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France/ Italy Diary

16th May 2017

Well here we are just before 10:00 and about to set off for 42 days away. We are heading today to Poole in Dorset to meet up with Pat & David.

We had a reasonable drive down, with no major hold ups, arriving at St leonards Farm, a Caravan Club Certificated Location (CL), at just after 3pm, very much our anticipated time. Dave was at the site entrance to guide us into the CL. I had phoned him 7 miles out to let him know that we were near.

A pleasant site, a little road noise for saying we were sited next to a country lane, but nothing to trouble us sleep wise.

That evening we drove into Poole and enjoyed a pleasant evening together at Wetherspoons, which Pat & David had sussed out earlier in the day.

17th May 2017 - Day 2

Well they predicted rain and rain is what we got. From early morning it poured down and showed no signs of stopping, keeping us in, with me working on solving Bens word search that he had worked on at school and printed off for me to complete. It was produced in his lunch break, so he assures me. As well as finding the words he had set Nana and I found a further 50+.

We had planned to visit Corfe Castle a nearby National Trust property, which Pat & Dave had wanted to visit, but thought better of it. So we spent virtually the whole day sitting in either ours or Pat & Daves vans drinking tea and coffee. After lunch we did venture out dropping down into Poole to pick up provisions, more for Pat & Dave, as thet had been away prior to our arrival. We did pick up a bargain of a set of two level caravan steps at Aldi for a bargain price.

That evening we returned to Wetherspoons for another excellent evening meal.

18th May 2017 - Day 3           UK to Courtils France

An early start today 5am to be precise, as this morning we have to be at the ferry terminal to catch the boat, which sails at 08:30. Left the CL at 7 and arrived at the port and to our surprise we were not the first.

Once loaded onto the ferry we had breakfast and settled down for a relatively smooth crossing. Once clear of French passport control we covered the 100 miles to our first French site in just over 2 hours.

Pam & I had stayed on this site back in 2015, when, as with this visit, we used the site as a convenient spot from which to visit Le Mont St Michel. Pat & Dave have never been to The Mont, so asked if we could make this detour at the start of the holiday. The site at Courtils was very much the same as when we last visited, although with a fewer number than before using the site, which was good for us as we had a better pick of a location.

19th May 2017 - Day 4

Our first full day in France and we awoke to a partially blue sky with only the occasional glimpse of the sun. As a sign that we are now officially on holiday out came the shorts and short sleeved shirt.

I will never stop to be amazed at the manificence of Le Mont no matter how many times we visit. You cannot fail to be impressed at the sight of the structure, from far off, as you approach, sometimes miles away, or close to, from the approach causeway - awesome.

Sadly today the weather let us down. At times it was pouring, not only did we get wet - fortunately we took our foldway raincoats, but it also curtailed opportunities for outdoor photographs. When it did stop, the sky was still overcast. So different from our 2015 visit when we had lovely clear blue skies. Had lunch on the mount, much better meal than last time - better food and at a reasonable price.

Worthy of mention is Pams unbelievable stamina, which she conjured up from heaven knows where. She was amazing, climbing stairs like a spring lamb, well a slight exaggeration, nervertheless well done you xxxxxxxx

 20th May 2017 - Day 5

Awoke to a clear blue sky and the sun shining, which didn't last as we spent the rest of the day under a cloudy sky. In fact we evn had a short shower.

We popped into Avranches - a first, twice in fact, once for Dave to fill up his car and then later for us all to go back in our car so that I could fill up. On our trip we actually stayed and paid a visit to the town. Like The Mont, Avranches is difficult to avoid as we drove towards Courtils as it stands very prominently on a hill, with its multiple churches prominent.

We had lunch in a quaint little cafe, which was lined with old wooden book cases on which were a variety not just books but various artefacts, a realistic step back in time, skillfully recreated and extremely homely. A very enjoyable meal too boot - burger with chips and salad. This is going to sound strange, but the chips, the chips were unbelievably yummy. They were stingy and a little on the soft side, but very tasty and scrumptous. Sadly the staff spoke very, very little English so we were unable to ask how they were made - pity.

On our return to site we took down the awnings - Pat & Dave having to give theirs a wash over - pigeon droppings, both of us ready for an early start tomorrow as we start our journey south towards Annecy.

21st May 2017 - Day 6            Courtils to Vincelles

We left Courtils just after 8am and arrived at our overnight stop at Vincelles around 3:30pm. A journey of 304 miles, according to my log, which consisted of some motorway with just the added inconvenience of quant - uneven and extremely bumpy country roads. Arrived, despite the bumps in one piece, to a sunny clear blue sky, with just the occasional candy tuft clouds.

Once sited, on our less than immaculate pitch, wild buttercups abound amidst the sparse grass and larger areas of stone laden soil. Ok for a one night stay. Once set up we went off to fill the cars, Dave passing the cheaper petrol pumps and heading instead to an Esso garage out on the main road, with me in tow. With 304 mile done the tank took 70 euros of diesel (gazooks).

Had a walk after tea. Site located adjacent a canal, sadly no activity on the water, but did hear a nearby waterfall, which I went off to investigate and photograph. The waterfall turned out to be a weir, on a river at which point the canal had been formed. The canal didnt seem to be in much use as it was covered in algae.

22nd May 2017 - Day 7           Vincelles to Annecy

Left the site around 9:30 to make our way to Annecy, well Sevrier, which stands on the side of Lake Annecy. We had to make a diversion not long into our planned journey as at the point Dave had indicated we turn off the main road to follow the signs for the A6, we found the turn off and the sign, but the A6 had been covered over with black tape. There had been a sign just a bit earlier on the side of the road warning of something, but being in French, wasn't understandable. Dave had made the turn, but like me, having seen the black tape wasn't sure if to continue and stopped. I pulled up behind him and, after a conflab, we decided against continuing on this route and to find an alternative. I was able to turn easilly and did so and returned to the main road and parked at the side. Dave struggled and had to reverse before being able to turn. I led until we found another untaped turning to the A6, which we followed. At the peage, Dave took over the lead aagin.

