Fri. Nov 17 2017
Just short of 10 km behind us today after a day on the Hawes Trail.
It was quite wet underfoot as we followed the course of the River Ure to Hardraw. E had to use the back door of the Green Dragon pub to access the Waterfall (see picture).
Seriously though, we had to access the waterfall through the pub and it was well worth it. The noise was deafening and we didn’t stay that long before making our way along the trail towards Simonstone gaining quite a lot of height on the way.
We came across a farmer selling walking sticks from his front garden and managed to pick up two fine examples and it has to be said they came in very useful during the final section of the walk.
From Sedbusk it was downhill all the way and we once again headed back into Hawes for a late lunch at the Creamery. Yours truly has to confess to once again sampling the fruit cake and Wensleydale cheese. Couldn’t resist!
It was then back to base to chill before heading back into Hawes later for a meal.
Thurs. Nov 16 2017
The day started with rain here in Hawes and ended in brilliant sunshine. A day of two halves!
We clocked up about 7 km today in and around the villages of Gayle and Hawes ending up at the Wensleydale creamery for lunch and an interesting look around the visitor centre. Lunch was arguably the highlight of the day with traditional fruit cake and Wensleydale cheese!
It’s off to the village this evening for a pub meal and a couple of pints – the first of the week so far!
Weds. Nov 15 2017
We duly arrived in Hawes at 12.30 pm after a sloooooow drive from Bridlington. We managed to get behind a very long, slow lorry all the way to York and with no chance to overtake on the single carriageway roads patience was the order of the day.
First impressions of the C & C site here in Hawes are very positive and we look forward to the next few days. We are only a few hundred metres from the village centre.
A quick lunch was followed by our first foray into Hawes full of its small shops and cafes. There are at least five pubs within easy walking distance so there should be no difficulty in getting a pint (or two)!
A visit to the Wensleydale Creamery looks on the cards for tomorrow with a cross-country hike on the Hawes Trail penciled in for Friday.
Tue. Nov 14 2017
It was “all systems go” today with four bus journeys taking almost three hours and squeezed in the middle a two hour taste of Scarborough.
In reality there was just enough time for a walk around the harbour, a few photos and a fish and chip lunch. Then it was back to “Brid” with all the other Silver Foxes heading back to the C & C site. You certainly can tell those of us who are retired!
We are off to Hawes tomorrow. Watch this space.
Mon. Nov 13 2017
True to form, last night’s weather proved “interesting” with strong winds and lashing rain until dawn and that’s the way we like it!! Today has been a lot different.
You’ve guessed it! The bikes stayed in place as we caught the local bus from Flamborough to Bridlington this morning. “Brid” to the locals is showing signs of the times with town centre decline and on a coldish November day the sea-front amusements were safely “tucked up” for the winter.
The real life was to be found at the harbour with a surprisingly large number of active fishing vessels and their crews doing their thing.
A late decision to take the bus to Flamborough North Landing in the afternoon proved very interesting. The cove, the cliffs and caves here are well worth the visit as you might be able to see in the latest photo gallery.
Time now for a well earned glass of 2006 Spaetburgunder. Prosit!
It’s off to Scarborough tomorrow.
Sun. Nov 12 2017
A “rite Yorkshire welcome” awaited us in Bridlington today with strong, cold northerly winds accompanied by heavy showers.
Our departure from Suffolk earlier had been the opposite; sunny with little in the way of a breeze. A quick stop for fuel and gas preceded the cross-country slog to the A1 although on a Sunday morning the traffic was relatively light.
There are many ways to skin a cat, or so the saying goes. Likewise with route planning. The easiest way to get to Bridlington is arguably straight up the A1 and head to York but in our case we decided to travel via the Humber Bridge.
What a structure. It certainly did not disappoint with its architectural beauty and great views of Hull and the River Humber. The surprisingly cheap toll of £1.60 for the privilege was a bonus!
The C and C site here in Bridlington is undergoing extensive refurbishment during the winter months and we have certainly hit a building site with only two of the three main areas open. In addition to the refurbishment there is a new development in progress which will apparently add another eighty pitches to those already here.
So, not much more to report at present with the exception that the heating in Detlef seems to be working well. The rain and wind show no signs of abating at present and we look forward to listening to their concert during the night!
What’s the plan for tomorrow? It has to be to explore the town and surrounding areas although the bikes will not be venturing far if the wind continues like today. Scarborough on the bus looks a good bet for Tuesday.
Fri. Nov 3 2017
All good things come to an end and so it was today.
All in all it took seven and a half hours to get back to home base which included almost an hour for lunch in Calais. The M 25 was once again “stop and go” between junction 3 and the Dartford Tunnel but we’ve had worse.
Thanks to all the crew for their company over the past few days. Great fun!
Thurs. Nov 2 2017
No peace for the wicked and so it proved today with an early start for our second Disneyland adventure.
The crew just about made it to the bus on time after forgetting various items in the chalet and we certainly had that “deja vu” (we all know where we are going) moment as we arrived at the Disneyland complex.
Our own Captain Mar(k)vel led from the front as we opted for a full-frontal morning assault on the Disney Studios. The inevitable queues didn’t seem to bother anyone today (unlike on Tuesday) and we fairly whisked through rides like the RC Racer, Slinky, Rock Roller Coaster and Ratatouille with our leader very skillfully using our “fast track” pass to gain a tremendous advantage at the latter.
