Day 87. 20.6.23

Metz, France to Sedan France via Luxembourg and Belgium.

We weren’t sure if we were going to spend another night in Metz so this morning we spoke with the campsite reception and asked if we could pay for 2 nights though we might leave early. They were very kind and said that as long as we left by 3pm we wouldn’t have to pay for another day. So off we went, nice and early to explore Metz.

It’s a beautiful old town. Most buildings are of sand stone. There are some very impressive buildings, the main one being the Cathedral, it’s amazing. It has the largest expanse of stained glass in the world!

There is a Pompidou Metz (art gallery) here but we didn’t get to it. We basically walked in the shade, sat for a drink opposite the huge covered market and then wandered around the old streets and parks.

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Getting back to the van about midday, we packed up and departed. The temperature was now reaching 28° so we were pleased to be on our way.

Sedan in France was our next stop, going through Luxembourg and Belgium on the way. It’s difficult to know which country you are in each time, as to be honest, the green areas looked just like Devon or the UK. It was only when you went through the villages and towns that you knew you were in Europe. Some of the property styles don’t give it away either .

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So tonight we are in an Aire on the outskirts of Sedan by the river again – The Meuse. It’s a great spot. Like Metz, the old town is just a stone’s throw away. What’s extra special about Sedan is the castle. Not only is it huge, but it’s in good condition too. The walls are so high, you wonder how any invading force ever scaled them.

Built in the 1400’s it now houses a museum, an escape room and a hotel – what a great venue. We were able to walk around and in the castle walls but the museum wasn’t open. It’s an impressive building.

We could hear thunder and saw a couple of lightning flashes so decided to head back to the van. We weren’t the only ones. Bars were taking chairs and tables undercover and we bumped into some french guys camping in our Aire who were rushing back for their coats bless them.

Just as we reached the van the rain came down in earnest, phew, we definitely had a lucky escape.

We had a curry for dinner and are now sat outside lazing in the cool of the evening .

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