Helen the Hymer

[Cleve]

Hi Riverbankannie

You are pushing at an open door there. Yes I would like all the bells and the whistles but I seem to have managed quite well without them. I could spend several thousands of pounds buying something later and have nothing but trouble. At least I know Helen and yes it can be a bit warm in here near the Mediterranean but it has felt quite chilly at 21°C here recently and I would have felt warm in normal times.

Having arranged the travel back because it seemed I needed to be in Guernsey to deal with my pension I received and email yesterday thanking me for my reply but I need not go to the expense of going there just let them know when they can talk to me on the telephone. I am sure you can imagine how I felt getting that after changing my booking.

The good thing though is Helen can have a good service and check over, when I left the UK the kilomètre read 213500, sitting here at Cité Europe it says 220164 so we have done quite a few kilomètres since 28 April and I understand these like an oil and filter change every 3000 miles (4800 kilomètres) so I think it is opportune I am able to get that done.

I have also found that I need one (1) frying pan (for paëlla) and one (1) saucepan for scrambled eggs and moules so the rest of that junk I have brought with me is being offloaded tomorrow as soon as I get back along with some of the other junk - why on earth did I bring two cycling helmets?

I think I may update but keep her anyway, we have sort of bonded last year and this. Despite the neglect she suffered over her previous years she has never let me down and given adequate warning of needing help. I think of last years "clutch experience".

If I do sell her she will be sold on the understanding that she is not a concourse model but a well used and faithfull old lady. There may be many glamorous models out there but most of us chaps would prefer a steady reliable girl who looks after us. She is no oil painting but she ain't half bad.

The above has been entered following significant intake of rosé, the contributor takes no responsibility for the content unless complaints are sent on the back of a £10 note which is not refundable.

Clive

This cheap Mediterranean Rosé from Lidl's is not bad I think it was 6€59 for a box of 3 litres and a lot better than the paint stripper I used to buy down at Argéles years ago ..... hic

Clive

 

[Anthea M]

Just caught up with your final days of your trip. Thankyou for sharing it's been a mammoth journey but Helen has been fantastic. Long may she continue .
Look forward to your next trip.

 

[Shrimp]

Think well before you sell her.
Sometimes one looks back and genuinely thinks "I wish I hadn't sold that........" you may well regret it!

 

[Cleve]

Good morning Anthea @Anthea M

I am pleased to say the trip is not over yet. Just been on pause for a few days longer than I had intended. I returned so Gary could do a service on Helen. The recommended oil/filter changes on the old Mercedes is every 3000 miles and I had done well in excess of that as you will have read above. That coupled with the need to attend to a few matters that had arisen in my absence extended my stay.

I had expected Helen back with me yesterday when I hoped to carry out a few of my own "odd jobs" but that will not be until today or tomorrow now. Gary found the thermo couple on the fridge needed changing so ordered up the part.

Subject to availability I hope to be through the tunnel over the weekend and back to Normandie. I have an appointment at my bank in Caen on Thursday.

I had placed a wanted ad in the Motorhomes wanted section and received some useful replies sadly not bringing that which I was after but the mobile.de suggestion was very good and by changing my search to another model I found 23 which fitted the bill. Consequently I am now thinking of spending a little while in Germany before I return and looking at possible replacements there then doing a personal import.

It is anyone's guess what is going on but I like it!

Another update is imminent

All the best Clive

Hi @Shrimp

I must have been busy typing the above when you posted. I will not be rushing the replacement and I have already (yesterday I think) withdrawn the wanted advert. The German excursion is very likely where the prices are lower on later vehicles. I suppose it is not called "rip off Britain" for nothing. I wish that were not so.

The driving force for replacement is age (mine) and the desire for a pull out of the side cassette toilet in place of the arrangement I have at the moment.

Cheers Clive

 

[Cleve]

Just when you thought it was safe Helen and I are back!

French Travels Part 2 day 1

lundi le 4 septembre
Good evening from inside the train at Folkestone (while I write this). I was booked on the 1620 which is now leaving 20 minutes late.

I plan to stay overnight at Noyelles sur Mer for a little light trainspotting tomorrow before moving on toward Caen for my appointment on Thursday.

mardi le 5 septembre Part 2 day 2

Hello from Les Loges

Have had a relatively leisurely day today. Stayed overnight at Noyelles sur Mer, good rest then up about 0800 local. After breakfast I took a ride over to Saint Valery sur Somme. The cycle path is quite good and it was a steady though short ride. A picture of the écluse for the Canal de la Somme. I was particularly impressed with the force of the water being discharged.

Shortly after l’écluse I saw an old boat that had clearly seen better times but it’s outline suggested it could tell a tale or two.

I carried on along the canal bank and crossed at the next écluse where the railway line crosses to make the Southern bank and ride toward the town. Adjacent to the tourist information centre is a commemorative stone celebrating the departure of William the Conqueror during 1066 leading to the battle at Hastings.

I started to make my way along the quay but after a short ride found my way blocked, the cobbles were rather uncomfortable anyway so I turned and made my way back towards Noyelles sur Mer pausing to take a picture of the lifting bridge over the canal upstream of the écluse.

On my return to Helen I had a coffee and then wandered over to the railway station to take a couple of shots of the steam train when it came in.

After that excitement I made a cup of tea, packed up and left for Les Loges, near Étretat where I will stay tonight. It has been a dull day but sitting here penning this the sun is out and it is quite pleasant.
The journey here was simple along the D940/D925/D940 the only interest coming from the narrow streets in some of the towns and the manner in which some French drivers will roar into a blind alley. I was particularly pleased I did not meet any camping cars on the climb out of Fécamp.

Subject to tomorrow’s weather I will have a cycle ride here before moving on towards Caen for my appointment on Thursday. I may stay overnight at Ouistreham and cycle in for convenience.
Unable to post last night as the Internet was so slow.

After Thursday’s meeting I will be free to wander at will again, as they say, “living the dream.”