Special mention must be made of E’s (senior) undoubted courage as she bravely endured the Rock Roller Coaster especially when she realised that she would be doing a 360 degree loop the loop a few seconds before getting on! Rumour has it that she kept her eyes closed all the time!
A quick packed lunch was followed by arguably the most memorable “experience” for three crew members who voluntarily entered the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror to be dropped thirteen stories in the hotel lift (twice) and survive – just. No wonder we looked a little pale as we left the building!
Yours truly and E had a front seat on the Star Wars Hyperspace Roller Coaster which well and truly finished us off for the day. The Gala Parade finished off a tiring day and we returned to the chalet clutching our own fond memories of our few hours in Disneyland!
Weds. Nov 1 2017
It was a stay at home day with the whole gang taking up residence in the swimming pool complex for most of the time. Rapids and flumes were the main attraction and all crew members managed to negotiate the challenges of the day.
The Adventure Playground provided some afternoon fun for E and A who then persuaded V and M that a second swimming session in the evening was required!
Back at the chalet now, everyone is tucking into “Stramer Max” and building energy levels for Disneyland Day 2 tomorrow. Danke, Oma!
Tues. Oct 31 2017
A touch of frost greeted us here this morning and it was an excited crew who marched enthusiastically at 09.15 am towards the shuttle bus for Disneyland.
Along with thousands of other expectant visitors we arrived at our destination some twenty or so minutes later and made a start to our first day of adventure. Needless to say the name of the game for the whole day was to suffer the queues that inevitably built up and sitting here now yours truly knows only too well that a few kilometres have been ticked off today as well as the muscle fatigue that standing in queues can produce.
Between the queues we braved the Thunder Mountain and Indiana Jones roller coasters as well more gentle boat rides to see the Pirates of the Caribbean and Small World. The afternoon live shows went down particularly well with A and E.
The day was capped by a light/firework show and we made our way back to the village very tired but with magical memories of a good day.
Photos will follow when time allows.
Mon. Oct 30 2017
The wake up alarm duly sounded at 04.00am for a very early start on our journey to Center Parcs, Paris.
A 05.30 rendezvous with M, V and the girls proved comical with the real destination of the trip revealed. It was then all systems go to Folkestone and the Channel Tunnel where we easily caught our 08.50 crossing train. Yours truly never ceases to be amazed at this feat of engineering. It is almost impossible to comprehend where one actually is during the crossing and France appears in no time at all.
The drive to Paris was uneventful and relatively short compared with other trips we have made and we arrived in the early afternoon at The Center Parcs Nature Village.
A quick unpack was then followed by a swimming session which was very enjoyable. The highlight seemed to be the rapids in the dark and this definitely got E and A’s vote.
Time to reflect on an enjoyable day and we look forward to Disneyland Day 1 tomorrow.
Weds. Oct 10 2017
Pleased to report that we made home base at 12.30 pm. Unpacked now with Detlef having just had a spruce up!
Next official outing will be with M and E and the “littleies” at half term!
Tues. Oct 10 2017
Lovely to see the cousins today for an Aldeburgh lunch and thanks to E for all the preparation!
All in all, it’s been a great day with the weather playing ball. Off into town shortly for a visit to the pub.
Mon. Oct 9 2017
We were greeted by an overcast sky in Aldeburgh this morning but at least there was little wind.
The bikes were quickly prepared for action and off we went for an “Aldeburgh Tour”, firstly across country and then south to the Martello Tower. We eventually ended up in the Thorpeness Kitchen for well-earned refreshments.
It’s been raining here in the late afternoon and getting dark much too quickly. Time for a beer!
Thurs. Oct 5 2017
What a night we had!
Gusting winds and the familiar sound pattern of rain on the roof certainly surprised us last night. However, things reverted back to normal after breakfast.
As is our want these days we managed to have an hour’s stroll along Kessingland beach before making the relative short journey back to home base.
Weds. Oct 4 2017
An early start was called for today with high tide being at 09.19 am. The plan to fish from 07.30 turned into 08.30 but at least we were there before the high water mark.
The day turned out to be quite hectic with three rigs to service and little time to sit about! A few technical issues with twisted rigs and snagged lines /snapped lines meant the day was disrupted somewhat but the “flow” did improve into the afternoon.
Catch-wise the day was not as productive as yesterday. The highlight was a presentable bass which again was repatriated to fight another day.
Needless to say, E did her own thing today and has managed to clock up 15 km of walking! Yours truly is totally xxxxx/windswept and in need of a good night’s sleep.
Off to home base tomorrow.
Tues. Oct 3 2017
What a gorgeous day it’s been! We duly arrived early in Kessingland and managed to secure a beach-side pitch before the rush.
The journey here was uneventful with the exception of the speed trap on the A12 which was seen in good time but it didn’t matter as yours truly doesn’t speed!
The pitch here is close to where we were in April and on this occasion we were pitched and set to rumble by 12.45pm.
Yours truly spent the afternoon sea fishing for the first time this year and had a productive afternoon given that the tide was heading in the wrong direction! All in all, ten fish decided to play catch. All were sent back to where they came with no fatalities! Let’s hope tomorrow’s sport is as successful. The plan is to fish the top of the tide for a couple of hours either side.
E decided to beach walk this afternoon as well as keeping me company on the beach and reading her latest book. Doesn’t she just love the bait!!
