn0Sw9dihjmbiTO3Rb9kukvMNEFJb64XbQsY6DAUC1LIkI6rU9jVpsge6RfFqh9R-OK_VL__tHObQGdRCJ8nPthLoHx-GV79FJv59tqS-znuD-/s6240/IMG_4770.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaIvBpD-uBokcIOYMVhpUPggODy6UxVYITeR8m6RdQErzPdkjxrXq_sJStx9lgA7ZtZRP5mbMFnYn0Sw9dihjmbiTO3Rb9kukvMNEFJb64XbQsY6DAUC1LIkI6rU9jVpsge6RfFqh9R-OK_VL__tHObQGdRCJ8nPthLoHx-GV79FJv59tqS-znuD-/s320/IMG_4770.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Clean showers and loos, bar and food available. All was well until the weekend when it did get rather full. Still we enjoyed the views and the sea air and we would go back off season.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-UhcorQxDesdG5zqwzvlO9c6rbKdsI0v7qcsKs8wfjx-6hUeQ6UJ2w0tozgbWHVHtxUUoSda4vvejBzEpgm1basonmCf6rTbE3L27Aju38rFHSmVVlyTMtRE9tGXsEjIJBIAt1AWv3bfhaXYrpAIFJqrpdeigciGHuIJIV5udjfb49aTXoZjWS0x/s6240/IMG_4798.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-UhcorQxDesdG5zqwzvlO9c6rbKdsI0v7qcsKs8wfjx-6hUeQ6UJ2w0tozgbWHVHtxUUoSda4vvejBzEpgm1basonmCf6rTbE3L27Aju38rFHSmVVlyTMtRE9tGXsEjIJBIAt1AWv3bfhaXYrpAIFJqrpdeigciGHuIJIV5udjfb49aTXoZjWS0x/s320/IMG_4798.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The beach was beautiful and pretty empty. There was soft sand and loads of rock pools. I think if we went again the "dog free" field would be our first choice. Most of the campsite was grass so not sure what it would be like in bad weather, I guess you would have to be careful where you camped.</p><p>Strange how some campers didn't seem to understand the 15m rule in operation here. A mid week visit would be best as the site gets pretty crowded at weekends.</p><p>Finally we were on our way home but decided at the last moment that one more stop would make an easier journey. A quick look at camper contact and search for sites and we located Lucksall Caravan and Camping at Fiddlers Green not far from Hereford by the River Wye. I rang the site and they had spaces, I also booked a table at the restaurant, on site but run separately.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFvRNRnT87zhGnfWQKJPzzEfQP9iQRX597LCbMSXZp5LcZb_2l2Nneockz7j5rn10x48D3y_-QK7MSO_4jZhMAb0h4RkQT7nrCMc0erFvLH2K6NziulMHSrPNPrZ9bSerjKdR-yxR1ugi4zZiOQaMTA3ZNfYpPg3sMqK9uk29Je_NGF_XEstOOwFcw/s6240/IMG_4822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFvRNRnT87zhGnfWQKJPzzEfQP9iQRX597LCbMSXZp5LcZb_2l2Nneockz7j5rn10x48D3y_-QK7MSO_4jZhMAb0h4RkQT7nrCMc0erFvLH2K6NziulMHSrPNPrZ9bSerjKdR-yxR1ugi4zZiOQaMTA3ZNfYpPg3sMqK9uk29Je_NGF_XEstOOwFcw/s320/IMG_4822.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Lucksall site is absolutely beautifully kept with grass manicured within an inch of it's life. Pitches are a good size and facilities spotless. We had a beautiful meal in the restaurant and a drink in the bar overlooking the River Wye.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpPOO8Eaa7DS5Mokg39Q0cnnFkXhndmyhjQ0gWWcT30F0F3XA8Mgqmbd0X08akrk30q5d7hVmAAcUrpsRVBIOvJs00Ws7f4zr2jONOOHnCe0s_fNEllfwcalAkrp8LatiUuR3BBxiR9DzS0h_2YEn3y2vDRlS1zIgmQLa48C6l3RVsJCXnWBV8inO/s640/7315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOpPOO8Eaa7DS5Mokg39Q0cnnFkXhndmyhjQ0gWWcT30F0F3XA8Mgqmbd0X08akrk30q5d7hVmAAcUrpsRVBIOvJs00Ws7f4zr2jONOOHnCe0s_fNEllfwcalAkrp8LatiUuR3BBxiR9DzS0h_2YEn3y2vDRlS1zIgmQLa48C6l3RVsJCXnWBV8inO/s320/7315.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6RMTgkdELh621di4xm1RjBrRzrYs4w690WM2dQ6sAe22ui_5q5oGp2LpiWylOziREUeguyj-HeCx7QVzmmwWlx8g-fdKCPwf9jlsebDC06PTLnVNcuFrvu3snzJOIfX9eOUjv10ciNlaeDTTT7LLbbRGt3O74ANZiqUUQ8dVV172NI4yY855tcP0/s6240/IMG_4823.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy6RMTgkdELh621di4xm1RjBrRzrYs4w690WM2dQ6sAe22ui_5q5oGp2LpiWylOziREUeguyj-HeCx7QVzmmwWlx8g-fdKCPwf9jlsebDC06PTLnVNcuFrvu3snzJOIfX9eOUjv10ciNlaeDTTT7LLbbRGt3O74ANZiqUUQ8dVV172NI4yY855tcP0/s320/IMG_4823.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>People we paddle boarding from the site and swimming further up the river. This is certainly a site we will go back to.</p><p>Altogether a very successful week!!!</p><p><br /></p></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-87112708011865736422022-06-19T06:14:00.000-07:002022-06-19T06:14:25.628-07:00Portugal to Calais EuroTunnel.<p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Finally after 8 weeks of sunshine in Portugal we were on our way home. We allowed 6 nights for the journey from Ria Formosa in the Algarve, to the tunnel. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">For those who like figures, </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The total journey was 3380 miles, door to door.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Fuel cost £502</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Tolls in France, Spain and Portugal, 190 Euros.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Tunnel only £150 , as we used our Tesco coupons!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Campsite fees 1106.70 Euros. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Bargain of the holiday was Ria Formosa Camping. As we arrived before 1st June and stayed for a month, we got the special rate of 365 Euros all in. Camping Turiscampo was a Yelloh Village site which we booked and paid for in advance. All the campsites en route we just turned up for and booked in at will, they varied in price from 15 Euros ( Alentejo Portugal) to 29 Euros ( Only Camp Tours)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The only site we could have made a saving with using ACSI, was Larouletta in France, we would have saved the princely sum of 1 euro if I had bought the ACSI card and book. Travelling home was very easy as all the sites were open. Going down at the beginning of April we used Camping & Caravanning Winter Sun sites as we knew they were open. Most of the other sites we used were already known to us or we picked them up on Camper Contact ( well worth 5.99 Euros a year) We could probably have saved a bit of money if we had used Aires, but we prefer sites and we don't wild camp.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">All in all, including spending money and food, the holiday cost £61.14 a day, that included fuel and travelling costs. Not bad overall we thought for 64 nights away.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Leaving Ria Formosa we travelled back up through Portugal to Alentejo near Evoramonte. Again we passed a quiet night and bought a pizza from the site shop for dinner. Delivered hot to the van by the site owner, not bad for 7.50 Euros. Washed down with a bottle of local wine. The camp site was slightly busier than on the way down and the pool was open. This site is beautifully kept the owner lives on the premises. Nice hot clean sanitary facilities and an outdoor pool. Our last night in Portugal very warm.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPfQsH05i_-2QxX-wyHkyunPYtLLyYav4G8lqHCiCrAw_b2Wxu9ljLtGlqjoSmnspqGRbmgm4KHT-PY9V48_dAQ8TizhjzwCenzW2NVCm6SaRhP3hLXYw3CifENQ7ko5zpC8QS-LwGgH16TI30wfRQ0-XK-lFZ5lmJS_23qcLApQ3-6y9QduASt2-/s6000/IMG_6710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPfQsH05i_-2QxX-wyHkyunPYtLLyYav4G8lqHCiCrAw_b2Wxu9ljLtGlqjoSmnspqGRbmgm4KHT-PY9V48_dAQ8TizhjzwCenzW2NVCm6SaRhP3hLXYw3CifENQ7ko5zpC8QS-LwGgH16TI30wfRQ0-XK-lFZ5lmJS_23qcLApQ3-6y9QduASt2-/s320/IMG_6710.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The next morning we headed over into Spain and after a long drive made it to Salamanca. Our first choice stop over was closed, so we made a slight detour to Hotel Regio where we had stayed before.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK71f6rx272s7VEZVgo67yAjqkRCnDHcY1TOpSZPYT7pZ5JscywXmco8CMr6BXWtNz9Vz94cmU5cuYAfR7Xq1I3TGBF8tZ3xqOGUE9jaCu00_I1uj1Fx7b6aF1Kw1ryvhmuw7c3SUD6v2Zo9_IChKTK0u0TdxWAzkjTb4gNiVRJ97U-ZXKxMohNvPz/s6000/IMG_6811.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK71f6rx272s7VEZVgo67yAjqkRCnDHcY1TOpSZPYT7pZ5JscywXmco8CMr6BXWtNz9Vz94cmU5cuYAfR7Xq1I3TGBF8tZ3xqOGUE9jaCu00_I1uj1Fx7b6aF1Kw1ryvhmuw7c3SUD6v2Zo9_IChKTK0u0TdxWAzkjTb4gNiVRJ97U-ZXKxMohNvPz/s320/IMG_6811.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Hotel Regio has a campsite attached, large toilet block and campers get a discount in the restaurant. It was a great stop this time as the weather was beautiful and all the facilities were open. A nice outside bar and a swimming pool which we didn't use. The meal in the restaurant was good too. Next time we go we will stop for two nights and take a trip into Salamanca the bus stop is at the hotel.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gXXKW4ziQDYIodCG2kYXS89V07T9jCye4qXpocELMRMK4p11ABxLWiOY8DZggT-bKRMmSjXZGNW8AdLHHEMXIwpijf9R3ASDkCOy1S01QQKEahNkZHntVH5vRbWYcE0T5BrEMWzFUGHmfddlZrw87Rd0tHmre4j62sdxXmWfvhAjezmWluzefb6W/s6000/IMG_6808.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_gXXKW4ziQDYIodCG2kYXS89V07T9jCye4qXpocELMRMK4p11ABxLWiOY8DZggT-bKRMmSjXZGNW8AdLHHEMXIwpijf9R3ASDkCOy1S01QQKEahNkZHntVH5vRbWYcE0T5BrEMWzFUGHmfddlZrw87Rd0tHmre4j62sdxXmWfvhAjezmWluzefb6W/s320/IMG_6808.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcGvoXz97jiRbKYsT1_i0EFMLnjnL5TI6mrOI9WH6MCB_wl0HZlLoXuHZBvJk73LqszoBY0q7Lu6X5j_EqCfvJFMEnmovh8gs6u83doxFRC8rkTUJdZLQvZFZm9YtTHy9ky7sCzx8m_Rkq6qoYvHmQq_xQGUS2WlRX9JiQaVxiY7DW9oPdeKPyfRQ/s6000/IMG_6809.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzcGvoXz97jiRbKYsT1_i0EFMLnjnL5TI6mrOI9WH6MCB_wl0HZlLoXuHZBvJk73LqszoBY0q7Lu6X5j_EqCfvJFMEnmovh8gs6u83doxFRC8rkTUJdZLQvZFZm9YtTHy9ky7sCzx8m_Rkq6qoYvHmQq_xQGUS2WlRX9JiQaVxiY7DW9oPdeKPyfRQ/s320/IMG_6809.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Slightly long grass and dodgy electrics, but clean and well worth a stop and reasonable at 23.10 Euros a night.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbnoJMPYlYLZ6iuGGsfcX18_NTNhISY0lHZTOravagB3dgyzRX1mCJOKT85YVgeeBKMUMuiFPfsZi-cZuqtC8oTo4ZeksM4wZNodUjO-UtCpysQ1r8LgE0w0CZijO3AhVpFLvAtXCt0aUABmyA7sJg8jjD7Cen4d0fAC3uRby8UsKJen9toAo8i7p/s6000/IMG_6812.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbnoJMPYlYLZ6iuGGsfcX18_NTNhISY0lHZTOravagB3dgyzRX1mCJOKT85YVgeeBKMUMuiFPfsZi-cZuqtC8oTo4ZeksM4wZNodUjO-UtCpysQ1r8LgE0w0CZijO3AhVpFLvAtXCt0aUABmyA7sJg8jjD7Cen4d0fAC3uRby8UsKJen9toAo8i7p/s320/IMG_6812.JPG" width="320" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><br /></div><br /><p>We had a very nice meal in the restaurant here.</p><p>The following morning found us doing another long drive to France. Just over the border and back to Larouletta. This time the weird trees had leaves on them so seemed lass spooky.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm_Tw-l29MCbzRNUuGxue-RFiLEmVWQZEvgHtRbYBRlGRGKLLI7Xi0NnJUEUq-92vRDCWZi3eExVPsVj64tuNaWt6iovr6CupGnnJMvSsP7Te_TkmYvcoxei7hnp8HFR6UjXnzpsW-QOs-n9SKDfZb9YtlxcOBWgfCDnPMdTNHDe6DxCykZWOKDSGD/s6000/IMG_6699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm_Tw-l29MCbzRNUuGxue-RFiLEmVWQZEvgHtRbYBRlGRGKLLI7Xi0NnJUEUq-92vRDCWZi3eExVPsVj64tuNaWt6iovr6CupGnnJMvSsP7Te_TkmYvcoxei7hnp8HFR6UjXnzpsW-QOs-n9SKDfZb9YtlxcOBWgfCDnPMdTNHDe6DxCykZWOKDSGD/s320/IMG_6699.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Two months makes a world of difference to a tree!!!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTGNZBdEOSOQKk8SF0izqDTdYM5kn1QsGrEwUb6dvJLI7Xo6SWJsZM83Pi0YILqibdgbcRnlNTJbg4Lju9SxLYxDJnHMHV7LK9O_61WfVvZK0636VzXyXhWqYN0-ig3ce0CBMNmgV03s4OIQNDh998t35BoMhh8lWbP_95UEpzG2EPo3uXWfo6zwv/s6000/IMG_6814.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLTGNZBdEOSOQKk8SF0izqDTdYM5kn1QsGrEwUb6dvJLI7Xo6SWJsZM83Pi0YILqibdgbcRnlNTJbg4Lju9SxLYxDJnHMHV7LK9O_61WfVvZK0636VzXyXhWqYN0-ig3ce0CBMNmgV03s4OIQNDh998t35BoMhh8lWbP_95UEpzG2EPo3uXWfo6zwv/s320/IMG_6814.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKTuXOQxAG9mgKWiQ9VLfRo8zrxEsXHSKgNCzaddEGMY4yhMWEaW7MlDfInM5jujRy35H9P_bcdhJ5MlUvZJqmj9zpoQGlBoN_EpGiR-_lhw-mdYwn-yd4RC8bzYuju-AnetaSJ0iubwACBqkxKNStNmCuHOLAT803ieJlGexApAF45x4aNMSWgxrh/s6000/IMG_6817.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKTuXOQxAG9mgKWiQ9VLfRo8zrxEsXHSKgNCzaddEGMY4yhMWEaW7MlDfInM5jujRy35H9P_bcdhJ5MlUvZJqmj9zpoQGlBoN_EpGiR-_lhw-mdYwn-yd4RC8bzYuju-AnetaSJ0iubwACBqkxKNStNmCuHOLAT803ieJlGexApAF45x4aNMSWgxrh/s320/IMG_6817.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Our second French site was at Tours. Another mammoth drive but easy on the motorway with little traffic. Lucky for us it was a Sunday so no lorries.</p><p>Only Camp in Tours is just off the main road and avoiding the "No Entry" signs over the bridge we managed to find it. Clean, friendly and convenient. Tours is walking distance but the site is by the River Loire so lots to see. We wandered into the village but all the restaurants were closed as it was a Sunday. We finally manged to find a pizza place and had a very entertaining meal surrounded by all the locals all for 10 Euros.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Iet5fFFYbrSZ42lQoXYoIKnwTEXRJkISZm7rx_l76OeDOlHoYGwJDfFf6StEEoTMpubZyrH7qsUicogkOnb5JxY6r2DXa360Ciwne6RYGwHcigjjiJG15udH7VBvuqg6YEuTcprRE6QoLTmvmUK93ykXZxmSeD4OkF64A21o3FltknzApeLryEDy/s6000/IMG_6824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Iet5fFFYbrSZ42lQoXYoIKnwTEXRJkISZm7rx_l76OeDOlHoYGwJDfFf6StEEoTMpubZyrH7qsUicogkOnb5JxY6r2DXa360Ciwne6RYGwHcigjjiJG15udH7VBvuqg6YEuTcprRE6QoLTmvmUK93ykXZxmSeD4OkF64A21o3FltknzApeLryEDy/s320/IMG_6824.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF_1e_PnKsd2OGASXWZPNMc9PDIiBtcWNmrN_78i5mR3ybk7pEyzb1f2IsO9DrKb2aM2z6zjobkvKH5OR-c7iSzhKLxSlkxgl0ca13xctnOHITl33O0_6idgt_OqQCf-2S5ZR90G4EUbHhYnrdsFr2X1_isNxxm93uHhrP2iHPCWhErwilyKPuk0kY/s6000/IMG_6825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF_1e_PnKsd2OGASXWZPNMc9PDIiBtcWNmrN_78i5mR3ybk7pEyzb1f2IsO9DrKb2aM2z6zjobkvKH5OR-c7iSzhKLxSlkxgl0ca13xctnOHITl33O0_6idgt_OqQCf-2S5ZR90G4EUbHhYnrdsFr2X1_isNxxm93uHhrP2iHPCWhErwilyKPuk0kY/s320/IMG_6825.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj94K8EFN6B1tC-YG4AtutbIi0uePICZruhCkbYRLStGMTHh_cP4OG7tnh8jpM5INSUgcQU5pX-Gslqa6Q1FxxgVJfkpNka_NwifleGxWX0U-LHH6UGv195Heo4JNQCjIGqXF8QI0yf9_h9xoJRnhEfVkWGNgLI_lVuBuO3Cz0gSOEGcm_hLpuZcMo/s6000/IMG_6828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj94K8EFN6B1tC-YG4AtutbIi0uePICZruhCkbYRLStGMTHh_cP4OG7tnh8jpM5INSUgcQU5pX-Gslqa6Q1FxxgVJfkpNka_NwifleGxWX0U-LHH6UGv195Heo4JNQCjIGqXF8QI0yf9_h9xoJRnhEfVkWGNgLI_lVuBuO3Cz0gSOEGcm_hLpuZcMo/s320/IMG_6828.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyziEPJyfIcADa3p_bAH7LRtYYs9_dcjs_bMMhVxVamBtdMKH1G9EtLadl30U9oqAQABHrnQE9vw7-oybwxNaohFM4CNfSrCTtSvWM1R3lFdRg2KTXvIrBjinzJaf-TvRzg4u04Vn2zAlBtWfLuO4VgYRnufpjmbYyC0iBMOPsiPtgfEUFwE5fIq7/s6000/IMG_6830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6000" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbyziEPJyfIcADa3p_bAH7LRtYYs9_dcjs_bMMhVxVamBtdMKH1G9EtLadl30U9oqAQABHrnQE9vw7-oybwxNaohFM4CNfSrCTtSvWM1R3lFdRg2KTXvIrBjinzJaf-TvRzg4u04Vn2zAlBtWfLuO4VgYRnufpjmbYyC0iBMOPsiPtgfEUFwE5fIq7/s320/IMG_6830.