It turns out that I now have someone renting my unit till the 3rd June, so my plans to return home will be delayed - BUT where should I go? I'm sure Margaret and Simon would love for me to stay in London but there are still places to roam around, aimlessly, just observing life.... Any suggestions as to where I should go for the extra three weeks? The starting point will be in Brussels on about the 18th May... Let me know your ideas!
Today, got to find (thanks to Atlas Obscura) and visit the very dead-centre of France - Bruere-Allichamps and took some pictures on the location monument in the main street. The locals looked at me a bit weirdly. From there I visited the Abbaye de Noirlac, this Cistercian Abbey (12th century) is one of the best preserved monastic sites in France. It had a lot of large empty rooms and felt a bit like the Riverview boarding school. It is located in a very pretty valley. From there I drove to The Château de Bannegon which is a ruined castle. I was quite surprised when this strange looking fellow emerged from the ruins with a pig.... Then is was back to Bourges for another wander around this great town.
So many options! For happy times perhaps any of the formerly mentioned. Also Italy, Portugal, Spain (inc Barcelona). I think it’s great seeing regional areas, as you have. Or for sad , but amazing would recommend Baltic states Lithuania,,Latvia and Estonia. Regional areas were like being thrown back to pre WW2. Old tractors, hay stacked in centuries old style. Oodles of war burial sites. Highly decorative cemeteries. No one smiles. Never learnt how because of Russian occupation that only ended 30 years ago. Visited a former KGB headquarters, I think in Riga. It was absolutely horrifying. But cities are incredibly beautiful. Beautiful architecture. And not busy. Plus lovely, inexpensive hotels everywhere. Cafes and all just so damned interesting. Plus goulas…
With all the waling you have been doing I think you are physically ready and have the time to do the Camino
Or Ireland there’s lots to see there
john
Go and check out Englands rugged SW. Cornwall has lots to see and take a week or so. The Minack open air theatre at lands end and many fishing villages eg mevagissey would be worth it.
keep going and enjoy
Al
Greece?