All the best Clive

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[Zains Pops]

Hi Clive
Your adventure to dodgy railways continues, keep the posts coming as we follow you in to Autumn.......that's Autumn 2017 not of life for you or Helen!!

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jour 3

mercredi le 6 septembre

Good afternoon from Le Memorial at Caen

Plans A thru L did not come off today, partly because of the weather and partly not being able to access areas in a vehicle this size. Another reason for Helen to be replaced with a later model giving me the ability to tow a trailer (if you have not sold yours yet Howard I may be buying it yet) and or hang a small motor cycle on the back.

The wind and rain ruled out my bike ride. It had been very windy overnight and had reduced this morning but not as much as I thought.
After abandoning the bike idea I decided I would drive into Étretat park up and look at the cliffs and coast – well that was a non starter as well. I decided to make my way towards Caen.

I elected to take the short piece of autoroute and the Pont de Normandie, the tolls were modest and I had remembered my SANEF tag which is stuck in the windscreen on the spare attachment. Reaching the bridge I was able to jump no end of vehicles that had zoomed by me on the approach.
The cross wind over the bridge was very strong and the turbulence created by the towers added interest. I left the autoroute after the bridge and headed toward Pont-l’Évêque then along the D675 to Caen. I had to resist the temptation to deviate to a small town south west of Pont-l’Évêque called “St-Hymer” and take a picture of Helen next to the sign! Subject to future routings I am not ruling out the possibility.
I followed the D675 all the way to Caen (peripherque nord) with a pause at Goustranville for coffee.

There were two options at Caen, Le Memorial or Cora supermarché. Le Memorial was junction 7 and Cora junction 8, as Helen needed a drink I elected to go to Cora first, fill up, take lunch and evaluate. There were half a dozen other campers parked but being next to the station service the noise level was quite high. I decided to check out Le Memorial – only 8 kilometres away. I took the last place when I arrived and the place is basically packed. A slight exaggeration but you can just get a fag paper between us (author’s licence).

Depending on the weather in the morning I will either cycle or walk into Caen and do the tourist thing for the morning then do my bank job in the afternoon. After that I will make a move towards a rendezvous with a couple of friends also travelling in their motorhome towards Mortagne au Perche.

Update tomorrow. Cheers Clive

Oh, no worries Zain's Pops, I am enjoying Autumn in all senses (strains of "Forever Autumn" by Justin Hayward.

 

[davanne]

Glad to see you and Helen back on the road again....look forward to hearing of your travels

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jour 4

jeudi le 7 septembre

Good afternoon from a relatively pleasant Caen

Today followed the pattern I outlined yesterday. A good nights sleep was followed by yoga, breakfast and a refreshing shower.

Le Memorial

I elected to walk into Caen from Le Memorial rather than cycle and on reflection I believe that was the better idea. The walk is quite straightforward though as always the directions vanish when they may be helpful!

Le Jardin des Plantes

My first stop was at Le château – one of Guiliame’s works. Lots of interest here and I was amused to read in the exchequer about the invasions of the English. The panels were both interesting and informative, usefully they were in both French and English. I was interested also in the history of the donjon.

I exited the château via the gateway and crossed toward l’église Saint Pierre, parts of the église were enveloped in scaffold and tarpaulin so not so photo genic.

After this I meandered around the streets and found this impressive frontage above a shop.

I then moved along to l’église Saint Sauveur which had one of those plasticky modern carousels beside it and an artisan working on upholstery.

I then walked on towards the théatre which is adjacent to my banque and is a modern erection with nothing to commend it exteriorly. I sat here for a few moments then wandered along to Le Port (Plaissance) where I sat, looked at the boats and watched the pretty girls walk by.

After a brief interlude I meandered back towards the bank stopping to take a picture of l’église Saint Jean, the tower of which now leans awkwardly as a consequence of the bombing of the city during the battles after the “D Day” landings.

I made my way to the bank did the necessary and then walked back to Helen for a very welcome cup of tea.

I am relaxing now watching the Brussels Classic on the tv, yesterday it was the tour of Britain and la Vuelta.
Tomorrow or Saturday I anticipate liasing with my friends and their motorhome. My last info was they were heading towards Niort but that was all subject to amendment.

Ah bientôt

Clive

 

[davanne]

The grey skies look a little like it is here in South Wales today Clive

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[Cleve]

Good morning from Challons sur Loire

Here is an update for the last couple of days.

Part 2 jour 5

vendredi le 8 septembre

After a good nights sleep I was up relatively early, followed my usual routine and prepared to leave to rendezvous with Gerri and Barry at that stage probably at Niort.
The charming Dutch couple next to me were also packing up and making their way up to Omaha beach. They left and I followed.
I had elected to follow the N158 to Falaise then turn along the D909 toward Puntange a road I had travelled many many times between 2000 and 2006. Many old memories flooded back and it was interesting to observe the changes that had happened but much I pleased to say unchanged. The weather was borderline atrocious with strong winds and periodic heavy rain. After taking the turn at Falaise I paused and checked my phone as I leave it inaccessible while driving and I had heard a text arrive along the road. It was from Barry stating a change of plan and they were now heading toward Segre south west of Laval. I checked the routing and adjusted very slightly for the new target. After passing Château-Gontier I found somewhere to pause and checked the most recent text from Barry that they were now going to be at the Super U at Saint Georges-sur-Loire instead. Another adjustment to track and I met them both there. It was pouring down. As I arrived Barry was with a German couple and their water cooled VW transporter camper – the one which replaced the T2. He was doing his best to assist them as the water hose on the cylinder head had split. I am happy to report that the problem was eventually solved and following lunch everyone parted – not en masse, I needed to go into the shop and get one or two items.

