September Trip – Days 25 to 28

Friday 27^th September (day 25)

We got up with the plan to go to Naples. It was not something that really appealed as this whole area is quite poor, run down and dirty and the focal point of this is meant to be Naples. Indeed, as we travelled south in Italy it appeared to get poorer and more run down, a generalisation I know but that is the impression it gives. While I was looking at our alternatives, Resa and Eric came over to state the very same thing. So we bade farewell to each other as we intend to make our own plans for the near future. Our plan was to get out of Italy as soon as possible as not only is the country becoming run down but I have had enough of the appalling roads. We are going to pay and use the autostrada to get the France as soon as possible. Our first leg was a 275 mile journey to Siena. We got lost near the end of the journey this time, one day things will go without a hitch. Having found the site and set up we took a bus into Sienna were we had a walk around the old town and had a meal. Then it was back to the site to plan for the next part of the escape route.

Sienna

Saturday 28th September (day 26)

Up and off for stage two of ‘escape to France’. 230 miles of (mainly) autostrada which cost £25 – and every penny well spent. Even having paid that some of the roads were quite bumpy. We finished our journey (only taking one wrong turn in the middle) at a site run by some Dutch people which was really nice with over 50 different pizzas cooked by the site owner. Access to the pitches were bit tight but we managed ok. Then it was off to do a bit of food shopping and then a quiet evening by the van. We intended to stay here two or three days but Chris saw that France was only about 50 miles away and she found a site near the beach so tomorrow it is off for a short run of about 90 miles.

Sunday 29th September (day 27)

What a night. Thunder and lightning and almost an inch and a half (well 3cm) of rain. When we woke it was still raining so we thought we might be staying for the day. However, we assumed that it could not keep raining and slowly got ready to leave. The Roman Gods smiled upon is and it stopped. We finished packing, hooked up and were off on a trip of only 85 miles. This was mainly autostrada on our final leg of our ‘escape from Italy’. Please do not think we did not like Italy as we did; Pisa, Florence, Perugia, Rome, Pompeii and the Amalfi coast were all great. But Philistines that we are there are only so many statues in various states of (un)dress, paintings, frescos, fountains and  churches etc that we can take in one go. Our cups definitely are running over. Couple that with, and I make no apology for repeating it, the appalling roads AND then add into the mix that Italy is famous for pizza and pasta and choice is, apparently, not a word in Italian. All explains our delight to be in France as I type this. But to return to the blog. The journey was quite spectacular all high bridges and long tunnels and even with the low clouds the views on exiting a tunnel and sweeping around long bridges was breath taking on occasions. At one point we approached a tunnel in a heavy downpour and on leaving the tunnel, 350m later, we were in bright sunshine. Todays journey went without a mistake, no missed turns, and so we soon settled in to the next site just 8Km (5 miles) outside of Cannes and 800 m from the sea. Lunch and then a quick walk of the site was followed with hiding in the caravan as thunder and lightning had caught us up. It was right overhead and we do not recall ever being in a storm with such long and loud thunder accompanied by almost 5cm of rain. (This gave Chris a chance to clean the inside of the van.) When all was clear we went for a drive along the coast (a bit like the Amalfi but chic). We returned via the mountains which was again nice. Back at the site we decided on a cycle ride and after cycling to the local beach where I had a paddle we cycled into Cannes after a brief look and then it was back the van for a BBQ and a tipple or two. The forecast is much better for the next few days so we will probably stay here.

The Local Beach

Monday 30^th September (day 28)

Well the weather has changed again. We awoke to blue skies and the promise of a great sunny day. After a simple breakfast we did a few chores – a bit of washing and a couple of small repairs to the blinds on the caravan. We then decided to take beach things with us but cycle to Cannes again to have a walk around (yesterday we forgot the keys to the bike lock so couldn’t leave them). An easy pleasant ride into Cannes followed by a walk about looking at the unbelievably expensive designer shops (personally I would not consider paying the prices even if I were a millionaire – well £2700 for a handbag is a bit steep).We missed a regatta week by a day but still lots of yachts, tall ships and cruisers were about. It shows the money of this place where travel shops are selling tickets to go to Nice or Monaco ….. by helicopter. We had a coffee and decided to cycle part way back to a beach where we set up and had a swim for about an hour. This was to be followed by an intention to sunbathe for half hour but it was just so nice it extended to over two. Then it was off to Decathlon (as somehow while wearing my cycle gloves I lost one); Lidl for some hot bread then back to the van for a curry. This has been the laziest day so far and thoroughly enjoyable which we hope will be repeated tomorrow as todays 24 degrees should be 25 or 26 then.

