Tuesday August 8, Dun sur Meuse

Magnificent carvings in the basillica in L'Epine

This morning’s bike ride was washed out. Heard rain on the roof in the early hours which continued on and off all morning. Went for a walk with the umbrella to the local boulangerie and stretched our legs before deciding to head off in the direction of Luxembourg, although decided to spend our last night in France on a(nother) canal!

Arable farming

Loved these road side decorations

Crossed the Marne River at Chalons-en Champagne and out into huge areas of arable farming, the biggest we have seen in France. It reminded us of the American prairies although with more contour.

Stopped for a lunch break in the small town to L’Epine after seeing a magnificent church that towered over the surrounding countryside. The town is very small, but the Gothic Basilica which was built in the 15^th century is centre stage. Went for a walk and utterly amazed by the intricate detailing on the outside with many gargoyles. The inside was just as breath-taking with beautiful stained windows and wonderful statues. It still surprises me to find buildings like this in the most unexpected places. Sorry but lots of photos as I was in awe!

Next stop was at a Supermarche in Ste-Menehould for a few supplies but mainly to exchange our empty French propane bottle with a full one. Delighted to see that it also had washing machines and driers in the carpark. So stripped the bed and gathered all the dirties and in an hours’ time everything was clean and dry again. Talk about a one stop shop!

The road to the canal soon took us onto the lesser roads, very little traffic and interesting rural scenery. Passed by a number of war cemeteries including American and German. The Battle of Verdun was fought not far away from here in WW1 with over 300,000 killed. It is a sharp reminder of the cost of war.

The Aire is on the side of the Meuse Canal and is very pleasant spot, somehow we are always drawn to staying by the water if possible. Today has been quite cool, only about 15 degrees but the sun is pouring in tonight so hopefully tomorrow while be warmer.

Fishing on the Meuse River