Iter Facere

Dinan

This is a nice place.

So, breakfast was so-so, the hotel is tres basic. Oh well, it is cheap and convenient and clean. Off to explore. Interesting exhibition at the tourisme about the history of the town. The wars of succession didn't do it any good, but the port was enough to make it successful. The town is preserved because after one of the old gates in the ramparts was pulled down in the 1830s a preservation movement sprang up. Who knew that historic preservation was so old? Of course, that also explains Carcassone, so if I'd thought about it I'd know.

Nonetheless, we start walking. The first stop is the bell tower with some great views...




Later, from the donjon on the keep I bag three of the Brittany spires...




Well, two of them at least.

Then walking and walking. Medieval man was in good shape. Cobblestones are hard. But great buildings.








Most were built in the 15th century, and restored, but they look great.

We walked for two hours, and at the Governor's house stopped for what turned into a two hour lunch, since it was so pleasant we just wanted to sit and enjoy the ambiance.

Continuing down the steep hill, after lunch and buying rocks, we found the old port. Tres picturesque.










Back up the hill. Infinite respect for the thighs of the middle ages. The English established a presence here, so at the top of the hill is an English garden next to the basilica.




Worn out, we hobble over to the chateau and visit the local museum. Some very nice sculptures and the views are terrific.

A long day ends with a terrific meal at the Hotel Le Challonge. When we stopped earlier for a drink I'd thought it was just a dopey hotel restaurant, but we each had one of the tastiest meals we've had in France. The lamb was excellent, Kathy's duck very good, Jenny's beef béarnaise excellent. Along with entrees, dessert and a good Cote du Rhone, we've earned our sleep.

Location:Dinan

posted by Jim @ 10:08 PM