The Beach at Cannes

Chris in the Med

September Trip – Days 22 to 24 – Pompeii

Tuesday 24^th September (day 22)

Today was off to Pompeii, so after breakfast we packed and moved off by about 9.00am. As usual we always make a mistake on our journey and so it was today, right at the start, which resulted in us going around and starting almost from the camp site. We had decided to go by Autostrada and pay the toll as the road otherwise was a slow one (and the general roads are so poorly maintained that it is not enjoyable driving trying to miss being shaken about like a pair of maracas). The co-ordinates for the camp site were not right so at the end of the journey we  went around dodgy narrow roads in a dodgy looking area but soon found our way and set up. The site is busy with Pompeii literally outside the camp. Unfortunately the caravan lights decided not to work so an auto mechanic had to be called. I then followed him with the car for it to be checked and found absolutely ok. This means that tomorrow I have to take the caravan to be looked at and the roads to the garage are decidedly narrow so it will be a challenge.

Wednesday 25^th September (day 23)

So up prompt, hook up the van and face the lunatics to get the van to the auto-electrician where I am meeting him under the bridge. He duly arrived and within the hour the electrics were sorted. The problem it would appear are Italian roads! Back to the site and then off to visit Pompeii itself. A two hour walk followed by lunch then off to Vesuvius. This involved a 30 minute bus up hairpin bends (remember Italian driving) followed by a walk to the crater rim. Unfortunately the views were not so good as low cloud came over. On the way back it was a stop for some wine tasting then to the site for a good rest, tea and a crafty wine or two.

Mount (Vulcano) Vesuvius

A Pompeii Victim

Thursday 26^th September (day 24)

Despite an ambivalent attitude I was persuaded that a trip along the Amalfi coast was not to be missed. So it was a prompt start and a train to Sorrento. From there we took a bus along the coast to Positano a small village built, like all along this coast, up unbelievably steep hills / mountains.

Positano

Whoever thought this to be a good idea was certifiable but the result was amazing. A walk around the village was followed by a short bus ride up to the ‘main’ road at the top. Then a bus ride to Amalfi itself. I say bus ride but the driver was clearly a trainee for Maserati or Ferrari. The bus was full to bursting so little could be seen and the roads were 15 or more miles of twisting ups and downs. It was like a ride on a roller coaster for 45 minutes. Chris was decidedly green by the time we arrived.  However this is another lovely place. The main street is narrow but works with alternate way working for the traffic. Cars sit for over 6 minutes at a red light followed by 30 seconds of green, sounds mad but it seems to work. We visited a cathedral to St Andrews which was really impressive and pictures, like all of the Italian churches do not really do them justice. This was followed by a beer then ice cream. Not able to face well over an hour of twisting roads to return to Sorrento we took the boat still over an hour but without doubt the best way to see the coast and towns. A ride home with another Ferrari trainee on the train and then a well-earned meal of steak and chips. A really good day.

September Trip – Days 18 to 21 – Rome

Friday 20^th September (day 18)

We awoke to the best day for weather so far but no matter we were off to Rome. Only 120 miles and 80 miles were good. The remainder were at best ok but mainly rubbish. The last third took over half the journey. (If all roads lead to Rome then someone should make then less bumpy as most of our van was shook apart.) In addition, we passed several women in the middle of nowhere just sitting. Slow I maybe but it wasn’t until one had her boobs out that I realised they were prostitutes. We arrived at the site after about three and a half hours. It is a good site. It was HOT almost 30 degrees so a swim was necessary. Some planning for visiting Rome was required with an early start. (This is my last paid day and the staff at the site all came out to shake my hand.) We had a curry as Chris’ girls / friends were meeting tonight for a curry and we were (sort of) joining in.

Saturday 21^st September (day 19)

Up with the lark to tackle Rome. Caught a bus from the site at 8am to Prima Porta station then a train to central Rome. Then followed a very tiring but enjoyable day. We started by walking to the Spanish Steps (and the inevitable church). Then took back roads and found a coffee shop. Next Trevi Fountain where we both through a coin in (to guarantee a return visit); a second coin would mean falling in love with an Italian and a third marriage! Chris only gave me one coin. One thing I did not expect was the number of beggars – mainly Romany ‘types’ but also many sitting on skateboards with limb deformities. Our wanderings led us to many churches and the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, then across the River Tiber where we snacked under some trees before meeting a private tour guide to show us around the Vatican City (museum, Sistine Chapel, St Peters and the Square outside. All very informative and three and half hours long. This was followed by another wandering but by now almost ten hours on we were getting foot weary. So we caught the underground train, then an over ground train and finally a bus back to the site for a meal at the restaurant. Very tired bunnies indeed but back tomorrow for some more.

