Please note that I have reversed the order of this blog so you don’t need to page down forever any more to get to the new entries

1st July – Kentford to Whalley

We left Phoebe, Fiona and Ian after more playing in the garden to head home to Whalley. We will be at home until the 26th July so I am going to have a rest from my travel diary until then. In the last 7 weeks I have grown bigger and stronger, got into a few scrapes, learn about boats and boating, met lots of new friends and even learnt a little French. I don’t think they think I have grown up any more though, so I guess some intensive training might be on the cards.  I don’t mind though, I haven’t seen Stacey for ages.

We arrived home in the late afternoon and it took me ages to inspect the garden and make sure all my little spaces still smelt the same.  It’s hot here too so I like to lie by the fountain listening to the water and dreaming of swimming in the Saone.

Don’t forget to tune back in. Au revoir for now.  Maia xx

30th June- Gosnay to Kentford

Last day in France as we headed towards Calais and the tunnel back to the UK. I don’t think much of the doggy facilities in Calais compared to the UK.  In Folkestone there was a big play area with jumps and things to play on. In Calais there was a tiny little bit of grass and nothing else.  I think the French need to check this out. First impressions are very important and I was not impressed.

From the tunnel we headed up the motorway – another very boring journey – to Kentford in Suffolk, the home of Phoebe and her owners, Fiona and Ian.  Apparently, Phoebe is a very old cat, although I don’t think she is anywhere near Michael’s 637 dog years, so I wasn’t allowed to meet her. I don’t understand why, I have never chased a cat in my life, although I admit I might have been a bit over enthusiastic in my greeting… if I’d had the chance.  Anyway, Phoebe has a very nice garden and as she wasn’t using it I could! It’s ages since I’ve been able to charge around, so I made up for it. I did have Kong to play with but I much preferred picking up the apples and stones.  I loved the apples, but regretted eating so many of them later!

In the evening we all walked down to the pub – yes, me too – I was allowed out with them for a change.  I was quite well behaved too as I want this chance again. I didn’t knock any tables over this time.

Unfortunately it was back in my cage overnight which I wasn’t too happy about, especially as I was sick after all those apples. I didn’t get a lot of sympathy though.

29th June – Auxonne to Gosnay

After watching much packing and cleaning then re-packing the car (which Alison had picked up in St Jean de Losne two days ago)  we were finally ready to go.  It all looked exhausting in the heat so I’m glad I wasn’t involved. It never ceases to amaze me how much stuff they need.  The only bits that were mine were my bed, lead, the rest of my food and Kong… the only toy not to have gone overboard.

So off we went, packed to the rafters, back to Gosnay and my favorite hotel (I haven’t stayed in many so it’s not difficult to choose a favourite).   I went out to check the gardens, which are even lovelier now we are in midsummer – lots of flowers and vegetables just waiting to be dug up.  We went for cocktails on the lawn but then it was back to my cage as I’m still not too popular as a dinner companion.

28th June – Auxonne

A day of jobs… and swimming. Twice I managed to get down to the river to practice my strokes and to be honest, I need the practice.  I don’t think I look very elegant, so hopefully I will have a chance to improve my style when I get home.  Because we are heading home – back to Amy and Mattie and hopefully Billie if he isn’t away on his travels.  I can’t wait to see Mattie and Amy, although I suspect they might not be quite as happy to see me.

Poor Maggie was not very well today so a planned bike ride had to be cancelled. PersonalIy think it was too hot anyway, they would have been much better swimming with me.

27th June – Chalon-sur-Saone to Auxonne

Originally we planned to travel from Chalon to Seurre today and then on to Auxonne tomorrow, but 3 days of “la greve”or strikes made it too risky as no one could confirm whether the Saone locks would be affected tomorrow.  So we passed by Seurre and continued onto Auxonne,  which is to be Annapanna’s home until the end of July.

Well this place is doggy heaven, there are literally dozens around and I want to meet them all – now.  Even better, we are moored right next to a slipway so cooling off in the water is easy.  I’ve been told there are good swimming spots on the river nearby too and I can’t wait to try them.  I am so happy here!

26th June – Chalon-sur-Saone

Yet more sightseeing around the town of Chalon. It wasn’t too bad though as the walk into town is via my park so at least I could have a play on the way.  It was very hot though so I was glad it wasn’t too far or for too long… there are only so many old buildings I can cope with.

I was left home alone in the evening again whilst they went out to dinner. I am no longer allowed out with them, at least not until I grow up a bit more – they say.  I wouldn’t mind so much if they didn’t insist on telling me where they had been and what they had eaten! Anyway, they went to L’ami Fritz on Rue de Strasbourg and said it was very good.

25th June – Macon to Chalon-sur-Saone

A long trip on the river today to Chalon.  We stoppped here briefly on the way south and I liked it very much.  There is a park next door, the harbour master is very friendly and our mooring is on a long pontoon where lots of people walk past all the time.

I had a bit of a drama this afternoon though.  I went for a walk in the park and was minding my own business sniffing around when suddenly…… oh the pain!  I cried and cried and had to lie down on my side. I couldn’t put my foot down it was so painful. Then two dogs came past so I forgot the pain for a while….   It still hurt a bit walking back to the boat but they couldn’t find anything.  Just to be on the safe side I had my paw washed in salt and water…. and I’m fine now!  I think Alison thinks I’m a bit of a drama queen, but it DID hurt!

