We arrived at the Eurotunnel for a 9.20am crossing. We queued in an orderly manner and got called for boarding only to find we were the first of 5 cars to be told that the train was full. So about turn and first on board the 9.50am crossing. Some people were undertaking the queue and we later found out that this was the fast track which made for miscalculation.

A quick sprint down to Reims for lunch, we had a nice lunch at La Paix cafe restaurant, I had a Lobster, pineapple and duck skewer and Heidi a Ham and Cheese Salad which was huge. Excellent outdoor eating in baking hot temperature. This is a very pleasant hotel/restaurant and just right for breaking the journey having travelled 168 miles from Calais, just over half way to our destination for the day, Troyes.

We arrived at Troyes and after a little difficulty with an abundance of one way streets we found the jewel in the crown. La Maison de Rhodes. The holiday has really started now, this hotel is magnificent, a fully restored Medieval building formerly belonging to The Knights Templar. The owner was very charming and attentive and the room was amazing. We relaxed before dinner with a glass of wine and met new friends Michael and Pam from London who we have promised to meet up and have dinner in Scotts of Mayfair. They too are avid foodies. Sadly the restaurant was closed on a Sunday but the receptionist booked us a table at very nice brasserie in the old town square. We just wished we had more time in Troyes and we are already planning a return visit, at least 3 days are needed to do this beautiful town and magnificent hotel justice.

Total mileage: 571 miles