DAY 30 : FRANCE : ARZACQ-ARRAZIGUET to ARTHEZ-DE-BEARN - 28 kms - 7 hours

Distance walked so far : 647 kms

Weather : cold in the morning (3o) but sunny all day (18o)

Walking down by the lake we came across
these very tame creatures, unperturbed
by passers-by.

 

Corn fields, merged into undulating hills and into the
breathtaking view of the Pyrenees.

Inspiring scenery and glorious day

 

For most of the villages the food van is their only
access to shopping.
Reminded me of the French movie, The Grocer's Son.

 

No cafes or services in any of the villages, but there
was a welcome sign on one house with coffee, tea,
cordials and cake for a donation. We were walking with about 9
walkers at the time who really appreciated their
thoughtfulness.

 

Farmers harvesting their corn - fascinating all-in-one process.

  

Two very different walkers. One an enterprising
fellow from Brittany has invented his own push-
pull trolley (with flashing lights!). Our other (Swiss) friend
has sponge inserts for his shoulders, as he finds
 his backpack totally uncomfortable.

 

Arthez-de-Bearn. A town built on a ridge top with stunning
views of the Pyrenees. It was originally developed
around the Augustinian commandery whose monastery
was destroyed in the Wars of Religion.

 



Our Chambre d'Hotes for the night.
The exceptional Domaine de la Carrere.
www.domaine-de-la-carrere.fr
Highly recommended.

 

Main staircase - artefacts from India, Asia and London.

Our bedroom, immaculately decorated, and included a relaxing bath.

 

A delicious meal cooked by Fritz for Mark and myself and
Maria and Penny (from Perth).

 

 

M&M

2/10/12