24th June – Macon

We walked into town from the Port de Plaisance to have a look round. Thankfully there really weren’t any “sights” to see so after a wander round and lunch by the river we set off back again.  All would have been well if Alison hadn’t decided it was time for a spot of training, so ALL they way back (3K) I had to walk at heel. So boring….  There was some light relief though as part way back we came across a fishing competition, but this was no ordinary fishing competition as the fish were gigantic!  They laughed when Alison asked whether we could eat them and said that she couldn’t but I could!  Not sure how to take that!  The picture below was the biggest caught (84kgs), swimming around with some others.  The one on the scales was only 20 odd kilos, a baby by comparison and the same weight as me.

23rd June – Jassans Riottier to Macon

Another windy day but the sun still shone. We left Jassans Riottier in the morning and soon after saw this yacht moored at the next village.  What do you think, ghost ship or piece of art?  It looks a bit like I’ve had a go at it!

We arrived at the Port de Plasisance in Macon later in the day after saiing through the town on our way here.  There was another festival going on in the town, right by the moorings, so I was very glad we had decided to continue on to the port instead. My ears haven’t recovered from the other night yet. We’ll be walking into town to check it out though.

I was left alone in the evening whilst they went to eat at Le Poisson D’or.  I was told to mention it as it was the best meal they had had this trip and very close to the harbour. As if I’m in the slightest bit interested in where they go when I’m not included!

22nd June – Lyon to Jassans Riottier

The weather was much cooler today and very windy. In fact too windy for me so I retreated to my bed for a while.  Our destination was Jassans Riottier a small pontoon next to a park and a restaurant, L’Embarcadere, belonging to a famous chef (so I believe).  After the restrictions in Lyon this was play heaven and because it was cooler I could chase my ball to my heart’s content.  Maggie, Alison and I went off for a walk through the park in search of a bar to have a girly drink, but we failed.  They think the mooring is better than the town, famous restaurant or not.  I hope we have more luck in Macon.

20th – 21st June – Lyon

Oh my, it’s hot.  The hottest I’ve ever known it in my short life.  They tried to hose me down but I didn’t like that and all I really wanted to do was get into the pond nearby.  I did manage it later as well, it was heaven!

I got into trouble earlier though. Brian went off somewhere to do a bit of shopping and I saw it as an opportunity to get off too. I’m not sure what my plan was, although I suspect the pond was involved, I just knew I needed to go.  But… we are moored against a wall in the harbour which is higher than the boat so I don’t get off in the normal place… except I tried to.  Alison caught me with my front legs half way up the wall and one back leg suspended in mid air, seconds away from a nasty fall – so she told me.  Apparently I was very lucky.  Maybe I was, but then again maybe she underestimates my climbing skills!

Maggie arrived in the afternoon and will stay with us until we return to the UK at the end of next week.  Alison went to the airport to pick her up, which I believe was a long and hot journey, so they needed drinks when they got back – see picture, any excuse!

There is a food festival on the quay this weekend and it started last night.  There was a band playing and I didn’t like it. Its was just too loud for me, so at 9pm I decided to go to bed. This is almost unheard of, but I have very delicate ears and it was a little bit quieter down below.  It went on for ages and even down below it disturbed my sleep so there was nothing to do but have a chew….

19th June – Vienne to Lyon

We left Vienne in the afternoon after Alison had spent hours looking at a load of old ruins at the Roman museum at Saint Romain-en-Gal. Fascinating apparently, definitely not my scene.  Our original plan was to moor on the pontoon at Chasse-sur-Rhone but after much discussion, none of which involved me, the decision was to move on as they didn’t like it.  Personally, it looked fine as it was on a footpath, but who am I to have a choice.

We then moved on to Givors where we spent a futile 10 minutes or so trying to get permission from the town hall to moor at the grande pontoon. Even though the sign said that the managers of the small harbour (the town hall) gave the permission it seemed as if no one has actually told them that.  So in the end we gave up and decided to go straight to Lyon and the Halte Fluviale Lyon-Confluence, a day early.

In Lyon we met up with our new friends Robin and Sue.  If you remember we moored off them for a few days in Avignon in May and have kept in touch since.  After drinks on deck it was off to dinner, none of which included me, as I was once again locked in my cage.  I didn’t mind too much as it had been a hot day and I needed to catch up on my beauty sleep, safe in the knowledge that the cage door would open later…

18th. June – Les Roches-des-Condrieu to Vienne

We left Condrieu in the morning to travel 2 locks and 10 kilometres to Vienne. Or more accurately to Saint Columbe on the opposite side of the passerelle to Vienne.  Vienne is a roman city so guess what, more sightseeing!  I’m not sure this sightseeing business doesn’t exceeds my maximum daily walking time, but I suppose its better than being home alone. I was exhausted when I got back though and needed an early night to recover.  Fortunately there was lots of shade in town which was just as well as it is now getting very hot.  I am coping with the heat ok though it would just be nice to be able to swim more!

We are moored on a pontoon on the side of the river and it can get a rocky, which I don’t like much. Fortunately there isn’t much river traffic so we don’t get disturbed too often. The view from the boat is very good. Can you see the ruins of the castle at the top of the hill?  Just don’t make me walk up to it!

I need to mention a big change in my sleeping arrangements. It seems as if I am now to be trusted to sleep in my cage with the door open AND I have got my duvet back!  This is so much better I want to make sure it continues, so for the time being I am on my best behaviour. No chewing and I don’t leave my cage until woken up for my early morning constitution.

17th June – Les Roches-des-Condrieu

We are having a couple of nights here on this visit so I have even more swimming time to work on my technique.  I was definitely better today than yesterday. Earlier we walked across the suspension bridge to Condrieu to watch a jousting tournament. Unlike the last jousting we watched, this was a competition.  It seemed as if big and heavy was an advantage and Bateau Rouge seemed to have more big boys than Bateau Bleu, so the score when we left was 8-2, a bit one sided.  I wondered about offering my services but really I was more interested in the football game being played behind me. I wonder if they have seen my picture with the Athletico team?

