We got in at 3 as expected. House fine if a little crowded with American gifts - all useful so no complaints. Shopped, had tea and unpacked and will go to bar later for apéro and pizza. Of course!
Anyway to rewind a bit…Last night we dined at the place next to Ibis B on the recommendation of the manager. Leonie is the name and tasselled exuberant lampshades is the theme! Surely not unlike Tea ‘n Tat at Bridge Farm🤗 And curiously akin to the visual cacophony in Albi cathedral. The day had its own leit motif. Food was local and good, service impeccable. We stuffed ourselves on Aligot with sausage and various starters and left more than replete. So all in all this is a winning hotel stop.
This morning we were away by 7.30 and into the Causses at Le Caylar for breakfast.A little chilly but nevertheless we sat out. I had wandered into the bar obviously with a glazed look because the owner said Are you looking for Croissants? I haven’t put them out yet. So they appeared as did delicious coffees and all was well.Then a chara from Maguelone (on the coast) drew up and disgorged about thirty plus walkers with rucksacks and poles. And off they trooped into the hills.
The journey continued getting ever more rugged. We had to stop for a flock of sheep heading towards us. Then a visit to Vissec and a short walk along the dry river.
Finally the Cirque de Navacelles and a walk along the river at the bottom. It is much gentrified since our first visit there over 35 years ago when we had the place to ourselves and swam in the river.