Over lunch we had discussed a few possibilities of where to stay overnight around Challones-surLoire which was a little way down the road. Two of them were from park4night and the third a France Passion location (49130). Before I left the shop Gerri and Barry had already assessed the two park4night locations and found them unsuitable and wrote to meet them at the passion site. I arrived at the Passion site first and have to say I was unimpressed. I parked in the pouring rain in the adjacent municipal parking where you could stay up to 48 hours if you wished but quite frankly the noise level from the adjacent road made this a non starter in my book for any duration at all. There were a couple of picnic tables but it would not be my choice. Gerri and Barry arrived and pulled into the nursery adjacent which housed the “passion” site which I had already binned on arrival and why I had parked where I did. It was obvious immediately that they agreed with me. We picked out a couple more targets one a park4night and the second another “passion” 49290. I suggested a routing and we set separately off. I missed my turning and ended up on the A87 for a short time in full rush hour grid lock which delayed my arrival. Gerri and Barry went my suggested way and had the pleasures of a very narrow bridge over the Loire and found the first site unacceptable but the Passion fine and telephoned me (full hands free for that) and I made my way to the passion which I must say is excellent. The access is “interesting” though.

We socialised and took dinner together taking the opportunity to right all the worlds wrongs before retiring.

Jour 6 samedi le 9 septembre

Morning shot of the two camping cars.

A lovely relaxed day, rose around 0900, did my yoga, breakfast etc and pottered about. When the other two had surfaced it was decided to walk into Challones where they would buy du pain pour demain. I would need to buy a wiper blade as my nearside blade had begun to separate during Friday’s drive.

Above an interesting pair of trees we saw shortly after starting the walk.

Above the vines awaiting harvest.

A pleasant stroll to the Super U of just under 3 kilomètres where we picked up all that was required and took a beer at the little bar section. Very pleasant – we chatted for a while and needed a refill before the return walk back to the passion site.

A view toward Challones-sur-Loire along the Loire but viewed from the bridge over Le Layon.

A view along Le Layon looking towards the Loire and the bridge the above shot was taken from.

I was pleased to supply some of the material for that evenings dinner and help marginally with Sunday’s lunch (yet to come)

Barry has terrific stories to recount which are both amusing and informative and though I have known both he and Gerri for many years I seem to find out something totally new about them both every day. A very dynamic and active pair with a true spirit of adventure.

Well that is it for this report. The sun is out and I hope that the vineyard will be able to commence harvest today or very soon. The whole area has been held back by the rains and the harvest is now running very late with the worries that entails. Walking around the vineyard with Barry last evening I learned more about cepage in an hour that I had ever known.

Catch you later Clive

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jours 7 et 8

Good morning from La Coltière (44110), Erbray

A very short report this morning updating Sunday 10th and yesterday 11th.

Part 2 jour 7 dimanche le 10 septembre

As you know from the previous report Sunday was going to be and was a lazy day. A day of chatting, eating good food and drinking good wine. Gerri and Barry are both excellent when it comes to food and my diet has been significantly more varied over the last few days I can tell you.

Odd jobs, a mix of weather and a pleasant day. During the conversations I spoke of a friend of mine I have not seen for years who had a place near Erbray. I believe I can talk the legs of the proverbial so eventually while still tentatively grasping at his sanity Barry chucked me out and everyone was finally able to get some sleep.

Jour 8 lundi Le 11 septembre

An unusually early start to the day was occasioned when the employees of the vineyard started turning up for work around 0715 with their cars. This prompted me to rise and go through my morning ritual. I finished off a few bits afterward and when the others had risen we decided what to do. Barry suggested we go and see if my friend was still there and as it was only about 80 kilomètres away we elected to do that.
We do not travel in convoy and arranged to meet at Erbray. We both needed to visit the motorhome dump point which was just down the road at Challones sur Loire. While they made good their escape I visited the vineyard shop and bought some rosé. Now I have tasted it I wish I had bought rather more.
Gerri and Barry were leaving the service point as I arrived so our separation was well maintained. Challones sur Loire was a good stop. I enjoyed crossing the bridges out of the town and made my way up to Erbray stopping at St Georges sur Loire for gazole.

I arrived first at Erbray and found a large car park near the school which was ideal. I texted the location to Gerri and Barry and awaited their arrival. How did I get there first you may ask. The answer is simple, they eat and buy fresh food – those vegetable and fruit things, whereas I live out of tins and packets. I must concede their method is much, much better but I fear I am too far gone now.

On their arrival we took lunch and I poured over my detailed charts etc trying to pin point the location. After some considerable time I telephoned my friend to get something precise. After the usual pleasantries he told me he had sold it about 4 years ago. Gerri and Barry were very accommodating of my failure and we looked around for somewhere to pass the night. It was decided to try the France Passion site La Coltière. As always we parted separately with me leaving after them. Amazingly I arrived first, they arriving a little later having made an inadvertent detour.

Gerri and Barry working in concert made a lovely curry (I don’t do curries but if they were all like that one then I would) and we sat and chatted. This time I was slightly more considerate and drew stumps before I pushed them over the edge. I would never be surprised to wake in the morning and suddenly find myself alone, they having escaped under cover of darkness.

Well that is it for now. It is now Tuesday 12th and I have no idea what is going on. Having made decisions in various fields all my working life it is wonderful to abdicate responsibility.
I will let you know what has happened after it has happened later.

camping cars resting

All the best Clive (not only living the dream but after a lifetime of work beginning to live – should have done this years ago).

 

[ianthebuilder]

Brilliant reading,, great pics,, keep it up! Xx

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jours 9, 10 et 11

Good morning from Neuvy-au-Houlme

It stopped raining about 15 minutes ago and I am enjoying a little sunshine though it does feel cold (it is 13.8°C in here and 8.5°C outside). Below is my report for yesterday and Tuesday, slim pickins this time, boy has it rained. (that bit was written yesterday but I have left it in)

mercredi le 13 septembre (jour 9)

Once Geraldine and Barry had risen and taken breakfast we reviewed possible destinations for today, the weather forecast was poor with rain throughout the day. Gerri and Barri have a friend living at Neuvy-au-Houlme and Barry suggested we visit him. I was more than happy to go along with the suggestion and we set off separately as always to rendezvous at Putanges-Pont-Ecrepin.
As I made my way around the curtain wall at Pouance I received a call from Barry suggesting we take lunch at the SuperU there – they were already on location.