16th June – Saint Vallier to Les Roches-de-Condrieu

Further trip up river today although the flow is a little slower now as we haven’t had any rain for a whole 3 days!  The temperature is set to rise in next week so I’m starting to prepare myself mentally for being a hot dog.

We are back at one of my favorite places, Les Roche-de-Condrieu. Those of you following my blog will remember that this is where I learnt to swim. It is a lot busier than it was last time we were here so that means lots of people to watch on the water ski system. There aren’t too many dogs around though which is a bit disappointing.

Anyway my swimming is coming on a treat and I am definitely improving my retrieval of the ball, which to be honest was a bit hit and miss to start with.  I panicked if I couldn’t find it and ended up doing a high step doggy paddle which was much harder work than a normal one.

15th June – Valence to Saint Vallier

We said goodbye to the Valance-Eperviere harbour this morning and continued on our slow trek up river.  The rain has stopped and the flow returned to a similar rate to when we arrived.  Don’t be fooled though, it is still flowing fast and I certainly wouldn’t want to fall in – or I’d be back in Avignon before I knew it!

Tonight we are moored at the side of the Rhone in a place called Saint Vallier. The mooring is just outside the town and as with Valence, right next to a lovely cycle path.  Unlike Valence though I can see the path from my position on deck so I have been practising my guard dog stance by barking at all the passerbys – or at least the ones that don’t have dogs.

12th – 15th June – Valence

So here we are in Valence for an extended break.  There has been a lot of rain and the Rhone is up and flowing very fast and on top of that it is windy.  As I said in the last blog I love Valence, so I am happy to stay here a while.

The marina is about 3 kilometres out of the town so one day we walked along the river and through a park for a spot of sightseeing and lunch in Valence.  Then it rained and I mean really rained.  I don’t mind the rain but they weren’t happy especially as we then had to walk back as we couldn’t find anywhere to hire a car.

The plan was to hire a car the next day and drive to see the lavender fields and the Ardeche gorges.  It should have been easy, but of course it wasn’t, as the only place with cars was the TGV station and that was 14 kms away.  We couldn’t get there by train as there was a strike so Alison set off by bike to pick up the car. I really do have to learn to ride a bike then I can go with her.

We got a big car and I had the back all to myself. There was room for my bed and lots of space to walk around so this journey wasn’t anything like as boring as the last one.  We had lots of stops for “sightseeing” although the only sight I was interested in was new people with new dogs and there were plenty of these.  The only thing I didn’t like was all the twisting and turning on the bendy roads. It made standing up very difficult so I was glad I had my bed to retreat to.  For those of you that are interested I have added some pictures of the gorges. The Ardeche was a long way down but we could see lots of people kayaking down the river.  I think I might like kayaking, as long as I could wear my life jacket.

11th June – Viviers to Valence

Well, there were no dramas overnight and we left early before the workmen started on the modernisation of the port.  Viviers is a lovely place so we hope that the tatty looking notices saying the port will open on the 13th July is actually 2018.

We had a very long day on the river today but as I’m a seasoned traveller now it was no problem for me.  All the locks have really good pontoons nearby so comfort stops were not a issue.  The long day was worth it though as we are now back in Valence and I love Valence!  The marina is next to a park and there are loads of places for me to play. I am a very happy dog!

10th June – Saint Etienne des Sorts to Viviers

Oops, the day started with a bit of drama. We were moored on a pontoon on the banks of the fast flowing Rhone and although it is Sunday and therefore a quiet day for commercial barges, too many of them came past too fast in the early morning.  Then disaster struck as one rope snapped and another came off its cleat.  Held on by a single rope at the stern we swung round in the current and severed the outboard on the pontoon.  So until it is replaced it is rowing only on Little Dick, not something I am intending to try.  It could have been much worse though and it’s all thanks to me making them get up early that it wasn’t.  I think I deserve some thanks for that, perhaps an extra treat or a long play with my ball, but what I actually got was several shouts to keep out of the way.

Our destination today was Viviers, a harbour we had been told was shut and silted up but then we met someone who had stayed in it the night before and he said it was fine. So we gave it a whirl and as there were no obvious signs saying it was shut and the depth was no issue, we decided to stay.  Let’s hope there are no dramas tonight.

Alison cycled off into the town whilst I stood guard and played with a very friendly collie.We really rough and tumbled in the grass so at least I used up some of my pent up energy.  I think they were worried I would fall in the water, but if I did, so what, I can swim!  Alison came back with photos and reports about how lovely the town was. Lots of narrow cobbled streets and a great view from the top. I’m sure its very nice, but for me a play in the grass beats sightseeing any day.

9th June – Avignon to Saint Etienne des Sorts

We left Avignon this morning and continued our chug north against the current.  It was very hot today, the hottest day I have ever known in my life, which doesn’t actually say much.  I believe the heat will stay for a while so I’d better get used to it.  It is very irritating on board though as just as I settle into a place in the shade we change direction and suddenly I’m sun bathing again.

We arrived in Saint Etienne des Sorts in the late afternoon and after a tour round the village to check out the canine population I settled into my favorite place on deck to watch two big Alsatian type dogs swimming off the slipway.  I was desperate to join them but I think they were better swimmers than me so I wasn’t allowed. Once they had gone though I did go for a paddle.