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVgtShfgdthRsmCvagzRhHiObJd9zT8EuIlKih4aJYrjd-wvbkwcW4R9yfjiHMdajNnVTZ1Q8K7RmBpch7dGYTSyaAGxDwJrXziANxS9EzIuJG3Cm2WfarGUuMv0S-54VfT-3ALSksyvIOjgnqsUDXYmwOQkUcFw4J_iNRSfviysm8sbXLKLyZwknV/s6000/IMG_6834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVgtShfgdthRsmCvagzRhHiObJd9zT8EuIlKih4aJYrjd-wvbkwcW4R9yfjiHMdajNnVTZ1Q8K7RmBpch7dGYTSyaAGxDwJrXziANxS9EzIuJG3Cm2WfarGUuMv0S-54VfT-3ALSksyvIOjgnqsUDXYmwOQkUcFw4J_iNRSfviysm8sbXLKLyZwknV/s320/IMG_6834.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The camp site is on Pilgrims route to Compostela. Lots of cyclists so looks like it could get busy in season. Opens from February so a handy stop.</p><p>We were on the final route to the tunnel one more sleep at our usual stopping place Les Erables at Escalles. The sun was shining in the distance over the white cliffs of Dover. England only 22 miles away.</p><p> Another great meal at the restaurant Les Falaise in the village and then finally home!</p><p>What would we do differently? We will definitely go back to Portugal next year at the same time. April to the beginning of June. I think we would buy a flexi ticket for the tunnel next time and not worry about booking sites as most places are quiet in April/May. The weather is certainly better at this time and most of the attractions are open but less crowded. We may make a couple of two night stops on the way home so Den gets a break from driving. Can't wait till next year. Just a van to clean now. </p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-58809909055498229832022-06-01T09:20:00.001-07:002022-06-01T09:20:36.270-07:00Review Camping Ria Formosa. Portugal.<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Our second site of this season takes us to Camping Ria Formosa near Tavira almost at the Spanish border. We had been before in January/February and thought we would like to try it more in season.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQNSwCJ-n5S2pb2H4LbL8vOET0RSWnjHTGUCVKKIWFM0CnbKYM9NH7GuxhMnnP9quNpF8gdUNGgJyBDi4L1WaLSU0I_K9quO32ys3vnNlxfT3VFVAMFU3f0Sa0E6COK4PkrxS72yIutU2-Owi3d3kc0J2f3DAoDa5nAj8C3vysuMX6Up_TOfQRa6k/s6240/IMG_4572.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQNSwCJ-n5S2pb2H4LbL8vOET0RSWnjHTGUCVKKIWFM0CnbKYM9NH7GuxhMnnP9quNpF8gdUNGgJyBDi4L1WaLSU0I_K9quO32ys3vnNlxfT3VFVAMFU3f0Sa0E6COK4PkrxS72yIutU2-Owi3d3kc0J2f3DAoDa5nAj8C3vysuMX6Up_TOfQRa6k/s320/IMG_4572.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Ria Formosa is situated almost in Tavira in the village of Conceicao and Cabanas de Tavira. The site is right by the train station and an easy one stop into Tavira main town. Infact, the train very conveniently, goes all the way along the Algarve and in the opposite direction to Spain, so it is perfect for motor homers who want to use public transport.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCDQg6HsgmWFZttjuRxICAQlbVR1PD3IxArWYgzic8MS7WqvAMwjAM01N7baZbBpiBquwBlsVlnSEg6lXF_WOuTfKJCf010hw-ogPeVC5ssriwJRYPDspWdnMk4TX2eeklNvDGZ78JLVs0Uuc2gf-B220UueVdLMfjMywg-ZnXGFNrYp4OkRZYwLs/s6240/IMG_4597.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCDQg6HsgmWFZttjuRxICAQlbVR1PD3IxArWYgzic8MS7WqvAMwjAM01N7baZbBpiBquwBlsVlnSEg6lXF_WOuTfKJCf010hw-ogPeVC5ssriwJRYPDspWdnMk4TX2eeklNvDGZ78JLVs0Uuc2gf-B220UueVdLMfjMywg-ZnXGFNrYp4OkRZYwLs/s320/IMG_4597.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJS5OjygXOseENMS5VjhTESv3L21L11l_AGsPQjviQWDJqO6TdsnS_WRgqzaMI7wpcGrhPci-B121PcrinB-4RmTqE28qTDDMfslcKX-SVgjDFnt7pZUECcgrgsesrOMyR5pNIQNj6pDdbWGNstXT7IVfR5IUG5tj0qmitnTotdTXoDtECaxIx_OVa/s6240/IMG_4598.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJS5OjygXOseENMS5VjhTESv3L21L11l_AGsPQjviQWDJqO6TdsnS_WRgqzaMI7wpcGrhPci-B121PcrinB-4RmTqE28qTDDMfslcKX-SVgjDFnt7pZUECcgrgsesrOMyR5pNIQNj6pDdbWGNstXT7IVfR5IUG5tj0qmitnTotdTXoDtECaxIx_OVa/s320/IMG_4598.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> Loads of bike paths nearby and you can even cycle into Tavira across the salt flats which we did. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvyILBaUPjxxJpxtr1VuBdthc8XbZb8IxzMqIEYEagPadQvaXNPNN0xjOeMJXnIHVV2fo4JKfrvb37UuSbcaFXx0kFy67Z94qlV7MjqFbsWDdcj4NDdLf25150gHOBf-0TzD88OnnG-be69zLR8A8U1HDcHbup3yXkesRVjd57HNQlRuAGdIm-2jco/s6240/IMG_4592.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvyILBaUPjxxJpxtr1VuBdthc8XbZb8IxzMqIEYEagPadQvaXNPNN0xjOeMJXnIHVV2fo4JKfrvb37UuSbcaFXx0kFy67Z94qlV7MjqFbsWDdcj4NDdLf25150gHOBf-0TzD88OnnG-be69zLR8A8U1HDcHbup3yXkesRVjd57HNQlRuAGdIm-2jco/s320/IMG_4592.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We think this site has the best of two worlds, traditionally Portuguese in Conceicao and a bit more touristy in Cabanas. Cabanas in actually an old fishing village and has lots of bars, cafes and a beautiful beach accessed by water taxi at 1.50 Euros return. Cabanas is a bustling resort but not yet ruined by too much tourism!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The beach is beautiful fine sand, with loads of umbrella for shade.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsUVOJrKT3VP0CjVFH_NkLh97bftz4gt7h1qzK_1HldKJpwkfwzB_u6P-JNbQl5CxeFIg1SjLRFD8PoXi8mOZIYV7bZXNtJ2q_-aJJVGpNvu7U31lFyKOnkho7CgvEahNcu6Ry4GKDA9kpP1IV_8b1m9KKr8lA8zPxk2Up6j_ZlTfQMDlESI3HGN_2/s6240/IMG_4610.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsUVOJrKT3VP0CjVFH_NkLh97bftz4gt7h1qzK_1HldKJpwkfwzB_u6P-JNbQl5CxeFIg1SjLRFD8PoXi8mOZIYV7bZXNtJ2q_-aJJVGpNvu7U31lFyKOnkho7CgvEahNcu6Ry4GKDA9kpP1IV_8b1m9KKr8lA8zPxk2Up6j_ZlTfQMDlESI3HGN_2/s320/IMG_4610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Not too busy in May!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3U_KAwSy5wl1KietOgliycgNqKUKUttLB8qENSXawW8vUTccxfki1mRpJLsEL5YUyiKX5vGNOaBGy1leCn_68DmLn712FDQBSLnufgPTA5R9pLAZ6dqL7F-PYRXVhXl1oN449oq1Z6WsrHKXNzBqkb5wqdpX_KvOOT0cDuoHkCbh6I-eI6Mi1YcIO/s6240/IMG_4657.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3U_KAwSy5wl1KietOgliycgNqKUKUttLB8qENSXawW8vUTccxfki1mRpJLsEL5YUyiKX5vGNOaBGy1leCn_68DmLn712FDQBSLnufgPTA5R9pLAZ6dqL7F-PYRXVhXl1oN449oq1Z6WsrHKXNzBqkb5wqdpX_KvOOT0cDuoHkCbh6I-eI6Mi1YcIO/s320/IMG_4657.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">There is also another local beach called appropriately "Poor Man's Beach", because at low tide you can actually wade across to the beach avoiding the charge of a water taxi. We road our bikes across the salt flats to reach it. Good going for me!!</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-iBzAYKKXbcR0czP3l5RetxCiZyd15lDUhAi-zzqRYIGXV6TAnkdruCWHKGE8cRQRVzWZmoqkWEtRbMzthFrHRaLAOtmVEQh7xEyoq_5NlXCfChlQJEyla6FT6DK73G6NpOPru2r0qD2dzef-hQpqOkdE0CoVgDYcYkE-2RzvzpQ8kX5Ao_7xxoR/s6240/IMG_4655.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH-iBzAYKKXbcR0czP3l5RetxCiZyd15lDUhAi-zzqRYIGXV6TAnkdruCWHKGE8cRQRVzWZmoqkWEtRbMzthFrHRaLAOtmVEQh7xEyoq_5NlXCfChlQJEyla6FT6DK73G6NpOPru2r0qD2dzef-hQpqOkdE0CoVgDYcYkE-2RzvzpQ8kX5Ao_7xxoR/s320/IMG_4655.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Cabanas itself is a great place to relax and is full of old fisherman's cottages that still retain their charm and have actual fishermen living in them.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">There are a few tourist shops but also local shops for meat and fish. This is a local community garden filled with mannequins, fun but a bit spooky I thought.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsqd-RSnVNww02VzFXfw9W8hNkk5b0Q9NtJFsXUjeD39n5LH1ezyI1PJMv_QI1Wpzur7ecmYQ2fZazwFcfo4DbwT1lWxdax0iPTr2aFe8PdeRwEKrqymNfnY31oLFkLSM9qUy-6kTUp8NcqAyHQmgP6IRBb16t74fER0ISLXFrwac_jH4_cNsdJLg/s6240/IMG_4579.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLsqd-RSnVNww02VzFXfw9W8hNkk5b0Q9NtJFsXUjeD39n5LH1ezyI1PJMv_QI1Wpzur7ecmYQ2fZazwFcfo4DbwT1lWxdax0iPTr2aFe8PdeRwEKrqymNfnY31oLFkLSM9qUy-6kTUp8NcqAyHQmgP6IRBb16t74fER0ISLXFrwac_jH4_cNsdJLg/s320/IMG_4579.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0zLSUuRB-q6Jil-4U6WEih9ehDc9yBDZ49cr0vMiFewydimthk_nK2-hMXBPq-QtsV5Da2pFlGTvTTJ-j0T6P6UafayEjXzCzrU0JRWIKnEw3_VKfr20FHCsJOrdsoAzmFy_zLf8U34MfuHgK4rgjdrRVK8iUaAOkkJXdJLvP0kzNPGmSk6KDEVd/s6240/IMG_4580.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc0zLSUuRB-q6Jil-4U6WEih9ehDc9yBDZ49cr0vMiFewydimthk_nK2-hMXBPq-QtsV5Da2pFlGTvTTJ-j0T6P6UafayEjXzCzrU0JRWIKnEw3_VKfr20FHCsJOrdsoAzmFy_zLf8U34MfuHgK4rgjdrRVK8iUaAOkkJXdJLvP0kzNPGmSk6KDEVd/s320/IMG_4580.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Cy0fAcn-Q_FgBCJ2urANOeT20Ej9-2MP_SbzpZfQTVsh_GuPBfbuxC_1dUFX7ACGGf7LIglCTxnkIhU_hqWoAaKQUp69Q718yF-LBZrA8EfeYC9SfYYjG-opOXSfTmE11etOSCvSA8sKH7GJSZcLh_-C_0wvK-A_-klFHoipad9ZmE_MccIP_RYv/s6240/IMG_4575.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6240" data-original-width="4160" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Cy0fAcn-Q_FgBCJ2urANOeT20Ej9-2MP_SbzpZfQTVsh_GuPBfbuxC_1dUFX7ACGGf7LIglCTxnkIhU_hqWoAaKQUp69Q718yF-LBZrA8EfeYC9SfYYjG-opOXSfTmE11etOSCvSA8sKH7GJSZcLh_-C_0wvK-A_-klFHoipad9ZmE_MccIP_RYv/s320/IMG_4575.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We couldn't really make out what it was about but the dummies were really well done!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The campsite is very well laid out. We opted for a double pitch for not much extra. We actually got a bargain winter rate for a month which cost 365 Euros all in, so we had a double bonus. Pitches are all on gravel and the site staff are very fussy about keeping within the pitch markings, which was fine for us. The shower blocks and loos are beautifully clean and well kept with loads of hot water. There is a site supermarket, but also two more good local supermarkets in walking distance. A huge Lidl is at Tavira next door to the train station. We did the journey a few times and with a "wrinkly discount" ( you have to ask!) the fare was 1.50 Euros return.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Tavira is well worth a day or more to look around. There is an old town and you can take boat trips along the river or to Tavira Island, the beach resort. We had a fabulous meal of grilled sardines in a typical Portuguese back street restaurant.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh55HWQAUoSHwZHw1l3D_mhip1nffKwmvgxqBuioh92B5PYJpJID3_TdiCtErrqXy3lYPYvFbHwHkrM1nUmTK1nwE0JvVE7QJSMDt53pEQyuw7x7tOP-cH6EPtpQYfc2vMWqHTGo6GLpLT1X0BHh1Kyt0ccC5CMApMA8qxOfB-FDtu4KzJNffGRukzW/s6240/IMG_4643.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6240" data-original-width="4160" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh55HWQAUoSHwZHw1l3D_mhip1nffKwmvgxqBuioh92B5PYJpJID3_TdiCtErrqXy3lYPYvFbHwHkrM1nUmTK1nwE0JvVE7QJSMDt53pEQyuw7x7tOP-cH6EPtpQYfc2vMWqHTGo6GLpLT1X0BHh1Kyt0ccC5CMApMA8qxOfB-FDtu4KzJNffGRukzW/s320/IMG_4643.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">There is also a well priced restaurant which does a daily menu but there are loads of places to eat. We managed a main meal and wine for around 20 euros. At the local Expat bar "The Barrel", a main meal, dessert, coffee and wine is 10 Euros. Wine came in at 1 Euro a glass. All in all, a cheap place to eat out.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9RiFBjFJoI2KA4wT24qqLgwlyHDz_2CZ_6UwxW2UK5neWlmUkna6hapoSTNdvZL9L-7BS-azICc_px9ngQM5W_Hg5zkf6tpYrEwwK833G1UEvFL7F8seVaNJf3Q2lnM93ZyqjHL_lPjgdzykurI8fPvn52vztK-PiJhdYPZZbHT4NS1e3f0sxoCA/s6240/IMG_4567.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9RiFBjFJoI2KA4wT24qqLgwlyHDz_2CZ_6UwxW2UK5neWlmUkna6hapoSTNdvZL9L-7BS-azICc_px9ngQM5W_Hg5zkf6tpYrEwwK833G1UEvFL7F8seVaNJf3Q2lnM93ZyqjHL_lPjgdzykurI8fPvn52vztK-PiJhdYPZZbHT4NS1e3f0sxoCA/s320/IMG_4567.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The weather this year was really hot temperatures in the high 20's most days, certainly we will return next year at the same time.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We spent our days in the sun and with walking, biking, eating and drinking, 4 weeks has flown by really fast. There is a lovely swimming pool on site with lots of loungers great for cooling off in.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIF792Wt_LjGjjzqXZVd7Sze_lSjTjBcQc5NudlxbeB89csqhcaWNLO7wUk5uhZBIoXG3f-9Q1lp2mUeoBJ1kiRCnDk1QRmEjI77lCBDgz7I9i8tP1_XfjNYdIxPzSNBsBMFfialPxxEuNqYmdMPYSSdRUdYx4eTqM56cI-93P5cf0mcgHc7TLq6E6/s6000/IMG_6788.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIF792Wt_LjGjjzqXZVd7Sze_lSjTjBcQc5NudlxbeB89csqhcaWNLO7wUk5uhZBIoXG3f-9Q1lp2mUeoBJ1kiRCnDk1QRmEjI77lCBDgz7I9i8tP1_XfjNYdIxPzSNBsBMFfialPxxEuNqYmdMPYSSdRUdYx4eTqM56cI-93P5cf0mcgHc7TLq6E6/s320/IMG_6788.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We did a trip up the train track to Monte Gordo ( two stops) If you like Blackpool you will love Monte Gordo a tourist hot spot. Massive hotels backing onto the beach. Not our cup of tea but worth a day out!</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilynUsfDB_DmYO1A-gg1l88ZpXsP6qaKW8eEyqt4b6Mzq5iphOkxyXXbbMpkO-sw8i-ZP5BXN3AQjqGO-gvYjP_lrK16y5agT4WMbwqOceCgAmPg7Tca1i7T34RZlGabSyqQXYqGmQr6Err0B-v6t3gimxlinKL4yTwxW1nCmjKDNCM4X5WLepz8Kt/s6240/IMG_4616.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilynUsfDB_DmYO1A-gg1l88ZpXsP6qaKW8eEyqt4b6Mzq5iphOkxyXXbbMpkO-sw8i-ZP5BXN3AQjqGO-gvYjP_lrK16y5agT4WMbwqOceCgAmPg7Tca1i7T34RZlGabSyqQXYqGmQr6Err0B-v6t3gimxlinKL4yTwxW1nCmjKDNCM4X5WLepz8Kt/s320/IMG_4616.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFA2gKa1PhD63pImCq_AVWejrMJ08QrbEOjst3pcPXSprysL6nTz983LPyv8x1kT8v4OwjDwyyfB3xohb0orBAeIMIIn7oIvo7pqDU-pIM-SRptN2yJhjKU91mtfbcaJlAZrExMDFDz_RHMnjHbLz8jt5bezHTupcIPKus7qwaAZ5LSHSEMAcM4QrN/s6240/IMG_4619.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFA2gKa1PhD63pImCq_AVWejrMJ08QrbEOjst3pcPXSprysL6nTz983LPyv8x1kT8v4OwjDwyyfB3xohb0orBAeIMIIn7oIvo7pqDU-pIM-SRptN2yJhjKU91mtfbcaJlAZrExMDFDz_RHMnjHbLz8jt5bezHTupcIPKus7qwaAZ5LSHSEMAcM4QrN/s320/IMG_4619.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IgVP_d5L7sng26_WrOCmBuzbsNqskULvew2q1rPL-TCtBfVK4WygEid-Q_epT0j_LgHeNbgIJSGrlQ-uqvh4E_uZcfOmyIele4ipBlYfKK1CdYgDk9RJOS79mJYDoTfT5AHme7gbmLo0XvKKY50NpF60HW2UYZ6Mz3mJ6Va7blCWKcSc45gwKtR4/s6240/IMG_4623.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8IgVP_d5L7sng26_WrOCmBuzbsNqskULvew2q1rPL-TCtBfVK4WygEid-Q_epT0j_LgHeNbgIJSGrlQ-uqvh4E_uZcfOmyIele4ipBlYfKK1CdYgDk9RJOS79mJYDoTfT5AHme7gbmLo0XvKKY50NpF60HW2UYZ6Mz3mJ6Va7blCWKcSc45gwKtR4/s320/IMG_4623.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The best bit of beach at Monte Gorda was the fisherman's end, but not as authentic as Cabanas.