We’re now heading off to the Sailor’s Home for a meal.
Fri. Sept 22 2017
Just about made the fish and chip shop before closing time last night and well worth waiting for. There’s nothing like retreating to the Crag Path to find an empty stretch of sea wall to eat the spoils under a street light.
The White Hart pub was very busy and a couple of pints later we made it back to Church Farm.
There was time this morning for a stroll into Aldeburgh before departing for Hunter Towers and we look forward to next month when we do the whole thing over again!
Thurs. Sept 21 2017
You couldn’t call it a pub crawl last night but the Cross Keys proved a pleasant watering hole and after the bicycle adventure earlier an early night was always on the cards.
We were greeted by sunshine this morning and luckily it has stayed with us all day. The bikes were once again brought into action and we’ve been out and about in and around Aldeburgh with the camera.
Fish and chips are on the menu this evening. Can’t wait!
Weds. Sept 20 2017
An early arrival at Church Farm today enabled us to launch the bikes just after lunch.
We managed fourteen miles from Aldeburgh to Sizewell and back which included a hair-raising narrow coastal path section north of Thorpeness with a five metre drop to the beach for those that weren’t careful.
Needless to say we made it without mishap and after suitable refreshment headed south again, this time inland.
A pub crawl through Aldeburgh is on the cards this evening hence the early writing of this travelogue!!
Fri. Sept 15 2017
It was quite chilly in Bristol this morning for the early risers with a travel day in front of us.
Yours truly made an excellent job of taking the wrong road off Spike Island despite having Mrs Garmin blasting in our ears. It was lucky we had enough room for a three-point turn otherwise who knows………….!
I’m more convinced now that there are no stress-free drives left in most of the UK. It doesn’t matter where you go, something will get you and so it turned out today. The traffic around Birmingham is notorious as you get closer to the M6 – stop and go for miles and together with a broken down lorry around Huntingdon causing mayhem we finally arrived back at base at 5.00 pm.
All-in-all a great few days despite the gales and traffic. Until the next time.
Thurs. Sept 14 2017
You’ve guessed it! The bikes stayed firmly attached to Detlef as we decided to take the “hop on hop off” bus today.
The morning was spent aloft on the top deck with the circuit taking a very acceptable seventy five minutes. The Watershed played host for lunch and then it was off to Clifton for a close-up look at the suspension bridge. Wow, what a structure! Not a place for the vertically challenged though.
It made a pleasant change to be dropped off immediately outside Baltic Wharf without the need for further foot slogging and our thoughts now turn to our travels tomorrow. The M25 has to be avoided at all costs and all road signs point to the M5/M42/M6.
Weds. Sept 13 2017
Last night (Tuesday) will rate highly in the end-of-season vote for “worst night of the year” as Storm Aileen did its very best to keep everyone awake with high winds and lashing rain. Needless to say Detlef survived the onslaught as the early morning “damage check” proved.
We arrived in the Bristol sunshine shortly after noon and were set up and ready to explore by 1 pm. The site here is on Spike Island with the River Avon in close proximity and we were quickly on the tow path heading for the S S Great Britain.
The “plan” had been to visit this magnificent vessel on Thursday but we quickly decided not to pass up the promise of the favorable afternoon weather and dived straight in. What a good decision that turned out to be. We emerged from the visit some three hours later having been given a fascinating insight into how Great Great Grandfather, Edward must have lived when he served on the vessel in 1854.
Then it was off to the city centre on foot for a look at the sights.
Needless to say the rain is once again with us. We will see what tomorrow brings. Will the bikes be called upon or will it be an open bus tour of the city?
Tues. Sept 12 2017
We were greeted by superb sunshine first thing this morning which prompted a few house-keeping tasks before being picked up by Gail and Andy.
A whistle-stop tour of the Cheddar Gorge and Axbridge followed by a Somerset cider fueled lunch was much appreciated. It was good to catch up and we are left wondering where the years have gone!
Our thoughts now turn to Bristol and the SS Great Britain. Let’s hope the weather plays ball during the next couple of days but with the wind speed increasing already I doubt it.
Mon. Sept 11 2017
Well last night was certainly a night to remember with lashing rain and gale force winds all night and into this morning. Sleep was in short supply all night long but a quick early morning check did confirm the bikes had survived the onslaught!
The planned bicycle tour for today was quickly revamped and became a coastal bus sightseeing tour to Weston Super Mare and later back to Burnham on Sea. A good day was had by all with plenty of walking.
The rain and wind have returned as I write. Let’s hope we can sleep tonight!!
Sun. Sept 10 2017
A misty start to the day and the A14 westbound closed at Bury St Edmunds meant we had little choice but to head south along the A12 this morning to pick up the M25 and M4. The original plan had been to head over to the M6/M42/M5 but hey ho………
The four hour and fifty minute journey was uneventful except that it quickly became evident that we were heading into the less desirable weather!
The C.C. site here in Burnham is as you would expect after the summer holidays – full of pensioners and last-minute holiday makers but hardly a child in sight. You certainly know what you are getting with the C.C. and why it is so popular.
We spent the afternoon walking to Berrow Beach and back and since then the wind has really picked up. We were lucky to avoid a soaking in the accompanying rain and the weather forecast for the next 24 hours is interesting to say the least. Batten down the hatches!
