Under control

Aromas of the day were broom and honeysuckle. Maybe the humidity brought out their perfume.

Nice and easy today, in terms of miles, about 12.5, with full packs. There were 3 significant uphills, the first right out of Cahors. It was super steep, but not too long and thus, not too bad really. Here’s a view of Cahors from a lookout point we climbed the day before.

Cahors is surrounded on 3 sides by the River Lot. We’re now heading south of it and won’t see it anymore.

We spent 3 nights in Cahors, expecting to spend just one. Again, finding an auberge or a Gîte where we wanted to stop was proving a challenge. We are going for shorter stages. I rather liked wandering around Cahors and seeing the historic sites, happening upon hidden gardens, and finding unusual or odd bits.

Horloge a billes – a Rube Goldberg mechanism that was fascinating to watch.

Holy water marble ‘chalice’ in the Cathedral

First level of a parking garage- remnants of a Roman Colloseum

The Pont Valentre which we crossed on our way out of town and up that cliff

Malbec grapes, the grape of Cahor – Malbec wine is here known as vin noir. We tried some with lunch at a terrace cafe by the river. It was fine. My lunch was delicious! White fish

After two days off, I was looking forward to the Chemin! Today did not disappoint. And! My body is getting used to this. Still pretty tired at day’s end, but not in pain.

bcastlelaw May 29, 2024 / 1:20 pm

Paula – Great posts and photos. Cahors looks fascinating. And the bridge with the towers on it as you left seems unique – I don’t recall any such bridges in the two Spanish caminos we’ve done. Maybe it’s a French thing! We’re glad you’re feeling stronger on the trail.

Bruce

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John Ganster June 3, 2024 / 7:57 am

Paula & Charlie, What a fabulous post. The view of Cahos surrounded by the river, the Pont Valentre to cross the river are beautiful. How old is that bridge? Reminds me of Charles Bridge in Prague minus the towers. What quirky items as the clock and Rube Goldberg devices to entertain the passer-by, then the serious nature of the marble holy water chalice in contrast. The meal looks yummy! Keep it coming.

John

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- pgsteele4 June 3, 2024 / 12:54 pm
  
  Thanks, John! Wait til you see where we’re staying tonight! (June 3)
  
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