 

 

Looks 3D but isn’t.

 

 

A top up at the Vatican

Vatican Guard

Trevi Fountain

 

Sunday 22^nd September (day 20)

Up and off to Rome again. Started with a visit to the Coliseum where Christians were not put in with tigers etc. Well they were but not because of being Christian they were treated the same as pagans. Still not very nice I suppose as the floor of the Coliseum was wooden covered with sand so those fighting would slip in the blood – so thoughtful. Then the Roman Forum followed by a wander around the Jewish Quarter and then a general amble. We ate a four course meal for ten Euros (£9) and were stuffed. Much more meandering and videoing and a second visit to the Trevi fountain and Spanish Steps followed by a nice cool shady walk in the Villa Borghese. A park that lots of locals go to enjoy themselves – cycling, running, skating, dancing even canoodling. A train back and then a sit and chat with friends. Again it was a hot sunny day and we walked in the shade as much as possible but tonight it has cooled down to around 18 degrees so it is on with a long sleeved top. Tomorrow will be the third day in Rome and probably our last for this trip. It really is an amazing city to walk around as surprises seem to come very frequently.

Monday 23^rd September (day 21)

A good nights sleep was needed and got by us both. Up and off for the last day in Rome on what is my official first day retired with no pay. Went to the Appian Way (which is much like it was when first built) Then back for a general wander. A church or two was viewed but mainly just a simple day exploring. We made a schoolboy error on the route home as we got off at the wrong station resulting in a longer journey and as we were looking forward to a swim and laze around the pool it as a minor irritation. Still in the high 70’s at 5.00pm. Off for a meal at the restaurant and then tomorrow it will be off to Pompeii.

Trevi Fountain

September Trip day 15 to 17 – By the Lake

Tuesday 17th September (day 15)

Off to look at a couple of villas for Ciara’s wedding (Resa’s daughters). The first was perfect. The second was ok(ish) except for the un-metaled road that went winding into the hills for about 5 to 7Km and in places was at least one in three. Then to Montepulciano, a hilltop town for a walk and coffee before lazing at the camp site before tea.

Wednesday 18^th September (day 16)

Today was to be a lazy day. However, we need a few food items so we all cycled in Castaglione Del Lago ( a 12 mile round trip) and there was a market so we had to walk around and look at every stall. After that  a coffee was needed then the shopping the real reason for the trip. Back at the site we had a late lunch, due to all the previous ‘activities’. Then while I had a swim in the lake which was very warm the rest decided to try and catch flies by laying on some loungers by the lake and, inevitably, dozing off. Today the  weather was back to normal being sunny and about 25 degrees. The day was finished with a game of boules, a BBQ and sitting out late chatting.

Thursday 19^th September (day 17)

This is likely to be our last day at this site as we will probably move to Rome tomorrow. So a lazy day. Well a ten mile cycle ride alongside the lake to Passignona for a coffee and stroll about then a ten mile ride back. Followed by lunch and then a laze by the lake as it is still in the mid-20’s. Before the evening meal we packed up what we could ready for an ‘early’ leave tomorrow.

Lessons on Italy – so far

Lessons on Italy (so far)

1. They may have been good road builders in Roman times and even now their motorways are good but they do not know how to maintain and / or repair the damn things;
2. If other cities are like Florence then do not take a car as almost all show some damage. (While pushing my bike up a steep hill I counted 45 cars parked together of which all were scrapped and bent in some way.)
3. Using of credit card can be confusing. Sometimes you give your card and no pin is required; sometimes a pin is required; other times not only a pin but a passport. There is no logic to this. To make it even more confusing some places do not even recognise your card.
4. Some toilet information. Some loos have seats that raise as soon as you raise your bum – they also spray a sweet smelling fragrance…… all quite nice. In conversation with some men the following can be the downfall. Apparently when you wipe your bottom if you are not careful (and part stand to perform this function) the seat may raise and catch your ‘crown jewels’; this can then be compounded by a spray of fragrance up the bottom as you cannot escape it as your bits are trapped by the loo seat.