We arrived at our Sevrier site around 4, having easily locating the site, following, once more, Daves very accurate and detailed directions. Our arrival at Annecy, was breathtaking as, on this bright sunny day, we caught our first glimpse of the blue/green lake and the bowl in which it sat, surrounded as it is with sky soaring mountains

The site is ideally located on the banks of Lake Annecy, so after tea Pat, David and I had a stroll down to the lake, to take in the marvellous views of our new and, to date, most impressive site, with the glimpses of  distant villages on the far bank of the lake, dwarfed as they were, by the heavilly tree clad and dominating mountains.

Looking forward, very much, to exploring this amazing location.

23rd May 2017 - Day 8

Awoke this morning not to a clear blue sky, but to clouds, with the sun obvioulsy trying to break through. When we booked in yesterday, reception said that they were in for 14 days of sunshine - heres hoping our 4 days on site are included!

We drove into Annecy and parked as usual with most cities in France at an underground car-park adjacent the Town Hall. We had a nice walk around the town and lake, using the map I had obtained, in advance, from the local TIC. An interesting city, a mix of canals and narrow walk ways, a location I would to explore more, a bit at a time, not all in one day

After lunch, of bageutte, which we sat and ate in the park bordering the lake, we decided to take a 2 hour afternoon boat trip, which promised to explore all corners and sides of the lake. It turned out to be a very interesting tour come cruise, looking back from the lake at the various little villages and the expensive properties which some lucky people were wealthy enough to enjoy. The cruise gave us the inspiration for a day out.

24th May - Day 9

The inspiration from Day 8 to drive around the lake visiting the villages on the far bank. We set out from the site and drove towards the bottom of the lake, before turning to drive up the east side of the lake, making occasional stops as we went along at laybys or in car-parks, that enabled us to take in the views. At Tallories we actually sat on the "plage" - what they term the beach, where we sat and had an enjoyable pic-nic lunch, enjoying the continuing sunshine, watching the kiddies enjoying themselves in the paddling pool, which had been created by sectioning off a portion of the lake.

I drove us up to the chataeu, that we can see from our side of the lake, but sadly it was closed.

On reaching the outskirts of Annecy, having completed our drive along the east side of the lake, we tried to stop for a coffee, at a cafe/restaurant over looking the lake, only to be told they were closed, despite numerous people sit in and around the place. Desperate for a coffee we ended up parking in Annecy at the town hall car park once again, and going into old Annecy for a very delightful coffee and cake.

25th May - Day 10

I first new about about  Camping Les Rives du Lac, the site we are on, in a Motor Home magazine, to which we once subscribed. In this particular magazine they had a section on recommended sites, reported by individuals and some by their own journalists/contributors. One such article covered Rive du Lac and for some unknown reason wet my appetite sufficiently that when the magazine got recycled the alticle page was removed and kept. The magazine was dated 2012. the night before I had read the recommended places that the article mentioned as being worthy of a visit and suggested that we give them a try as they were both close by.

So mid morning we set off, with Dave driving to find the first of these attractions - Gorges du Fier. This turned out to be an highlight of our holiday, an amazing natural phenomena, which tested your fear of heights to the extreme. To access the gorge you traverse along a walk way, which is at its widest only 3 feet wide, which is suspended from the side of the gorge by metal plates and anchorings into the rock face.the  The construction of footbridges was completed as far back as 1869. They do show signs of  more recent repairs and adaptations. There is nothing below you other than a drop of some 22 metres to the flowing river bed below. The site, the experience is amazing as are the facts, pictorially displayed at the mid point of your walk by a "dip stick sign" placed on the side of the gorge wall showing the high points of the water, the highest recorded being 27 metres, some 5 metres above your head. The thought of the power that so much water would possess travelling through this narrow gorge is brought to life when you see strewn across the rocks below tree trunks, of all shapes and sizes, now deposited as the water levels fell, which previously had been picked up and carried along as though mere  matchsticks. An awesome natural wonder.

Two pictures of Gorges de Fier in quiet mode, either side a picture showing the destruction caused by the waves and the aftermath,the resulting widespread work.

We sat at the picnic area provided and had our lunch. A location Jacob would have thoroughly enjoyed as we sat with the main railway line into and out of Annecy at our side. Sadly I was never quick enough to capture on film the TGV and domestic trains that passed by, nor sadly did one pass over the bridge built through the gorge as we were walking through, when I was armed with my camera.

Our follow on visit to the next recommended location was to "The Secret Garden", which, as its name implies, sits in the middle of nowhere in a relatively quiet backwater area of France. The garden was a remarkable achievement both horticulturally and architecturally, by one couple, she for the horticulture, he for the architecture, and to an small extent their children and grand children. I could have spent hours there, so taken by the ingenuity, originality and spectacular designs, both of the garden and by the interiors of the adjoing garden buildings. Within the gardens were amazing uses of materials, in the adjoing buildings sheer luxury, not through lavish expenditure, but through the choice of materials, coulours and fabrics and lighting.

This was an amazing location - one you couldn't believe was literally in the middle of nowhere, but a location, could you be fortunate to stay there, would you immerse you sufficiently to  feel as though you were in your very own Shangri La.

Two amazing firsts and each an amazing experience

26th May 2017 - Day 11

Another long drive ahead of us one of near 300 miles as we venture into Italy heading for our site on the banks of another lake, this time Garda.

A reasonable drive except for Milan, where the road went from 4 lanes down to one, heading for Venice, and a log-jam of cars - buses and lorries. The Italian way of road markings on motorways is initially mis leading. On a four lane road, they indicate only three for the onward direction and the inner lane for the turn off destination. The times I struggled to move over, from the inner lane, with Dave duly following behind, only to find out that all four lanes carried on, frustrating. More so when one time when I didnt move over the inner lane was a turn off only, from which we both just managed to divert car and vans to the appropriate lane. I was more than cautious there after.

