We spent just a week in France; not really long enough, but all we could manage with our holiday entitlement.
After sailing to St Malo, we drove over the Loire and on to the Cher valley, staying at Chatillon sur Cher, then moving on to Sancerre for three nights where we enjoyed cycling by the river and through the vineyards, waving to the grape pickers. The heady, slightly vinegary smell of the grapes at this time of year enthuses our senses and encourages us to enjoy a glass or two of the local wine.
We then drove back to the coast and camped on a idyllic site near Dieppe for a couple of nights; we watched a pair of kingfishers on one of the ponds one evening and we entertained by the goats as they played Three Billy Goats Gruff on the wooden bridge. Our last day was spent driving along the French coast to Zeebrugge and catching the ferry to Hull with seconds to spare!
Driving in France continues to be a joy, with quiet and open roads and pretty towns to stop for a coffee in. The other photographs show the vineyards near Sancerre and the pretty walled town of Mennetou-sur-Cher.
Total ferry costs £601 (including two outside cabins, evening meal on Zeebrugge to Hull - Britanny Ferries was about £350, P&O £250)
Total spending during the week 430 Euro