September Trip – Days 11 to 14

Friday 13^th September (day 11)

After a lazy start we said our goodbye to the site owner and were on our way to Firenze (Florence) only a short hop away. Our lady satnav clearly likes pretty routes as the site is only about a mile from a dual carriageway. Nope that was no good she took us over a small range of hills just wide enough for the caravan. It was pretty but I could have done without it. (I will stick with the woman, however, as the man is just plain bossy.) Having set up we cycled into Florence. Pisa was clearly our training ground for cycling as Florence was really mad. Eventually we left out bikes by the Pont Vecchio (a bridge with expensive shops on it) and walked around the town having our first Italian ice cream which was too big! We strolled around and in a little street was a small church with the door open and organ music playing. While I am not a classical music buff one piece I do like it Tocata and Fugue in D Minor by Bach (from Rollerball the film) and this is what was being played, so for five minutes we sat in this charming church just listening, which with all the crowds and heat outside was an extremely pleasant interlude. Eventually we arrived at La Duomo (Cathedral). For ten euros we went into the cathedral (it was free) climbed the Cuppola (like the dome of St Pauls) where there was a good view, went to the Baptistry (another church), climbed the bell tower (another view) and went to a museum. All very good value. However this entailed just short of one thousand steps and in almost 30 degrees was hard work. By this time we were quite tired. Everyone says if you go to Florence you must see the statue of David. Well even in September the queue was unreasonable so we decided to return to our bikes and cycled home. David can wait for another time. Again Florence and the surrounding area is a hilly place, whereas Pisa is not, so this was another challenge for the legs.  Back at the site it was steak and the trimmings then rest.

 

Saturday 14th September (day 12)

Up slowly and after breakfast we packed as we had decided to go to Lake Tresimento near Perugia. It is a short journey (80 miles) mostly dual carriageway and should have been an easy uneventful trip. However, on the dual carriageway a mirror giving us a good view past the caravan decided to fall off the car. Fortunately there was a parking place about three quarters of a mile further on. I then donned a hi-vis vest and walked back (the wrong side of the crash barrier for extra safety). It took about 30 minutes return and by the time I was back my feet were black and the bushes had caused them to react and go blotchy, my legs had cuts and I had more cuts on my hands where I was slipping and holding on to the barrier, but the mirror was retrieved with only a few scratches! After that it was plain sailing and we must thank Resa and Eric for recommending this site as it is fantastic. Great view of the lake, great facilities and it is certainly the best to date. We had a short cycle then returned to the site and drove to Castaglione Del Lago an old hilltop town where we watched planes and helicopters practicing for an air show tomorrow. We then returned to the site for a meal before a board game and bed.

 

Sunday 15th September (day 13)

Today started overcast with a promise of rain. What else to do? Washing! All hung out and we went for a short bike ride (7 mile) through one of the local towns. We made a picnic as we intended to cycle back to Castalione Del Lago as there is an air show there. As we were about to depart Resa and Eric arrived. We informed them of our plans and set off. We were joined by them later (around 2.15pm). The air show schedules to start at 2.00pm (we think) eventually stated at about 3.30pm and went on for 90 minutes. The best bit was the end with the Italian version of the Red Arrows. We then fought the crowds and made our way back to the site and while on the way the threatened rain presented itself, althogh to be fair it was not much and more refreshing as it is still in the 20’s and very warm.

Monday 16th September (day 14)

Today was a trip to the capital of Umbria called Perugia. We knew the way the city hilltop was via escalators but to find (a) somewhere to park and (b) park near the correct place took a bit of a mission. We went around the same roundabout four times, waving at the locals trying this feat. Eventually we parked and took a series of escalators to the main town which went through old Roman buildings, a real first. Then followed a walk around the town which included street entertainers playing typically Italian music (Just One Cornetto), coffee, a visit to the church in a university town that was both historic and picturesque. A visit on the way home to a supermarket then a lazy afternoon and grub before a few drinks followed by a few more and then bed.