With Milan and the problems behind us we finally arrived at our new site "Fornella"  in the location called San Felice del Benaco. A site with,  as far as I have experienced, a unique approach to arrival, yes they had a large parking space for arrivals, bays in fact, but if with car and van you would have to drive into the bay and  then reverse out. There were barriers  blocking access to the site. Fortunately when we arrived all of the initial spaces were occupied so we were forced to drive around the back of those already in the bays and park.  You didnt go to recption to book in you went to arrivals. They had all your details and after we had both covered all the necessary paperwork were handed individual welcome packs  - a very nice touch.

The site is very big as we found when we all ventured out after tea for an evening stroll. where we are located is absolutely idillic compared to elsewhere on the site, which consists of tourers, tents, statics and chalets, with far less privacy than the two of us have.

27th May 2017 - Day 12

Our first day exploring the southern part of the lake, sadly with only a few days at "Fornella"  there won't be sufficient time to tour further north or to visit Verona, which has instantly been ruled out.

Our first destination is the town of Desdenzano, which looked an interesting location, on the shore of the lake and with a castle. We meandered around prominading the lake side front first going left and then right in search of the castle, only to find some time later, in fact after lunch, that despite it being promoted as being a lakeside attraction it was infact inland and within spitting distance of where we had parked the car. Nowhere near the lake side. Having found it - it was shut for siesta. One plus for the trip was the steam locomotive on display on the front. No details as to what it was or why it was there. Pictures taken so research when I get home.

An overcast warm, muggy morning, so few pictures as a result. Nothing worse than grey backgrounds especially when the scenery is otherwise pictorial, more so when the sun shines. I am definitely reducing picture taking, as I did in Florida to some degree. If it doesn't look right to the eye, then it doesn't get taken.

28^th May Day 13

A trip to day to Gardone Riviera, via the ferry port at Portese and the town of Salo. A very busy road on the approach to Salo and even beyond the town until thankfully we arrived at Gardone. Our visit to this lakeside town was to explore the botanical gardens created on the terrace slopes overlooking Lake Garda, that were created by Andre Heller. It took a time to locate them, even though they cover an area of some 10000 square metres. We made several trips up and down the hill adjacent, giving amusements to some locals sat in a road side cafe as first we passed them going up, then coming down only to repeat this process two further times. In the end, we struck a compromise and parked mid-way up the hill and started to walk to locate the gardens. Starting to walk in the direction we had previously driven, back up the hill, much to the surprise of Pam, but in desperation I went and asked for directions at a restaurant. As we were parked nowhere near the gardens we all returned to the car and drove to the bottom of the hill and the car park we had originally gone to park in, as the garden entrance was only yards away, we had passed it once when we first turned off the main road. Interesting gardens, not a mass of colour, sadly some blooms past their best, with others still to emerge. Several large pools, stocked with Koa carp and terrapins along with numerous statues and strange shaped objects. Still well worth the traffic jams and the abortive attempts at locating the site.

29^th May Day 14

A return trip to the southern end of the lake, passing through Desenzano on our way to Sirmione. Only a short journey, with numerous traffic islands en-route. We parked as close to the old town as possible, although we realised after, that we could have parked closer, but that's hindsight for you. It was still only a short walk to the entrance to the old town and the fortified entrance. Sadly, the castle wasn't open. However, we still had a pleasant wander around the shore line, the harbour and the shops, but couldn't locate a path to the old roman ruins which are located at the extreme end of the promontory on which the town sits. We sat and had a very nice picnic under the shade of the trees watching the activity in and around the beach. Gorgeous weather - can it last, we certainly hope so. It's so refreshing to wander around places, especially areas as beautiful as Sirmione in the sun with the clear blue sky as your canopy.

30^th May Day 15

Another very interesting morning in which, we visited Isla del Garda, the palatial residence, at least from what we saw of the outside and the sheer size of the island, of the owners of Camping Fornella, the site we are currently staying on.

To access Isla del Garda, we had to catch a ferry at Portese harbour. Not up too early as the boat didn't sail until 09:40 and the harbour is only a seven-minute drive from site. A very nice smooth crossing, our first time on the Lake and an opportunity to take in the views of the small towns and villages that line the shore.The island and the property and gardens are superb, what a place to live. Very picturesque with a marvellous building in which the current owners and their family live. We had a guide to show us around the island and parts of the property, who herself resides in San Felice, who for an Argentinian, spoke pretty good English. Both Pam and I took a number of pictures, both on the island and on the boat crossings. The visit was rounded off with wine and local biscuits both very enjoyable.

Afternoon of relaxing, shopping and filling up the car with yet more diesel, ready for our departure tomorrow for Treporti.

31^st May Day 16

Travel to Treporti

We left just after 11, I had a slight coming together with a small portion of the sites barrier thankfully catching a cover on a light reflector and not the barrier itself. Only minimal damage to the offside wheel arch of the van. A steady drive with huge amounts of lorries travelling at speed. They made the M1 look tame and pedestrian.

Arrived at Ca Savio site around 4 o-clock and we could pick our own spots, which we did with relative ease as the site was remarkably quiet. We spent ages David and I trying to locate a fresh water supply and waste water points to no avail. We eventually gave up and consulted reception to be told you obtain water from the washrooms and empty waste at the motorhome point which is located outside the main entrance. They said they had no designated water points, but, when Dave remarked as such on their Facebook page, he was told that he had been miss-informed and that there were two such points, which we did finally locate. That's two points for some hundred vans, motorhomes and tents! Despite this, the site is ideally located as Pam and I found when we first came here in 2012 handy for the beach and the Adriatic and off course Venice.

Had a deplorable meal in the restaurant that evening. Had a pizza which was lifeless, tasteless. I asked for a Hawaiian and received a normal cheese and tomato with tinned pineapple rings plonked on top very unimaginative. Left most of it. Needless to say, we didn't eat in that restaurant again during our 7-night stay.

1^st June Day 17

We made enquiries, at the information point on the camp site, about the advertised evening cruise around Venice, for the following evening, to be told that this was not available for that particular day. The only trips would be on dates when we were no longer on site.

Had lunch at the van, then set off in the car to catch the ferry at Punta Sabbioni to go into Venice. Pam and I never thought that we would one-day return, but here we are catching the ferry to St Mark's square, once again. Whilst paying for the ferry we asked, out of curiosity, if they had tickets left for tomorrows evening trip into Venice. We were told yes and that if we arrived tomorrow prior to the ferry sailing they would have tickets available. So much for the information at site.

