Yesterday our flight up was straight forward. We crossed the Southern Pyrenees NW of Barcelona. I thought they were looking a little parched, but it was nice to see some mountain lakes.
South central France was dry to the point of crispy. Testament to the extremely dry conditions that have largely existed there for the past 4+ months.
I believe we passed over Toulouse because it sure looked like Toulouse! We walked in from the east during our 2018 Camino For Alzheimer Awareness with Kathy almost to the day! After saying goodbye to Kathy and Bob we continued westward on what was an amazing walk! I just looked at Google Maps and I’m almost 100% sure that it was Toulouse that we flew over.
As we progressed north of Toulouse the burnt out area changed to a greener environment. The corn will be standing in rows like soldiers on parade, golden yellow for as far as the eye can see. I’ve seen these extensive stands on many occasions in the fall.
We passed over a number of other cities, though I’d be guessing their names.
The Massif Central stands out in the distance.
Happily I see some large reservoirs seemingly full. Is that possible after the heat this year? If so, this is very good news!
Into north central France now. The skies are largely cloudy. My summer is over. Lucky to have an extension this year, and very fortunate to be travelling. They announce that we are just 40’ out from landing in Eindhoven.
We pass over what can only be Paris. The wide loops of the Seine majestically crisscrossing its floodplain.
Now crossing into northern France and the flat plains with its intermediate rolling hills. A less than delightful place to walk across. Cycling is more appropriate because the somewhat tedious landscape passes by more quickly.
In 2015 we enjoyed a wonderful 3 week bicycle ride from Paris to Brugge. The small villages and of course the WWI graveyards that touch the soul and make you wonder why. Such madness. And now the saner part of the world is trying to stop Russia’s efforts to enter Europe again. Go Ukraine!
Now crossing Belgium. Home to wonderful cycling paths and of course excellent chocolate and beer!
I look down and see the modern mills turning. Broken cloud and about 18° I’m going to freeze!
Soon we will cross into Holland. A place of such fond memories. Time spent there with Annemarie and her family. Her parents like so many others came to Canada in the 1950’s after the war to make a new beginning. AM is justifiably proud of her heritage.
We arrive and hurry to catch a bus into the city centre. Once there we arrive at the train station and find that we have just 5 minutes to catch our train south to Roermond. Somehow we manage to get our tickets and make the train in time. Phew!
We get to our B&B and after dropping our gear we walk back to town to find dinner. Greek restaurant and Stofado!
Then a nice walk.
And home to bed after a long day. Breakfast in Barcelona, dinner in Holland!
Today has been a fun day of walking and visiting with family over a very nice lunch hosted by Annemarie’ aunt and uncle. I’ll update the rest of the day tomorrow. Out with the cousins tonight for dinner.
Caio!
Geoff
Distance Walker - Wandering & Wondering! 