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We have thoroughly enjoyed our holiday this year. Staying put has its advantages and we have certainly found out loads more about this area of Portugal. We will be back.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-47305928197705195962022-05-07T10:05:00.004-07:002022-06-01T08:10:03.595-07:00Review Turistcampo Lagos Portugal.<p> This year we have decided that we want to stay put in two camp sites for our Spring trip to Portugal. Turistcampo, between Lagos and Luz in Portugal. A Yelloh Village resort. Booked online for 22 nights.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ZMyDllHCt0YAte3SMsdkg7rL7lD7OYjgeaBG1f_ev9_DCDTjnMwIfHyBUMRBR2AO6cuNh7VzDzjkEHs8b19j9GAX0Xp58l5vHV5e498QwnyqaEmKd2JTPlBJv9kUV4KGlgd44DwWgg_3QEPe5G_rhicZujVROHA6jGQPzA8VZY1mUqH74e9bE9uX/s6000/IMG_6725.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9ZMyDllHCt0YAte3SMsdkg7rL7lD7OYjgeaBG1f_ev9_DCDTjnMwIfHyBUMRBR2AO6cuNh7VzDzjkEHs8b19j9GAX0Xp58l5vHV5e498QwnyqaEmKd2JTPlBJv9kUV4KGlgd44DwWgg_3QEPe5G_rhicZujVROHA6jGQPzA8VZY1mUqH74e9bE9uX/s320/IMG_6725.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp5SEqbA6A7w8h_vaiBKFE2iVI54fWUHnwTYkMvi5pgg2uAuWktnI1VTcAq9QQBwfQ67zxswvyNmp8wMbgREPcEN6fziY5Zmo9ne6yMRfFX_KI7fSJiutRv5nNZWw-QZGe6XrHOK91C7xNlSSJ-4La-V3EKIRJJauSxGC_npRih8T9Dn4NYIDzvea4/s6000/IMG_6722.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp5SEqbA6A7w8h_vaiBKFE2iVI54fWUHnwTYkMvi5pgg2uAuWktnI1VTcAq9QQBwfQ67zxswvyNmp8wMbgREPcEN6fziY5Zmo9ne6yMRfFX_KI7fSJiutRv5nNZWw-QZGe6XrHOK91C7xNlSSJ-4La-V3EKIRJJauSxGC_npRih8T9Dn4NYIDzvea4/s320/IMG_6722.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiLquRA9IdLzAMVeS0EIm53mAFn6m32Vt8QYvq6uDgFjVsu9I3MzVtaJy4l7_CfUMgc-aatPuuxSlxEZXr_XcIRWO5s2-7-XUhO35lYR4BJABtJiKryKlfAZ6zcWrQ7ENb86RcGs5LsG__vhbMShtgxEblQMXO9DB3S1b9kLNGaYpgmQ-Zzv9fGKbs/s6000/IMG_6721.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiLquRA9IdLzAMVeS0EIm53mAFn6m32Vt8QYvq6uDgFjVsu9I3MzVtaJy4l7_CfUMgc-aatPuuxSlxEZXr_XcIRWO5s2-7-XUhO35lYR4BJABtJiKryKlfAZ6zcWrQ7ENb86RcGs5LsG__vhbMShtgxEblQMXO9DB3S1b9kLNGaYpgmQ-Zzv9fGKbs/s320/IMG_6721.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Turiscampo is a large holiday resort well placed for touring the Algave. Probably one of the best kept sites we have been on. Scrupulously clean with staff constantly on duty throughout the campsite. Even the pitches get pruned and swept between customers. Toilet blocks rival a good hotel with plenty of hot water and a whole host of loos, complete bathrooms and showers. The resort is open all year round so caters for all weathers. There is a large heated indoor and outdoor swimming complex. An indoor and outdoor gym, kiddies play area and club and a great restaurant and supermarket on site. There are also a whole variation of huts on site some with their own hot tubs. Handy I guess for visitors. Our neighbours had their family visiting and collected them from Faro airport about an hours drive.</p><p>The restaurant on site has a snack bar as well as a proper restaurant and does well priced meals. We ate out quite a few times. It does get quite busy but we always managed to find a table. During the weekends there was usually some kind of entertainment. All the staff were really friendly and helpful and mostly spoke English.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgcZtqnZ2UVcN7AcjowBhm46wS3VU2xJU9mFMRwsFroZJ8SsFejMAO0vIAITb_Z1_92DKJT0EVW-h-wubHEfjVQ2_NcD5RX2M5KJV1_A-XRLjJ4pu-7BReVkFYe76hVn27p3Nb1irb2UzmMQmB_KNyaxuXVJ4X-TqSN1sfjTX1O3eBM5m3KzO5htb/s6000/IMG_6720.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBgcZtqnZ2UVcN7AcjowBhm46wS3VU2xJU9mFMRwsFroZJ8SsFejMAO0vIAITb_Z1_92DKJT0EVW-h-wubHEfjVQ2_NcD5RX2M5KJV1_A-XRLjJ4pu-7BReVkFYe76hVn27p3Nb1irb2UzmMQmB_KNyaxuXVJ4X-TqSN1sfjTX1O3eBM5m3KzO5htb/s320/IMG_6720.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>The site is tiered with pitches of various sizes. We went for the "deluxe" so we had our own water and drainage. Pitches are well marked with plenty of shade.</p><p>A bus stop outside the site takes you along the coast in both directions. Pria de Luz is the nearest beach, it took us about 35 minutes, an easy walk going down to the beach, harder on the way back as it's uphill, good exercise though. Luz is a great small village, quite touristy with a lovely sandy beach at one end and loads of restaurants and bars. A large expat community!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVhwJfIeuoH3p3m99OH-Dcqqa2A9c_OSjKVXW1TTWJx2N4OK84hVzoTgAJWW3UWyfawcE1K1_NIEDJ7uOqU7euwFnGWOwv44gqKXAq2aoWB9qxqNhk5N4eLJdBUEMcNnUMi7xnbn3IulFbzDfuO5tHMWVnpYHv-qAL1anym-WxBGr9tw-7ABHV4yM/s6000/IMG_6754.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVhwJfIeuoH3p3m99OH-Dcqqa2A9c_OSjKVXW1TTWJx2N4OK84hVzoTgAJWW3UWyfawcE1K1_NIEDJ7uOqU7euwFnGWOwv44gqKXAq2aoWB9qxqNhk5N4eLJdBUEMcNnUMi7xnbn3IulFbzDfuO5tHMWVnpYHv-qAL1anym-WxBGr9tw-7ABHV4yM/s320/IMG_6754.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYDirysc6PrdZcp0KitfY9wCxzZJazxFZ3cx2KrL9fnN-P8JYjJ9x3LgFbcCUoGgDwtOq4mGoTzXbH251DrYH8dnglqD3CJOjtXQ596NDPxZROr__Pbf_nVNOygE-_quPUQw33q6kC_ZUSYlOlgpGRvaDn-6xE1L45kL06oa7foKQH35udxLjfbb9n/s6000/IMG_6733.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYDirysc6PrdZcp0KitfY9wCxzZJazxFZ3cx2KrL9fnN-P8JYjJ9x3LgFbcCUoGgDwtOq4mGoTzXbH251DrYH8dnglqD3CJOjtXQ596NDPxZROr__Pbf_nVNOygE-_quPUQw33q6kC_ZUSYlOlgpGRvaDn-6xE1L45kL06oa7foKQH35udxLjfbb9n/s320/IMG_6733.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCe5q883-J84DapLW_NKagDUrojzY6hNlVanVGDmPhRcydaHcewdmMHuxDimuaCVkhO-LvO5TGRAiX9-pYfVW5R_zfDj05DEPj50RR3qaDLYXHiNOjo4HwCbk3YnrKMsEO6bUEFipyI1OC32Vj9dE4G0mZ_TGxQdShhleWEcfvPjmCG5yQakVOmnbj/s6000/IMG_6738.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCe5q883-J84DapLW_NKagDUrojzY6hNlVanVGDmPhRcydaHcewdmMHuxDimuaCVkhO-LvO5TGRAiX9-pYfVW5R_zfDj05DEPj50RR3qaDLYXHiNOjo4HwCbk3YnrKMsEO6bUEFipyI1OC32Vj9dE4G0mZ_TGxQdShhleWEcfvPjmCG5yQakVOmnbj/s320/IMG_6738.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>One of the attractions of the area is walking the coastal path. Known as the "Fishermans Walk" it extends for most of the Algarve coast. Very popular with German and Dutch walkers it can be very challenging in sections, though relatively easy to follow and well marked.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid96f8VpaZCsIAxZztarCjQbMnvCkpDWm-uhu_SgTpWB1__fIGSUVbtQ6DgtLeTOmnY-TZ84f5-8sMKIeiMebeUP6Py5vezPxFI6V8-8mKuGKj3nJdNhOzwHdDurCN4xe_AAcByY1w4aoJ7dxdP0uTHJhgkO3oUhoK2EouxynLyotibNsh6PgFvMMK/s6240/IMG_4527.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid96f8VpaZCsIAxZztarCjQbMnvCkpDWm-uhu_SgTpWB1__fIGSUVbtQ6DgtLeTOmnY-TZ84f5-8sMKIeiMebeUP6Py5vezPxFI6V8-8mKuGKj3nJdNhOzwHdDurCN4xe_AAcByY1w4aoJ7dxdP0uTHJhgkO3oUhoK2EouxynLyotibNsh6PgFvMMK/s320/IMG_4527.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The section nearest to us was Lagos to Burgau. We kind of managed to walk the majority of this section over a couple of days. Beautiful views across the sea. We almost made Burgau but gave up on a very steep final decent to the beach. At the other end a very stiff climb ruled out the top of the Roche Niga! All my fault!!<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoNg2MO4u_ZsNCbjCZ3y8ChRDgsxEk7dSoYzf26UPhtf7OjUKarIi9AENxTq2xPhDd3tKykSGIYKdLwytGkz-I8Yt8bRGQR9Y8qR1HhtSr8KmKT_0JhRO_lNI-V1Jfdo1FXiOi7K9PZ6X9oZBSABEeenGCmAtctd7brjdSs4_tCUhSvKK0ouzLYg12/s6240/IMG_4518.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoNg2MO4u_ZsNCbjCZ3y8ChRDgsxEk7dSoYzf26UPhtf7OjUKarIi9AENxTq2xPhDd3tKykSGIYKdLwytGkz-I8Yt8bRGQR9Y8qR1HhtSr8KmKT_0JhRO_lNI-V1Jfdo1FXiOi7K9PZ6X9oZBSABEeenGCmAtctd7brjdSs4_tCUhSvKK0ouzLYg12/s320/IMG_4518.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUwE5oSTa2DTqpSs8m444S5j5n4ljNiHz1zeksBXedQwwx6Gy3CJb9OKTjPNw7kEnZUnEe9yqhNgQKsvUQhBZ9w8Qmc1EvteoFMoLmKsdRBz8PJ9Lq60pIwkpvmOu1M2laajI-1Ato1KFjp6L9g2pKMrdDzq0l9Rodo6vu_WMwfO6i5knebFjVcSP/s6240/IMG_4559.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjUwE5oSTa2DTqpSs8m444S5j5n4ljNiHz1zeksBXedQwwx6Gy3CJb9OKTjPNw7kEnZUnEe9yqhNgQKsvUQhBZ9w8Qmc1EvteoFMoLmKsdRBz8PJ9Lq60pIwkpvmOu1M2laajI-1Ato1KFjp6L9g2pKMrdDzq0l9Rodo6vu_WMwfO6i5knebFjVcSP/s320/IMG_4559.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgngrl5ouQQun7BO8UqCTICuhp1v3vbCTQS9nufCoToMss1GRyRnTPINfaF9TmU9G2O7n0i1x8TP8LSRLMqHGhYwy7BLEM_oL4uJtsyBvfqKQxtiXLbsRrIGBdtinoL7fTAyOWHfq2bNV8uLMZ7qv3o1NWZKmtUK2BXC68bhqmmrSjd8WEjwq-XaBQG/s6240/IMG_4519.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4160" data-original-width="6240" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgngrl5ouQQun7BO8UqCTICuhp1v3vbCTQS9nufCoToMss1GRyRnTPINfaF9TmU9G2O7n0i1x8TP8LSRLMqHGhYwy7BLEM_oL4uJtsyBvfqKQxtiXLbsRrIGBdtinoL7fTAyOWHfq2bNV8uLMZ7qv3o1NWZKmtUK2BXC68bhqmmrSjd8WEjwq-XaBQG/s320/IMG_4519.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>We watched as a few "bright young things" made the top. We know our limitations and descended back to the bar instead. Worth the effort though to nearly make the top!</p><p>Amazing how quickly three weeks flew by. We were just getting into the holiday spirit when it was time to leave. Certainly worth the long journey. We had a couple of damp windy days but lots of sunshine as well. A good time of the year to come in May/June the promise of summer sun and hardly any biting insects YET!</p><p>Our next stay, up the coast for an hour and a half for a month at Camping Ria Formosa ,Cabanas de Taveria and more sun we hope.</p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-61928344746467360362022-04-19T09:06:00.001-07:002022-04-19T09:08:54.366-07:00Postponed Winter Sun. Now Spring in Portugal.<span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Well, we are finally off for our first bit of camping fun since October 2020. Following our third cancellation, we WILL be off on through the tunnel and onwards to Portugal. We have had a few little ( or major hiccups, like the rest of the world) in the last 12 months including a major relocation from the suburbs of town to the rural back woods near Glastonbury. A major move but at least we did something useful during lock down.</span><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> Krystal has been washed, packed, loaded and ready to go!! Let's hope we have completed the relevant paperwork properly. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> After an interesting drive through the picturesque Somerset villages, a quick sprint around Salisbury, and a dash around the M25, we were finally on the road to Folkestone and the tunnel. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> Note to self: look for a better route! This was the first time we had attempted the tunnel from our new home. Our usual comatose rumble along the M4 to London from Bristol had changed. We were slightly more alert.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> In actual fact the journey was pretty uneventful, except for the long drive past the 35 miles of poor lorries and their drivers making for Dover.
The tunnel was the usual slick operation we expect. No check of what we had in the fridge....just as well. No check of our jab certificates, which were all in order. A quiet casual conversation of where we were going and that was it. Tunnel, then France. We did use Den's Irish passport so I wasn't stamped out of the UK as we were together. We could stay forever!! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Escalles, Les Erables our first stop was just as it always was. A warm welcome from Sabine and we were soon set up for our first night. A nice meal in the local restaurant Les Falaise just 75 Euros ( and well worth it) our first Kir and Pastis, we were finally on holiday.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsOu15FZ_bKOewQgxp1Gzw50qTZEkztfMGoiV_-NwBzYbTvIQh2t8bfSzXB7UNC_2qefCYvV7ACBBwhTPrDdug0b2Nd_dX3tn6D85XsY9a7d-PMn_ahDmh_QDTjPwmW3MjLPxZQPSk2WMl7hgiLdSIz25osvJ6kihRMjgalyFccnGDxGqaNZqFNHbt/s6000/IMG_6686.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsOu15FZ_bKOewQgxp1Gzw50qTZEkztfMGoiV_-NwBzYbTvIQh2t8bfSzXB7UNC_2qefCYvV7ACBBwhTPrDdug0b2Nd_dX3tn6D85XsY9a7d-PMn_ahDmh_QDTjPwmW3MjLPxZQPSk2WMl7hgiLdSIz25osvJ6kihRMjgalyFccnGDxGqaNZqFNHbt/s320/IMG_6686.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">After a leisurely start we set off for the second big drive. A 6 hour stint mainly down the motorway to our second stop at Camping Futuriste near Poitiers. A spot we have used many times before and really handy for the motorway. We arrived in time for a proper evening meal and a relaxing evening overlooking the valley. The campsite was pretty empty, to be expected at this time of the year.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8lIwNdsQS4KO2mZxnqNAD-83knipH8KCgqMc7frGs67mDw-X5lNU1Yqcios80r4kNliARcawDeNcEqYT533IP-x3eTHWe3ckb98nHDRYSCClTtu0NRYnNXQmAbkk7aSseSQ8fDK_1ISVZWI1ohIzHLKgiGFy6XpTMSq4l1p9TAss-PQ6y0IZqMuA/s6000/IMG_6695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8lIwNdsQS4KO2mZxnqNAD-83knipH8KCgqMc7frGs67mDw-X5lNU1Yqcios80r4kNliARcawDeNcEqYT533IP-x3eTHWe3ckb98nHDRYSCClTtu0NRYnNXQmAbkk7aSseSQ8fDK_1ISVZWI1ohIzHLKgiGFy6XpTMSq4l1p9TAss-PQ6y0IZqMuA/s320/IMG_6695.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Nice little swimming pool on this site although we didn't try it. Great views across the valley though. Future scope well worth a visit, we have been twice and loved it. It does take a whole day to get around and an evening if you want to go to the laser show. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhda4V3hBTPKpIHDcPr-jxiEwV0FHyorDCrJZ7LbsO6SOcZ4DB0k2kgoMwAUaFImpgZL-KP5J-0SbLuCzlAwohGhM6nKXgltdkMvQluz1Nu3EDlgaqqbdWH25Wu5ehQfku30_sru6jY6m7O-DbIik7_yUnBCCf0vKPIY6nTEVmeAiO9Pxxswxjqq8SR/s6000/IMG_6693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhda4V3hBTPKpIHDcPr-jxiEwV0FHyorDCrJZ7LbsO6SOcZ4DB0k2kgoMwAUaFImpgZL-KP5J-0SbLuCzlAwohGhM6nKXgltdkMvQluz1Nu3EDlgaqqbdWH25Wu5ehQfku30_sru6jY6m7O-DbIik7_yUnBCCf0vKPIY6nTEVmeAiO9Pxxswxjqq8SR/s320/IMG_6693.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We had encountered a lot of heavy rain on the way and the next day gave us much of the same. Heading for Camping Larouletta on the French Spanish border at Urrugne, South of Bordeaux.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A long days drive and we made it. The rain had actually stopped and we were soon settling down beneath the spooky trees. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgOrm4ImsBEKdMpjiyUl04X7RbIK-8ntH8OjUwkgR8Z177fnl6SjNW-kOtW3w46-ssoC4XZ5QPPLsnqUBb5zR8IRxmS2QgERMt8WPLzbfxObYLE5hUuPOMjFcIPsUJkt1qp2ND04dHq91I_dX-fhp2APzOB65y7-0-76R90E89fnQm0nsJYUpUakMW/s6000/IMG_6699.