Thankfully nothing about Venice has changed, it's still as impressive as ever and, thankfully with this visit few of the buildings are undergoing repair or renovation. We can see all the Doges palace and at last the Bridge of Sighs and not an artists impression on a tarpaulin covering.

We had a very pleasant walk around St Marks square, we didn't venture too far away from the square as we have several days in which to explore. We did ascend the Campanile and spent a very enjoyable hour or so taking in the marvellous views from the top of the bell tower.

2^nd June Day 18

I recorded the quietness of the site too soon, it's getting busy. People have arrived, either very late last night or incredibly early this morning. It's a national holiday today so maybe a long weekend is planned by the locals.

We went and spent time on the beach today, sitting reading and the occasional paddle in the lovely tepid Adriatic. We didn't stay long and went back to the vans for lunch. The water was lovely and warm, but the beach was so well shelved that you could walk out some distance and still not be at any depth. After lunch, I walked up to Ca Savio centre and beyond to the waterway and the lift bridge, just for a bit of exercise Pam and I decided to venture on site for a meal, not this time at the restaurant but at the snack bar. A much better meal made more so by the fact that on the large screen TV opposite our table was an interview taking place with the great Giacomo Agostini. Sadly, no sound, although it would have probably have been in Italian, but never the less great to see he is looking well and has a marvellous house, well mansion and to see old film of him in action on the MV Agusta.

In the evening, we went into Venice on the night time cruise, including drinks and nibbles - nice treat. The boat didn't take the usual route to the moorings at St Marks square but instead went around the various smaller islands and waterways. He took us past the world famous Arsenale, the location for boat production on a massive scale, which we just managed to glimpse, catching sight at one point of the submarine in dry dock which was shown on Alexander Armstrongs recent BBC TV programme. The Arsenale was where the Venetians were the first to create manufacturing production line, producing as they did 100's of ships and armoury, one of the earliest large-scale industrial enterprises in history.

The highlight for me of the evening, was approaching the mooring coming from the opposite side of St Marks square which meant we passed in front of the entrance to the square and the Doges Palace. An excellent opportunity to capture this iconic scene, on camera, just before the light started to fade. We then had just under two hours to explore Venice by night which was a first for Pam and I. We couldn't chance it on our previous visit as we were reliant, not only on the ferry but the bus also to get us back to Ca Savio. A memorable first, one which Pam and I thoroughly enjoyed.

3^rd June Day 19

Despite our agreement that, we wouldn't go into Venice on a Saturday because it would be busy, we went into Venice on a Saturday. Surprisingly it wasn't busy. We've travelled in twice now and not once has the ferry been busy. Last time here, we were packed like sardines in a can, every time Pam and I ventured into Venice. Today we were all going into the Basilica, however that plan was short lived as I had a rucksack and these are not allowed. I was given scant directions as to where I had to deposit the rucksack, but after making two further enquiries of not so communicative Italians, so I gave up. I stood in the sun waiting whilst the others continued their tour, hoping that they would realised that I wasn't going to return, which, thankfully they did. They appeared some little time later, somewhat disappointed in their visit. It seems initial entry was free, but other parts that were available incurred a charge in each case. I think my absence may have been a contributory factor to the lack of exploration.

We had lunch in Venice at a rather nice cafe/bar, just off Saint Marks square. Why Pam and I couldn't find these places when we were first time! Pam and I shared a club sandwich, washed down by the ubiquitous cappuccino and followed by a rather scrumptious tart, which was both expensive and delicious. Next stop the Rialto bridge, where we all took numerous pictures, as you do, of this most famous crossing on the grand canal. We also sussed out, no confirmed, the prices for a trip on a gondola, which was 80 euros during the day or 100 euros at night. We have agreed that we will be gondolering before we go home. To return to Saint Marks square we caught one of the Vaporetto, (this being the locals version of our NCT bus), and travelled for the first time, but not the last, along the Grand canal to the square, before catching our ferry back to site.

Above scenes shot from the Vaporetto as we travelled along the Grand Canal.

We hit the sack early that night, both of us exhausted from a busy and another very interesting day.

4^th June Day 20

What a way to spend a Sunday on the beach in the gorgeous sun, in and out of a lovely warm Adriatic Sea. The beach is so shallow you can walk out some distance and still the water doesn't come up to your chest lovely. Wouldn't like to keep walking to suddenly find that the sand under your feet suddenly disappears! I went back to the van and made lunch, which Pam and I then sat on the beach, not literally, we eat out of our sandwich boxes, sitting on our chairs on the beach.

We stayed until around 3:30, after several more times in the water and an ice-cream from a very clever vender who operated up and down the beach with an electric trolley. We came back to have showers and to later soak up more of the afternoon sun, this time sitting at the side of the van. A truly relaxing holiday day.

Spent time in the evening over at Pat and David's van, where we had had tea together, talking politics and economics, very high brow, with a professor from Rome University, who lives in Verona, but was camping in his motorhome with his very tolerant wife. It was ironic to hear him say all the same topics that we debate in private back home. It's a very small world, but with like problems to which politicians do not seem to comprehend, or if they do they keep their thoughts to themselves.

5^th June Day 21

Prior to the holiday we had discussed where we would like to visit and one location whilst in Venice was the Doges Palace, which Pam and I didn't go around when we were last here. Dave had looked it up on the internet and found that we could book an English tour of the "Secrets of the Palace" as an extra to the normal tour of the palace that all visitors can do. We agreed and Dave duly booked the tickets, via the internet, for the 5^th June. The tour was brilliant and extremely informative, with information, by the bucket load, provided by our very competent English-speaking guide. We were privileged to able to explore the old gaols within the palace and the chamber used by the various bodies, which administered the justice, rough as it was, to the unfortunates brought before them. We also stood in the cramped office of the man appointed Chancellor, the very chief civil servant in modern parlance. A room barely 5foot wide and possible no more than 10foot long with one single desk. If the guide was true, we even stood outside the cell occupied by Casanova, from which he cunningly escaped. There were two highlights of the trip. The first to stand on the edge of the entrance to the roof void above the great hall, the splendour of which we would appreciate later as part of the normal tour of the palace. The hall has one of the largest unsupported roofs in Europe, and to witness how this had been achieved was a remarkable feat of carpentry and engineering. The crafts of the Venetians as ship builders was used to great effect to create this incredible structure, as did the furnishings of many of the rooms that we visited on the tour. Having completed our secret tour, we emerged to the surprise of those on the normal visit from a panel in the wall in the palace proper, at the head of one of the most marvellously decorated stairways I think I have ever witnessed. The palace was opulent, with incredible ceilings, huge paintings and huge scale rooms which were used to house their parliament.