After lunch I set off first and after the drive through torrential rain and strong side winds arrived at the rendezvous first. When Gerri and Barry joined me I secured Helen and went with them to see the location of their friend and where we would be able to park overnight. We did not visit their friend then but returned to Helen and then made our way to the overnight parking.
After arriving at Neuvy-au-Houlme Barry popped around to his friends home and popped a note through to say we would call the next day. After which we dined, chatted and finally retired.

Jeudi Le 14 septembre (jour10)

A relatively early start, I was already up in Helen when Gerri and Barry’s friend arrived at the campers and gave a toot to wake them. He had popped round to let us know he had to pop to Putanges but would be back quite quickly. When he did return he brought beautiful pain au raisin with him, still warm and lovely.
We visited his home and chatted before leaving him to rest and returning to the camping cars after a short walk around the village.

Above soft warm stone

The sign says it all.

While with Ian, he had suggested visiting a new exhibition being staged in the château at Falaise. This was a good idea and we made our way to the location planning to arrive, spend the night and then visit the exhibition the following day as it was already relatively late. We followed the usual format for departure with Gerri and Barry going to Ian’s to top up on water.

I arrived first and found the circus was in town which could have been problematic, there were a number of other camping cars there as well. I sent Gerri and Barry a text to say they would have no difficulty finding it as the circus was in town and we may want to reconsider. Moments later as I emerged from Helen to take a couple of photos they arrived. It was agreed to return to Neuvy-au-Houlme for a second night.

Circus is in town - the animals were behind the big top on the large grassy area.

Helen parked against the curtain wall.

I decided I would top up with gazole and essence for the generator before getting back to enjoy another pleasant evening together. Sadly for them I did rabbit on a bit and it was after 2300 before I had the common decency to shut up and leave them.

It is now Friday a little after 0900 and we will shortly leave for Falaise. All the best Clive

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jour 12

Good morning from Falaise

Here is the report for yesterday!

vendredi le 15 septembre

A beautiful morning with a relatively early start to visit Falaise. Falaise was a short drive of around 13 kilomètres so we were both in place quite quickly. The musée relating to the civil side of the Second World War is housed in a modern very clean almost antiseptic building. Entry is 7€ and the “gift shop area occupies almost as much space as the exhibition itself.
The visit starts with a short video presentation in a projection room then you move upstairs to a selection of period items, photographs and short video presentations on small monitors.
General consensus was that it was something to visit if in the area but not worth a special trip on its own.

Picture of old Citröen outside musée/exhibition.

After the visit we took lunch at a Creperie where I have to say I indulged myself in a lovely salad (which was huge) and made it worse by taking a desert!

Location of lunch above.

It was decided to take a stroll around the town. One of the first things we spotted was on of the old town gates, the Porte des Cordeliers which we found very interesting.

Two pictures of the Porte des Cordeliers, the lower includes my two hapless victims!

A steady stroll around and a number of pictures later we were back at the camping cars. Time to decide where we would spend the night. Barry had filled up at the Carrefour in the town and said that there was a borne and parking up there and suggested we stay there. It was only a couple of kilomètres away and we made our way individually to the location.
It is up by the swimming pool has a superb view.

A shot of the abbye, looking at the exterior mine was not the first.

A pleasant meal and relaxing evening followed. I thought I was letting them off early but when I checked my watch it was nearly 2300 again. I think it was at some time during the night but I was awake briefly for a while possibly wakened by the sound of owls hooting. That is certainly what I could hear. Gerri and Barry tell me they were Tawny owls as they had heard them as well.

Don’t know what is happening next.

Clive

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[Cleve]

Part 2 jour 13

samedi le 16 septembre

A leisurely start at Falaise. I surfaced relatively early and popped to the adjacent Carrefour to buy a load of marmalade that was on offer and a couple of jars of figue violet confiture (mmmmm). I had been invited to take breakfast with Gerri and Barry which naturally I accepted – my first cooked breakfast for a considerable period. Scrambled egg and salmon on toast, absolutely gorgeous.

Everything was done at the leisurely pace and I let Barry and Gerri decide where we were to go. They selected a France Passion site at Tournai sur Dives and we made our way there stopping first at the adjacent borne to service the loos etc. Sadly the borne was “hors de service” so we were unable to carry out the desired actions. Unfortunately it seems some others had and the area was quite messy. I imagine the borne will be removed because of the stupidity of some of our less responsible camping caristes. The irresponsible actions of a few depriving the many.

We left for Tournai, a pleasant short drive in lovely afternoon sun. Barry and Gerri had arrived first and as I pulled in I thought to myself that it did not look very promising and the position of Gerri and Barry’s camping car poised for launch confirmed my suspicions. A quick liaison and we decide to retrace our steps and park by the Marie at Tournai and decide where to go.

I, as I am able for the time being, left everything to Gerri and Barry and they came up with another site not far away. They left and I was to follow. Visiting the first site I had seen, off to the side, the village war memorial and and American half track, I decided that before catching the others up I would pop along, look at the site and take photo or two. I was quite surprised at what I found out which just highlighted how lacking my knowledge of events during the Bataille de Normandie is.

Tournai sur Dives was the site for the surrender which actually ended that part of the actions, a single Canadien soldier accepting the surrender of more than 2000 men and officers of the German army.

While musing over these matters I wondered where the cimetière was and then realised I was actually parked facing it. I took the opportunity to fill up with water. While doing this I received a message from Barry telling me to forget the second location and he and Gerri were on their way back. Another check of locations nearby found a forest site near Guêprei. This time we made our way there separately by different routes to see if there was much difference – there was not.

Picture above by Barry, bloke by sign me!

Gerri and Barry spoilt me yet again with a wonderful dinner of steak and chips all cooked on their Cadac. I finally succumbed and ordered one while waiting to eat. It will be about a week being delivered and I won’t be back for about a month so it will be getting in Gary’s way until I get back.

