Well folks, we’re still on the Île de Ré, it’s very beautiful and covered with cycle tracks. We’ve moved on from Le Bois Plage en Ré however, as we needed both water and a washing machine. We thought we’d head out to the end of the island for an explore, then come back down the other side to find a campsite – our ACSI Guide said there was a nice one at La Flotte so we were all set for a fun Saturday exploring.
However… Although we like the island, the island it seems, does not like motorhomes. Or maybe it’s just Vince. Our route up to the top of the island seemed straighforward enough but as we drove on, the roads seemed to be getting narrower and narrower. Following Mr Garmin’s instructions we found ourselves in a little town called La Couarde-sur-Mer and took a right turn as instructed. We saw a width restriction sign for 2.5m but being a bloke I thought what the heck – we’re only 2.3m wide, no problem. Big mistake! Yes Vince could get through widthways, but er… try turning right or left in those roads when you’re 7.5m long and things get interesting! After a bunch of sniggering teenagers had passed in the opposite direction I decided discretion was the better part of valour and reversed back through the (thankfully empty) streets to the main road. An elderly gentleman followed me all the way giving ‘helpful’ directions with his walking stick…
“À gauche, à gauche!”
“I bloody know, I bloody know!”
We soon abandoned the idea of exploring the end of the island but Mr G. just sent us into the vineyards on ever smaller roads until we just turned him off and found a main road. Our troubles didn’t end there however, as when we finally found our campsite it was full!
Out came the guidebooks again, we found another site just before the bridge to the mainland in a town called Rivedoux. Thankfully they had spaces, and we think we’ve landed very lucky as it’s roomy and close to the beach and town. In fact, we’ve decided to make camp here for a few days for a bit of a break as we haven’t stayed still for more than two nights for over a month. I know, I know you feel really sorry for us I’m sure but a rest is as good as a change – or something like that. Showers, washing, short cycles into town for a coffee, a bit of planning and some downtime are just what the doctor ordered. That’s all we’ve done today, apart from rigging up the TV in the bedroom window so we could watch the Barcelona F1 Grand Prix whilst sitting in the sun outside sipping a beer. Life is hard.
See you in a few days 🙂
Looks an amazing place……enjoy!
On the down side you missed a great rat run today to the Cotswolds. The sun had his hat on for us too.
That bridge looks inviting to cycle over.
Regards
Paul Feavyour
This made me and Jim laugh for ages! X
Good for Gill. She needs to keep you in order! But it certainly looks like you found a great little site, and it will do you good to rest for a few days, you poor old thing!
Île de Ré is on our list , camped on the other,Îl d’Oleron,many years ago. See you next week.