Saint Etienne des Sorts is in the heart of Cote du Rhone country and there were several wine caves in the village and many vineyards in the surrounding countryside. Sadly, for them, not me,  the caves were closed on Saturday afternoon.

7th – 8th June – Avignon

The 7th was the day I finally made it across the river to the park! We all caught the ferry ( I like ferries as I get lots of attention) and then Brian, Gill and I went for a good walk and a lot of play. I had a bit of  a training session, which was a surprise as I haven’t had many of these whilst we’ve been away, but I didn’t mind as it meant I got treats  We then went for a drink whilst we were waiting for Roger and Alison to come back from their bike ride – until it started raining.

I was left home alone in the evening as they all went out for dinner to celebrate Roger and Gill’s last night.  I didn’t want to be left alone and I certainly didn’t want to be locked up. I really like Roger and Gill and I wanted to celebrate their last night too.  So I was bad, very bad and now I don’t have a mattress any more in my bed. This time there was too much damage to repair, so in the bin it went.  Now I have to sleep on towels and they aren’t as comfy, but I don’t get any sympathy as they tell me it’s my own fault.

We all got up very early on the 8th  to walk to the bus stop with Gill and Roger who were flying home later in the day.  Their plans had to change as the national rail strike meant their train was cancelled and after much discussion decided that the best alternative was the bus. Problem was it was at 6am. The rest of the day seemed to be cleaning and washing day. Not that it affected me as I was guarding the boat from the deck and lying in the shade.  Lots of dogs came past the boat, usually the same ones several times a day.  One man stopped to talk to me every time he came past with his two dogs. I really wanted to walk with him but they have put up bike barriers to stop me jumping off. At the moment they are defeating me, but this is a challenge I am going to win.  Wait and see.

6th June – Aramon to Avignon

We walked into Aramon in the morning to look around the town and visit the market. yet more food shopping of course.  I like the town, it has lots of windy narrow streets to keep the sun off me and old buildings that the others seemed to find very interesting.

Arrived in Avignon in the afternoon to find, just for a change, no available mooring. So lots of messing around whilst a little boat moved to moor off us. It was all sorted in the end though. I like the harbour master here, he’s very friendly and even invited us to look round his very big cruise boat.  I could live on this boat, there are really long corridors to run round and I bet I wouldn’t need to sleep in a cage.

We went for a walk around town later, had an ice cream – I love ice cream – and then, just for a change, did a bit of shopping. After that it was time for a beer at Beer O’Clock.

5th June – Gallician to Aramon

Long day on the river today with very few wee stops.  I can get a bit anxious at times but I managed, so I must be growing up.  It was a cleaning day today and they were all at it, washing and polishing in the sunshine.  I would have helped but they seemed ok without me and I needed to save my energy for playing later.

Aramon is another lovely little stop although the owner seems to have lost interest and gone away.  It’s not a problem for me as I don’t need to shower and I have my own open air facilities, but if you do you might be disappointed.  This is another mooring next to a cycle path so lots of space for me to play. I practised my jumping  in the evening  – round and round in circles over a chain fence.  I think I might consider doing agility classes when I get home.

4th June – Aigues Mortes to Gallician

We left Aigues-Mortes later in the morning after a trip to the vets.  We went to get some tick treatment as I had a couple of black crawly things on me and they may have been ticks, but we weren’t sure. So now I am safe when I chase around in the long grass. Can’t say the same for the others though.

Our destination was Gallician, a small port in the Petit Camargue which we spotted on the way to Sete.  It’s a pretty mooring right on the main cycle path and the village is a major wine producer in the area.  Of course we had to trawl around the caves (as they call them) re-stocking supplies. Believe me, they need lots of supplies.  As with shopping, I don’t understand it. What is wrong with water, its all I ever get.

After that Alison and Gill went off on their bikes to the Scamandre, a wildlife reserve a few kilometres away. This time I wasn’t bothered about going with them, which is just as well as apparently I wasn’t allowed in anyway.

3rd June – Aigues-Mortes

Another day here so Gill and Roger could have a bit of an explore. I’m not sure how much exploring walking to the supermarket involves, but that’s what we did in the morning! I can’t understand this shopping lark. I brought all my food with me and haven’t had to shop once, whilst they seem to have to do it every day. Why? I am sure it would be much easier if they ate the same as me then all we would have to do is put another sack in the car along with the kitchen sink.

In the afternoon Gill, Roger and Alison went off on yet another bike ride leaving me behind – again. I really will have to learn to ride a bike as I don’t like missing out.  I don’t think doggy bikes exist so I might have to think about designing one. I’ll dream about it during my afternoon nap. They told me they cycled to the salt flats where they took a train – I really want to ride in a train – around where the seawater is dried out to produce the sea salt. Then they climbed a salt mountain to look at the view. Sadly it was raining so the view wasn’t great.  They did see lots of flamingoes though. These are funny birds. Their legs are even longer and thinner that mine, they have really long necks and a funny hook on the end of their nose. And they’re pink!

2nd June – Frontignan to Aigues-Mortes

The bridge in Frontignan only opens twice a day at 08.30 and 16.00 so we had to be ready early to move the boat. We only went through the bridge though as it was market day in town and we had shopping to do.  I like markets as there are lots of dogs to talk to and plenty of food to scavenge.  I ate a few olive stones before they could stop me… they weren’t very happy but I am sure I’ll be OK.

They were jousting by our mooring this morning.  Lots of little rugby players learning how to joust.  You have to stand at the top of a plank holding a long stick and a shield and then see if you can knock the person in the other boat into the water.  It looks really good fun and I think I would be very good at it. Why? Well, I am an expert at walking the plank, I have brilliant balance on my 4 legs and I can carry large sticks easily in my mouth. I’ll wear the shield round my neck and as I am now a swimmer being knocked into the water – if I ever happen to lose – won’t be a problem.

