So on the last stretch now, heading north through France. From Carcassone we went into the Dordogne planning to do some nice country walks after spending the last week in towns. Got to a nice campsite with an Auberge next door so went there for dinner. After walking up the mile long driveway in our hiking boots, scruffy camping clothes and anoraks we got to it to find it was actually quite a glam place with all the other diners in suits and ties - well not the women but you know what I mean. However we're not put off by that after all our adventures so we went in anyway and had a lovely meal. The only downside was Foie Gras was compulsory as a starter there so we had to try it despite my principles. The verdict afterwards was that it does taste quite nice but I prefer ordinary Brussels pate myself!

The next day our plans for country walks were put on hold by the fact it was pissing with rain so we left in a huff. We'd intended to head up to the Loire but G was obviously just too sick of castles so he turned left and headed for La Rochelle. It turned out to be a good move as the sun was shining there. Its a lovely old seaside town with a nice harbour though the sea itself didn't look that inviting, but as it was freezing cold it didn't really matter. There were certainly some nice bars and restaurants in the town so a good place for a wander.

The next day we took the scooter over to Isle de Re and explored there. It would be a lovely place to cycle as very flat with lots of little villages and quaint harbours and a good cycle path right round the coast. We had sun most of the day there and went for a nice walk but then got soaked on the way back over the bridge.

The next day was sunny again and we decided just to stay on there rather than risk it being worse up north so we went back over to Isle de Re and explored some more. Then that night we went into La Rochelle for a classic French dinner of steak Frites.

The next day we had to head north to make sure we'd be in time for the ferry on Saturday so aimed for Pontorson at the western edge of Normandy. Another nice campsite - all the French ones have been good - and a pleasant town so not a bad place for the last night of our trip. Off for the ferry tomorrow!