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgOrm4ImsBEKdMpjiyUl04X7RbIK-8ntH8OjUwkgR8Z177fnl6SjNW-kOtW3w46-ssoC4XZ5QPPLsnqUBb5zR8IRxmS2QgERMt8WPLzbfxObYLE5hUuPOMjFcIPsUJkt1qp2ND04dHq91I_dX-fhp2APzOB65y7-0-76R90E89fnQm0nsJYUpUakMW/s320/IMG_6699.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">It looks like a scene from a horror movie but actually a really nice well maintained site. We keep promising to go back in the summer when the trees are in leaf. We wandered up to the supermarket up the road and treated ourselves to our first French drink at a local bar.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Next stop Spain. It was still unsettled weather but seemed slightly more promising as we steeled ourselves for the drive across the Spanish Sierras. The last time we came this way there had been snow. Luckily no snow on show for this trip. Another hike down the motorway and we were approaching Salamanca and our first Spanish stop Camping Olimpia. We spied this camp site the last time we were this way and thought we would try it out. Lovely welcome, we were on our own but the campsite owner was happy to cook us a meal in the restaurant. Exceptionally good food and service, including wine a modest 35 Euros. We were well pleased. A great stop over and next door to a service station.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEd0fPm0oRgPs9PRwtPQa2nRK4bUZIsfiTmkir4Ucw4i1nbVvKo4gKBUbMQjZvBtzy7w6IZSc2XxK0TtgXfRnBnsFa0gVROoji3dbyz0cqcO7ZjWy-iKEfqD3nbhuJrzwrYOuU_Sc8eVjm39frDcHhzeWc9r7EqUWmknHnNseli6ltTDEnR7YziHRT/s6000/IMG_6707.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEd0fPm0oRgPs9PRwtPQa2nRK4bUZIsfiTmkir4Ucw4i1nbVvKo4gKBUbMQjZvBtzy7w6IZSc2XxK0TtgXfRnBnsFa0gVROoji3dbyz0cqcO7ZjWy-iKEfqD3nbhuJrzwrYOuU_Sc8eVjm39frDcHhzeWc9r7EqUWmknHnNseli6ltTDEnR7YziHRT/s320/IMG_6707.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEydUqKH1qfHcxaHmWH1LVxlgZrWKoVoh0tIovUJnYJ8v-3Xve--vpIUqh1Y9Wtu1pBqEyXQ64M2BqM4yMHRCxbYR7_oIqLPZj4RUm4XHi0NGgPY3jPBkYpTximOnBDgDiRvrYOBRmj7Fh6HNpeGjKTtDWkQSFupF6jXhM3DCKd0g41ekFiQwnXR6q/s6000/IMG_6706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEydUqKH1qfHcxaHmWH1LVxlgZrWKoVoh0tIovUJnYJ8v-3Xve--vpIUqh1Y9Wtu1pBqEyXQ64M2BqM4yMHRCxbYR7_oIqLPZj4RUm4XHi0NGgPY3jPBkYpTximOnBDgDiRvrYOBRmj7Fh6HNpeGjKTtDWkQSFupF6jXhM3DCKd0g41ekFiQwnXR6q/s320/IMG_6706.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">All by ourselves!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">When planning this trip we had decided to give ourselves an extra days travelling to get there. This was a good move as it it so easy to under estimate the journey, especially if the weather is not so good. As we left Olimpia the Spanish sun came out. Next stop Portugal.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Camping Alentejo in Portugal our final destination before Turistcampo near Lagos. This campsite was near Everomonte a new place for us. Very tidy site with lovely loos, showers and swimming pool all for 15 Euros a bargain we thought. No restaurant, but we had a very nice pizza cooked for us on site and delivered to our van. A very well kept site with lots of shady trees which was great as the sun had come out.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1WLanylMq16LRgjM_PfhpGC-nuf5MyqBH9nLIlAVbWD10s1uAOf0wzXTv94wSomD6Q8oE2hqw5Hgr_28lOYoT6DCQIHqYLnVFMDUWWyfjzwlmClr5t4uisbZqrPZuI9Wj6Z78xWJG4Lk76YVGIoyTjukEeh4bjqAIY2FV7tKA42yZDNnl8PFU6s4/s6000/IMG_6711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT1WLanylMq16LRgjM_PfhpGC-nuf5MyqBH9nLIlAVbWD10s1uAOf0wzXTv94wSomD6Q8oE2hqw5Hgr_28lOYoT6DCQIHqYLnVFMDUWWyfjzwlmClr5t4uisbZqrPZuI9Wj6Z78xWJG4Lk76YVGIoyTjukEeh4bjqAIY2FV7tKA42yZDNnl8PFU6s4/s320/IMG_6711.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Last leg of the journey the final run to our first long stay site. Turistcampo, big and busy for Easter. Well worth the extra days travelling as we had an easy run to the coast and got to the site in plenty of time to settle in. Now where's the bar??</div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-58128279376039754712021-08-08T11:09:00.000-07:002021-08-08T11:09:40.023-07:00First Freedom Trip July 2021<p> <span style="font-family: verdana;">Finally made our first "Freedom Trip" since the return from Greece in October last year. Guess we were really lucky to actually have made two long trips during a Covid year! Since coming back apart from the regulatory hikes in the neighbourhood during lock down, we have actually moved house. Our main criteria for house selection was "room on the drive for Krystal" Happily that has been achieved so we are fit to go! Sadly decorating and sorting out our new bungalow has curtailed our trips this year. Hopefully, next year normal service will be resumed.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We had planned a trip to Leeds to the Vantage factory for our second habitation check. Not much work to be done fortunately. We were looking forward to our first trip this year.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">We spent the morning wandering along the Leeds canal admiring the art work. Krystal meanwhile was being prodded and poked at the Vantage factory.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvc4p8ondp8/YQ_gdXHHqbI/AAAAAAAAWvo/pgvmDbzXR20yUl1F6OLrBHEGMdplfxJngCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4249.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvc4p8ondp8/YQ_gdXHHqbI/AAAAAAAAWvo/pgvmDbzXR20yUl1F6OLrBHEGMdplfxJngCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4249.CR2" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t_HTMKm_PYY/YQ_gh8EkjxI/AAAAAAAAWvs/Q-GliLnxI6ELuQrhfVCsgcTVVGeRpzDcACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4250.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t_HTMKm_PYY/YQ_gh8EkjxI/AAAAAAAAWvs/Q-GliLnxI6ELuQrhfVCsgcTVVGeRpzDcACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4250.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2VRU2ffB-8g/YQ_gnH7-32I/AAAAAAAAWvw/lVpyPBhRE2stJ7tUKadvZG1d1rIiydCLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2VRU2ffB-8g/YQ_gnH7-32I/AAAAAAAAWvw/lVpyPBhRE2stJ7tUKadvZG1d1rIiydCLwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4259.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AR4_secH-yA/YQ_grai6xoI/AAAAAAAAWv0/xKkdyV2Rh7IR8HCkY8PkCd_BUL3Xt6J5ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4263.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AR4_secH-yA/YQ_grai6xoI/AAAAAAAAWv0/xKkdyV2Rh7IR8HCkY8PkCd_BUL3Xt6J5ACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4263.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKGXgX60DpE/YQ_gvVT9EWI/AAAAAAAAWv4/W0UPSn6sRwIHCSnRDZf9eF1cVhVz83pUACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NKGXgX60DpE/YQ_gvVT9EWI/AAAAAAAAWv4/W0UPSn6sRwIHCSnRDZf9eF1cVhVz83pUACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4257.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">There has been a lot of work done in Leeds to improve the area. There were loads of nice looking flats and apartments. We were so lucky with the weather! If we were looking for an urban environment this part of Leeds would have been worth a look. Loads going on to watch! </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Following our habitation check and a clean bill of health for Krystal, we had booked Moor View Caravan Park near Bardsey, just outside Leeds. A tidy site which was very handily placed. We had an uneventful peaceful first night. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YIZp4Q4sbNc/YQ_ik3Zl1PI/AAAAAAAAWwU/32d_lnM1Q_Ywnawkb3EDRVh0-YCfiy5lwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4282.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YIZp4Q4sbNc/YQ_ik3Zl1PI/AAAAAAAAWwU/32d_lnM1Q_Ywnawkb3EDRVh0-YCfiy5lwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4282.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aVYKsUG5KnM/YQ_ipGc7-9I/AAAAAAAAWwY/GFasNnvXMgsnc8gcY0oLRNZCmgT5tutVACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4271%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1326" data-original-width="2048" height="207" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aVYKsUG5KnM/YQ_ipGc7-9I/AAAAAAAAWwY/GFasNnvXMgsnc8gcY0oLRNZCmgT5tutVACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4271%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">We even managed to spot a couple of Red Kites soaring above us putting on an energetic ariel display.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Next morning we were off for our second jaunt to Cheshire and Shays Farm. Another old site to revisit. We were spending a couple of nights here and combining it with a visit to Den's brother and his wife at Tarporley.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">Shays Farm is a tidy farm site with it's own small fishing lake and camp site. Handy for Chester and surrounding area, with a lovely kiddies play area.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">A very enjoyable 2 nights. All the facilities were open and The Shrewsbury Arms just 10 mins up the track serving great food.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LihFF_GTFKY/YRARajQkPsI/AAAAAAAAWws/ZOvD7qViFaIItcDkteDxUBxkUyMYFmyEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_4284.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LihFF_GTFKY/YRARajQkPsI/AAAAAAAAWws/ZOvD7qViFaIItcDkteDxUBxkUyMYFmyEgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_4284.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">We spent a lovely day in Chester and enjoyed a stroll around the city walls. All in all, a successful trip.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;">A week later we managed another two nights away. Three Castles a Tranqil Park, adults only site in Monmouthshire. A comfortable small site in great walking country. We were going to stay another night but rain stopped play! Individual showers and loos reserved in advance. Skenfrith Castle is just up the lane and for those with a BIG wallet The Bell at Skenfrith by the river, a Michelin restaurant is nearby. Remember to take provisions as this site is really in the middle of nowhere. Slight road noise but I guess we noticed it more as we have got used to the silence of the countryside ( tractors and animals excluded.)</span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: verdana;"><br /></span></p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-21806429124780730632021-04-03T05:52:00.000-07:002021-04-03T05:52:09.597-07:00Greece 2020. The Journey Home.<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Finally as Covid 19 set in around us it was time to leave for home. Originally we had planned to spend some time in Italy and visit an old school friend in the north. With the rising numbers of Covid 19 and the increasing possibility of having to quarantine on our return to the UK we decided to spend a few days around Lake Garda and then head home via Germany thus avoiding quarantine!. We were disappointed at not going to visit my friend but for once decided to be sensible!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">So, first stop on the journey home and we were back at San Marino. The campsite was pretty quite this time but we were able to do a good washing load and have a lovely meal in the camp site restaurant.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p>Dash cam San Marino to Lake Garda.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UqkpvAfEKb4" width="320" youtube-src-id="UqkpvAfEKb4"></iframe></div><div><br /></div>Next stop. Pescheria del Garda by the lake. <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IQBVoUv4f4o/YFds7F42SzI/AAAAAAAAWkQ/6dft4TNFYMg6s6Jiwr2GjJndGwVTsFZBQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3859.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IQBVoUv4f4o/YFds7F42SzI/AAAAAAAAWkQ/6dft4TNFYMg6s6Jiwr2GjJndGwVTsFZBQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3859.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-jxHFHb69g/YFdtAKR3miI/AAAAAAAAWkU/knjjM7S4gdsqGnSgGC5elwjvWbC38_2hQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3860.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E-jxHFHb69g/YFdtAKR3miI/AAAAAAAAWkU/knjjM7S4gdsqGnSgGC5elwjvWbC38_2hQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3860.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VuBe8wU2nQ/YFdtEyoY4OI/AAAAAAAAWkY/W9gISPebI88k6QVWNESVnFeyXfk0XfmiACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3862.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4VuBe8wU2nQ/YFdtEyoY4OI/AAAAAAAAWkY/W9gISPebI88k6QVWNESVnFeyXfk0XfmiACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3862.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>A few lovely days in the late sun exploring the old town, riding our bikes and admiring the views.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam Lake Garda to Nattersee in Austria.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aZSEesYUllo" width="320" youtube-src-id="aZSEesYUllo"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Our next stop would be a run through Austria and a one night stop at Nattersee campsite. Restaurant closed due to Covid but otherwise a very pleasant stop in the very clean Austrian air.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ki7rPDR_-NE/YFdtxc9smLI/AAAAAAAAWkk/Shq9kmhbkV8u_aWUhWxXHjM_dL5C61SMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3898.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ki7rPDR_-NE/YFdtxc9smLI/AAAAAAAAWkk/Shq9kmhbkV8u_aWUhWxXHjM_dL5C61SMQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3898.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xR5CrsAzXEA/YFdt2LMoKYI/AAAAAAAAWko/kjUI3yMUCeQrUZdCHpKWZXZKjK4DOHn4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3899.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xR5CrsAzXEA/YFdt2LMoKYI/AAAAAAAAWko/kjUI3yMUCeQrUZdCHpKWZXZKjK4DOHn4gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3899.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FCutzRX7K14/YFdt8XTuSJI/AAAAAAAAWks/uFBb8PYaJggw5RKDiKcGPBERAYXrXsc0wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3905.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FCutzRX7K14/YFdt8XTuSJI/AAAAAAAAWks/uFBb8PYaJggw5RKDiKcGPBERAYXrXsc0wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3905.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Dash cam Nattersee to Waldpark.