La Rochelle
Tuesday 25th, Shelley and John departed for a brief honeymoon in Carcossone. It was sad to see them go but we are sure they enjoyed their stay with us, we certainly enjoyed them being here. The same day Sue travelled to Rochefort to visit some of her French relations. Originally Moya and Kevin were to travel to pick Sue up and all go to Ile de Re but the Wednesday weather was such we decided to travel to La Rochelle, stay the night and then pick Sue up. It was well worth the change in plans. La Rochelle is famous for its two towers that guard the port and the port area itself is something to behold. In fact as you will note by the photos La Rochelle is spectacular. There are streets of archways which shelter you from the elements as you shop, which Moya found to her delight. We spent late afternoon to around midday walking and admiring. Mind you we had difficulty getting to our hotel as one of the adjourning streets was closed and we had to detour down streets that were just wide enough for our car. But Kevin’s driving skills are now such that all were traversed with ease. We drove to the port area and parked the car only to find that area was only a short walk from the hotel!! That learned we walked down the next morning along the recommended historic route which saw us go past many historic buildings. You can view the photos to your heart’s content.
So on Thursday we journeyed to Rochefort to partake of a barbeque lunch with Sue’s relations, Michelle and Michael. What a great meal that was. The aperitif was followed by barbequed chops, sausage, salad and a thousand roast potatoes. Then in true French style there was cheese before dessert and then coffee. A memorable meal indeed. We then went and visited an old bridge which transported cars across the river in a pontoon that was dragged over by pulleys. Photos posted which will explain better that I can. After this the 3 travellers ventured off to Ile de Re.