Berrow Beach at low tide brought back memories of Brittany. We could hardly see the sea and the vast expanse of beach was more like a desert as the blown sand raced along.
Detlef is now rocking as the light fades……
Weds. Aug 30 2017
A good night was had by all at Rendlesham although A did claim that we had “lost” E at some early morning hour. Needless to say we hadn’t and E duly appeared having been behind the only internal door in Detlef! You will have to work out the significance of this for yourself as we are getting to the point of “too much information”.
A hearty breakfast was followed by quick packing. It is amazing how dirty a forest site can be and most of the sandy soil seemed to have decided to get into Detlef.
I am increasingly impressed with A’s sprinting prowess. She once again showed her record breaking qualities when venturing to the recycling point only to encounter a large roaming dog. The crackle of “dog” on the walkie-talkie pre-empted the quickest return leg to Dertlef witnessed this summer!
We departed in the rain and so it stayed all day. Needless to say we will have to dry out tomorrow.
A special “thank you” to all four plus two girls for their company.
Tues. Aug 29 2017
An early start today with Delef booked in for a make-over at 9.00 am.
We were treated royally at the Dealership and all issues bar one were fixed within an hour and a half. The main access step is once again fully functional and we were back at home base by 11.30 am ready to collect E and A for the trip to Rendlesham.
H and J also joined us for the day and a fantastic time was had by all despite the later rain.
Highlights of the afternoon included the walkie-talkie hide and seek and the swing-ball game. Yours truly was well and truly “slaughtered” by E who took the honours.
Well done to all the girls for making the day so pleasurable. Considering it was going to be E and A’s first experience of a night away in Detlef they did very well.
Mon. Aug 28 2017
All systems go for our visit to Rendlesham Forest with E and A.
UFO’s are definitely advised to steer clear of the area during our short stay! Detlef is having a make-over tomorrow before we depart to sort out our French trip issues. Hopefully it won’t take too long.
Sat. Aug 26 2017
Finally made it back home in the UK at 4.00 pm (local time) having left Montville, north of Rouen at 7.30 am. All in all a journey taking nine and a half hours.
As expected the Channel Tunnel was busy and yet we were lucky enough to take an earlier train. The M25 was a nightmare once again from Junction 3 to the Dartford Crossing with 90 minute delays. Happy days.
Now to unpack and have a clean!
Fri. Aug 25 2017
It took the best part of six hours to get to Montville, just north of Rouen arriving at 3.00 pm.
The town centre Aire was relatively empty when we arrived and we were able to choose a flat space to park up. People arriving later had less luck on the slightly sloping terrain and by early evening all places were taken. The joys of arriving slightly early!
Entertainment (in the form of a circus) was less than 200 metres away and although we decided not to partake had the benefit of listening to the sounds and music of the “big top” from close up until the show finished around 10 pm.
Thurs. Aug 24 2017
What a good decision to stay for two nights. Gorgeous sunshine today and just perfect for a beach walk from one end of the bay to the other.
We spoke to a French couple who own a flat in Val Andre and they spoke of the possibility that the municipal Aire we were staying on would be closed for good at the end of the season. It remains to be seen if this will come about. What a shame if it were to close.
The afternoon was spent “jobbing” with an evening bicycle ride the perfect way to end the day.
Weds. Aug 23 2017
We set off from J and M’s at around 10 am and comfortably made Val Andre by lunchtime.
The Aire here is a few hundred yards away from the sea and we’ve spent the day getting to know our new neighbours as well as walking into town for lunch.
We were each offered a trial ride on an “e bike” this afternoon by one of our neighbours and this has definitely helped focus the mind on the way forward in how we get about in future. Watch this space!
A more conventional bike ride was undertaken during the evening as we dashed from one end of the promenade to the other. It’s amazing how many people are still in the sea as the sun goes down – not a sight yours truly sees often in the UK.
We’ve decided to stay two nights in Val Andre moving further east on Friday.
Tues. Aug 22 2017
A rainy start turned into a scorcher of a day.
J and M kindly took us on a whistle-stop sight-seeing tour of the area and we were treated to a marvelous lunch at the famous Le Chalet Creperie in St Nicolas-des-Eaux.
Mon. Aug 21 2017
H’s bug showed no sign of calming down as the S’s departed early for Calais.
E and I took our time in packing the last bits and bobs and departed around 10.30 am on the short trip to Guidel Plage.
The electronic step on Detlef is again playing up and we are now having to manually deploy it before being able to leave the vehicle! Needless to say a quick phone call was made and we’re already booked in for a fix next week.
We spent a very pleasant late morning/early afternoon around Fort du Loch and made it to J and M’s by late afternoon.
Yours truly made a miscalculation with the GPS co-ordinates which resulted in us overshooting J and M’s property by a few hundred yards. Thankfully we were rescued by a very athletic “Tour de France” look-a-like in J who sprinted after us on his bicycle and saved the day.
Sun. Aug 20 2017
Thank goodness it didn’t rain as it was packing day!
The gang started the job after a late breakfast and by mid afternoon Detlef was ready to move on. Only smallish items are now left to stow with a mid-morning departure planned for Monday.
Unhappily we seemed to have got a bug floating around and H has picked it up. Hopefully she will be OK for the return journey tomorrow while E and myself head for Bubry.