I will need to apologise to Gerri and Barry shortly because I kept them up until after midnight last night and I am grateful to Gerri for finally turfing me out!

Had a good nights sleep other than the noise of the acorns falling on my roof as I am parked under an oak tree. Some of them sounded like rocks falling!

Looking forward to a bit of a hike today. Will let you know how it goes.

Have a good day Clive

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 day 14

dimanche le 17 septembre

A leisurely day but in reality they all are, with a hint of activity. It was decided to stay on location for a second day and late morning we set off to follow the Circuit découverte Le Vaudobin et les gorges du Meillon.
The weather was pretty good today.

I apologise for the distortion on the pamphlet but I took the picture with the iPad balancing the leaflet on my seat.

The route is a little under 2.5 kilomètres and takes about 2 hours. Part of the route between points 1 and 4 where there is a steep zig zag is annotated difficult.

I formed the impression that not many had trodden the path and though we saw others during the day while there none seemed to venture along the route as we did.

The rock above is referred to in the photo below which details the legend of la "calotte rouge"

This location had taken us nearly to the bottom of the gorge and it was time to retrace our steps to point one to make our way down to point 4.

The picture above was taken at the bottom of the gorge as it was a bit steep and slippery on the way down (and the same on our way back).

There were many fungi on the walk, sample above, I am sorry but I have no idea what they are.

Above the rocky outcrop at the top of the gorge and below a view down from it.

This was the summit of our walk and we followed the route back to the camping cars. We agreed that it was a good walk and should we do that kind of thing more regularly perhaps a stout walking stick would be a good idea.

Lunch was taken late afternoon with a relaxed latter part of the day and and early night.

It is now Monday as I pen this and today we will move on. True to form I will leave it to Gerri and Barry. I have not seen them yet but they have not run away as the camping car is still here!

à bientôt Clive

 

[davanne]

Keep the updates coming Clive ...enjoying your photo's

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jour 15

lundi le 18 septembre

Today was a travelling day. As usual I left it to Gerri and Barry to decide on the destination. They are coming toward the end of their stay and moving toward the tunnel and elected to drive toward Bernay with a final decision on location after a stop to deal with the waste at the borne at Broglie.

Departure followed the usual routine. A little after passing Trun I approached the small village of St Lambert sur Dives and a memorial to the Bataille de Normandie. The panel preceding called it Le Couloir du mort (corridor or passage of death). There was adjacent parking and I pulled over to visit the site.

Just down the road from this was a small memorial with plaque (below) and a little beyond that a small piece of field artillery. Unfortunately there was nowhere convenient to stop and photo this.

I continued toward Bernay and saw in the distance a château well more of a castle in my eyes and decided I would find somewhere to stop and get a couple of shots. I found myself entering the town of Chambois where I was able to park adjacent to the castle and take my photos.

Here again there were panels about the Bataille de Normandie and I decided I would make a point of following the “circuit août 1944” during my perambulations.

I thought that as Gerri and Barry were now making their way slowly back to the tunnel I would separate from them after today and move back West to learn more about the battle and the history of the area including our old friend William the Conqueror.

A little before 1300 I received a call from Barry that they had pulled into a large layby with friterie which would be a good place for lunch. I joined them about 10 minutes later. It was decided to have a “burger and frites” from the catering van, while these were prepared I let Barry know my intentions.

After lunch we made the short journey into Broglie where there is and attractive Aire and used the borne to service the vehicles. It is situated on the site of the old railway station and adjacent to a “voie verte”.

Along the route I received a call from Barry that he had found a possible night stop at Gisey-la-Coudre, he told me where it was and would wait there for me. On arrival we decided it should be fine but later another vehicle arrived which detracted from the quality of the site and we elected to move on. Using park4night we identified a location at St-Quentin-des-Isles and made our way there. Gerri and Barry arrived first and called me with a more precise location which has proved to be ideal. I was interested to see that we backed onto the same “voie verte” as Broglie. This disused railway line has be converted into a very well maintained cycle way/footpath and we took a walk along it toward Broglie after dinner. I thought to myself that if the weather is suitable in the morning I might cycle along it to Bernay.

After our walk of a little over 2.5 kilomètres we return to Geri and Barry’s camping car where we had a glass of wine and chatted. I was a good boy and zipped my mouth about 2100, bid them good night and returned to Helen.

That is it for today. Tomorrow I return to solo travel and Gerri and Barry will get a welcome break from my presence. They have been great company and enormous fun, I will miss them being there.

Barry took a picture of the camping cars in the dark which I include below

mardi le 19 septembre (jour 16)

Well I can say without contradiction that it chucked it down last night, the sound on the roof was amazing but I can sleep through almost anything so it was not a problem for me. I awoke a little before 0800 made a cup of tea and put the heat on to take the chill off. With my second cup it was time to get up and potter around. Gerri appeared at my door with my “cup” and I joined them shortly after. Barry has developed a bit of a sore throat so sadly they did not have quite as good a night as I.

We exchanged pleasantries and I set off a minute two behind them. After passing beneath the over bridge of the voie verte I took the first left and followed the road (D33) back to Broglie and rejoined the main road system routing to Caen via Lisieux. The roads were good, traffic light apart from the odd tractor and trailer until reaching the outskirts of Caen and the peripherique. I was parked in the last but one space about 1230 following a drive of 101 kilomètres. Shortly after parking I decided that I would stay here tonight and continue my journey tomorrow.

The original plan was to drive to Le-Mont-Saint-Michel, but having checked the weather it seems that a visit to the beach could be on the cards so I will tomorrow make my way to Saint-Germain-sur-Ay where I know I can park not too far from the beach and the beach has a textile free area. I suspect I will not be sharing it with anyone!

I will leave here relatively early in the morning making my first stop at the nearby Lidl to upload essential stores (suffering paëlla withdrawal symptoms). Then a free run to the beach. If I see a GPL supply en route I will fill up. I have just switched tanks as I was getting that odd gas smell which the last time I experienced it meant the bottle was getting low.

