Today was a beautiful day. The wind had dropped and the sun has shone all day long. After a slow start, we got on our bikes and cycled across the island to the village of St Martin de Ré. On the way there we chanced upon a market in full swing in the village of Le Bois. I now have a navy and white striped top and a lovely big silk scarf, both good bargains and I feel like I am channelling the French look…..
St Martin de Ré turned out to be the loveliest place we have been to, so far. The Fortifications Vauban go right around the town and can be wandered about on for free. The harbour in the centre of town twists and turns making it look really different and it is surrounded by lots of lovely cafes, restaurants and shops. We absolutely had to sit and have lunch there in the sunshine; Rodney partaking of moules marinieres avec frites and I tucked in to a jambon and cheese crepe.
Funniest site of the day was an English couple who picked up their white Scotty dog, put rather jaunty red patterned socks on its feet and then placed it in the mans’ bicycle basket. It seemed quite unfazed to be wearing red socks and nestled down quite happily into its basket for a ride around town. Wish we could have taken a photo….
After a bit more strolling and the obligatory ice cream we cycled back across the island to Le Bois for a relaxing evening.
This island seems to be a haven for cyclists, so tomorrow we intend to leave Eileen again and head west to La Couarde and Pointe du Grouin on our bicycles. Bon voyage…….