Adventures from the Continent
We seem to have stalled. After a reasonably promising start in spring the summer hasn’t quite delivered on several fronts. Let’s get the obvious out of the way first; the weather has been almost British-like with mainly cloudy days and occasional showers.
We’d just huffed and puffed our way to the top of the highest sand dune in Europe, the brisk breeze negated the heat of the sun making the task pleasurable. From the sea below to this point it’s 110m (361ft) and the view of Arcachon Bay spectacular.
What’s a workaway? Work while you’re away, that’s what Watt. What work’s that then? Whatever work you want Watt. What work have you done on a workaway? All sort of work that’s what Watt.
The dogs stopped howling the instant I pulled on the handbrake. I stepped out of the 4×4 into a cloud of dust that engulfed the vehicle then quickly dispersed in the strong breeze.
This is a tale of simple folk living a simple life. A tale that may take us to the edges of civilization, far and wide, top, bottom and middle, yes, to Middle-earth itself.
The metal gate squeaked on its ancient, rusting hinges as the tall gentleman with a mop of curly, dark hair entered the garden. On top of his thick, roll-neck jumper he wore a brown, corduroy jacket that matched the trousers tucked into the top of muddy, green Wellington boots.
‘I want a big black one’ he shouts at his wife even louder this time. Meanwhile, inside the poly-tunnel Carole and I try to suppress our giggles. We have our winner of today’s innuendo bingo competition.
Our route through France started, as usual from Calais and went via Rouen, the outskirts of Poitiers, then Montauban before our final destination of Aurignac, an hour south of Toulouse.
I don’t think I have too much in common with Craig Revel-Horwood – other than cutting rugs – but what I do have is sympathy for him as a judge.
I’m not really sure why anyone would want to visit Benicarló. It’s a medium-sized town developed on a grid system so easy to navigate, the beach is small and the harbour is industrial.