3rd October
Today was much cooler, still a balmy 23 degrees, but more cloud cover and a breeze. Our trip today was to the village of Domme in Dordogne valley. Domme is a medieval village perched on a hill overlooking the valley and the river. It is a fortified town built around 1281 and has been labelled the ‘most beautiful village in France’. Many of the fortifications , such as the ramparts and entry gates are still standing. The scooter made it so easy to visit and being October, there were a handful of tourists, rather than thousands wandering through the cobbled streets. There are advantages to visiting this time of year, but the downsides are not so many bars or restaurants open and some attractions have already closed for the season or have more restricted opening times. We had hoped to visit the cave, which is apparently very impressive but they didn’t open again ‘til 2.30 pm and we had places to go!
Whilst we were wandering the streets we bumped into an English lady who lives part of the year in Domme with her wire-haired Vizsla, Luna. She recommended a visit to Chateau des Milandes, once owned by famous American singer and actress, Josephine Baker.
The chateau was built in 1489 by the Caumont family but abandoned after the French Revolution, but it had been falling into disrepair since the 1650’s. After passing through various descendants and new owners who primarily wanted the land and not the Chateau, it was bought by a French industrialist in 1900 and restoration and extension works were carried out till 1914. In 1937 Josephine Baker rented the chateau and after the war bought it, but by 1968, she was in debt and the chateau was sold. Today further restoration of the chateau has been undertaken and the tour concentrated on Josephine’s life at the Chateau and her stage career. There is an exhibition of her gowns and costumes. You are not allowed to take photos inside so just some outside shots.
Today was an historic day, as Charlie got to ride pillion whilst I piloted the Vespa! Last time this happened was in Jersey some 36-37 years ago. Reader…he survived!
Rain threatened all day but never really materialised! Heading north tomorrow towards the Loire, so a night near to Tours is the plan, but we will head for the sun if we can.
RoundandAbout 