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fhLUTe3cMmQ" width="320" youtube-src-id="fhLUTe3cMmQ"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Always fabulous views at Nattersee. We would have liked to take a trip into Innsbruck, maybe next time. the following morning a quick run over Fern Pass and we were in Germany!</div><div><br /></div><div>Heading for Waldpark Camping, another familiar site for us. Clean and comfortable. This time the restaurant was open and we had a delightful meal.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y5I3WBaHlUA/YFdut2b_veI/AAAAAAAAWk8/bH0dLpuljjU9gaqnA7Rjy1y44o1HfXTuQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3934.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y5I3WBaHlUA/YFdut2b_veI/AAAAAAAAWk8/bH0dLpuljjU9gaqnA7Rjy1y44o1HfXTuQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3934.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JfF8wA3SLBU/YFdu2e6dW7I/AAAAAAAAWlA/w_xeM9AJJIcADib-Rlz41C7Nt47cSWn5QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3945.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JfF8wA3SLBU/YFdu2e6dW7I/AAAAAAAAWlA/w_xeM9AJJIcADib-Rlz41C7Nt47cSWn5QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3945.JPG" /></a></div><br /><div>A little walk around the friendly village they were preparing for Halloween!</div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam Waldpark to Lindlegrund</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4xEbVadjVA4" width="320" youtube-src-id="4xEbVadjVA4"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The following day still in Germany we headed for a new campsite Lindelgrund. By now Covid wise things were getting a little tense in Germany. With cases rising in the UK they were not too keen on Brits. We talked our way onto this site, they let us on as we were on our way home and had previously been in Greece. Nice people though a well kept campsite and we had some fabulous local wine!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-oBiUPb2oM/YFdyfnFldwI/AAAAAAAAWlU/FESqlyL_yIMZcdW50K0uJkLt5V0hzx7hwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3947.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y-oBiUPb2oM/YFdyfnFldwI/AAAAAAAAWlU/FESqlyL_yIMZcdW50K0uJkLt5V0hzx7hwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3947.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1o76WOooOSM/YFdynFgiqrI/AAAAAAAAWlY/6SrSHu4FuqENoXV0a4n-ZD-MUJwAGgkgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3955.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1o76WOooOSM/YFdynFgiqrI/AAAAAAAAWlY/6SrSHu4FuqENoXV0a4n-ZD-MUJwAGgkgQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3955.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>A busy site we were tucked up under the trees.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam Lindlegrund to AAchen</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/26dEW7cvNmY" width="320" youtube-src-id="26dEW7cvNmY"></iframe></div><br /><div>We were soon heading for our final stop in Germany an aire in Aachan. Really nice place and well worth stopping. The facilities were excellent and we would have liked more time to explore.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam Aachan, Escalles and the tunnel.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/45tX-AD-rBw" width="320" youtube-src-id="45tX-AD-rBw"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fdq-mqQqMzA/YFdy3aqZSnI/AAAAAAAAWlk/0DFW-lKT_QAO3mSXyHqD7vW4XCK5g10RwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3957.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fdq-mqQqMzA/YFdy3aqZSnI/AAAAAAAAWlk/0DFW-lKT_QAO3mSXyHqD7vW4XCK5g10RwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3957.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Tomorrow our last one nighter in France, at Escalles and then heading for home. The site was almost deserted. The camp owner gave us the gate code so we could leave early. We had filled out all the relevant paperwork for our tunnel crossing, no one looked at it!! No mention of Covid!</div><div><br /></div><div>Home for the next lockdown. Who knows when we will be let out again.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><br /><p><br /></p></div></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-10243917915375505812020-09-29T06:13:00.003-07:002021-02-16T07:53:51.940-08:00Greece 2020 . Pelopponnese<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Finally arrived at Camping Kato Alissos our first Greek stop in the Pelopponese. This part of mainland Greece is characterised by it's three fingers. The Western "finger" backed by the Ionion Sea contains the best of the sandy beaches, beautiful weather without the wind! Kato Alissos is a good stop from the ferry at Patras as it's only a short drive and once there you feel like you have actually arrived in Greece. Fortified by a trip to Lidl en route we arrived and decided to stay 3 nights. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A4Mrj_WlI84/X18ih41-ufI/AAAAAAAAVXk/YNjNFAmTkt0DUFPiMFXe-eyJXxogSlHOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6284.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A4Mrj_WlI84/X18ih41-ufI/AAAAAAAAVXk/YNjNFAmTkt0DUFPiMFXe-eyJXxogSlHOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6284.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p>The campsite is situated in an old olive orchard. Family owned it felt very safe with fabulous views across the bay from the restaurant. <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1bKwKXEqWlU/X18jM9oRL4I/AAAAAAAAVXs/jjGIvtzhsHUQmOdKmZ1BqEjGDmasLp3AACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6287.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1bKwKXEqWlU/X18jM9oRL4I/AAAAAAAAVXs/jjGIvtzhsHUQmOdKmZ1BqEjGDmasLp3AACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6287.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The site is very rural and basic but also very clean with loads of shade.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SXmYIadi7aE/X18jn07YezI/AAAAAAAAVX0/sAh-smPJLmwG1Dbcqbp7733ZgMvlsa7kgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6283.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SXmYIadi7aE/X18jn07YezI/AAAAAAAAVX0/sAh-smPJLmwG1Dbcqbp7733ZgMvlsa7kgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6283.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The log store.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4thnlnkz6Dk/X18kAihkKII/AAAAAAAAVYA/qHySdRR72vY_QP9oMsbhJK1FwgGRw6JxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6289.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4thnlnkz6Dk/X18kAihkKII/AAAAAAAAVYA/qHySdRR72vY_QP9oMsbhJK1FwgGRw6JxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6289.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>We had a lovely dinner here on our first night under the olive tree. The bar and restaurant opens at 5 pm each day. Fabulous views across the bay.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sb0Dj9sWGnc/X18kU65YMVI/AAAAAAAAVYI/iJxWW9hVVf8ZW-qKsl_5kJIL8cH-jzsrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6288.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sb0Dj9sWGnc/X18kU65YMVI/AAAAAAAAVYI/iJxWW9hVVf8ZW-qKsl_5kJIL8cH-jzsrQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6288.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>We even managed a paddle in the sea which was beautifully warm but rocky.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GjTdBXzPgS0/X18kq1w4bcI/AAAAAAAAVYQ/t1yGqyDpCfMcyrTtorO5ulKgcOzXQRWtwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6297.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GjTdBXzPgS0/X18kq1w4bcI/AAAAAAAAVYQ/t1yGqyDpCfMcyrTtorO5ulKgcOzXQRWtwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6297.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The beach here has suffered heavily from erosion. Derelict bars mark the spot where a road used to be now washed away. It looked like the locals have tried to tidy up the beach. It didn't seem to put off daily swimmers.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAwe1FJnOqA/X18lu8cVWoI/AAAAAAAAVYc/ygwBrIttZKoVkbsy6GT1C6gKumeOxMexwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6309.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RAwe1FJnOqA/X18lu8cVWoI/AAAAAAAAVYc/ygwBrIttZKoVkbsy6GT1C6gKumeOxMexwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6309.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>A good start to our "beach days". I guess the only downside to this site is the mozzies, which love the shade and me. Also the early morning calls of the wild, roosters and barking dogs! We slept soundly.</div><div><br /></div><div>This holiday we decided to have a beach holiday and stay longer at each site. Our next site was down the road Gifla a resort camp Ionion Beach Camping. Not normally the kind of sites we stay on but this one is definitely up market and posh. Totally German but beautifully kept with amazing toilets and showers.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam of our arrival at Ionion Beach Resort.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FJhSfibkX2s" width="320" youtube-src-id="FJhSfibkX2s"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gaaj4n8HCJU/X18oRtjDcnI/AAAAAAAAVYo/X8BHNY7UC9MjoVH8kvN9cRI9I1mmcQCYACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3644.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gaaj4n8HCJU/X18oRtjDcnI/AAAAAAAAVYo/X8BHNY7UC9MjoVH8kvN9cRI9I1mmcQCYACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3644.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><p>We rocked up just in time to bag a premium beach side pitch. Only available for 3 nights though. It was a great spot backing the beach next to the beach bar and swimming pool. We spoiled ourselves for a few nights making use of all the facilities including the great restaurant. All very covid safe! There was no need to leave the resort.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fOxdxXAq-4k/X18pCnHeqVI/AAAAAAAAVYw/S29AmHXPaIsMLbTEiJgxoRrzMCofybYpgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3645.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fOxdxXAq-4k/X18pCnHeqVI/AAAAAAAAVYw/S29AmHXPaIsMLbTEiJgxoRrzMCofybYpgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3645.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>The beach was good for swimming but rocky, beach shoes required.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jEYDG1-gBuk/X18piV6dI8I/AAAAAAAAVY4/KZ0t-Za7HQozjFd325FtWjQzfE95lL55gCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3652.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jEYDG1-gBuk/X18piV6dI8I/AAAAAAAAVY4/KZ0t-Za7HQozjFd325FtWjQzfE95lL55gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3652.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><p>Pool complete with jacuzzi and kiddies pool. There were a lot of young families on the resort, masses of large motor homes, best pitches all booked up. Sun beds and umbrellas bagged at dawn. Some sun beds even padlocked to the brollies ( just in case!) We were happy on our little pitch although we could have done with slightly more room. Overall a lovely few days and one we will return to on the way home ( even if it's just for the showers!)</p><p>Dash cam. Ionion Beach to Camping Erodios</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/o81hrwXC7f4" width="320" youtube-src-id="o81hrwXC7f4"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Next beach, back to Camping Erodios near the resort town of Gialova ( pronounced Yay..lova) We stayed there last year and loved it. Again right on the beach, walking distance to the village, clean very well kept site. Here we stayed for two weeks. A bit of biking, swimming in the sea, exploring and chilling. The weather was glorious wall to wall sunshine usually in the 30's.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XxNoELWPkQk/X18rxzmOAZI/AAAAAAAAVZE/RPDYW5Piwm4G3Dq5r3AUogwxJSyZUkpQwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6322.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XxNoELWPkQk/X18rxzmOAZI/AAAAAAAAVZE/RPDYW5Piwm4G3Dq5r3AUogwxJSyZUkpQwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6322.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1W04G8YpA_g/X18r8oDZBTI/AAAAAAAAVZI/QRsfN9eiwm8iKNF9f10vjiB61uHfNiaFwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6323.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1W04G8YpA_g/X18r8oDZBTI/AAAAAAAAVZI/QRsfN9eiwm8iKNF9f10vjiB61uHfNiaFwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6323.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MHTUGFBj0ek/X18sJ_UzmWI/AAAAAAAAVZQ/-eTJHlTuJ5k1aKOZ_qmhqJqEShSZuDG3QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6348.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MHTUGFBj0ek/X18sJ_UzmWI/AAAAAAAAVZQ/-eTJHlTuJ5k1aKOZ_qmhqJqEShSZuDG3QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6348.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Where the wealthy hang out.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1LI_bPiFcs/X18sZEWTYMI/AAAAAAAAVZY/NRdy5J5dsxA60FouzSZ2GDG6X2gwJimrACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6370.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T1LI_bPiFcs/X18sZEWTYMI/AAAAAAAAVZY/NRdy5J5dsxA60FouzSZ2GDG6X2gwJimrACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6370.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Just up from the campsite the beach is gently shelving and golden sands. A great favourite with the locals.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0uhBQ_H76B4/X18swSomnXI/AAAAAAAAVZk/o1udc4mExSEfXYi70XonOxqkkXmdrkXIQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6364.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0uhBQ_H76B4/X18swSomnXI/AAAAAAAAVZk/o1udc4mExSEfXYi70XonOxqkkXmdrkXIQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6364.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The sea is very clean and perfect for a daily dip. We tried to get a bit of exercise in a daily trek to the bar, a cycle ride up the track, beach ball in the sea. All totally exhausting. The campsite gradually thinned out and our pitch got bigger and bigger. We even got a sea view.</p><p>Dash cam. Erodios to Olympia.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QOWxCOgClmo" width="320" youtube-src-id="QOWxCOgClmo"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>Our next journey a few miles inland and back to the mountains of Olympia and Camping Alphios.