Sat. Aug 19 2017
Shopping for provisions was the name of the game today. With departure day looming from Quinquis thoughts turned to getting prepared for the remaining days on the open road.
In addition, M and E had a car tyre problem to resolve and the late afternoon was spent in the pool.
Fri. Aug 18 2017
We managed a “one-off” bicycle ride today cycling from Guidel Plage to Lamour Plage but not back again!
M kindly agreed to drive us and the bikes to Guidel Plage from Quinquis. From there we unloaded both bikes and rucksacks and set off on the coastal cycle path to Lamour.
With a wind pushing us towards Lamour we managed the 13 miles with relative ease taking in all available “views” along the route arriving at 2 pm.
A quick “WhatsApp” message saw our trusty M appear at 4.45 pm to pick us up and we arrived back at Quinquis in time for a curry supper with the troops.
A lot of our neighbours have disappeared back to the UK during the day and things are relatively quiet although J’s newly found cycling confidence is still worth the entry fee!
Thurs. Aug 17 2017
It started to rain at 1.00 am and eventually stopped at about 1.00 pm. Sleep was interrupted for most team members both in Detlef and in the “Pod” and a tired crew emerged for breakfast in the awning.
The first communal “Mensch ärgere Dich nicht” (Ludo) event took place in Detlef during the rain soaked morning with H and J declared the winners.
The weather improved during the afternoon. S’s were once again out and about in their car whilst catching up on a bit more reading was the name of the game for the rest of us.
Weds. Aug 16 2017
A bicycle outing to Le Pouldu Port was the order of the day.
A cunning plan was hatched to avoid up-hill gradients as far as possible and this proved successful by and large by a combination of off-road and on-road routes.
There is talk of a storm hitting this region of Brittany over night and the awning has been strengthened by the addition of two extra straps. We will wait and see what happens!
Tues. Aug 15 2017
Great weather today which meant a fun day at the Quinquis pool. J also weighed in with her own triumph – riding her bicycle without stabilisers!
Once again a fresh start to the day gave way to wall-to-wall sunshine. The troops indicated that they were “beached out” so a chill day at the site ensued.
The afternoon pool session was enjoyed by all and the new air bed/boat came into their own. So much so that the girls had to be dragged out of the pool some three hours later!
J followed her bicycle antics with diving skills never before seen and like her sister spent most of the time under the surface of the water rather than on top of it.
Needless to say the troops are now exhausted and ready for a good night’s sleep.
Mon. Aug 14 2017
The troops were slow to report for duty this morning and yours truly was back from collecting our breakfast from the shop before any movement was spotted at base camp.
M, E, H and J eventually hit the road at around 11am and were to remain out until 6.00pm.
E and I decided on an afternoon bike tour down to Le Pouldu Plage and Le Kerou Plage taking the long-lens camera. Some of the results can be seen in the Photo Gallery.
The overcast conditions of early afternoon gave way to pleasant sunshine in the late afternoon and evening and a BBQ with a glass of wine seemed an appropriate end to the day’s proceedings.
Sun. Aug 13 2017
We woke up to cloud but within a couple of hours the day had wall-to-wall sunshine which was much appreciated after the weather served up previously.
M, E and the girls shot off to a Sunday market followed by a lovely beach day whilst your truly and E biked to Kerou Plage and also spent a few hours peacefully on the beach mats enjoying the unexpected sunshine.
A pool session with newly acquired air beds was the order of the day following our return to Quinquis and this in turn was followed by pizza for all:
Sat. Aug 12 2017
A day of two halves to coin part of a phrase.
The morning was uneventful; rain for the most part and M and E shopping. The pool was the venue for the afternoon’s activity and with ever increasing amounts of sunshine great fun was had by all.
The girls’ level of athleticism in the water was impressive today with slides, dives and somersaults the order of the day. It appeared that the time under water exceeded that on the surface and the discovery of the seemingly abandoned air bed and inflatable pink flamingo added to the entertainment.
A positive Ipswich Town footy result in the late afternoon pleased your author and a tea-time BBQ ensured a pleasant evening for all.
Those with enough energy finished off their day with a brisk game of badminton and ramp cycling whilst those without wrote the travelogue with a glass of “biere” in hand. Salut!
Fri. Aug 11 2017
A day for taking a deep breath with nothing of real note happening. A chill day.
Thur. Aug 10 2017
The weather “played ball” today thank goodness and after a hearty breakfast of bacon and egg M played taxi as we all drove to Guidel Plage albeit in two trips! .
After setting up “camp” above the high water mark the girls decided to explore whilst others settled into their comfy chairs to watch the world go by and catch up on their reading.
The low-tide sand flats quickly disappeared later in the day as the waters returned and well planned and constructed dams succumbed to the ever-rising waters. “Glace” was the refreshment of choice for the miners who managed to bury half of the beach toys and not remember where they had buried them. Doh!
Our heroic taxi driver returned everyone safe and sound back to base at the end of the day and with the weather forecast not as good for tomorrow brains were being exercised as to the master plan for Friday.
Wed. Aug 09 2017
Ten o’clock in the morning and no noise or movement in Detlef! The excitement and tiring activities of the previous days had obviously taken their toll. A quick dash to the shop and a late breakfast of bacon and egg was prepared and the day began.
M, E, H and J went off to Port Louis leaving the oldies to bask in the solitude of an “afternoon off”.
Showers were the order of the day and we are all looking forward to warmer, more settled weather. We are missing the pool already.
