After a truly awful wet winter and spring in the UK, we decided to head off to Europe and find some better weather. Our first stop was near to Calais at a little town called Rang de Fliers. The food where we stayed was delicious and we are already looking forward to our return trip.

Next morning we left Rang du Fliers and drove on to Le Mans. The hotel we stayed at was originally a private home, converted into an hotel in the 1980s. The gardens are huge and the dogs loved them. We ate at the hotel which was three courses of Tartiflette (sliced potatoes with onion and cream baked until crisp). Cuisse de Canard (duck confit) and an almond tart. Good – but not quite up to last night’s excellent meal.

We set off after breakfast and arrived in La Rochelle that afternoon. First stop was down to the Quai and a lunch of charcuterie and fromage. In the sun too!

Our hotel was in the St. Nicholas area of La Rochelle, with lovely bars and restaurants. The town is very attractive with boats moored all along the various Quais. We are looking forward to exploring this wonderful place. More photos and food to come!