</p><p>Camping Alphios is another one of our old favourites. Very friendly owners, good clean facilities and lovely well kept swimming pool. There is a 10 minute walk into Olympia, although a bit of a hike uphill to come back. We were really lucky when we arrived on our own on the site with the pool to ourselves. Beautiful views over the mountains. We stayed 4 nights in the end. Huge storm one night but he seemed to move around us. Wandered into Olympus for lunch one day , very quiet with no coaches .</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BtnB8nMTuwA/X3MpH3dufgI/AAAAAAAAVgE/ADWlcTlpgSwBNQOPSAkiAkD52zLoY-FTgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3667.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BtnB8nMTuwA/X3MpH3dufgI/AAAAAAAAVgE/ADWlcTlpgSwBNQOPSAkiAkD52zLoY-FTgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3667.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Our pitch overlooking the mountains. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X3Kv073PEKk/X3MpiuNs9DI/AAAAAAAAVgM/5hlurng4ttQPl-BHTxOasOPyIA5cE7VRgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3672.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X3Kv073PEKk/X3MpiuNs9DI/AAAAAAAAVgM/5hlurng4ttQPl-BHTxOasOPyIA5cE7VRgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3672.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Fabulous pool we had it all to ourselves.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--l87Ptx_LeI/X3Mp_FKfaoI/AAAAAAAAVgU/jYayDYw3PeYgn6vvt5wqdO75JpDtZ3OUwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3681.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--l87Ptx_LeI/X3Mp_FKfaoI/AAAAAAAAVgU/jYayDYw3PeYgn6vvt5wqdO75JpDtZ3OUwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3681.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>During the dry season fire crew are positioned in strategic spots. A friendly bunch! I think they were a bit bored.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_GR6n-tG3s/X3Mqkf03uKI/AAAAAAAAVgc/IJ3cd8afI6U6imytjXMHBlO-4L6FaBo3QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3682.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_GR6n-tG3s/X3Mqkf03uKI/AAAAAAAAVgc/IJ3cd8afI6U6imytjXMHBlO-4L6FaBo3QCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3682.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>From Olympia we moved on back to Ionion Beach for four more nights. Enjoyed the beach, pool, restaurant and showers. We also got another beach side pitch, this time much cheaper as it was off main season and they remembered us! Following extensive hair washing, the showers are as good and clean as home we made for the coast again.<div><br /></div><div>Dash cam. Olympia back to Ionion Beach.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vW0_U3ggNPg" width="320" youtube-src-id="vW0_U3ggNPg"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /><div><br /></div><div> Heading North over the bridge at Patras and up to a beach site not too far from Pargas Sofa Beach.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam Ionion Beach to Camping Sofa</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lCj2tQoiRs8" width="320" youtube-src-id="lCj2tQoiRs8"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Again, very rustic but clean and friendly. A space in the olive grove by the private beach. There was also a very nice Taverna on site with home cooking.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPeFUoWwRp4/X3Msc53XqwI/AAAAAAAAVg0/DrwUjHywQCc-cfrEWs6e56MwnCbvJYXiACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3715.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pPeFUoWwRp4/X3Msc53XqwI/AAAAAAAAVg0/DrwUjHywQCc-cfrEWs6e56MwnCbvJYXiACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3715.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Another pebble beach. Small but a sun trap.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYfZp5KHoXc/X3Ms0zM0RPI/AAAAAAAAVg8/oLbBsxR-bQ8ohCH6J8xFw-iXLQi0I1qrACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3718.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cYfZp5KHoXc/X3Ms0zM0RPI/AAAAAAAAVg8/oLbBsxR-bQ8ohCH6J8xFw-iXLQi0I1qrACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3718.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam Camping Sofa Beach to Camping Elena Beach.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ostMP4Ve6Qk" width="320" youtube-src-id="ostMP4Ve6Qk"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><br /><div>Two nights here and then we thought we would add a few more beach sites to our potfolio. So next stop just outside Igoumensita Elena Beach. Here we were actually on the beach. Lovely spot near a harbour so we watched all the boats in and out.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div>A delightful spot. Certainly on the return list. We had two very nice meals in the on site restaurant and survived another storm.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NvsI-zzoNww/X3MuVBeLBeI/AAAAAAAAVhQ/5JfwECi4sQAPdYXzZ8YVx6RgrWmN9VnfQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3793.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NvsI-zzoNww/X3MuVBeLBeI/AAAAAAAAVhQ/5JfwECi4sQAPdYXzZ8YVx6RgrWmN9VnfQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3793.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>Elena Beach is a terraced site with loads of loos and showers. Lots of hot water. The owners are very friendly.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9ntAHnrycfQ/X3Mu7bEIluI/AAAAAAAAVhY/8bTFUxjnGbgrKiiWOXu0mg3F5KYyUEgOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3794.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9ntAHnrycfQ/X3Mu7bEIluI/AAAAAAAAVhY/8bTFUxjnGbgrKiiWOXu0mg3F5KYyUEgOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3794.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5d_KkfzQBBk/X3MvV2Sl7QI/AAAAAAAAVhg/Du1onUfZsjMPLfuIKvqt7y5cCVJU2Z9zQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3803.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5d_KkfzQBBk/X3MvV2Sl7QI/AAAAAAAAVhg/Du1onUfZsjMPLfuIKvqt7y5cCVJU2Z9zQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3803.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div>We couldn't get any nearer to the beach.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam Camping Elena Beach to Camping Drepanos</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/65lu7FYBsqo" width="320" youtube-src-id="65lu7FYBsqo"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Finally we were off to our last Greek site the other side of Igoumensita Camping Drepanos. By a beautiful sandy beach. Again we managed a beachside pitch for two nights and with the help of ACSI it turned out the cheapest site of the holiday. Definitely win, win! Weather not as fabulous as last year but sun and showers were fine although we didn't manage a swim....too wimpy, it was a bit chilly!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HGZ0uTz1IG8/X3MwZQaz6CI/AAAAAAAAVhs/uW0-pqErH8gYrCybb-JPu1MRVlPspw7XQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3809.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HGZ0uTz1IG8/X3MwZQaz6CI/AAAAAAAAVhs/uW0-pqErH8gYrCybb-JPu1MRVlPspw7XQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3809.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ii6UZQ5K0Y/X3MwlZn66aI/AAAAAAAAVhw/34JqjwLpTUAey24wrOh0q75CRQ34wJHlwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3806.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5Ii6UZQ5K0Y/X3MwlZn66aI/AAAAAAAAVhw/34JqjwLpTUAey24wrOh0q75CRQ34wJHlwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3806.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam Camping Drepanos to the ferry at Igoumensita</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X50EZQ-0g-4" width="320" youtube-src-id="X50EZQ-0g-4"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><div>Goodbye to Greece! Off to the ferry and back to Italy.</div><div><br /></div><div>Dash cam .Off the ferry and onwards to San Marino.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vvLTbtOXAAk" width="320" youtube-src-id="vvLTbtOXAAk"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Best beach pitches of the holiday, Ionion Beach and Elena Beach. </div><div><br /></div><div>Best site Erodius at Gialova, we spent two weeks there.</div><div><br /></div><div>Best sandy beach Drepanos at Igoumensita. Looks like wild camping is being discouraged there as fines are being handed out. Good the campsite is lovely and good value for money.</div><div><br /><div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p></div></div></div></div></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-31720066813083363532020-09-07T01:35:00.002-07:002021-01-14T06:08:08.535-08:00Greece 2020. Ferry from Ancona.<p> We were slightly apprehensive about getting the ferry to Greece. We had booked it in November As it turned out we didn't need to worry. Organisation at the port was relatively stress free, infact probably easier than last year as there were fewer travellers. We drove from San Marino , an easy drive that took just over an hour. We had filled out the Greek entry forms online before we left home and as we had the e-mail confirmation it made things relatively simple. The entry forms asked for a place we would stay, so we just used our first camp site address. </p><p>Loading this time was straightforward and the ferry actually left on time. No Brits on board, mainly German campers and lorries. There was loads of space on the car deck.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMfdvkIZGZk/X1XpAfiWKhI/AAAAAAAAVRo/Q2bsOrwa-40Ck3WaeU4eC-nUoI5EtSKOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6244.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jMfdvkIZGZk/X1XpAfiWKhI/AAAAAAAAVRo/Q2bsOrwa-40Ck3WaeU4eC-nUoI5EtSKOQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6244.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Dashcam getting on the ferry for Patras from Ancona. Camping open deck.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vqIasBio--A" width="320" youtube-src-id="vqIasBio--A"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PncwVZm0GVw/X1XpI5bjUQI/AAAAAAAAVRs/efbXzLm-77wjRGLD4V-9i5MlMhs-xMNNwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6246.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PncwVZm0GVw/X1XpI5bjUQI/AAAAAAAAVRs/efbXzLm-77wjRGLD4V-9i5MlMhs-xMNNwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6246.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZG60pEIFP1o/X1XpRqX0BYI/AAAAAAAAVRw/MnkbWHvGCnQQPZ0uyyM4dVq3YNW4ppYAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6248.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZG60pEIFP1o/X1XpRqX0BYI/AAAAAAAAVRw/MnkbWHvGCnQQPZ0uyyM4dVq3YNW4ppYAQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6248.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>The ferry was very clean, with sanitisers well in evidence. Masks had to be warn on board and there were regular messages reminding people! We had a meal in the canteen and later breakfast the next morning in the restaurant. We didn't think the food onboard was over priced and with our Anek Smart Card ( obtained last year ) we also got a discount! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PiU8lvRC4Pw/X1XrVCpHymI/AAAAAAAAVSI/yy9lMRgbLeQv7GswPHeqgnVuNmetUEPVwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6255.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PiU8lvRC4Pw/X1XrVCpHymI/AAAAAAAAVSI/yy9lMRgbLeQv7GswPHeqgnVuNmetUEPVwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6255.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Goodbye Italy! We will be back in a month.</p><p><br /></p><p>All in all, it was a pleasant trip if somewhat hot. We were so pleased with our fan, having an electric hook up meant we could leave it on all night. Camping on board, highly recommended! You are given an electronic pass to access the car deck and there is all night security.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vbs4S-0CJqk/X1Xqc8ytQjI/AAAAAAAAVSA/k82uWKCxk3kxkfxZgkZjnVU8b1FNgy4YgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6251.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vbs4S-0CJqk/X1Xqc8ytQjI/AAAAAAAAVSA/k82uWKCxk3kxkfxZgkZjnVU8b1FNgy4YgCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6251.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>After a good nights sleep in our own bed, we were ready for Greece. First stop for the boat was Igoumenitsa. We watched the unloading from the top deck in the sun. We were going on to Patras another 4 hours.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tl4wbXx9CVY/X1Xrse0gYlI/AAAAAAAAVSQ/jvBOZlU3IVgqJWAmr2Dk45b2JU5xj3F-wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6256.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tl4wbXx9CVY/X1Xrse0gYlI/AAAAAAAAVSQ/jvBOZlU3IVgqJWAmr2Dk45b2JU5xj3F-wCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_6256.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>Hello Greece!</p><p>Unloading at Patras was quite easy this time. We had to turn on the deck but there was plenty of room. We had received our Q Code on our phone ( from our entry form) during the night. This was checked as you got off the boat. Well done the Greek Government your system works. As we left the port we were told to queue for a quick Covid test. No messing about here! The staff were all gowned up, a chair and table at the customs point and a quick throat swab taken. Painless and super quick.We should have asked what happened next, but we never received a phone call or e-mail so we guessed we were Covid free. Interestingly, most of the people being swabbed were non- Greeks and very few Germans. I suppose with a UK number plate we were bound to be picked!</p><p>Soon on our way to our first Greek campsite. </p><p>Dash cam of our journey to the campsite Kato Alissos.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_U6ndqMQRRI" width="320" youtube-src-id="_U6ndqMQRRI"></iframe></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>A long journey but worth it for the sun, now in the 30's.Sun, sand, sea and Greek wine. Can't wait.</p></div></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-87168445923875238072020-09-01T01:42:00.002-07:002020-10-05T10:03:25.684-07:00Greece 2020 Italy<p> </p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A dash cam of the journey through the Frejus Tunnel from France.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NS_AUoWtpS0" width="320" youtube-src-id="NS_AUoWtpS0"></iframe></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A drive through the mountains and a trip through the Frejus Tunnel and before long we were in Italy. Heading for Asti and a camp site on a terrace over looking the vineyards. Camping Asti International. A beautiful day in a lovely spot.