Salles sur l'Hers, France

What a fantastic overnight spot last night. It was an aire we'd stayed at many years ago and didn't expect to return to. It's funny how life works out. Today we should have been heading to Carcassonne, but the Tour de France would be setting off from there at lunchtime, so we knew we'd have to change our plans. Nearby to us was the Gorge De Galumus. A deep ravine with a 7th century monastery carved into the rock face. Being so close, we felt we ought to visit, and we were glad we did. It was stunning.

For those a little more adventurous, canyoning was available.

Walking through the gorge and down the steps to the monastery was enough for us.

After a stop at the cafe we began our ascent, following a woman who had tattoos covering both arms and legs. The tattoos on her legs reached all the way to her nether regions. Not a pretty sight when you're following behind! The heat of each day challenges us. Consciously,  we were 'somewhere' in the Pyrenees we thought it best to begin our drive towards the canal du midi. Because of the cycle race roads were closed, and we were diverted all over the place. Google maps wanted us to drive through a tunnel under a railway bridge that was too small for Marge, which was a no go, and all other routes out of the town were blocked. What should we do. Well sit with the French and wait for the Tour de France cyclists along with all the paraphernalia that accompanies them to come by. Despite having to wait almost an hour, when the cyclists passed by in a flash of colour it was amazing.

The French cheered, clapped and shouted bravo. The atmosphere was brilliant, and they welcomed us and Marge with open arms. We've been visiting France for many years now, and never seen the tour. So today was right up there, as one of those special days.