DAY 9 : FRANCE : SAINT -COMEd'OLT to LE MAS - 26 kms

Distance walked so far : 173 kms

Weather today : hot, hot : 30+

We left our medieval accommodation at 7.30 for a communal breakfast nearby. We had a wonderful view out of our window of the church tower and 13th century chateau. We left the window open - a hot evening - and we had an unexpected visit from a small bat.

Bats in the belfry

Fortunately, the loud chimes marking the hour stopped at 10 pm and only began at 7 am. In this part of the country the bells chime twice for the hour and half hour.

We made an executive decision today that we would not follow the high GR route but would travel along the river and road. Very sensible, in hindsight, as it was a hot day. We passed through two exquisite medieval towns - Espalion and Estaing. The bridge leading into Espalion was built by Frere Pontiffs, a monastic bridge-building order - amazing what these monks were into.

Walking along the river to Espalion

 

Espalion - 16th century chateau and bridge built by Frere Pontiff monks

 

Resting along the way

 

Estaing

 

Alicia enjoying her pilgrim menu including Crepe Complet (with egg)
 

As it was so hot, we had lunch and rested in the fairytale town of Estaing and left at 4, in theory to walk the 7 kms in cooler temperatures. This was not to be - it was an extremely exhausting climb up the 300m - we were disappointed that all accommodation was booked out in town.

300m up on a hot afternoon

 But as it turned out our motorhome in the hills was a wonderful place to rest for the night. We were entertained by mein host who ran the small caravan park and treated to a feast, including nettle soup, and several varieties of liqueurs and wine from his cellar.

Mobile home with a view

Being entertained by mein host

 

 

 

 

M&M

10/9/12