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yp2Brq28ZkM/X04DiiNS8FI/AAAAAAAAVMQ/4T8sse8oRv8XXbxyHrk3VqROL_hJe-VrACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3620.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yp2Brq28ZkM/X04DiiNS8FI/AAAAAAAAVMQ/4T8sse8oRv8XXbxyHrk3VqROL_hJe-VrACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3620.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We decided to take advantage of the sun and stay for a couple of days. We had a great pizza in the restaurant and the next morning wandered up the hill to the village. A typical Italian local place we had a look around and bought bread in the local shop. We also stopped at the wine bar and tried the local Asti wine. On the way back I sneakily tasted the grapes in the fields, they were incredibly sweet. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8lxHv1T40ko/X04D7NEyqKI/AAAAAAAAVMY/bmabI4im1ksZftj-hoqUlBBPI6UBZZKxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3627.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8lxHv1T40ko/X04D7NEyqKI/AAAAAAAAVMY/bmabI4im1ksZftj-hoqUlBBPI6UBZZKxgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3627.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A wander around the vineyards.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-orErTgKdM5A/X04EWOsw0aI/AAAAAAAAVMk/5Z4HALBvt4sr91S77olufLqOUto08jEmACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3640.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-orErTgKdM5A/X04EWOsw0aI/AAAAAAAAVMk/5Z4HALBvt4sr91S77olufLqOUto08jEmACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3640.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">I only tasted two, the carrier bag was for the bread.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M4OlWl6c97A/X04EwgFXP2I/AAAAAAAAVMs/jtT0TTwwi0EqbL1gWmqutWRhDkaYbwBZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6208.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-M4OlWl6c97A/X04EwgFXP2I/AAAAAAAAVMs/jtT0TTwwi0EqbL1gWmqutWRhDkaYbwBZQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6208.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Settled in at Asti for a couple of days.</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Feeling rested and tuned into Italy, the next morning we were on our way to Bologna for a one night stop on the way to San Marino.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnYlqi-gApg/X04FZMP3YiI/AAAAAAAAVM0/2-6__3JRuosG_I9xcalQYyq6dIHGmdWMgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6213.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnYlqi-gApg/X04FZMP3YiI/AAAAAAAAVM0/2-6__3JRuosG_I9xcalQYyq6dIHGmdWMgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6213.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Bologna is a convenient half way stop to the coast, easy to find just off the ring road. Usually we would have taken the bus into town but thought we should avoid towns and too much bus travel this trip. An uneventful night stop just a few too many biting creatures here! ( They do a mossie spray from time to time)</span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The Republic of San Marino, strictly not Italy. We found the campsite with ease, Madam Satnag was on good form this morning. A good restaurant, very reasonably priced and we were set for the next two days. Of course we did the trip up the mountain to San Marino Town, by bus. It was extremely busy and crowded. As we had seen most of the sites we did a quick tour, some window shopping and had a lovely cool drink in a shady bar. Not as many tourists as last time but still busy so we opted out of lunch and went back to the campsite for a rest!!</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGvn-esWL-Y/X04GsBk9-fI/AAAAAAAAVNA/cAw33VNi1wUUKwJ6yj0VgvkaL-lsUUtiQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6219.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gGvn-esWL-Y/X04GsBk9-fI/AAAAAAAAVNA/cAw33VNi1wUUKwJ6yj0VgvkaL-lsUUtiQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6219.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Nice pitch at San Marino relatively quiet.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJWPkKjC1nA/X04G9IKEmRI/AAAAAAAAVNI/EgWXhwAlZxQf2LBCokBaU8RIZhGYpYFLQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6221.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OJWPkKjC1nA/X04G9IKEmRI/AAAAAAAAVNI/EgWXhwAlZxQf2LBCokBaU8RIZhGYpYFLQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6221.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A view from the top.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zivJVFmDzuY/X04HMhTbcVI/AAAAAAAAVNM/M24mp-KY5MQPMHCsHA7jGn9NOmkRl-J3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6231.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zivJVFmDzuY/X04HMhTbcVI/AAAAAAAAVNM/M24mp-KY5MQPMHCsHA7jGn9NOmkRl-J3ACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6231.JPG" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Wear comfortable shoes it says on the tourist info site. Do the locals know? Lots of beautiful people around in expensive clothes and shoes!</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WLobxRybd3g/X04HuAe4VzI/AAAAAAAAVNY/kWqLsMhnc04t3bSGk7omkSo8Ccs0MARkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6232.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WLobxRybd3g/X04HuAe4VzI/AAAAAAAAVNY/kWqLsMhnc04t3bSGk7omkSo8Ccs0MARkwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6232.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Social distancing! This concert looks like it may be fun.</span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpIPg2ok92U/X04H-N9TmRI/AAAAAAAAVNg/jKuvH1rU0Rkc5mKPTs3yI9XQZEy2lYIsQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6242.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WpIPg2ok92U/X04H-N9TmRI/AAAAAAAAVNg/jKuvH1rU0Rkc5mKPTs3yI9XQZEy2lYIsQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6242.JPG" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Sign of the times. Says it all really!</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Next stop Ancona and the ferry to Greece.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></p>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-26370088304135068812020-08-29T02:38:00.004-07:002020-10-05T09:52:14.720-07:00Greece 2020 France<p> <span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We had booked our crossing to Greece way back pre Covid, in December last year. With Foreign Office restrictions lifted for travel to Europe we decided to go. We left on the 11th, by the 14th quarantine from France had been introduced. Never mind, we were already in France and apart from the masks and gel, life seemed much as normal. Very few Brits about, they were all racing back to avoid quarantine.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A short dash cam of the journey through the tunnel.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CayW7IWpjFY" width="320" youtube-src-id="CayW7IWpjFY"></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A quiet ride through the tunnel and we were soon safely settled in at Les Erables. Beautifully hot weather and lovely surroundings we decided to stay for a few days.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L6ZygTb1_YE/Xzj5NqoBGCI/AAAAAAAAVG0/6xefxLCutbk8-8quPVH6RQ1UZl5pl4tLgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3573.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L6ZygTb1_YE/Xzj5NqoBGCI/AAAAAAAAVG0/6xefxLCutbk8-8quPVH6RQ1UZl5pl4tLgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3573.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">As it was our wedding anniversary we treated ourselves to a fabulous meal in the village.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">We even went for a paddle in the sea. It was beautifully warm.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_NfnvBSzhEg/Xzj5pyM5SFI/AAAAAAAAVG8/vxza8i1A8BEoCZN0UxBpe37OWtVzpwNzgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3592.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_NfnvBSzhEg/Xzj5pyM5SFI/AAAAAAAAVG8/vxza8i1A8BEoCZN0UxBpe37OWtVzpwNzgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3592.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">The white cliffs of France looked as good as Dover. The beach was busy but not packed with plenty of social distancing going on.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g-yvO5TdpZw/Xzj6Ag4VcsI/AAAAAAAAVHE/G8cOneBX92YK9ydzbca-InUsmxIJjwVbgCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3589.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g-yvO5TdpZw/Xzj6Ag4VcsI/AAAAAAAAVHE/G8cOneBX92YK9ydzbca-InUsmxIJjwVbgCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3589.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Our next stop happened by accident. We were heading south so in the right direction. A few complicated finger tapping and OK I got it wrong! We ended up in the champagne vineyards at a nice little Municipal site at a place called Dormans, West of Rhiems, Camping Sous Le Clocher.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A dash cam of the journey. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/O_HfBKbAr7U" width="320" youtube-src-id="O_HfBKbAr7U"></iframe></span></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"> Only 15 Euros a night and another 16 Euros for a beautiful bottle of local champagne. A great one night stop, even though the Gendarmes were called to expel a noisy group of Belgians Entente Cordial gone out of the window. Still it did provide some entertainment. Still on the way South our next stop would be Beaune.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Arrived at Beaune after a fairly uneventful journey. A good 2 night stop. The site restaurant was good value for money and we went for a short walk into town.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ-Z7Ifyfb8/X0oeGkrXjvI/AAAAAAAAVH4/RKk-CqHq72E_lHTf1AF45DupoiQupdGDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6183.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FJ-Z7Ifyfb8/X0oeGkrXjvI/AAAAAAAAVH4/RKk-CqHq72E_lHTf1AF45DupoiQupdGDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6183.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-upsoIdOoGVc/X0oeQfAQv3I/AAAAAAAAVH8/2idV72SRFgI4VwJ_sNlJW7gI6jzQuoKiQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6185.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-upsoIdOoGVc/X0oeQfAQv3I/AAAAAAAAVH8/2idV72SRFgI4VwJ_sNlJW7gI6jzQuoKiQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6185.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uijbWXVIh3E/X0oegLIBXmI/AAAAAAAAVII/zJrlTzWSSWMkElpJCRsGKZxqcHFdM4nqQCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6186.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uijbWXVIh3E/X0oegLIBXmI/AAAAAAAAVII/zJrlTzWSSWMkElpJCRsGKZxqcHFdM4nqQCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6186.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Beaune is certainly somewhere we will come back to. Unfortunately everywhere was crammed with little covid awareness. People were wearing masks but tables were very close together and people were queuing. We decided not to push our covid luck!</span><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">A dash cam of the journey to Beaune. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AdUEOCUqrsk" width="320" youtube-src-id="AdUEOCUqrsk"></iframe></div><br />Dash cam of the journey to Annecy.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4-C59XMEV9s" width="320" youtube-src-id="4-C59XMEV9s"></iframe></div><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Our final stop in France was back to Lake Annecy where we really enjoyed it last year. Much quieter on the site we met up with a friend and had a very enjoyable dinner by the lake. The bike trail from the campsite was a good one but very busy we managed a few good rides in beautiful surroundings.</span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5KNoNvIKyjI/X0of2Vl-g0I/AAAAAAAAVIU/YrKCwopK7UEnxu9DApsiWGpUqWGiug0cwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3607.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5KNoNvIKyjI/X0of2Vl-g0I/AAAAAAAAVIU/YrKCwopK7UEnxu9DApsiWGpUqWGiug0cwCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3607.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p><br /></p><br /><span style="font-family: trebuchet;">Love this site at the south of the lake. Not too busy off season and the air here is wonderfully clean. Our last stop before moving onto Italy.</span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kk1pPYYmYwI/X0ohoahsBgI/AAAAAAAAVIg/antHIvM3TWccKyWveOBcsrSveEOGz_i5QCLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_3603.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kk1pPYYmYwI/X0ohoahsBgI/AAAAAAAAVIg/antHIvM3TWccKyWveOBcsrSveEOGz_i5QCLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_3603.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ic0SMkqhE_4/X0oh7d9JzsI/AAAAAAAAVIo/SGXvEFrHFWgc9-CyUJvRThoLid5d88AjACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/IMG_6197.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ic0SMkqhE_4/X0oh7d9JzsI/AAAAAAAAVIo/SGXvEFrHFWgc9-CyUJvRThoLid5d88AjACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/IMG_6197.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div>Hard to beat beautiful scenery like this especially on a hot sunny day.</div></div>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-48624108203621855402020-03-29T04:49:00.001-07:002020-05-03T05:56:20.175-07:00Winter Sun 2020. The Journey Home. Running from Covid 19.<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our holiday was finally over! We were so aware of the growing threat of corona virus. Not yet in Spain but certainly on it's way with each day. We had given ourselves 5 days to make the run to the tunnel. We would take 2 days to get to the French border giving ourselves three days to get up through France. We usually used the toll roads on the way home for an easy drive.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We were not so unhappy to say goodbye to Los Olivos and it was not a long drive to our first stop at Zaragoza. Originally we had planned to stay at the Winter Sun site in Zaragoza. However, the reviews were not great. We decided instead to make for the camper stop near the city centre. A good decision. