Left the Abbey without a soul in sight, so I put a big donation in the letter box. It was an interesting stay. I hope it was the right one. Miserable morning. Damp and windy and I had to accept the down a slop and up a slope It drains my energy. I am still unfit. I am told it gets better. Once I am on top of the ridges it is an endless view of agricultural field. However todays walk was more on flatis plateaus, I could feel the roads were made for horsedrawn carriages in the 19th Century. Pleasant day. I did pass temptations along the route in Theouranne.

But I can resist one, but a cold beer in the bar further on had to be a reward.

Further on the nice straight farm track was intterupted by a big chalk extraction area.

According to the guide I am supposed to make detour that adds 2-3km.

Anarchy rules OK! So two steps to the side of the pit and straight across the farmers field and a slide on the high grass verge down to the road and continue. Take off the rucksack in situations like that and use a stick. In general I now make small adjustments to the rucksack. Pull a strap 1cm more or let it out 5mm. It makes a difference. I also pack my rucksack when it is horizontal, to avoid everything getting to the bottom but staying vertical close to my back. The nights Gites included a three course meal, that was well made and nice with 250ml red wine. It was a good day in the end.