Our plan today was to go to Palavas-les-Flots on the sea but when we got there we realised we were too high for the bridge. Poor planning I call that. I’m not impressed as I was looking forward to playing on the beach.  We then decided to try to moor in Carnon at the hire boat base but as it was changeover day it was full.  So we continued on back to Aigues-Mortes and here we are back on our previous mooring next to the walled city.  I am disappointed about the beach of course but I like Aigues-Mortes, apart from the stupid yappy little dog at the end of the pontoon.  It’s only about 2 inches high but has a go at me every time I go past!

1st June – Marseillan to Frontignan

We left Marseillan in the morning after another visit to the park and then sailed across the Etang du Thau towards Frontignan. This is another great spot for dog watching as lots of them walked past me.  On the way here we dropped anchor in the Etang, supposededly for a spot of swimming which I was really looking forward to, but it didn’t happen. In fact all that did happen was that Alison dropped her expensive sunglasses in the water…. oops.  It was very peaceful at anchor but I was a bit concerned about how I was supposed to get off the boat.  I know I can swim now but my diving skills have not yet been tested and I’m not sure I wanted to try them in the middle of the sea, life jacket or not.  Anyway, it didn’t come to that as the water was too murky and too cold apparently. Sounds a bit wimpy to me, I don’t care how dirty it is!

Frontignan is a pretty town with a beautifully restored Halle (covered market) and a lovely 12th century church. We went for coffee in the main square just as France beat Italy in a pre World Cup match.  Lots of happy people, but no one wanted to take my picture this time!

30th May – 31st May – Marseillan

I am now officially 7 months old. I suppose this means they might expect me to behave more like a grown up? No more chewing? No more jumping up?  I don’t think so just yet. They say we should savour our childhood, so I will, for a bit longer.

All our friends are still here so I have plenty of people to talk to. I would like to play a bit more but when I tried to play with David I don’t think he was very pleased. I can’t help it as I have so much energy and too many teeth. I love to jump up but every time I do I get told off.  At least there is park near here where I can run around and chase a ball.

Roger and Gill arrived by bus on Wednesday so now I have even more company on board.  Even though they had been up since 2am (to drive to Bristol to catch the plane) they were still up for a bit of an adventure and went off cycling to Marseillan Plage for a beer.  I didn’t go of course as I can’t ride a bike and I’m too big to go in a basket, so Brian and I hit the town instead.

The next morning I went to the park for a spot of play and met a sheepdog, Shawn, along with his English owners. We charged around in the mud chasing balls and having a great time.. and then I went swimming again.  It was a bit of a shock to start with as the water was salty and I got completely disoriented chasing my ball, but then I got used to it and didn’t want to get out.

When we came back from the park it was time to say goodbye to David, Roger and Jan ( 3 men in a boat) as they were off back to their base. David wanted assurance that they  were included in my blog and I was only to happy to oblige. Sorry, I hurt your arm David.

Later on I was left behind as they all went on a tour of the Noilly Prat factory on the Quay.  It must have been good as they came back with bottles of the stuff and the intention of mixing martinis in the evening. Not that I was interested as all I’m likely to get is water.  I’m not sure how much they had been given to drink during the tour but the picture they took at the end of it kind of gives the game away.

29th May – Mèze to Marseillan

Still windy but at least it was fine for our short sail to the west of the Etang and Marseillan, a very pretty harbour and the home old Noilly Prat.  We are here for 3 nights as tomorrow we pick up Roger and Gill who are arriving from Beziers airport.  It is very friendly here and there are lots of animals. Our neighbour is a Briard, next door but two a black lab and on the end is a 20 year old cat.  I haven’t met the cat yet but I have had some of her food. And no, I didn’t pinch it, I was given it!

Next door to us are 3 men in a boat, David, Roger and Jan. Old friends from Oman days they thought they would try a boating holiday as a change. Now expert helmsmen, or at least better helmsmen than they were at the start of their holiday, they are mines of information about the local restaurants.

28th May – Sete to Mèze

After a couple of days in Sete it was back out to sea, although not actually sea as this is the Etang du Thau, a massive sea water lake famous for its oysters. Oyster beds are everywhere, they look like lots of sticks poking out of the water.  Of course I’ve never had nor likely to have, an oyster, but I have picked up a few shells during my hoovering up of anything interesting on my trips out. Can’t say I’m sold on them although they are eaten raw and a raw diet is the way to go for a healthy dog (or so I keep telling them each time they serve me up the dried food I am made to survive on).

From Sete we first went to Bouziques, a small harbour on the eastern end of the Etang.  It was blowing a gale and the mooring wasn’t great, so we decided to move a little further west to Mèze.  Still blowing a gale we were told we had to moor up stern to, something we had been expecting, but had so far managed to avoid.  So down came Little Dick, off came the bike and with help from our friendly neighbour, managed to moor up.  The only problem was how was I going to get off?  It is a long way down from the deck to the bathing platform and the vertical steps are not something I intend to attempt, either up or down. I was desperate to get off though so would agree to anything.  A solution was found using the trusty ramp. A hop down one step, across the ramp to the tender lift and a little help down onto the ground. Easy. We now have it sussed.

I was allowed out for dinner again in Mèze and I think behaved a bit better this time – or at least I didn’t tip the table over.

