Halte Nautique de Lagruere, Lagruere

We are now far enough north to notice a change in the weather. Lovely warm days, but cool damp nights. This morning a chill in the air. The first of the trip. Our stay on the free village campsite for cyclists was one to remember. We'd been welcomed by Serge, who had no bicycle but appeared to live on the site in a beach shelter. As a welcoming gift he gave us an apple each which we presume he scrumped from the nearby commercial orchard. We were first up this morning. Caravan man arose just as we were leaving, wishing us a good trip. Despite everyone being friendly the stay had felt a little odd.Not knowing how easy it would be to buy lunch food along the canal Angela bought a bread, cheese and a tomato from the village shops.

The ride along the canal was peaceful. A few dog walkers, joggers and day cyclists. Along one bank a large variety of mushrooms grew.

Satan's or Devil's Bolete, don't be tempted to eat one of these or you will become very acquainted with your bathroom! 

Campsites are scarce now, so just after two we stopped at a small site with fourteen pitches adjacent to a restaurant beside the canal. We stayed here many years ago, paid five euros s we think and remember having to clear dried leaves out of the sinks and shower tray before using the facilities. Fortunately the sanitary arrangements have improved since then. And we also had free use of a washing machine. Our clothes are in shock, they've not been inside a washing machine since we left home. We are in the middle of nowhere, so late afternoon, still warm enough to wear shorts and t-shirts we set off on the four mile round trip to the next town for supplies. At the town John asked two elderly ladies where the grocery store was.One gave directions in French which Angela understood. Then the other lady gave the same set of instructions. It made us smile. On the return cycle we could hear a musical sound. Near to us were hundreds of goats in a field, the bells they wore around their necks chiming gently.

Goats cheese and milk is very popular here. Once again we've been allowed to borrow chairs from the bar area. John asked if we can also have a table. Angela had told him how to ask in French. She's not sure how her request was interpreted. The lady pulled her top forward and looked at her breasts. Anyway, he returned with a table, if somewhat baffled.