More to come tomorrow, à bientôt, Clive



Loving it!

 

[scousebird]

Broglie aire is one of our favourites Clive. Enjoying your travels

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[Cleve]

Part 2 jour 16

mercredi le 20 septembre

Following a comfortable night at Le Memorial I was up relatively early and saw to the usual actions. One note for anyone who has not already but may be considering staying overnight at Le Memorial, Caen, try and park on the side away from the road. My first night here was on that side, this time with the back of the camping car to the hedge and road there was significant traffic until quite late and starting again quite early.

The forecast for today was good and I had already decided to head for “la plage” at St-Germain-sur-Ay-Plage. There I would seek out a sunshine fix.

I left Caen following the N13 toward Cherbourg as far as Carentan then headed for Périers, Lessay and la Plage. I stopped at Lessay to visit Lidl and Intermarché, I never cease to be amazed at the time shopping takes, this time over an hour and a quarter!

I arrived at my chosen location a little before midday.

Very shortly after, armed with beach bag I made my way to the beach where I enjoyed the sunshine until about 1415 when it clouded over and it looked as if it would be a while before it returned.

I know it is not good for me but I do really enjoy the feel of the warm sun on my skin. I also walked out toward the surf and collected a few shells while paddling.

On my return I took a late lunch and pottered around. This was followed by a YouTube binge and a quite late dinner, my Lidl favourite paëlla.

Above Helen nestling in the car park, below the wonderful dunes. This is one of my most favourite locations, sadly it is to far North but part of me belongs here - don't ask why because I don't know.

As darkness fell I took a walk over the dunes and sat and watched the sea and saw the lights of Jersey, neighbour to my home of many years. The outline of the island had been clearly visible when I was sunbathing earlier.

Later when it was totally dark I ventured outside again, the view of the Milky Way and the stars was magnificent. Ursa Major was lying to the North of me a little above the horizon and I was lucky to see the brief passage of a single shooting star. I wandered back through the dunes to the beach where the tide had begun to recede. No pictures of stars or sea I am afraid but I will read the instructions for my camera and see if anything is possible tonight (this being written now on 21 septembre).

Earlyish morning I popped to the loo and took the opportunity to look outside again at the magnificent view above. Ursa Major had arced toward the east and in the southern sky I could see Orion.

I hope for another clear sky tonight and I will have the binoculars and telescope ready. It is a bright but windy morning here with a couple of paragliders gliding back and forth along the beach. I will close this now and post more later.

Thank you for your interest. Clive

 

[Anthea M]

Clive I have enjoyed your travels so much and as we didn't make our month long trip due to my illness it's been great reading it and traveling vicariously with you and Helen!!
Thankyou for sharing your trip and photos!!

 

[Howard H]

Yes as @Anthea M says , really enjoying you travels keep it up mate

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jours 17 et 18

jeudi le 21 septembre

Well, the weather was not quite as forecast with bright sunshine for a good part of the morning so I finally succumbed and walked to the beach armed with parasol etc. Shortly after arrival the sun popped behind a cloud and stayed there. I hung on a while but the temperature drop made me call a halt.

Returning to Helen I continued pottering and not long after the rain started and continued intermittently for the afternoon and early evening.

I was pleased that the cloud broke up and I was able to view the stars after about 2100. A quick correction relating to those from the other day my positioning was about 90° out, sorry.

Later I took a stroll over the dunes and sat and watched the waves for a while before returning to Helen. I took a camera but failed. When this has been posted I will actually read the instructions but I am not promising anything.

vendredi 22 septembre

A good nights sleep but I set the alarm to make me wake early so I could see the stars. It was quite wonderful to seem them all so clearly with Ursa Major and Orion so clear. No shooting stars this time and I returned to bed surfacing for the morning ritual a little before 0800. I had watched a beautiful dawn from the comfort of my bed.

The forecast proved correct and around 0930 I set off for the beach about a 5 minute walk. I left the parasol behind today and settled for my wind break. On reaching my chosen spot I dropped the bag and opened my beach mat. I picked up a handful of stones to weight the mat and towel and decided it was time for a stroll along the edge of the waves.

The above shot shows my luxury Aldi beach bag dumped on the edge of the dunes. I was alone on the beach for around two hours and loved every minute of it. I spent the first hour or so just wandering as it says above. The tide was steadily receding and I enjoyed dipping in and out of the water and splashing like a kid, I like this growing down much better than all that growing up I had to do before.

As I walked I could see something ahead shining in the bright sunshine and I thought it might be a wheel trim or the like. Investigation was obligatory and on arrival I found a méduse (jelly fish). It was quite big and I imagine probably still alive, one thing was for sure I had no intention of finding out! Picture below.

I carried on wandering and finally returned to my towel about 1130, picking up a few more shells, looking at mermaids purses and the fragments of coral.

Just walking on the edge. My day was periods of walking, the tide goes out a heck of a way and I enjoyed walking out to the rocks. Around 1530 a thin veil of cloud masked the sun and the temperature dropped. I decided to call it a day as the forecast is good for tomorrow and I hope for a repeat.

Returning to Helen I found I was not alone. Another two camping cars and lots of cars. I will not be alone here tonight there is still one camping car and a VW California. This means I will not have the free hand of the last two days.

I am looking at using the free Aire at Lessay tomorrow, it has a great write up on park4night and I will be able to do some shopping.

If the weather holds I will be back at the beach next week. Another reason for going to Lessay is the easy access to cycle routes and I need to be on my bike, as the actress said to the bishop.

More tomorrow, cheers Clive

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jours 19 et 20

samedi le 23 septembre

A lovely day for “la plage” here at St-Germain-Sur-Ay-Plage. Up and about quite early and with the rituals out of the way I made an early start at the beach. Against all sound advice to the contrary I do like the sun and prefer not to be as white as milk so when able I try to encourage my skin to go a little darker. The arms and my big head are of course leaps and bounds ahead of the rest of me but there seems to be a progressive blending at the edges! No longer looking quite like a milk bottle.

