After a little bike to give Sach some exercise, she enjoyed a swim as well, I drove into nearby Blois- pronounced Blah. Delighted to find free parking on Sundays. Went to the tourist office. As usual you have to keep asking the questions as they don't seem to know much and try to get rid of you by giving the odd pamphlet. They look surprised that you ask for a map of the town.
Anyway I persevered and asked about balloon rides. They tried to fob me off with a pamphlet but I got them to telephone them for me. The upshot was that I paid 200E for a ride at 7pm tonight.
Then I had a look round the castle. Interesting history and amazing 16th C furniture. The real McCoy. I can't get over the massive ornate fire places.
This was also where Henry the third arranged to have his opponent murdered in his bedroom.
Then wandered round the old town. It was hot and sunny today.
Drove to Chenonceaux for the balloon ride and stopped for picnic on the way. Came across a flea market and managed to by 2 wine glasses.
There was yet another road blocked where they don't at first give you alternative and the sat nav tries to take you back there.
Checked out where the balloon was starting and then went to a campsite but decided against it as a big group of canoeists were due to arrive. So I went 3kms the other side of the village and found a nice spot at Ecluse for only 12e.
Tried to have a rest as was tired from lack of sleep last night.
The ballon ride was even more fantastic than I imagined. The whole thing took about 3 hours. They let of a small helium filled balloon to see which way the wind is blowing. Then we drove to a field about 5 kms away. They fill it up with cold air from big fans and then heat that air using the jets. Huge big red balloon. The basket was laid down on the side and I had to clamber in and ly on my back. The basket had for compartments with 4 people in each and the pilot was in the middle of course. Suddenly we were tipped upwards and we were up and away.
It was beautiful apart from the noise of the jets. I was right next to them. It was warm anyway as you are travelling with the wind. We flew over the chateau and when we were lower people were waving and calling from their gardens.
The landing was good and even upright. Charles was a very experienced pilot and bright he spoke Spanish and English (with a posh accent) fluently.
We then all helped to pack the balloon away which was fun lying on it to squeeze the air out.
I had left Sach in the van under the shady willow tree.
Didn't get back to the campsite till about 10.30. Made some soup and hot chocolate. So now to bed.