DAY 24 : FRANCE : MARSOLAN to CONDOM - 21 kms - 5 hours

Distance walked so far : 494.5 kms
Weather : Cool, rainy periods : 19o

We started out today in the rain...remember 'it's not the weather, it's the
clothes!'
 

 

The dry, cracked soil suddenly became a slippery bog after
a night's rain. Our boots were like leaden weights..
 

 

Because of the weather we took a variant route today
and came across a gite, which acts as a cafe during
the day in the little village of Castelnau sur l'Avignon.
We have been so impressed with the dedication of locals, who
open their homes to pilgrims walking to St Jean and beyond.

 

 

A vineyard with white grapes - the first we've seen.

 

The impressive cathedral of St Pierre in the city of Condom.
It was originally a Benedictine Abbey. Under the English
occupation it was elevated to a Bishopric with a diocese of 130
parishes.

 

Fabulous statue of the 3 Musketeers with D'Artagnan.
D'Artagnan is recognised here because his birthplace is
in this vicinity.

 

Our gite on the main thoroughfare to town.

 

Gite with peaceful setting of lovely garden.

 

Clean and simple - 12.50 euros each.

 

TAMPONS IN CONDOM     We all know what a twisted mind I have and this will confirm it! Everyday we have been receiving 'tampons', the French word for 'stamp' on our credential. When I found out that one of the main towns on the route was Condom I couldn't control myself - and today I have achieved my goal - a tampon in Condom!   Tampon encreur (grand)

M&M 26/9/12