My idea today was to walk back and forth along the exposed shore of the tide like a walking rotisserie to try and get an even sun tan (crikey, suddenly I am reminded of “Where do you go to my lovely? When you’re alon…(hopefully at least one of you will remember the lyrics!)). I spent about two hours wandering back and forth with the path growing ever longer as the tide receded.

I had my phone with me so took loads of pictures and for the first hour and a half was quite alone. After 1100 a steady trickle of others set up along the beach, a good mix of families and old fogies like me. Before they came I could act the goat – running (a relative term) and splashing and just messing about. I love being a kid again and I don’t care how irresponsible it is, as I indicated the other day, I don’t want to be a grown up anymore!

The above impressions were not found by Robinson Crusoe or made by Man Friday – I will let you guess whose they are (size 9 wide fitting).

After my lengthy promenade I set up camp on the beach, there was precious little wind so I did not need to erect my wind break. I lay listening to R4 and R4extra on the iplayer, turning regularly and basting with Nivea. Fortunately with little wind the sand did not adhere. After an hour or so I decided to return to rotisserie mode for an hour or so. The tide was well and truly out now and my trips along the edge could incorporate the rocks. Sadly I had not bothered to take the phone this time so no photos from this part of the day.

I had seen people obviously collecting something out of the tidal pools and eventually curiosity got the better of me. I approached a couple and asked them what they were looking for in the water. The simple answer was “cockles” which they proudly showed me. For me it was a bit like the moment when Black Adder found out Bob was not a boy, Ahhhhhhh, but just the ah, none of that other stuff (I wish). It reminded me of a couple of years ago when I had lunched on a carrelet at Saint-Palais-Sur-Mer and Frederique was collecting “Chinese hats” (that is what she told me) for the dinner I was to attend that evening (I think they were barnacles). I wandered off along my shore patrol enlightened.

Returning to my towel I continued listening to the iplayer. I was particularly interested in the program about “Art Schools” and must say my sympathies lay with the correspondents. I was an art student late 60’s early 70’s and can endorse their views 100%. The amalgamations and other tinkerings have nearly totally destroyed the freedoms we enjoyed. (Close of observation).

Approaching 1600 (about the hottest part of the day) I packed up and returned to Helen. I had not lunched at the beach so took dinner around 1800, rather a grand term as I was using up yesterday’s pizza, cold, I have an idea – correct me if I am wrong- but I don’t think you are meant to do that.

It ended up with five camping cars here and I retired early at 2100 listening to bits on the iplayer.

dimanche le 24 septembre

The forecast for today was rain but the day started relatively bright with a hazy sunshine. I was up early and following the ritual made my way to the beach quite early – about 0900. The tide was a reasonable distance out but the rocks were already submerged and the tide advancing progressively. I set off on my patrol of the waters edge initially into sun, the wind light and quite invigorating.

Over the preceding days I had come up with markers on the shore at which to turn, this meant that as the tide flowed over the peninsula the return journey shortened. On my first return I watched as a méduse (jelly fish) was washed ashore. This one unlike the one from a couple of days ago was smaller and upside down so I was able to see the tentacles. Again, I have no idea whether it was alive or dead and I had no intention of finding out. I imagine the sting is still present even after the creatures death.

As I walked apart from taking pictures I was emailing them to myself so some could be included here. Around 1100 I returned to Helen, made the obligatory coffee and settled down to actually read the instructions for my GoPro. It is now mounted on the tripod and set to night time lapse. I am keeping my fingers crossed that the sky will clear tonight 50/50 chance and I don’t fall asleep.

I will close this here and read the instructions for the Sony camera – they look onerous and I cannot say how long my commitment may last. The rain has stopped and I am tempted to go walkabout (with a brolly).

More soon, as they say on YouTube if you like it hit the like button if you don’t I won’t tell if you don’t.

Cheers Clive

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[davanne]

Loving the pictures Clive keep them coming

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jour 21

lundi le 25 septembre

Hello from St Germain-sur-Ay-Plage

Up early this morning despite a relatively late night waiting for the rain to stop and the sky to clear. The rain did ease for a while but sadly the cloud cover was in for the night. I am hoping for better tonight, I mean, I can’t have actually read those instructions and still not get my night shots.

I took the opportunity to take a midnight stroll along the beach, with the strong winds the surf was good and it was wonderful to see the waves breaking highlighted by just the ambient light. I walked for about an hour hoping to get a glimpse of the stars but sadly nothing. Towards the end of the walk a very fine rain began which felt pleasant. Sadly no night pictures yet.

So today was domestic duties, number 1 was to visit the Aire at Lessay and deal with the black waste. The facilities here are very good but sadly not all camping caristes can read so they have been trying to discharge their waste in the wrong location. I know as I was behind one of them but unable to stop them in time. It left it a bit messy for me as they had tried to discharge where there is the water supply for the cassette with a small drain and not the large circular lid to its right and behind marked WC in white paint. Another camping car arrived behind me and I told him where to dump just in case he was like his countryman (both French so no language excuse).

Off then to Intermarché for a few items and gazole. On the way I received a call from my John, I am hands free but I prefer not to talk at the wheel so I told him I would call him when I stopped at Intermarché which I did. I particularly wanted to buy some CR1225 batteries (4) as one of my tyrepal sensors had been exhausted and I wanted to replace the set. No luck so far.
I moaned about the price of gazole the other day and did not fill up when it was 1€209, serves me right it was 1€219 today but I feel more than compensated for having parked free all week. Such a good attitude here, I do hope the odd ones like above do not eventually ruin it for everyone.

Next stop was Lidl where I picked up the odds and ends and for tonight “Les Coquelles saint Jaques” mmm.

On then to the cimetière where I uplifted water, lots of good parking straight opposite the Gendarmerie Nationale but quite a walk back and forth to the tap. I picked up about 70 litres so will be good for a few days.