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The camper stop was really easy to find. Just on the out skirts of the city by the football club and university. We arrived in the early afternoon and there were loads of spaces. We were soon settled in. Tucked in between the French and Germans. The tram to the city centre was just by the auto stop but we decided to investigate the local area on foot. There were loads of bars and restaurants and a big Carrefore within walking distance. We had soon found a friendly local restaurant and had a very pleasant inexpensive meal. 20 euros for three courses including a bottle of very nice red wine. The camper stop was free, so no facilities, but you could empty waste water and your toilet. We had a very quiet night and in the morning wandered to a local cafe for coffee.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A short dash cam arriving at the auto stop.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">From Zarragoza we decided to make for France and settled on another Winter Sun Site just south of Bordeaux Camping Beaux Soleil. Easily found off the Bordeaux rocade at Gradignan. A small site which was quite full, probably because it was in the Winter Sun book. We arrived early enough to get one of the last free pitches.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A short dash cam. From Zarragoza.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A strange site. The grounds were beautifully maintained. Showers were hot and the block was heated. Toilets were unisex and not pleasant unfortunately. A 10 minute walk took us to a very nice bar where we had a few drinks, watched the French kissing each other and then into the Brasserie next door, where we had a lovely expensive meal. Obviously social distancing was not on the horizon at this point. We had been following concerns about the corona virus on motor home forums during the journey. 24 hours later the world had changed. It appeared we had made it into France just at the right time, with talk of Spain and France going into lock down, bars and restaurants were already closed. We were amazed that everything up to this point in France, had seemed much as normal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our next stop would be Les Acacias at Tours. We found the campsite with no trouble but it was early afternoon and the gates were locked. We could see people moving around inside and thought it was open as we had met a couple with a caravan on the last site who were also heading there. Obviously " no room at the inn". There was a notice on the gate telling us that due to the virus we could only book in online, then we would be given a code to enter. Try as we might we could not get the online system to work. A "helpful" camper told us we could try ringing but the office was locked up and they wouldn't answer the phone. A French camper more helpfully, gave us a gate code but that would not work either. We decided to move on as it was getting late. Camper Contact came up with an open site 7 k away and we were soon arriving at Camping Only Tours. Loire Valley. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A very warm and friendly welcome here. By the river. Great facilities, loads of room and a pleasant spot on a hard standing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A short dash cam. The journey to Tours.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We were soon fed, watered and snuggled in for the night with a bottle of wine. This is a site we would certainly return to for another visit and good value too. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We were beginning to feel the stress of the virus around us. In a dramatic change from the day before, now the roads were really empty, all the bars and restaurants in the service stations were shut. We decided to make one last stop before the tunnel. We were lucky and able to bring our booking forward by 24 hours ( with no extra payment!) Well done Euro Tunnel for a prompt efficient service. One more stop to find in France. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The next morning back on the road towards Calais. Empty roads sped us on our way,we were now anxious to get home. Calais for a night stop was out, so Camper Contact came up with a good alternative, an aire a few miles from the tunnel. Driving down a few windy and narrow country roads, we soon found Camping La Ferme de L'Horloge near Tardinghen.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Basically and literally a farmers field. Behind the barn was an electric hook up, water tap and a place to empty the loo. We spent a silent night only woken up by the noise of the tractor and all for 12 euros. We were the only ones there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A short dash cam. Tours to a stop near Calais.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">The last dash cam. Calais Tunnel and home.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our last night in France and my birthday. The next morning we easily made it to the tunnel and home. No checks, no warnings about Covid 19 and we were so pleased to pull onto our drive. The only big hold up had been an accident on the M4 so all in all, we had got away lightly. A great "last supper" birthday meal at our local Indian and the holiday was over.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Once home we followed the news, we have come back to a different world. Two weeks later. a reality check. We had met quite a few people who intended to sit out the corona drama on the Costas. I pray fate has been good to them, we feel a lot safer at home. We hope!! Krystal is safely on the drive waiting for the next adventure,who knows when that will be? We will be ready!</span></div>
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Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1116320647347664686.post-88202814642799633552020-03-28T06:13:00.001-07:002020-03-28T06:13:25.612-07:00Winter Sun 2020. Los Olivos Spain<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Finally we were on our way to our last site. a new Camping & Caravanning Club rally. We had met the stewards Gill and Chris at Castille de Banos last year so we were looking forward to a new experience. Sadly the weather had not been as good as last year, cooler overall but still worth the journey for the beautiful warm days we had, on and off. This site was further north in Valencia at a place called Alcala de Xivert. ( pronounce the "X" as a "ch") Just 17k from Peniscola and 7k from the beach at Alcossebre. In the foothills of the mountains amongst the orange groves. We were excited!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We left Kiko Park with a longish drive in front of us around 4.5 hours we thought ! Madam Satnag was dutifully programmed in with the co-ordinates, we thought it rather strange that we couldn't find the campsite name in our trusty Garmin. Several hours later in the mountains we went up and down the same pass at least three times. Something was wrong as Madam Satnag was not performing! In desperation I enlisted the help of Google, hurray he found the way! We had managed to mix up our Wests and Easts and consequentially were travelling in the wrong direction. A quick spurt down the motorway and we had arrived....finally! Just in time the main Reception was about to close. We were allocated a pitch but VERY STRONG winds and a German builder put us off. The Rally stewards helped us out and we were soon settled in.A large gravel pitch between two statics. We were out of the wind so we were happy. A meal in the campsite restaurant, a large wine and all was well in the world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Los Olivos proved to be rather a strange campsite. Fairly described in the Winter Sun book. The pitches were huge and the roads really wide. The club house was an enormous villa type building. The story goes it was built to be a golf course but planning permission was refused, hence the facilities. Toilets and showers were housed behind the restaurant, more of that later!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The campsite roads built for trucks.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At the entrance to the site was a kind of aire. Smaller pitches for campers. A very long walk to the facilities. We were pleased not to be in this outside spot.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Reception. Everything here on a grand scale.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The White House home to the restaurant, bar, gym with loos and showers around the back. Shame the bar and restaurant closed at 8 pm. I thought the Spanish liked to party 'till late. Not here.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The swimming pool looked nice. It was closed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The Rally was well organised with a pleasant programme of events much as expected. We decided to explore the town. Alcala de Xivert. A really typical small Spanish town. Miles from anywhere and slightly run down. It's claim to fame is the castle outside on the hill and it's large elaborate church. Sadly we never found the church open, or the tourist information. There was a market on a Friday morning packed with market mainly clothes and not much else. The town was pleasant enough to wander around but slightly depressing.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The church very grand with a tower that can be climbed when it's open. Everything was closed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Xivert is not a tourist top spot destination. Perhaps this is where it's charm lies. We were looking for a pleasant bar or nice restaurant, sadly there are none. We did find a bit of entertainment one morning on our way back from the supermarket though. A large lorry had a slight disagreement with a narrow street.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">With a bit of help from a passing English truck driver, a host of locals and the police he eventually escaped. It kept us entertained for a while.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Surrounding the town are orange and lemon groves. A good place for dog walking I would think. There was some kind of dog sanctuary just outside the campsite, I was always a bit wary walking past as they were very noisy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EDf6q-RwgLI/Xn9GJEsyFOI/AAAAAAAAUqc/vIW7Cn03zSAa-CoEzd5YtxH1uAq2e4JTQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_3261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EDf6q-RwgLI/Xn9GJEsyFOI/AAAAAAAAUqc/vIW7Cn03zSAa-CoEzd5YtxH1uAq2e4JTQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3261.JPG" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The rally stewards organised a walk to the castle, up the mountain and definitely not for the fainthearted. A little jaunt of only 9.5 miles. We set off feeling very fit and healthy! We were led by one of the ralliers who had done the climb before , a motley crew. It all started of so gently, along the track through the orange groves.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">A little discussion as to if we were on the right track. We weren't, so back we went.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Up.....</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4fgvhtrdajo/Xn9H3B_7vVI/AAAAAAAAUq8/PJCvwIROPSkwvT8v-LsEcaa8bq18J-XlwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_3271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4fgvhtrdajo/Xn9H3B_7vVI/AAAAAAAAUq8/PJCvwIROPSkwvT8v-LsEcaa8bq18J-XlwCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3271.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And up.... clambering over the stony path.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XVnlIse9c6E/Xn9IL-JZLnI/AAAAAAAAUrI/9l0ml2iCyswzqC3A73EIjhnaSsCw2dysQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_3272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XVnlIse9c6E/Xn9IL-JZLnI/AAAAAAAAUrI/9l0ml2iCyswzqC3A73EIjhnaSsCw2dysQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3272.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Each time we got to the top of one path there was another.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Eventually we made it!</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zgtZih1n6a0/Xn9IdeMwxzI/AAAAAAAAUrQ/sxpOusiWcJ8QOMxNem50EzSINM0T3NqTACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_3279.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zgtZih1n6a0/Xn9IdeMwxzI/AAAAAAAAUrQ/sxpOusiWcJ8QOMxNem50EzSINM0T3NqTACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/IMG_3279.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Finally at the top and a tremendous view. All we had to do now was descend.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our little wander took 5.5 hours. The walk home was calmer and down a road for most of the way. We really deserved the cold beer. Oh dear all the water holes were closed! We made our way back to the camp bar. Certainly covered our 10 000 steps that day. Would I do it again. NO!! Although it was enjoyable.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our last day had finally come to an end. Tomorrow we would run in front of the corona virus to get home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Homeward bound.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Would we use this site again? I don't think so. The site is a long way from anywhere. Good for walkers but it needs a lot of work. The toilets were very superficially cleaned and would be totally inadequate if the site was full. If we had been on the small pitches by reception we would have left. It was a very long walk to the facilities. After a couple of days we had seen all we wanted to in the town and after 9 nights were beginning to be a bit bored. Nice for a short stay maybe. Perhaps we would have looked at it differently if we had a car and caravan or if we were into golf. There was public transport but the trains stopped miles from the beach so not really useful for a seaside visit. It was really too far for a day trip to Valencia by train. Sadly not a part of Spain we really want to return to.</span>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>Denis and Lesleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11593410311471495995noreply@blogger.com0