Tues.. Aug 08 2017
Today can best be described as a chill and find our feet day.
The older generation were gently persuaded by the very young generation to vacate their sleeping accommodation well before the appointed hour which was some surprise as they had had a very late “night before”.
H and J were willing first morning visitors to the shop to collect our pre-ordered Baguettes, Pain au Chocolat, and Croissants although it must be said that on our return two packets of Mentos had unexpectedly decided to jump into the shopping bag. The holder of the purse was suitably scolded!
The remainder of the day was filled with bikes and swimming. “No fear” in either discipline would best describe both girls as you might gleam from the gallery photos although it must be said that certain adults were less than keen to enter the pools as the water temperature and wind chill made life interesting. It was left to a brave T and M to enter the wet stuff and avoid two flying angels who were intent on setting a new world record in “flying distance” off the water slide.
The similar theme of “speed down the ramp” was continued into the evening as water slide gave way to earth ramp adjacent to our pitch. How certain people did not land up in the local casualty department is anyone’s guess but we survived to live another day.
Mon. Aug 07 2017
A day of expectation and constant exchange of “Whats App” messages plotting the progress of M, E, H and J as they made their way to Quinquis from their home base.
The ETA was early evening and this gave us the chance to get the bikes out and find Plage du Kerou in the afternoon. A velodrome-like track and road combination were negotiated in good time from Quinquis. The sandy beach looks ideal for children and we will no doubt make good use of our beach tent at some stage during the coming couple of weeks.
M, E and the girls arrived as planned and the rest of the evening was devoted to unpacking and setting up the sleeping accommodation.
A late evening stroll led to us stumbling upon a new arrivals’ quiz night and it was certainly well past “lights out” when we all returned to Detlef and the Pod.
Sun. Aug 06 2017
We duly arrived at Quinquis at noon on Sunday 6th having driven the short distance from Josselin.
The usual drama of full “pitching” then ensued. The “full works” took some six plus hours to put up and unusually we’ve had to chock the rear wheels this time. By 19.30 we were done – literally. I am slowly getting the feeling that the awning and sleeping pod are a summer holiday luxury and not an every-day feature. Having said that it should be a pleasant luxury to use for a couple of weeks!!
What is the expression? “When you thought you had cracked it……” “Let’s try and see what’s on SAT TV”. Dish whirrs doing it’s thing but we forgot that one of the rear sky lights on Detlef was open. Whirr stops. The dish arm is stuck on the window and since then the system is dead. Let’s hope it’s a blown fuse in the control box or we will have a problem with the dish in the up position.
Shock, horror! Just checked my spare fuses and I don’t have a “mini” 3 amp blade fuse with me!! M and E to the rescue (hopefully) tomorrow.
Sat. Aug 05 2017
We hit the road promptly at 09.00am from Beauvron-en-Auge (east of Caen) heading for Josselin (west of Rennes).
The unexpected sampling of the local beer and “cidre” in the Creperie the previous evening did not interfere with the departure time although it must be said that a certain individual whose name begins with E had an early night!!
The light rain during the night gave way to sunshine and with precious light winds compared with Friday we made our destination in four and a half hours which included a fuel stop.
Josselin is a lovely medieval town on the Nantes-Brest Canal and definitely worth a visit. The afternoon was spent strolling through the old town and along the canal with fantastic views of the Chateau.
Moules and Frites were on the evening menu for yours truly and with tomorrow’s drive being a “shorty” things are looking good.
Fri. Aug 04 2017
Just as well we had an early start from the Home Base as we inevitably hit problems on the A12 around Chelmsford. However, these were short-lived and we made the Channel Tunnel in good time even with a re-fueling stop in Ashford.
Yours truly had the pleasure of a snooze during the crossing in his own bed – a first in Detlef! Worth the entrance fee alone!!
The subsequent drive south along the A16 was acceptable with the exception of the strong wind that made overtaking interesting!!
We made the overnight stop in Beavron-En-Auge in good time and enjoyed a pleasant meal in the village.
Off to Josselin tomorrow.
Fri. July 28 2017
What a wash out!
We had a two hour window in the morning to get things packed ready for Saturday’s departure and spent the rest of the day watching the rain! The evening saw the the worst storm we’ve seen so far with high winds and this continued throughout the night. Needless to say, little sleep was had.
Thur. July 27 2017
Having said goodbye to Jane we spent most of the day on top of open-top buses managing to complete the blue and red routes through the New Forest. You certainly see a lot this way but with the wind and later rain it did feel like an endurance test towards the end of the day and we were not unhappy to finally call it a day at 18.00. The unexpected fish and chip supper on return to the site did go down well though!
Wed. July 26 2017
Another thumbs down weather wise with rain all day.
Thank goodness for Jane who kindly invited us to explore the coastal areas of East Dorset and West Hampshire by car. We managed to see a lot in the space of a few hours – Mudeford, New Milton, Milford on Sea, Hurst Spit and Keyhaven. We even managed a glimpse of the Isle of Wight through the mist and rain.
The tea shops did a roaring trade during the day and we must really abstain from the cream teas!!
Tue. July 25 2017
What a day! Wall-to-wall sunshine all day and the perfect opportunity for finally putting the awning up (and taking it down again)!
