With it hitting 30c + I’m really not inclined to travel too far, especially with Maggie. The surface of the paths and tracks is just too hot for her paws, and being stuck in the car (even with air con) isn’t my idea of fun. The usual early morning walk tends to be the longest as it is the coolest part of the day and Maggie is more inclined to run around and enjoy herself.

So, exploring was all nice and local today, in fact within 10 mins of the campsite. The first trip was to a rather scenic little village, Saint-Généroux. After a stroll along the banks of the River Thouet we crossed the medieval bridge towards the church.

The church of Saint Généroux is one of the oldest in the Poitou region dating fron the 10th century.

There was a small café and with no need to hurry, we stopped and enjoyed the rural peace and quiet. Maggie drank the whole bowl of water, and I was happy to sup my coffee. There wasn’t a soul about and the only noise was the distant bleating of lambs and the screeching of the swallows as they soared and dived around the rooftops.

In a heartbeat we were on the road and arrived at our next stop, the village of Saint-Loup-sur-Thouet. In the past it has been a contender for the prettiest village in the region, but I’m guessing it didn’t win because they proudly announce that they were a contender! Better luck next time, eh?

The château de Saint–Loup was built in the early 17th century. The writer Charles Perrault was supposed to have been inspired to write Le Chat botté or Puss in Boots after this château.

Time to get home and to have some nice iced drinks. Maggie is exhausted so I’m sure that she will sleep well tonight.

A Bientot!