Chinon to Avanton

Slow wake up and a breakfast of banana pancakes with the beautiful view for company.

Headed off to the centre of Chinon to Henry II’s fortress. Cheez that man got around! Don’t know if you remember that the Dover castle was also Henry II’s.

This fortress is where Joan of arc came to inspire King Charles to fight for his country. Every street corner is named after Joan of arc, every road makes some reference to her.

The walk through was very interesting. Not just the artefacts but the design of the fortress itself. Incredible views from everywhere. We all thoroughly enjoyed this morning.

Of course I discovered there was an antique market on by the river. It was huge and utterly awesome. The artefacts there ranged from really old furniture to art to figurines, crockery, cutlery, linens….

Paul bought a leather bellow and Kate picked up a rare Gertz jug. I would have liked to transport the entire market and set up a shop in Kenilworth, so I don’t buy anything!

We’ve come further south by an hour to a beautiful camp ground. Lovely swim, macaroni soup for dinner and early night. Paul is exhausted today.Læs mere