27th May – Sete

Spent the day here sightseeing along the Canal de Sete and the Quartier Haut before being driven back to the boat by the rain – yes, more of it – and the day started so well.  It was the last day of a town wide photographic exhibition so part of our sightseeing included checking some of venues; a church, a theatre of the sea, a restaurant and a house of images. I wasn’t too bothered about the exhibitions but I liked waiting by the door and greeting all the people who went in.

Whilst we were here we had to check out the Grand Hotel for Michael and Sheila.  Many, many years ago, well before I was born, they used to come here at the end of the London – Sete car rally.  Listening to Sheila it sounds like the rally was really just an excuse for one big alcohol fuelled French party with a bit of driving in between. Us being here has stirred up memories – Pernod for breakfast being one of them – although that is probably because she can’t remember what she drank the night before! Anyway, we checked out the hotel and very nice it is too.  A venerable old institution.

26th May – Aigues-Mortes to Sete

Just call me Salty Dog. We left Aigues-Mortes in time to catch the opening of the bridges down in La Grau-du-Roi at 10am. Then it was through the bridges and out to sea for another first for me. Life jacket in place I took it all in my stride even though it got pretty rocky at times. I could always see the shore in the distance although it seemed a long way away so I wasn’t tempted to try out my new found swimming skills. I don’t think they are up to that sort of distance just yet.

We arrived in Sete in the early afternoon and eventually moored up in the Noveau Bassin just inside the sea wall. I love it here as we are on the main thoroughfare to all the yachts and people walk past and talk to me. Yachts are different to Annapanna as they have long poles sticking out of the top of them and then you attach what looks like a big hankie which captures the wind as they sail on the water. A really big one went past us on the Med, I think it was an important racing one. I like the idea of yachting, all that fabric and rope to chew, although the narrow decks look a bit scary.

Out for dinner in the evening. There are so many restuarants here you would think finding the right one wouldn’t be a problem.. but…as in Avignon the one they wanted to eat in was full. This will happen when you’re fussy and pick Michelin and trip adviser favourites. I can’t really understand it as any food is OK with me, I’m really not fussy.

24th – 26th May – Aigues-Mortes

We spent 3 nights here in our lovely mooring just outside the town. We had time to wander around the shops, check out the bird life on the salt flats opposite and spend lots of time playing ball in the big grassy area in front of the walls. We had a barbecue, they went out to dinner (I wasn’t invited this time for some reason) and Chris (friend of Robin & Sue) came for drinks.

Alison went off cycling in the early morning one day and came back with a bag of clothes and a lot of insect bites. I can’t quite understand how she managed to shop whilst on a wildlife expedition, but she did. One of the bites was on her eye and before she knew it the whole eye area swelled up. It is not a pretty sight and just as well she is wearing sunglasses all the time!
Another morning, on our way to play outside the town walls, we came across some Hoopoes in the car park. Alison was estastic as this was more than she had seen on her bike ride. If you don’t know what a Hoopoe looks like I have added a picture below. I can take or leave them of course as all birds are the same to me – just things to chase.

Finally, I added another first to my growing list of new experiences. After Brian spent what seemed like hours faffing around with “Little Dick”, the small inflatable boat hanging on the back of Annapanna, we all got in and went for a spin. It was a bit wobbly and I was unsure for all of a minute until I realised that the water was so close and very inviting. Of course I can swim now so all I wanted to do was have another go! I wasn’t allowed to though so Alison had to keep hold of me. The picture might look like I was cuddling up, but now you know the truth.

23rd May – Ecluse St Gilles to Aigues-Mortes

It was 6am and the double red went to a single red signaling the end of the strike and the opening of the lock. We didn’t really want to move that early – I wasn’t even out of bed – but the lights turned green and we were moored in the lock entrance, so we had little choice. We have now left the Petit Rhone and are on the Canal du Rhone a Sète, a much smaller waterway which ambles through the Camargue on its way to Aigues-Mortes. This is bird watching paradise, if you are in to that sort of thing, which I’m not, but Alison is. I prefer to bark at the dogs walking along the towpaths – so close, but so far away. I did like the famous wild horses though and saw several groups and even a small brown foal. The adults are grey, but all foals have brown or black coats changing to light grey as they get older. For those of you non horsey people reading this you might think the horses look white, but in the horse world the ONLY white horses are the Lipizzaners from the Spanish Riding School in Vienna. And before you correct me I know that Vienna is in Austria not Spain, just don’t ask me to explain.

Our early start meant an early arrival at Aigues-Mortes, which was just as well as we got the last place on the quay. So this is our morning for the next 3 nights overlooking the medieval walls of this lovely town.

22nd May – Avignon to ecluse St Gilles

We left Avignon this morning bright and early with a planned destination of Aigues-Mortes. We even had a mooring arranged for us via Robin, our new friend in Avignon… but the french strike put paid to that and at the first lock managed by VNF, the French waterways company, we came across the dreaded double red traffic light, which meant, very firmly, shut. With no pontoon and nowhere nearby to return to we had no choice but to moor up near the lock entrance against a high wall. Luckily for me I am now an expert gangplank walker so hopping on to the back cushions, up the ramp and on to the top of the wall was a piece of cake. I don’t think Brian found it quite as easy, but then he’s much older than me!

20th – 21st May – Avignon

Still in Avignon. I like staying in one place for a few days as it means I get to know people. On Sunday we went to an indoor market, wandered the cobbled streets and later walked up to the top of the ramparts and had a drink in a café in Rocher des Doms, the park surrounding the palace. It actually said no dogs allowed but no one seemed to mind.