Picture 4695 4696 4920

Day 9 and 10

Wednesday 11th September (day 9)

We have decided to find a better site so off we go (again). We were to go along the coast towards Pisa. After 25 minutes and covering four miles due to traffic, traffic lights, mad Italian drivers (yes we found them) we decided to break our unwritten rule and go on the Autostrada. How easy and quite cheap as almost 100 miles cost about £15 and it was all tunnels and viaducts as we followed the coast. Near to Pisa we left the motorway and tried to find the camp site. We did eventually after over three miles of the most potholed, bumpy, sick making road followed by a mile of graveled road, but the trouble was worth it. Set on a lake with free use of canoes and bikes, fishing, good facilities and very few visitors. It really is a good site. As the canoeing is free  I just had to have a go to use my ‘scouty’ skills – didn’t get wet! The site restaurant does not open Wednesdays so as the journey here was so difficult it is good that we have enough with us to sort things for tea without going out again. Fro an out of the way site it is quite busy. A German man married to a woman from Solihull came in with the biggest motorhome imaginable. We got on very well (He spoke English of course). Anyway a G+T, some wine and then time for bed.

Chris Canoeing

Thursday 12th September (day 10)

After breakfast we spoke to the site owner (who is the nicest and most helpful that we have met so far) and she gave us a quiet route to cycle to Pisa. Off we went and it was idyllic – sunny, hot, little traffic. Then we got into Pisa…… it was manic. However, we soon learned to cycle the wrong way down one way streets, use bus lanes, use the pavement in fact were natives of Pisa. Finding the Leaning Tower and cathedral however was a slightly more troublesome issue. Eventually we found it and locked our bikes and went for a walk around. In the high season you are advised to book the climb to the top of the tower 15 days in advance. We went to the ticket office expecting to be disappointed but no; two tickets were free for the next climb in 40 minutes.  250 steps and we had a great view of Pisa although the lean did make it feel weird. This was followed by a visit to the cathedral and then a cycle back. All in all 22 miles. At the site we tried the unheated pool – that was a ‘no no’ too cold. So I convinced Chris to have a go on the canoes. The girl did well – a few circles were performed but she made it round the lake without falling in. The day was finished with a meal in the site restaurant. What an experience! We were served by Julie Walters from Acorn Antiques (with exceptionally hairy armpits). One menu for the whole restaurant and she wanted us to order before seeing the menu! Having said that an unbelievable meal.

Leaning Tower

View from Leaning Tower

At the top of Leaning Tower

September 2013 – Days 5 to 8

Saturday 7^th September (day 5)

After a disturbed sleep as someone needed an ambulance at 3am. We got up and soon left for Nyon to meet Ashley and Hayley. Resa and Eric cycled in also having stayed just over the border in Divonne (we are due to meet up with them outside Perugia in a week or so). After a chat we four (Resa and Eric left to go to Annecy) went for a walk. In Prangins was a small fete and the chateau was free to visit a wine and a look see. Then to the ‘Fish’ for a bit of imbibing with the ‘locals’. By now we were v hungry so home for a raclette.

Sunday 8th September (day 6)

Woke up to …rain. Ash left for pre-match training and meal before the match. Chris Hayley and I went to the market in Divonne. A busy good market. Then back to the apartment for a late brunch of goodies from the market. Still raining! By 3.00pm off to watch Ash (Nyon) play Avussy local rivals – no rain to begin with. It did however rain on and off during the game which Nyon won 28 – 10. Off to ‘The Fish’ for a few drinks. We then said out goodbyes and left to return to the caravan (raining again). We sat an planned the next part of the route. Decided now to go over the St Bernard Pass which is quite high and stop at a site near the top. Hope we do not regret it as Chris does not like wiggly roads.

Ash Playing for Nyon RFC

Monday 9^th September (day 7)

After a night of on/off rain we woke to a promise of something better. Croissants and pack then off by 9am. Next stop Italy. We drove along the south side of Lake Leman (Geneva) with the sun sparkling on the water as we looked over to Lausanne and Montreux. Soon we were going along the valley with some quite daunting mountains all around. Gradually the road got steeper and we were driving in a semi-tunnel with ‘Poor satellite signal’ (no satnav). Left to our own devices ew went wrong and were driving up a very steep narrow road necessitating  a delicate u-turn. Soon we were back on the correct road until ‘Poor satellite signal’ and yes we missed a turn and ended up paying to go through the St Bernard Tunnel.  It made it an easy last part of the journey to a camp site in the mountains at a place called Estoubles. We had a walk around the quaint town  and then decided to walk up a path to the top of a hill (1411m). It stated a 15 minute walk. After almost an hour in 25degres we gave up and came back. (Not really dressed for it in sandals etc either.) I would not like to meet the person who did it in 15minutes. Back to the site for a laze in the sun which soon disappeared over the mountains and things chilled down somewhat. Tomorrow is another day.