Above scenes from within the Palace, showing the opulence.

More pictures from our tour, this time of and from within the famous Bridge of Sighs - the passage way to prison.

After lunch of lasagne, at the cafe/restaurant within the palace we set off to the Rialto bridge to purchase our ride on a gondola on the Grand Canal.

A truly brilliant experience, 40 minutes of magic as we set off on the Grand Canal, before being taken on a tour of the various back waters and the surrounding buildings. Well worth the money, made possible this visit by being able to spread the cost between the two couples, and, one which we can view over and over again as the trip was captured not only on numerous photographs but also on video.

Above our once in a lifetime journey about to begin, then us passing under the Rialto and finally a bodged selfie, with the Fuji not a camera.

6^th June Day 22

Our last day at Ca Savio, and the threat of rain, our first for what seems ages. We took the awning down this morning just in case and had it all cleaned and folded away and along with all the chairs packed and stowed away inside the car. Cleaned the car windows, which were absolutely filthy, covered in a sticky film, presumably from the surrounding trees. Had lunch then went onto the beach to collect sand and small shells for Ben's Venice present. The waves today are much higher and out to sea dark ominous clouds.

Around 3:30 the rain started, nothing heavy, just a light shower, protected as we were under the canopy of the trees.

Received the sad news that Janet Thorne, a friend from short mat bowls had suddenly died from an heart attack. We have texted Kirsty to ask if she will send a card on our behalf to Colin.

7^th June Day 23

We left Ca Savio around 8:30 and within 15 miles or so I took the wrong Autostrada turning. We ended up on the A4 but took the long route. The Autostrada busy, numerous lorries, sometimes nose to tail for some distance, making overtaking difficult. Once committed you just had to keep going until a suitable gap appeared not just for one van but for two. We stopped for lunch at a toll exit, which was adjacent the high-speed railway line from Milan to Turin and Rome.

We arrived at our one night stop, at Camping Monbarone, a little after 3:30, to what looked to be a reasonable site. We pitched amidst chalets and summer residence caravans. It was nice to park on proper grass again. Not a bad site for 16 euros a night, despite it only having 4amp electrics. The sun is still shining as we head back to France.

8^th June Day 24

Heading back into France today via the Mont Blanc tunnel. At my third attempt, two last night, and my last this morning I have managed to fill up with fuel. We set off for our next destination just after 9 and finally arrived at Camping Tournus just before 3:30 having made the customary stop for lunch. A reasonable drive, much of which we covered on motorway.

The Tournus site was already for us, the second only to have pitches reserved for us, the first being at Annecy. As we were only there for one night the site had reserved two hard standing pitches close to the exit, thus providing us with easy departure on Friday.

Once more set off to find the nearest supermarket to fill up again on fuel.

9^th June Day 25

Left Tournus, with just the slightest hint of rain to come, as we were setting up to leave. We did have the occasional shower as we got onto the A6 motorway, but thankfully it didn't last. It was overcast, with the odd glimpse of blue sky, but seldom glimpsed, until we got closer to Paris, when the sun did break through and we arrived on site, close to the town of Melun, and Camping Belle Etoile, in bright sunshine. Despite the site advising us to arrive between 12 and 8, it was closed as they were on lunch. From their upstairs living quarters, we were told to find a pitch, set up and come back to reception later, which we did. We set up close to the exit and went and settled up later as requested. The site is reasonable, with proper water and waste supplies, but only 10amp electrics, which does seem to be the norm, and which we blew instantly when using our standard electric kettle.

Went for a bit of a very brief walk along the side of the river Seine, which runs parallel to the site. We were not on the nicest side of the river sadly, much overgrown and occasionally used as a rubbish tip. The far bank however looked nicely manicured.

We sat outside and had our evening meal together once more staying out till gone 10.

10^th June Day 26

We left site at around 10 and set off for a 2017 First for Pam and I, a visit to Chateau Fontainebleau. We parked easily in an official car-park, virtually opposite the chateau gates.

An impressive building from the outside, with the building taking up three sides as you stood at the main gates with the main entrance directly in front of you, with buildings either side, providing, a rather grand concourse or court yard. Similar in fact to the entrance to Versailles, but on a much smaller less grander scale. Impressive architecture nevertheless, made so by its simplicity in design, nothing over the top, no grand columns or fancy decoration.

Very reasonable price to get in, at only 11 euros each and we both agreed at the end of the visit well worth every euro that we had spent.

The scale of the rooms, the opulence, were just amazing. The church and the dance hall awesome in their size, their colour and decoration. The King and Queens chambers, greeting rooms, for when they met dignitaries and their bedrooms, jaw dropping for the magnificence of the furniture and the decorations. Overall an impressive first.

Sadly, we haven't time to visit the nearby and equally impressive Vicomte Chateau. This was so opulent that when the Lois the 14^th, the 'Sun King' visited his Treasurer, who lived at Vicomte, he became so jealous of the magnificence of the place, and jealous that he should have a building better than his, that he ordered the building of Versailles. Perhaps a visit another time and a return to Camping Belle Etoile.

That night as a celebration of our last day of our France/Italy/France holiday as a foursome, we went to the nearby 'Buffalo Grill' for a very pleasant meal together for tomorrow we set off once more, back to Normandy to the start of the Waggoner two-week rally.