Back then to la plage where, selfishly, I am pleased to say my neighbours of the last few days had left and I was able to take up their spot which is absolutely ideal for me. Good for the camera and for my walks. Not so quick on the internet though.

Above Helen just behind the dunes and right next to where my walks start. Ideal.

I am staying in the land of “OO, OO” where a fairy and I found happiness, sadly for me she gave me the sack but I hope from time to time her curiosity gets the better of her and she may dip into the thread, I know she has in the past.

Well it is 1415 here and the sun seems to be trying to appear so I am going to go for a walk. More later.

It is nearly 1615 and I am back from my exhilarating walk. It was so good and I was so wrapped up in it I forgot to email the pictures to attach to this. I will try here later as this will not be posted for an hour or two yet. The sun’s appearances have been fleeting and the wind appears to be freshening which should make tonight’s walk quite bracing!

Confession time, while in Lidl’s I succumbed to temptation and am now the proud owner of a “selfie stick” after all I have said about them and the people that use them. Perhaps I had better finally learn to keep my large mouth shut. Hence my distraction.

Picture of the author above with new toy. I enter the beach through this gulley which is actually quite steep, not apparent in the picture and an interesting move both ways.

Of course I have now shot video in vertical not landscape mode which is OK on the phone but will probably be a distraction on the tv. Taking coffee and trying to send myself the photos. I will have to update my iPad as there are a number of features that would make life easier on the later ones. This is a 2, so relatively vintage now.

The "Coquelles St Jaques" went down a treat about 1930 and I enjoyed some cassis syrup with petillante eau for a drink. I am off the booze for a few days and seeing the picture above it is probably just as well.

Above, remains of the German war machine from WW2 part of the Atllantic wall. This is just over the way from Helen.

Above a rock pool with weed and crustations, sadly you can't see the fry or is it frie. I am now convinced that the rock pools I saw David Bellamy exploring on the tv years ago were a put up job. I have been studying them in detail for years and the result is as above not the veritable aquarium he had.

Hefty encrusted rocks with pools. Nothing here but a few frie.

Today's méduse, smallest I have photographed a bit wrapped up in the seaweed.

I never cease t wonder at the beautiful forms created by the waves and this time having no distractions and walking the same coast line each day I find that the pattern of deposition is different with each tide. I love this life.

Mean while back at the ranch ...

Just back in from a lovely walk along the beach in the dark. Not another soul out there really quite invigorating. The wind was present but not a chill wind and providing its own form of stimulation. I find these walks particularly those in the dark (I think one way or another I have spent most my life in the dark) most uplifting. The bones from the cuttlefish and some of the oyster shells seem to be slightly luminous despite total cloud cover.

One lovely thing I have been able to observe while crossing the dunes to the beach and back in the dark are the glow bugs. I have not seen these for about 15 years, the last time was when I was with friends at Chênedouit I had a camera with the sort of night sight lens then and we were able to film them then. I still have the camera but not here! I noted that they do not all glow the same colour.

That same cloud cover will preclude my night photography again tonight but I will stay up late on the off chance of a clearance and again have a look in the early morning. It is supposed to be a mix of cloud and sun tomorrow.

The coffee is made so I will grab a biscuit and sort some pictures to put in the text.

Thank you all again for reading this column it is always better to share ones experiences and a shame I don’t have anyone here to be sharing my excitement now. Pathetic isn’t it (as Marvin the paranoid android would have said).

Let’s see what the morrow brings, cheers Clive finally living and loving the dream.

 

[Go Humberto!]

Nice one Clive. Hope to be following in your footsteps within the year.

PS. I find that selfie-sticks and trousers make an ideal combination

 

[Cleve]

Part 2 jour 22

mardi le 26 septembre

Good afternoon

Well I am pleased to report that the stars came out last night. I had just returned from my walk about midnight and set the GoPro up. The bad news is I did not set it up correctly and have read the instructions again and hoping for another opportunity tonight.

Today has been a great day, I was up later than usual because of the above. When I arose there was a light mist outside and I set about my morning ritual by which time it had cleared. As it was such a beautiful morning I decided to go and walk along the beach and shoreline early. As usual for the bulk of the time I was alone, the tide was going out, I determined after I had tried to do some time lapse. I walked for about 2 ½ hours returning to Helen for lunch, a salad which I enjoyed. Then I did the washing up and had a shower.

Taken early this morning with the receding tide a view toward Pirou.

The sad remains of a small crab being tossed by the waves, I turned it over, just an empty shell.

The tide goes out a really long way here.

I had had the generator running since my return to get the fridge cold and to charge some of the devices. While drinking tea I revisited the GoPro instructions and I think I know what I did wrong now. Hopefully find out tonight.

It was a beautiful afternoon and I set out again walking my “beat” along the shoreline for another couple of hours. This time I remembered to send my messages, that is the photos from this morning.
That took most of the walk. I stopped briefly to chat to a man who was collecting moules in a rock pool. I was checking the rock pools myself for life but it was much the same as yesterday. The beach became peppered with a few sun worshippers during the course of the afternoon.

One of my limited life rock pools!

Rocks

On my return to Helen about 1700 I found that I had been joined by another camping car. It is up on levelling blocks so I guess they mean to stay the night. Hopefully the white finish will not upset my time lapse.

I am sitting here typing this in the beautiful sunshine. Tonight will be paëlla probably around 1930 and then I will go for a stroll later.

Keep your fingers crossed for my night time lapse. I will let you know what happened tomorrow.

@Go Humberto! fear not I had my very bright speedos on under there and surely those legs are something to share with the world. Enjoy your trip next year, I enjoy reading you posts and your pictures.

Now let’s see if I can find some photos that I can use. I better not use the leggy ones as they are worse than yesterday. I like the selfie stick.

Catch you later, à bientôt Clive

As I close this to post, the sky is clear the moon is up but there is a slight mist forming. I will just have to keep my fingers crossed. Bye

 

[Anthea M]

Hope the go pro works and you get some lovely pictures.
That beach looks amazing so peaceful.
Enjoy and thanks for sharing.

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