We started at 09.30 and were finished by 15.00 with everything packed away in anticipation of Wednesday’s forecast rain. Another “first” was the time-lapse video that recorded the building phase. Hopefully this will appear in the near future in the Video Gallery. Watch that space!
We were delighted to see Jane on Tuesday evening and look forward to her two day stay.
Mon. July 24 2017
Top priority of the day was to dry out from yesterday’s soaking.
The weather played ball for once and despite some thick cloud in the morning it’s been a pleasant day. The neighbours have been out in force and we’ve once again learned a lot, especially about awnings. It seems everyone has a KAMPA awning and we’ve picked up some great tips.
The New Forest WW 2 Airfield Memorial is quite close and we decided to take a stroll this afternoon. The site here is on one of the former air strips. It’s hard to imagine the level of noise and activity this place must have seen during the war. It’s so quiet now with only wild horses to be seen.
Sun. July 23 2017
You know the feeling – you look outside in the morning and the sun’s shining. You then look at the weather forecast and it tells you to expect rain in the early afternoon.
The decision was therefore taken early to keep the awning waiting for its first appearance this tour and thoughts turned to an exploratory bike tour. The first question was where to go? The second – would we make it before the rain arrived?
The inevitable answer to the latter was no and sitting here afterwards in the dry with a glass of Bourgogne Aligote 2006, courtesy of a former French pupil, the world looks very dry – with the exception of the wine!
Bransgore or Burley? The latter. Lose height. All you skiers will have immediately spotted the problem. The way back would be a climb but you’re committed – no way back and so it proved. Down to Burley and buy a cycle route map.
The route back proved interesting. How to avoid the busy A35? Then the rain. Lose Erika and find her again. Why does she think I’m doing it deliberately? Luckily we find Colin and Bernie also looking for a route back to the campsite and together we find a route through the monsoon.
Lasting memory – Erika getting an early shower together with Bernie from a passing car! Preiswert!!
Sat. July 22 2017
“Better late than never” – or so the saying goes and so it proved today. I suppose we should have known better. First day of the school holidays and all that it brings!
We duly left home at 08.30 fully expecting to reach the New Forest site in three and a half hours – tops! Think again. We finally arrived at 13.45 having had long delays on the M25, M3 and the A35 – holiday traffic, vehicle breakdowns and accidents! Add rain and here we are. Let’s study the weather forecast this evening and hope for better weather tomorrow.
Needless to say the awning hasn’t made an appearance yet. Looking forward to a stretching stroll this evening.
Sun. July 16 2017
Eight brave souls weaved their way along narrow Suffolk roads over the weekend and descended on the Edwardstone White Horse. It never ceases to amaze me how other road users will sometimes “take on” the likes of a larger vehicle such as a motor home rather than waiting for an extra few seconds to allow bigger brother to get through what can be quite a tight space. Enough of daymy ramblings, however!
The advance party had things well in hand as vehicle number two thundered onto the site and base camp was established in record time with a relieved Erika handing over “chocking” duties to Reg. Other formalities were quickly accomplished and the tone for the rest of the day was set at an early stage with a late liquid lunch followed by a lot of “catch up”.
The party relocated into the White Horse for our evening meal and despite the lack of “chunky chips”, a good time was had by all. The variety of ales on offer seemed to keep everyone happy.
The traditional camp fire (candles) post-meal chat lasted well past midnight and it was only when we realised that the majority of our fellow site dwelllers had gone to bed did we too retire.
The night passed without event although it was reported in the morning that June and David’s air mattress had developed a leak over night!
A hearty breakfast was served by the ladies and Erika was delighted that the CADAC passed it’s first major test with bacon and eggs served in catering industry quantities.
All in all this was a fantastic weekend and we look forward to the next time. Thanks to John and Maggie, Reg and Fran, David and June for their company and the happy memories.
Thurs. July 6 2017
What a hectic 36 hours it has been.
We arrived at the Rendlesham Forest site shortly before noon yesterday, July 5 and duly pitched having completed all the necessary formalities. The aim of the two days was to have a trial run getting the motorhome awning and associated equipment set up and working. We set to work at 1.00 pm.
Some seven hours later work stopped for the day. In summary the awning was put up TWICE; there were problems with the awning support on the side of Detlef. The air pump refused to work properly (later found to be operator error!!) and we discovered that we had been given the wrong carpet and sleeping annexe by the supplier. Happy days! Needless to say a quick phone call was duly made and we’ll be off to get correct replacements at the weekend!
Today was spent fitting out the awning interior and all seems to work fine. Hopefully we’ll be able to repeat the whole experience on the next trip to the New Forest.
The final work act of the day was to dismantle the whole awning and pack away before the forecast rain but I am pleased to report that there wasn’t any and we enjoyed a blissful afternoon break before putting the bikes through their paces along the seven and a half mile forest “Tang Trail”. An unknown member of the group was seen walking up parts of the trail but won’t be reported to the organisers at present (see photo).
More photos are available in the Photo Gallery.
Sat. July 1 2017
An early start to the day was called for as we headed to Overton Station to catch the 10.35 train to Peterborough on the Nene Valley Steam Railway. We certainly learned a lot from our travel companion Dave and enjoyed an action-packed day thanks to our unlimited “rover” ticket. The railway featured in two of the James Bond films (Octopussy and Goldeneye) and is well worth a visit. Take a look at the Photo Gallery now for some of today’s pictures and call back later for some video footage.