11^th June Day 27

Dave had mentioned last night about not using the cross-country route to our next destination, but as it was a Sunday, to use the motorways instead, skirting around Paris and picking up the A13, which would take us straight through to Caen. Pam and I keen to change as this would mean motorway or dual carriageway travel for much of the journey. Dave had looked up the possibility of this route earlier in the day, but his in-car sat-nav looked like it would take us around the Paris Peripherique, which neither Pat nor David fancied. Our sat-nav however, being set up for car and caravan, clearly avoided the Peripherique, but did skirt Paris using mostly the motorway options. In the end we decided to take our option with Pam and I leading our exit from Camping Belle Etoile.

We started out just after 8:30 and covered nearly 200 miles in 4 hours, including one 10/15 minute break, arriving at Camping Chateau Martragny after a relatively easy, lorry free run. Dave sorted out with reception where the rally was being sited and, after agreeing where Dave wanted to be as Marshall, we got ourselves sited and settled in, with water and electrics on and, awnings erected. We were just enjoying a drink sat outside as it started to rain, our first in nearly three weeks.

We are at Martragny on a WCC rally for 14 nights, excluding this one. The remainder of those attending the rally will start to arrive tomorrow, 5 in all, in addition to Dave and ourselves.

12^th June Day 28

A typical Turner start to the morning, still having breakfast at 10:30, having got up, washed and generally took things easy.

After breakfast Pam did some washing, not a lot, but enough for a wash and dry in the site facilities. We haven't got through much, with it being so hot, we've been in shorts and short sleeved tops for most of the time. What was washed was mostly smalls.

Whilst Pam was busy doing the washing, I finalised down-loading pictures from both cameras to the laptop. Not many this time. Also noted that as we could have more than one item on the free wi-fi, that all of Pams pictures from her iPhone are now appearing on her iPad, having set up communication between the two.

The rest of the rally attendees arrived safe and sound.

13^th June Day 29

After breakfast, I went for a shower using the site facilities. Bum control, sorry derriere control and, not that hot, plus the room itself was cold. Pam was going to do likewise but I persuaded her to have a shower in the van, she didn't take much persuading.

Drove out to an area called 'Suisse Normandie' in the tourist information, but more specifically to a location called Clecy to visit what is reported to be the largest model railway layout in Europe. Even before getting there I think this is a slight - no a very large exaggeration, as never yet seeing this or Miniature Wunderland in Hamburg, I feel that the latter will be miffed to think that another layout could lay claim to the title of being the largest, when the Hamburg layout is clearly going to be head and shoulders larger. It may be the largest in France, who knows, but I am sure not the largest in Europe. Time will tell.

In the end an excellent layout, in HO and using Fleischman and similar European trains, rolling stock, buildings and vehicles. The various dioramas, that have been skilfully created, are enhanced with the introduction of many thousands of lights. This was especially noticeable with the fairground rides. Operation of the trains run digitally from a control centre, not hidden away as with most display layouts but at the back and raised so that the operator, the son of the originally founder can see and identify for the visitors the various actions taking place.

Not only an excellent layout, but some marvellous antique and priceless exhibits of trains and rolling stock on display in cabinets around the room and, on the layout, itself.

We did a wander down to the river, whilst waiting to get into the railway; we arrived over an hour before it opened, which was very picturesque, with small cafes and restaurants along its bank. We also noted a rather nice looking campsite,pleasantly located alongside the river bank with well manicured grass and well-spaced plots. Whether we would ever return to this area having visited it twice now in the last three years is doubtful, but one never knows.

Above: View by the river at Crecy with the caravan site shown on the opposite bank of the river, an interesting location, should we ever look to return to this area.

14^th June Day 30

Our first trip out today, this holiday, with Annie and Ted. A trip to Utah beach, the landing point of one the American contingent of the D-Day landings 6^th June 1944. A museum has been created, adjacent to the beach, to retell the impacts, both to the Americans and the local French, of this vital day in the history of WW2. As well as numerous artefacts collected from that day, there are pictures and videos, many recalling what took place on that day and the days that followed, from personal memories. The objects can be small personnel items to somewhat larger pieces of military equipment. For example, hastily discarded German medical phials, containing various cures, dollar bills salvaged from the wrecks of ships, destroyed at sea by enemy fire, to the main showpiece, one of only 6 surviving B26 Marauders.

Many pieces of information, along with the photographic and stark reminders of the events back in 1946, were at times can quite emotive and overall poignant.

Our next stop was Ste Marie du Mont, the scene, one of many fought out that day, of battles between the US and the Germans, with several halts along the way to look at individual memorials, erected along the roadside. One such stop saw two commemorations one acknowledging the involvement of Danish ships crews and opposite on the other side of the road to one particular US division that spear headed the inland assault.

After Ste Marie, we headed for the little town of Ste Mere Eglise, the landing point for the American 82nd Airborne division, who parachuted into the area, the night before the beach landings to provide rear cover. The town was the first to be liberated by airborne US troops and has remained famous through Trooper John Steele, who unfortunately when landing got caught up on the church spire and is commemorated, proudly by the towns folk, with an effigy of the soldier with his parachute suspended from the church, still to this day. And secondly through the film 'The Longest Day"', which recorded the build up to and the action of D-Day.

There is another remarkable museum adjacent the church, containing yet more artefacts resulting from the action that took place. Especially significant is the warhorse Douglas DC57 and glider both contributing so much to the liberation of Europe. Heart stopping, for me at least, exhibits, with stark reminders, once more, of the price paid, not just by the allies, but by the French themselves. It is estimated 15000 French civilians died as a result of the war, some sadly killed as a direct result of D-Day activities. Sadder still is the knowledge that 43000 Londoners were killed during the blitz.

15^th June Day 31

A semi-rest morning, imposed upon us by an over-generous act!

The morning at least was spent sitting in the sun. We had lunch on site and then set off, we (Pam and I) had said for Caen, but Annie, no Ted, wanted to go Bayeux and Arromanches, so that is where we headed for.

Annie and Ted went to look at the 'Bayeaux Tapestry', which we had already seen and didn't wish to see again, so settled instead for coffee. They appeared about 15 minutes after the museum had opened, with no one else in the room and not having visited the first-floor museum. We then left Bayeux and set off to Arromanches, rather than going for a walk around the town or for visiting the cathedral or D-Day museum or the British Cemetery.

