The Wilds of France
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Rain drops keep falling on our heads
Leaving our hotel in Saint-Privat-d'Allier The Chapel of St James and Rochegude lookout tower were built in the 12th century. The tower, currently guarded by Stephen, was used to control trade in the Allier Valley. It's just about impossible to get lost because of the clearly marked path which shows when to go left, go right, continue this way, or oops-wrong way. Through all the rain, we still had an amazing view of Monistril-d'Allier and river carved gorge from the Magdalene Grotto built into the high canyon wall overlooking the town. We have entered the Margeride and see the view of our destination for today, Saugus. All in all it was a good day, although cold, wet and windy.
Our walk begins
Departure from our hotel in Le Puy. It was foggy as we began our ascent. The day warmed and the sky cleared. The Chapel of Saint Roche built in the 11th century was one of many we saw along the way.
Escargot?
They don't have banana slugs here, but we saw these large healthy snails beside the path. I promise not to post any more pictures of these critters.
Tourists in Le Puy
Chapel of Saint Michael of Aiguilhe Our Lady of France (Norte-Dame de France) We walked to/from the Fortress of Polignac (6.68 miles) Yes, we climbed the circular stone staircase to the top of the tower and we walked along the ramparts. Funniest part of the day was when we arrived at the entrance to the fortress and didn't have the tokens to get in because we came up a back road.
Pilgrims Mass
Today we attended the pilgrims mass at the Le Puy cathedral. Of the 75 pilgrims present, we were the only ones from the United States. At least 1/3 of the pilgrims are planning to walk all the way to St James Cathedral in Spain (about 1,000 miles). During mass I barely noticed the grate covering the floor next to our pew. After mass, a blessing, and getting our credentials stamped, the grate was opened to show the steps to the start of our walk.
Mobility Assistance Aids
We'd been told the TSA doesn't always allow hiking poles in carry-on. We didn't have a problem. (Waiting for the train to Lyon)
What is Essential?
My guidebook recommends the weight I carry should be no more than 10% of my body weight. Every item has been weighed and it comes in at 13 pounds (not counting my hiking poles, clothing I'll be wearing each day or the water in my hydration bladder.) Do you see anything I should remove?