The next day we did the touristy thing and took a tour of the Palais des Papes and a walk along the famous bridge. You will not I say we here when actually I wasn’t included in this outing, but as narrator of this blog I have a responsibility.  Anyway, I believe they wandered round the palace wearing headphones carrying an IPAD like thing that showed you what the palace looked like in the 12th century. They said it was very interesting, but it wouldn’t have suited me as I can’t wear headphones or carry an IPAD and I am totally not interested in what happened in the 12th century.

19th May – L’Ardoise to Avignon

Another early start so we could get to Avignon in good time. But even with an early arrival space on the quay is limited so we are rafting off another english boat, Van Emma. The owners, Robin and Sue are very friendly and even offered to keep an eye on me whilst Brian and Alison went out to dinner. They didn’t take them up on the offer which I suspect they may now regret!

Avignon is beautiful and most famous for its bridge, or pont in French, and the song written about it. We are moored just down from the bridge and I can see all the tourists walking on it without having to move from my comfy cushions at the stern of the boat. That’s just as well as I don’t think dogs are allowed. I’m not sure why but as the bridge doesn’t span the whole of the river maybe its because they think we might jump off the end!

Its royal wedding day today so we watched it on French TV. Apparently the French are really into this wedding too which meant we could watch it on the big TV. When I say we, I really mean Alison, as I didn’t actually watch it much as there weren’t many dogs around, just lots of horses.
Later on, after drinks with Robin and Sue, we set out for dinner. We were celebrating both Alison’s birthday and their wedding anniversary and as we were planning to eat al fresco I could go too…. but things didn’t go quite to plan! Firstly, the restaurant we planned to eat in was full and then when we did eventually find somewhere they wanted to eat disaster stuck! It’s not my fault that people drop food under the tables and its not my fault that I don’t get enough to eat, but apparently it was my fault when in my efforts to get at that wasted food I inadvertently tipped the table over…. two glasses of red wine all over Brian’s clothes. He was soaking and not at all happy, although I am not sure if that was because of his clothes or the wasted wine! Anyway we finished dinner and his clothes are fine. The square we ate in was in front of the Palais des Papes which was lit up beautifully after dark.

18th May – Valence to L’Ardoise

The days are getting warmer but it’s still windy so I’m not getting too hot. This river is flowing far to fast to swim in so its just as well. It was a day on the water today as we wanted to try and make Avignon, but a lock was against us and the long delay meant we didn’t quite make it. So tonight we are in L’Ardoise, a little harbour 5kms up an arm of the river. The fingers are a bit wobbly (and made of horrible sharp metal stuff) and I have to climb steep steps to get out of the harbour, but everyone is friendly apart from the harbour lady’s dog, who just barks at me. The harbour lady gave Alison some flowers for her birthday though so I like her very much.
On the way we went through several deep locks but none deeper than the one at Bollene, a mere drop of 22.5 metres! It is the deepest on the European waterway. It was quite special so I donned my life jacket and went out on deck to watch the land disappear above me.

17th May – Les Roches-de-Condrieu to Valence

No rain today on our trip to Valence but the river is still flowing quite fast and we shoot under many beautiful suspension bridges as we motor on our way. Our destination tonight is Valence and the port de plaisance two kilometres south of the city. I like this stop as there is a park and playing field right next to the harbour and a cycle path along the river which goes all the way to Avignon. The cycle path also goes into the city, so even though the harbour is outside town it is a lovely walk/cycle ride straight into Jouvet Park and then Champ-de-Mars, the massive esplanade overlooking the Rhone.

16th May – Lyon to Les Roches-de-Condrieu

We departed Lyon in the sunshine and soon after left the slow flowing Saone behind to head out on the fast flowing Rhône. We are travelling downstream so with a current of 6-7 km per hour made fast progress towards our destination for the night. We are now in Cote du Rhône country and the surrounding hills are covered in terraces of vineyards, all clearly identified with the names of the producers. The river is very wide and hence a bit boring. I like people and dog watching but everyone is too far away to see.
Our destination was the harbour at Les Roches-de-Condrieu just across the river from the wine producing town of Condrieu. Here they grow grapes that were brought to the area by the Greeks in 600BC. 600BC seems a long time ago to me so these grapes must be really old. I am not likely to taste the wine so I can’t give my opinion on it, but I believe it is fruity and a little sweet, hence good for puddings and possibly seafood.
Of much greater interest to me was the lake right next to the harbour. There were lots of people zipping around the lake on boards or water skis pulled by wires attached to tracks. The tracks could go a different speeds and there were lots of different jumps in the water. We watched them from the restaurant for a bit before heading further down the lake for a swim. Yes, a swim! This is a first for me as I’ve never swum before, but it was easy, in fact so easy I didn’t even have to think about it. Give me a ball and I’ll go anywhere! Roll on the next swim.

15th May – Lyon

Still raining first thing but at least it had stopped by the time we caught the vaporetti to Bellecour in the heart of the La Presqu’ile area of Lyon. Wandering through Place des Jacobins, Place des Celestins and the surrounding very smart shopping streets we arrived at the enormous Place Bellecour. The Place was a hive of activity in preparation for the Europa league final tomorrow. I’m not really into football but I do like playing with balls and there were lots of them around! One man played with me doing all sorts of tricks with the ball although he never let me get hold of it, which was really unfair.

I then had my picture taken with the Atletico team, or a cardboard cut out of the team anyway. As you can see in the picture there was a hole to put my head through. Some journalists watching thought it was very funny so asked if I would do it again so they could film me – so now I am a French film star!

We then continued our sightseeing crossing over the Saone into Vieux Lyons and wandered round the picturesque narrow streets of the old quarter. We then caught a funicular, another first for me, up to Fourviere Hill to see the roman amphitheatres, the museum and the very ornate Basilique Notre Dame. I couldn’t go into the museum or the church but it wasn’t a problem as there were lots of children around on school trips and they all wanted to talk to me.