Pam & I had another great visit to the Arromanches museum. Listened to an explanation of the origins of the temporary harbour, in English. We watched a film, with graphics, explaining the offensive and the harbour creation and watched another film, this time in Spanish but using a handheld unit, similar to a phone, which gave the narration in English. The last film was very British, peaceful scenes of activity after the initial landings, building the various parts of the harbour, with apparently no interference from the Germans whatever. I don't think so some how!

Later when walking back to the car we came across several war veterans, one by the name of Eric Jeffers, who as a young man, had taken part in those very landings. He had recently been given France highest honour, the Legion de Honour. It was a privilege to meet him. He is pictured above.

We travelled up to the American Cemetery at Omaha beach, but arrived just as it was closing.

16^th June Day 32

One more off our tick/bucket list, even though we don't have one as such, its all in our heads, with a visit today to Honfleur.

Had an interesting arrival at the seaside/harbour town, in trying to locate 'Naturoscope', a building housing butterflys, birds and exotic plants. I missed the direction sign and didn't follow the Sat Navs implicit instructions and ended up driving around parts of the old town, down exceedingly narrow and twisty roads. We did finally make it to the building and enjoyed a pleasant hour or so wandering amongst the plants and being skimmed by numerous butterflys. There wasn't many bird species to photograph, but those that did put in an appearance were very colourful.

We drove from the building, despite the parking being free, back to the town to be nearer for walking. We had lunch overlooking the inner harbour, sitting outside sadly consuming, as well as food, some ignorant womens cigarette smoke whilst eating our lunch. Pig ignorant some folk are.

Walked around the harbour, paid a visit to the very interesting St Catherines church, constructed largely from timber and showing the influences off the local shipbuilders in its construction. A truly impressive structure. Opposite the church was a truly Germanic looking building, again of wooden construction, which looks like it could have been the local market hall, but is infact the bell tower for the church. Is a sturdy construction with the tower built above the bell ringers house. It is now a museum to Eugene Boudin, the artist and one time mentor to Monet.

Above: pictures first, of the separate bell tower in true germanic style, and second the entrance to the church, rather plain on the outside but with an elaborate construction inside, clearly designed and constructed by the local ship builders.

17^th June Day 33

A day on site and a chance for Pam to rest her feet, much overdue.

I spent most of the morning reading, Steig Larssons & The Girl who played with fire', which I had read before, along with a new author that I had never encountered before by the name of Michael Robotham, an Australian fiction writer, his book, 'Bleed for me'. On first glance, I didn't think that the blurb for the book read all that well, however my thoughts quickly changed once I had read chapter 1. So good was the book, that I have finished it already and am eager to locate other novels by this author.

Pam and I spent some time during the afternoon in the site pool. I had quite a shock when I moved from the shallow end, as I thought, to the deep end, to find that the pool in fact had two shallow ends with an extremely deep middle some 2metres plus n depth. It didn't slope away it just dropped on either side. A bit daunting, for me at least, not being a very confident swimmer. When I swim, that's a joke, more like paddled, from one end to the other, I started out slowly and built up speed as I got to the point marked on the side of the pool that indicated the deep bit, then relaxed again when reaching the other side of the abyss. It was still semi enjoyable, the water warm and the outside temperature gorgeous. Pam settled herself in the kiddie's pool and never moved happy to paddle her feet and chat to a lady off the site, equally as keen on the kid's pool.

18^th June Day 34

The worst day of the holiday, well personally at least, despite the great start in opening my Father's Day cards and presents. Another huge card from Shirley, full of typical Ben cartoons and kisses, a truly moving card from Jacob, which he obviously chose and wrote himself. Can't describe the feeling when I read his words. Slippers from Jo, a new Wilbur Smith book from Kirsty, a very cute picture frame from Ben and finally but not least a Patisserie Valerie gift card from Pam.

Our planned day out was a visit to the American and English D-Day cemeteries, with a picnic, which just didn't start right, right from the off, with Annie driving and relying on her Sat Nav for guidance. The day didn't go well from the start, which became more and more evident as the morning went on. I certainly wasn't in the right frame of mind, despite the fabulous start I had had with my cards and presents. At the American cemetery, I wanted to go off without Annie and Ted, but couldn't break Pam away, so ended up in solitary, walking this very sad place on my own. I knew that Pam would have been of the same opinion, that is to be together as a couple not a foursome as you took in the magnitude of the losses encountered on and after the 6^th June, but we didn't make it and I should have suffered in silence and stayed with my good lady.

Then having a picnic in the cemetery car park was not on my agenda and I was not at all comfortable throughout the whole time there. With us wanting to have a break and go back to the cemetery I would have preferred to have found somewhere more suitable off site and then return after. Sadly, the day could only get worse and it did.

I took no pictures showing the scale of the losses incurred, marked so poignantly as they always are, neither in this instance by the Americans, or later, when we visited the English and Commenwealth graves.

19^th June Day 35

Another chance to relax and do nothing. Just enjoying the sun, sitting outside the awning, occasionally diving inside for some shade. We spent most of the day reading with me diving head first into my Fathers Day present from Kirsty, 'War Cry' by Wilbur Smith. An excellent book as always from this author with an ending which tends to make you think that there could be a sequel?

Had dinner courtesy of Annie and Ted who let us share their van made stew, as distinct from homemade, followed by rice pudding, which neither of us has had for many years. After dinner pam and I popped off to Carrefour to pick up some provisions.

Later in the evening we sat outside until gone 10 participating in a quiz with the other Waggoners, men v ladies, which ended in a draw.

20^th June Day 36

In the afternoon, I drove the four of us into Caen, making first for the Monument de Caen, which I thought had nice surrounding gardens. It had gardens but more describable as park land.

