Second trip of the year and it’s May already! Very happy we are off to France and Spain for a few weeks. First stop Portsmouth.

It’s a long straightforward drive to the port to catch the 23:00 overnight ferry to Caen. Our intended stop for food in Portsmouth doesn’t go to plan due to parking challenges so… snacks it is for dinner.

A couple of drinks on the ferry helps before heading to our cabin for a well earned rest. The ship is only a year old and the cabin is very comfortable.

After a reasonable night it’s a rather early start as we are off the ferry by 06:45 which is 05:45 UK time. Unexpectedly straight through customs and border control without stopping.

Another very long drive south to Ile de Ré for our first stop in France.

We are staying in a campsite in La Flotte. The price at €21 per night is fabulous value. Electricity and swimming pool included! Our pitch is good and the sun is shining. We get set up and eventually wander out to the marina for food. Having scoffed a chicken leg each in the van and enjoyed a beer in the sunshine, we decide to share a pizza which does the trick. TV in the van as we fall asleep.

Two very long days but the adventure has begun!

18 & 19/05/26