Ardeche

L - Headed for the Ardeche, home of deep river gorges, mountains, birds of prey, fantastic caves and canoes. The famous deep gorges are very impressive but there are also softer landscapes with medieval villages and rich plains further north. Bruno, our host in the chambres d'hote, is an organic farmer growing almonds and keeping sheep. He provided hand drawn touring itineraries and warned us against coming back in high summer, when there are canoes every 20 metres on the river.

Walked out to local restaurant for dinner on last night (great meal). When we left we declined offer of umbrella and walked back fast as the clouds were gathering. 200 metres from home it started to rain and who pulled up but the chef from the restaurant offering to take us home. That's what I call service!