This evening we sampled the local fish and chips and met up once again with Tom and Nina from Ipswich. This was our second meeting having previously met at Kessingland in April. What a small world!
Fri. June 30 2017
It was decided at an early hour to leave the bikes in their stable today after complaints from the nether regions. We must remember to pack the padded cycle shorts next week!
The bus pass was duly dusted down and off we trekked to the guys in reception to ask about where we could pick up the local bus service to the City Centre. After several minutes of banter in which Erika was heavily involved, one of the wardens was heard to say to yours truly……”and please don’t forget to take your wife’s medication with you!!”………….. obviously they thought she was on something!
All in all a good day was had by all. The Cathedral and Guildhall were well worth the visit.
A trip on the Nene Valley Railway is on the cards for Saturday.
For those following on Facebook, “El Tel” was the winner of the inaugural “Mensch ärgere Dich nicht” game last night. The winner’s prize – a few days in Detlef with Erika!!
Thurs. June 29 2017
The bikes had a good workout today (us as well) in Nene Park and it didn’t rain! What a facility for the locals to have on their doorstep – 450 km of cycle ways and other cycle routes.
We spent the late afternoon chilling out back at base and met the local wildlife at close quarters (see Gallery for some new pictures).
Wed. June 28 2017
Murphy duly struck once again this morning as we set off for Ferry Meadows in Peterborough. Having had temperatures of over 30 degrees in the previous week we were greeted by constant drizzle which contrived to stay with us for the complete journey.
To add insult to injury we discovered on route that the A 14 had been closed and we diverted via Ely and the Fens. Most sensible people never trust a Sat Nav and whilst the new Garmin Camper did it’s job in getting us to avoid the A14 we got no verbal warning of the low (2.70m) bridge on the outskirts of Ely!! Luckily the lorry driver in front of us was awake and yours truly simply followed him without really appreciating the potential roof-ripping consequences if I hadn’t!! All’s well that ends well but it was quite a “wake up” call.
The site here is very well laid out. We’re on the west side in a hard-standing pitch with plenty of natural screening vegetation from the neighbours. On arrival we had the unexpected pleasure of meeting a couple we had met in Kessingland in April! It’s a small world.
Thankfully the rain abated as we set up and after a quick lunch we ventured into Peterborough City Centre on the bikes. The cycle paths are excellent. In the 14 km we only had to use public roads for about 200m. Good fun and great to be back on the bikes.
Wed. May 31 2017
They call it “Murphy”…..just when you have to pack up the weather changes!! That’s just what happened this morning on a clear, sunny morning at East Runton. In my most imperfect German….. Pech gehabt!!
We were on the road at 10.45 and despite the trauma of “Narwich” traffic made it back to base around 13.30.
Take a look at the remaining photos and video when I get a chance!!
Tue. May 30 2017
Noisy early rain once again beat the wake-up alarm this morning. An early start was called for and off we trekked to Sheringham. The yellow Sanders bus duly arrived outside the complex and a quick “flash” of the bus pass saw us on our way.
Fifteen minutes later we arrived in Sheringham to be greeted by the also arriving North Norfolk Railway train from Holt. Sheringham was packed with half-term holiday makers and a pleasant morning was had walking along the shoreline to visit the Lifeboat Station.
After a liquid lunch we returned to East Runton for a well-earned snooze!
Mon. May 29 2017
The overnight rain forecast yesterday duly arrived but without the accompanying thunder (as in and around Suffolk). It made for an interesting night under the stars here in North Norfolk with a broken sleep pattern but hey ho…….
Today started off misty and has remained so all day. Have a look at the photo gallery for a look around Cromer today.
Sun. May 28 2017
Seacroft, East Runton Nr. Cromer, Norfolk
Travelling during a school holiday is always going to be interesting and so it proved today. We’ve “hit” a very full Seacroft site here on the North Norfolk coast but the pitch is very good considering it was a very late booking.
The weather has played ball today and we took advantage with a quick stroll to East Runton along part of the North Norfolk Coastal Path. The weather forecast overnight is for rain so once again we wait in anticipation……
Fri. April 28 2017
The fish and chips at the Sailor’s Home did not disappoint last night and the same can be said for the Adnams beer. All in all a very pleasant evening.
It seemed quite strange to wake up today to the fact that it was departure day; the whole trip was over before it had begun! No doubt we will return here as the beach is only yards away and the site is a gem for would be fishermen. Yes, go on and say it – “all the gear and no idea”! Your author definitely feels a fishing visit coming on. The problem will be where to store the bait? Not the fridge this time me lad.
Those amongst you with nothing better to do can watch our departure from Kessingland on the video gallery page. Now back at the monkey sanctuary we can only look forward to the next swing in the branches!
Thurs. April 27 2017
The coastal wind forecast last night failed to materialise and a peaceful night was had by all. 4C. The day started sunny but has now given way to showers. Off to the pub later for a pint of Adnams and a meal.
Weds. April 26 2017
A warm welcome awaited us at White House Beach today. We arrived at around 12.30 pm having driven the short stretch north along the A12. The staff were extremely helpful and our first impressions of the site are very favourable. The site is split into two sections; a “beach” section, which we opted for and a greener, leafy area across the road.
After setting up we managed to beat the showers and had a quick look at the local restaurant and pub. This was followed by a long beach walk to the south of Kessingland.