Tuesday 10th September (day 8)

A day of highs and lows. We set of at 9am and the first 25 miles was all down hill as we were so high to begin with. Then it was like a switchback but with loads of slow old Italian drivers. Where are the Italian maniacs we hear so much about? Chris wanted some food shopping so we took a detour and ended up on the motorway. Still with only about 15 miles to go I decided to continue. Chris, however, suggested we came off at the next junction so we did. What followed was ten miles that took nearly an hour with hairpin bends and steep gradients. At one point we had an alternate way tunnel 2.7 m high which Chris said we could get through. Well we did, however I measured us at the camp site and we were about 2.65m, a bit close. We arrived at the site and were disappointed.  We chose it for swimming in the sea and a nice site – one out of two isn’t bad – the sea looked good. A walk into Arenzano and a look around. It was so nice to see young and old )and in-betweens) sitting in the town square all talking, some having coffee, such a nice friendly atmosphere, made nicer by the hot sunny weather. Back after an hour or two of walking around and a nice meal before retiring. PS The Italians do some good town halls… see below.

First Report of September Trip

Tuesday 3^rd September (day1)

A slow start to the day and our first trip as a retired couple. Chris started by opening her birthday cards and then about 10.30am we left for the drive to Dover. A good run and by 1.15pm we were on our way across what can only be described as a mill pond. We were on the road in France by 4.00pm (French time). However I had made a schoolboy error and told the satnav to avoid both toll roads and motorways. What a meandering (and slow) route it selected. Eventually Chris sorted it out and then things were much quicker until a thirty minute traffic jam. Eventually we arrived at the first  site (La Paille Haute near Arras). Quick set  up and then to the restaurant for an ‘ok’ meal. Steak with a help yourself to the chips / pasta / etc etc. A quick constitutional walk around the site then time for a small imbibing of wine.

Wednesday 4th September (day 2)

Up and our last ‘proper’ British breakfast. Then off for a few hours drive to the next site. Had a lovely coffee in a small quaint village and then fought the traffic through  Reims. Eventually we arrived at our site, only to find this is the only day of the year the owner was not going to open the office due to a party. So off we went (it was 29 degrees by now) eventually stopping at Le Clos Du Vieux Moulin in a nature reserve by a lake (Lac du Der-Chantecoq – south west of St Dizier). Not very impressed with the site! Off we went for an 18 mile cycle part way around the lake plus the obligatory beer stop. Then back to the site for a swim (just the two of us in the pool). Steak BBq and then planning for the next day. Late on we went for a walk and found an old Auburge (Inn) where we had a nice cold cider. A stroll back with a lovely sunset (still 24 degrees) and retire for the night.

Thursday 5th September (day 3)

Of prompt at 9am and a great trip through the ‘hills’ very winding and pretty (must be getting old). In over 100 miles we were not overtaken nor overtook anyone indeed only saw about 20 cars the whole time. So different from England. Followed satnav to a dirt track – coordinates for camp site were wrong! Eventually found it and set up. Cycled into Auxonne and walked the town with a tourist map – really must be getting old. Most of the town was centuries old going back to the 17th, 16th , 15th and 14th century. Athos, Portos and D’Artagnan could have come around the corner. After that (and a drink) we cycled along the river on a 18 mile jaunt in 32 degrees. By 6.00pm it was time for  tea and drink. We thought that a salmon cake sounded nice in the supermarket so bought it for tea. However it was what it said – cake with salmon in. Did not taste too bad (but I would suggest you avoid it) but with couscous and salad????? A great sunset again and eventually time to sleep.

Friday 6th September (day 4)

Well off to just outside Switzerland to meet Ashley and Hayley.  We drove through the Haute-Jura (low and not so low mountains) and midway Resa and Eric who we are due to meet outside Florence  in a couple of weeks pulled out of a petrol station in front of us! A quick chat then we said our goodbyes. The drive into Switzerland was stunning. Then through Geneva to France again where we set up. A lovely site where we had a swim, went for a (very short cycle ride – too hilly), another swim then got ready to go for a meal with Ash and Hayley in the restaurant on site where we stuffed out. This was followed by an amazing electric storm and then heavy rain. The waiter loaned us two parasols from the tables to get back to the van.

Nearly There

Well, just a few hours to go. Got to go and give in my security passes, clear desk and delete some files then an Indian meal for my work friends, one sleep then off we go to France, Switzerland, Italy…. who knows where for six weeks or so.

This will be our home………..