A glorious blue sky greeted us this morning. Not sure how long this lovely weather can hold out as there are reports of quite a lot of rain about but will make the most of what we have.
Got on our way a little earlier as the triathlon cyclists were clearing the road outside the campsite by 10am. We headed for the Langemer lake just up the road and found a handy parking spot so we could wander to the waters edge. The local guide book makes reference to walking round the lakes but in most places it seems that the walks around the lake go along the road so not sure I would want to do that. At either end of the lake though there are big parking areas and lots of people splashing in the water and picnicing on the grass. Had a lovely stroll along, It is a very pretty lake with beautifully clear water.
Decided not to attempt a visit to Gardermer as the triathlon was still in full swing even if the cyclists had moved from our Langemer lake area to the Gardermer lake. We headed instead up the Vosges for a scenic drive. We
were going to visit the more local small town of on the way but missed the turn. Instead we found ourselves heading for the Poli ski post and found ourselves driving up a very small steep and windy road which had some very pretty views.
Back down then to the main road and we headed up into the tree lined mountain roads. These ae not as pretty as there are so many trees there is little else to see. We went through a couple of small towns but found nothing there to excite us and more importantly to feed us food or drink so carried on our way. I spotted a landmark site of Champ de Roques so we headed for that. An Ice Age natural site where an entire area is covered in bolders. Took a little while to find it as we accidentally took a more minor road,a foresty track I should think, but we found it eventually and it is pretty impressive. Could only imagine it was the result of a volcanic eruption as it looked like a downward flow of lava.
didnt do too well there. We stopped at a quaint little tearoom but madame was busy serving a table for 10 on her own and with another couple already waiting we took our leave as she could only offer drinks as too busy..A bit odd really for a cafe !
Next, to an Auberge where we were quite hopeful but a glance inside showed lots of tables full of people eating and sure enough we could only have drinks here too. We did though manage ice creams and as by this point it was 3 oclock that was fine.
Headed for Gerardmer on the way back, hopeful the triathlon crowds might have cleared a litle but no chance of that. Cars parked in every tiny spot there was and though we drove round twice we then had to give up. Did get whistled at by a gendarme when we went round a roundabout where yet another group of cyclists were being shepherded safely round but no idea what we did that they didnt like so carried on our way. Back to the waters edge on the other side of lake Langemer for a relaxing moment by the water and
Moving on tomorrow. Leaving France for Switzerland. Ive been happily speaking French these last 4 days and was delighted yesterday when someone asked where I was from and was surprised I was English as she said my accent was so good. My German is not so good... in fact is only just about get by level but we will manage, we always do.