The monument and interesting building, stark frontage, mostly concrete, with a very narrow entrance way. Inside however an open and very airy location, containing military hardware, most noticeable of which items was a RAF Typhoon, suspended from the roof. The usual gift shops, cafe and exhibition areas. The main building stands atop what presumable was a quarry, because as you head towards the rear there is a sizable drop down a sheer face. You can't fall as its screened off and there are steps and a lift to help you descends to the park floor several levels below. The steps/lift lead you to the access point of an old Germen bunker, which is built into the side of the cliff/quarry wall. It was from this very bunker that the Germans controlled activity, reconnaissance, defence, strategy etc, throughout the entire Normandy region, which from the 6^th June 46 onwards, they didn't, thankfully, do that successfully.

After the museum a trip into Caen, which Annie and Ted had not ventured. Having paid to park on a parking metre, which I never do if there are adequate car parks, which there are in Caen, and paid for 4 hours stay, we left Caen after 45 minutes! The Cathedral, which was one of our targets, was temporarily closed as a funeral was taking place, so it was decided not to walk and explore, but instead to go back to the site.

We did stop for an ice-cream, which as to be recorded as the highlight of the day.

21^st June Day 37

Decided as we woke, that as it was going to be another hot day, that we would have another leisurely morning. Near lunch we did decide to pop into Arromanches to do some shopping, where we met up with Pat and David and decided to share in lunch together, along with Des and Carol. It was Dave's birthday, his 68^th to be precise, still a spring chicken. So, sharing lunch with him and Pat that day was a bit special.

After lunch Pam and I did some shopping, buying items for Jo, Jo2, Kirsty and Dorothy. We had throughout the holiday been picking up little knick-knacks for the boys. I had a stroll on the beach, whilst Pam sat on the harbour wall and did a spot of sun bathing. The tide was out so it gave me an opportunity to get up close to some of the remains of the 'Mulberry' harbours, used by the allies to land troops and equipment after the D-Day landings. What's left of the temporary harbours have been left in place by the French authorities as a permanent memorial to the men who took part in that historic turn of events.

Later that evening we all sat out and enjoyed drinks and nibbles to celebrate David's birthday.

22^nd June Day 38

A trip to Falaise to visit the towns Chateau. A picnic again today, hopefully in more agreeable and picturesque surroundings. We finally arrived at the castle, having park earlier in the town centre some distance away, before moving on to the castles free car-park, sighted just below the entrance.

The castle is amazing, made so by a considerable investment in research, time and lots and lots of money. They have recreated the castle keep, using modern materials and technology, which is impressive, but nothing in comparison to the technology within the castle. They are using the very latest technology to recreate several the castles rooms back to how they could have looked, not through adding furniture, drapes etc but through an image shown through a tablet. A very clever way of representing history.

Above: shows the castle/chateau, with the modern gate house and draw bridge construction.

Above: pictures show the present view of a room and with the use of the tablet and clever technology, what the experts think the room could have looked like in earlier times.

23^rd June Day 39

Another day for relaxation, with Pam reading and me writing up my diary in Word on the laptop in readiness for Ben to transfer into Brackets.

Pam even had time for a haircut, courtesy of her travelling hair dresser.

24^th June Day 40

Another free day for relaxation. You can catch a glimpse here that family and home is calling and that the end of the holiday is nigh.

In the evening, we enjoyed the delights of the sites restaurant which Pam and I had tried on two previous occasions during this stay. We didn't try it at all when we first used the site back in 2015. The meal was excellent, we both eat every morsel and found room for a dessert, which is unusual for the two of us. Pleasant company also.

25^th June Day 41

Traditional Waggoner flag at 11, with thanks to Dave for the work that he had put in on behalf of all those attending and for negotiating such good deals.

After lunch, several of us trundled off to Chateau Brecy. A couple of Waggoner members had visited the chateau earlier and remarked how colourful the place was. As it was only a short drive away we decided to give it a try.

Interesting chateau, with gardens, mostly parterre, but, sadly, with very little colour.

Terrible news later that evening that David, Judith, Stevie and Mick had been involved in an accident earlier in the day. David's car a right off, according to reports and both Judith and Stevie suffering from un-confirmed injuries. Sadly, as we are away early the next morning we will have no more news until we can contact them, on our return to England.

26^th June Day 42

Very early rising, the bodies not used to such demands. We have a ferry to catch which sails at 08:30 for which we must arrive one hour early for boarding. We left site just after 6:45, saying our last farewells to Chateau Martragny and made our way easily to the docks. Well signed route - easy motoring.

A very nice, smooth crossing with us arriving in Portsmouth, close to our scheduled time of 13:15, said our farewells and set off for our overnight stay at Bladon Chains, the Caravan Club site just outside Oxford.

Above: Approaching Portsmouth, nearly home, with the site of the Spinnaker ahead, a location we will be returning to as visitors later in the year with Ben on yet another holiday.

Got set up at Bladon Chains site just after 4 in the afternoon and then went off to locate the nearest Sainsburys to stock up for our return home.

27^th June Day 43

Set off reasonably early from site, didn't want to wake the old folk, who tend to frequent CC sites. Early start didn't last long as we hit a horrible bottle neck in which we crawled for close on an hour before we could turn off onto the A34 and make our way to the M40.

Steady run after that and reached home with thankfully no obstructions in Cresta Gardens on our arrival home.

A very enjoyable, interesting and despite the driving a relaxing holiday. We have both said to Dave and Pat, whilst on the rally, that it would have been even better if we had spent 6 weeks together and not had the rally to contend with. It would have given us more leisure time in both Italy and France to explore, places that we were near to like Geneva - Milan - Verona - the Northern towns of Lake Garda - Murano and the Venetian islands.

Nevertheless, a memorable holiday in the main for the right reasons at near perfect sites, at unbelievable locations, witnessing some amazing sights, enjoying absolutely gorgeous weather and excellent even familiar and friendly company.

Firsts

Avranche - Annecy - Lake Annecy - Gorges de Fier - The Secret Garden - Lake Garda - The Doges Palace (Secrets Tour) - To stand on the Bridge of Sighs - A trip on a Venice Vaperetta - A trip on a Venice Gondola - Venice by Night - Honfleur - St Mere Eglise (Airborne museum) - Courville Sur Mer (The American Cemetry) - Utah Beach & Museum - Chateau Fontainbleu - Crecy