30th June to 6th July
Monday to Wednesday
Houat
A gloriously warm and sunny day for a wander, swim and lunch on the boat at Hoedic.
We then motored to Houat and anchored in the usual bay for a refereshing swim. A quick wander ashore revealed many places were closed on a lundi and not opening until the 1st July, luckily tomorrow. We had our evening meal on the boat.
After a slightly cloudy start we went ashore for coffee and booked an evening meal in the usual bar on the square. We went in search of du pain but the old boulangerir only sold ready made sandwiches. The old supermarket looked like it was permanently closed. The only other shop did not sell fresh bread. I tested my French and asked where we could buy bread on Houat and the answer was nowhere?? Such a shame seeing this idyllic island looking sad and neglected. The school seemed to be closed and there were very few children around. After lunch on the boat we walked along the beach to the harbour. We enjoyed our evening meal in our usual restaurant so at least some things have not changed.
On Wednesday we bought a sandwich and coffee from the ex-boulangerie then walked along the coast path. We sat on the beach until the only food shop opened at 4:30pm. After an evening meal on board sleep was difficult as windier conditions made the boat a bit bumpy during the night.
Thursday
Morbihan
It was time to move as we were low on drinking water and food, so headed to the mainland. We stopped at Morbihan as neap tides suited going in there. It was a very warm day but we managed a little walk to an old tide mill. We met an interesting couple from Memphis when eating our evening meal (although the young gentleman was originally a local from Ile d’Aix where we were). Fortunately a lovely evening was followed by a peaceful night and good sleep
Friday
Port Haliguen
After a slow start we had coffee then gently motored out of Morbihan to Port Haliguen. We washed clothes,and filled the boat with water. We wandered to the beach for a refreshing swim. After a shower in the excellent port facilities we enjoyed the best meal out of our entire three week trip. It was a really great marina with excellent facilities.
Saturday
Sauzon, Belle Ile
We had a gentle motor to Sauzon for a refreshing swim. We wandered around ashore to refresh supplies and enjoyed crepes for lunch. We walked to a little beach where Richard was happy to see some lizards. After shopping we had our meal on board and a restful night
.
Sunday wind 30-35mph
Port St Louis, L’Orient
We had an unexpectedly challenging crossing back to the mainland at L’Orient. Very misleading weather forecast. Maisie gave herself a bit of a fright by leaping into the front cabin when the door swung open. After Sue rescued her she spent the rest of the journey hiding in the less bouncy rear cabin. We could not immediately go ashore at Port St Louis as a regatta was taking place. We watched some tall ships while waiting to make our way to the marina. Had a shower and meal ashore. Still very windy.