Nous sommes arrivés en Normandie. We’ve had some tech problems with accessing the blog, so nothing for the last few days. (Apparently EU electrons are metric, so not compatible with UK electrons – who knew. Another reason to leave/stay in the EU.)
We’re now in Sourdeval, having arrived from Jersey to Saint Malo, then riding along Eurovelo 4 to Cancale, then to Courtils last night, and now to Sourdeval.
Our English readers will be intrigued to learn that Sourdeval is twinned with the UK town of Odiham. Sourdeval has a rich history. It has a lovely church in the centre of this small town. The town centre and much of the church was flattened by the Allies during the push from the Normandy beaches. After the war the centre was rebuilt, as was the church. It’s again a small, very picturesque town, with a population of about 3,000, situated in a lovely wooded valley. Odiham is also a quaint, little village with abundant charm, nestled in quiet woodland place where people live.
Eurovelo 4 is a great cycle route, mostly along a dedicated disused railway line. We love ’em. Plus, it was so quiet today. Hardly saw anyone.
First experience at a creperie, ordering in French. Turned out the waitress was from Birmingham. No wonder we couldn’t understand each other.
Had to buy un tire-bouchon. The one thing we forgot to bring to France.
These busy main roads.
Storms threatened but didn’t materialize.
Fields of the bocage.
Eurovelo 4
Moulin brun
Old railway station
More EV4
Mont Saint Michel (though to me it looks like something out of Gormenghast)
Sourdeval church 1944
As it is today – view from our window.
Inside looks nice.
A roundabout named Odiham. How strange. I bet no one from here has been to Odiham.
Our route (adorned with illuminated text by Sister Margaret of the Blessed Order of Immaculate Fiddlers – they’re always well turned out)
So your French must be better than Lawrence’s, at least you got one drink each rather than one of you getting 2 drinks!
Where are you catching the ferry back to England from?
Looks amazing there! Great to see you’re putting your French to use! Have you been held up by the Gilet Jaunes yet? 🙂
P.S. Vous me connaissez : je ne peux pas m’en empêcher – c’est “nous *sommes* arrivés” 😛
Bien sûr. 🙄
Poor old Wudiham. Things went downhill after the Anglo Saxons started drowning felons in the Weargaburna.
I have picked up your blog from Sue, looks like you’re having a great time. Hope the weather remains kind and you do not lose the bottle opener.