14th May – Montmerie-sur-Saone to Lyon

Another wet day but at least it’s not quite a cold. Lunch stop today was at Trévoux, a very picturesque town even in the rain. It’s Monday, its wet and the town is deserted but there is still a good view from the castle as the top.

After lunch it was on to Lyons, France’s 3rd largest city and this year host to the Europa league final. There are mooring quays all the way through the city but with hardly any boats around security is a concern, so we are mooring in the harbour at the confluence (of the Rhône and the Saone). Although a bit out of town a vaporetti leaves from the harbour, so tomorrow we are off sight seeing.

13th May – Tournus to Montmerie-sur-Saone

Pouring with rain all day today so not really seeing the beautiful Saone at its best. With a stop in Macon (another place we are returning to) we arrived at the small village of Montmerie. There is hardly any traffic on the water, either commercial or pleasure, which means it can be a bit boring. On the plus side though it means no waits for the locks and plenty of mooring available at our destinations.

12th May – Verdun-sur-le-Doubs to Tournus

On to Tournus a small town with four Michelin starred restaurants and one of the most beautiful churches in France. The abbey church of St Philibert is lovely in its simplicity and a favorite spot of Alison’s. After dragging me round checking out all the restaurants they decided not to do Michelin star and instead went to the grill on the front. At least I think that’s where they went, as I wasn’t invited!
On they way here we stopped off at Chalon sur Saone so I could stretch my legs. The harbour is very smart and the people were friendly. There is also a park right next to the marina which is perfect for me. We will be returning here at the end of June.

Walking along the front in Tournus we came across lots of people throwing heavy balls. To me balls are for chasing, but no one seemed to be doing much of that. They just kept on throwing until all the balls were used up and then stood round in a circle staring at them. Very strange. Apparently it is a game called boules and popular here in France.
After dinner we went for a walk in the town and met some people watching a big TV screen in the main square. The people were very friendly and they told us it was the final of the French version of The Voice, a famous television programme and a local girl was one of the last four. We heard her sing and she was lovely. Her name was Maelle and she won!

11th May – Saint Jean to Verdun-sur-le-Doubs

Eventually left our mooring about 1.30pm after sorting out a problem with the engine. Just as well we hadn’t moved from the boatyard. It is a perfect day today and the river Saone is beautiful in the sunshine. I have a few favorite places on the stern deck (I’m learning those nautical terms) to watch the world go by and the picture here shows me in one of them. From this vantage point I can check if anything is going on inside the boat and look out for anything interesting coming our way.

We are spending tonight in Verdun-sur-le-Doubs a pretty little town on the confluence of the Saone and Doubs. We are moored under the ramparts just below the capitainerie, rather than on the pontoon itself. We could only moor stern or bow to on the pontoon and as there are no fingers this meant I wouldn’t have been able to get off – and that was definitely not going to happen! In fact as soon as we moored up I wanted to be off to meet the locals and in my desperation to get ashore I just popped down the steps, those same steps I have insisted on being carried down for the last two days. I don’t know what all the fuss was about.

Verdun-sur-le-Doubs is the homeland of Pochouse, a bouillabaisse made from freshwater fish. If I was allowed to try any I would review it for you here, but I’m not, so I can’t. But if you are heading this way seek it out, I believe it is delicious.

10th May – Saint Jean de Losne

Still in Saint Jean as the de-winterising wasn’t finished yesterday so we couldn’t move the boat. It isn’t the prettiest mooring but there is plenty going on so I can keep myself amused.

9th May – Gosnay to St Jean de Losne

Another long and boring journey in the car but this time to our destination of St Jean de Losne in Burgundy. Annapanna was in the water waiting for us but as the engineer was still working on her we couldn’t move off into the yacht harbour. After what seemed hours I was eventually allowed on board to explore.
First impressions: I had to walk the plank to get on board… this though was a piece of cake compared to the steps down into the living and sleeping area. I haven’t really done steps and these are very steep. Too steep for me at the moment so I have to be carried down. Fortunately I like the upper part of the boat best. They call it the deck and its big advantage is that I can survey the world around me without moving from the comfy seating area. I particularly like all the buttons on the cushions… they are just there waiting for me to pull them off. 1 down 20 to go!

8th May – Whalley to Gosnay, near Bethune

And so it has begun. This morning I was woken up very early (even for me), packed into the car along with what appears to be the kitchen sink and driven off into the sunset.  We stopped for lunch at a service station on the M40 where a very low flying red kite seemed to take a great interest in my food, or at least I hope it was in my food.  We then arrived at the tunnel in time for me to explore the “walkies” area made especially for us canines. Sadly there were no other dogs to play with.

After the tunnel it was off again. We had been in the car for hours at this stage and I was very bored.  I couldn’t sleep any more so looked round for something to relieve the boredom. I found it in the shape of a nice webbing seatbelt and it didn’t take long to chew right through it. All was revealed when we arrived in Gosnay though and I was in big trouble… again!

Our destination in Gosnay was the Hotel La Chartreuse du Val Esprit which as you can see from the picture is a large chateau.  It has  plenty of garden to play in and as it’s very dog friendly, lots of other dogs to meet and greet.  The only down side was that I had to sleep locked in my cage, I fear a theme for the next few weeks.

When we were in the garden at Gosnay a couple arrived from Oxford in their big black helicopter.  I like the idea of helicopter travel as its much quicker than sitting in queues on the M6! I had my picture taken next to it – just in case we get one.