Val de Vesle to Chalons en Champagne

Champagne

Yesterday morning after a backtrack over the motorway to Verzy, I was back in the rolling hills of Champagne and, most importantly on the Via Francigena.   The morning passed easily as I wheeled through villages and eventually along the canal Marne.  The canal was a big bonus as I was able to remain on the tow path all the to Chalons en Champagne.  The sun came out and as I passed the numerous barges and boats travelling the canal my only regret was that the pleasantness of the journey was mine alone.  Still, it was lovely and I very much enjoyed the peaceful influence of the still water, coupled with the warmth of the sun.  

At about the 40km mark and mid day, I was at Chalons en Champagne where I spent time at the tremendously helpful and friendly tourist office getting assistance with finding accommodation and a few other things.  Then after checking into the fabulous Chambre d'hote La Petite Reverie, I set out to stretch my legs in an ambulatory kind of way and see the sights, happily unattached to the saddle of my bike for the first time in nearly a week.

If you haven't been here, Chalons en Champagne is a smallish city with architecture dating back to the middle ages.  It boasts some marvellous buildings, plenty of bars and restaurants selling - you guessed it, Champagne - and there's an easy kind of feel about the place, possibly because the people drink so much bubbly stuff.  In fact, even though I haven't actually had a glass of it myself, I felt so good here I decided to stay another night.  My hosts at the Petite Reverie are tremendously nice people and I highly recommend a stay here if you happen to be in the area.

Market day in Chalons en Champagne

On a different note, I seem to have lost my enthusiasm for a trip that was intended as a joint venture and I feel very tired now - perhaps the fatigue that was there all along and is now being felt, and the the proverbial air is gone from my tyres, the chain is off the sprocket... you know what I mean, so home it may be for me.  Tomorrow will be the deciding day for that.

The French Posties use motor assisted Bicycles

Today's Lunch

Given all this, I will likely go off line now and blog no more until the next adventure or misadventure, as the case may be.  Thanks to all of you for reading and for your comments, both public and private.  Until next time, a bientot!