Roaming in the Drôme

 

The weather continues mild, even hot! Jumpers not required… We’ve pottered here and there to St Hilaire and Beaumes and Malaucène and Suzette. Yuccas are truly gloriosa this year - everywhere. 

On the way back from Beaumes along the canal we had to stop to allow this giant caterpillar to cross safely. Some sort of hawkmoth - provably the striped hawkmoth.

Today it was a big trip up north to Crest through the lovely Drôme. 

Detouring to observe TGVs crossing a viaduct - as you do. But this viaduct is one we saw actually being constructed many years ago while staying in a nearby village. A trip down memory lane…aah.

Crest sports the tallest keep in France and Adam and I climbed the hundreds of steps up to it. Adrian did not. 

It is not a large town and it sits close to the river. Somewhat run down but still with some fine buildings. We had an interesting plat du jour by the river - pork rib chop with a strange pink sauce that proved to be Port (presumably in crème fraîche). Very nice actually.

Then back via the gorges and a stop for refreshments in Dieulefit. 

I say refreshment but in fact it was hot chocolate thick enough to stand a spoon in. In a delightfully shabby chic establishment.

As ever lots more pix on the album