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Overcast morning. We refill the fresh water tank and Jean-Michel goes to disconnect the hose. Ali warns about standing clear of the blowback but Annick doesn't translate quickly enough and Jean-Michel gets soaked. We say our goodbyes and set off at 11:05
Roads quieter than expected [as it's a holiday weekend] but busy near Vannes. We detour into Port-Louis and stop by the harbour under the ramparts of the fort for lunch which is from 'le sac de chien' or doggy bag Annick gave us from yesterday's party [chicken leg, beef, salad and bread].
We drive along the seafront and rejoin the busy main road for a few miles until we go off on country roads towards Herbignac. As we leave the roundabout a 'route ferme' [road closed] sign flashes with an open bridge symbol. A few cars are coming the other way so we continue, crossing the bridge unhindered, but when we reach Herbignac there are lots of people in hi-vis vests putting up barriers for a cycle race. We and two cars behind are the last through and we see the barriers close in the mirrors. Lucky!
Reaching St Andre des Eaux we notice many thatched houses. We are entering the Grand Briere, the biggest wetlands in France after the Carmargue so assume reeds for thatch are in good supply.
A mile later we arrive at our first France Passion site. Ali meets the host and we are directed into a field where horses graze having just finished their day's work of drawing tourist carriages around La Briere.
http://www.saintandredeseaux.com/Promenades-en-Briere
We get out and wander along the paths by the small waterways where punts are moored. Terns fly around skimming the water; a heron stands motionless and geese waddle around in flocks on the wide flat grass. Ponies graze under the trees. The lanes are full of buttercup, vetch and campion.
Back in the van cheese, pate, bread and wine for tea.
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