2018 Sept Norfolk

Norfolk Sept 2018

Fri 7th

Left home at 0940, not a bad run, very busy roads, sunny.

Arrived at Walnut Farm 2.15, when we had pitched it started raining.

Miles travelled 218

Site fees £180

Sat 8th

Overcast this morning, the sun did try to come through a bit. We got the awning up before it started to rain again.

We went to Nelson Head for lunch, it was very busy but we didn’t have to wait for long and it was a very good meal.

After we went for a bit of a drive and ended up by Hapisburgh lifeboat station, we had a walk on the beach, it was a bit breezy and cool.

Watched TV.

Sun 9th

Not quite so cold this morning, breezy and sunny.

We did the dog walk from the site which was very overgrown and hard walking, Rich saw a snake in the bracken.  Otherwise had a lazy day, it got really hot in the afternoon.

Mon 10th

Overcast but quite warm the sun tried to come through but hardly made it.

On his morning walk Rich saw a deer which frightened Crackers!

We drove to Potter Heigham, there is a large store there, Lathams. We had forgotten Crackers lead so we went in and bought a cheap collar and used my handbag strap as a lead. Rich had a coffee while I had a,look round the shop. We then went to Wroxham which we had mixed up with Potter Heigham, there is a shop called Roy’s there and it is where we hired a boat the last time we were there. We had a very nice sandwich then drove back to site.

We had a shower, at £1 for 10 mins we shared it. The shower/ toilet block leaves quite a bit to be desired.


Tue 11th

Quite windy overnight and in the morning, overcast but not cold.

We drove to Cromer for fish and chips, it as busy and raining so not easy to park. We found a chip shop and drove down narrow lanes til we found a layby to eat them.

Rained all the rest of the day but there was a bit of a sunset.

Wed 12th

Overcast again but not cold. We went to Great Yarmouth, it was very busy and difficult to park, I’d forgotten how “ seasidey” it was, lots of amusement arcades etc. We carried onto Caister and then a small place called Hemsby which was like a mini seaside town, again lots of people about. We found a pub which served a lovely carvery.



Thurs 13th

Cold morning but clear skies.

We drove to Walcott and thought we’d take dog on beach but because of coastal erosion it was all concreted, we took a walk along anyway, saw quite a few small birds,  golden plover or similar. We then drove to Hapisburg where we had a bacon bap in small café.this is a village that has fallen into the sea because of erosion. We did get down to the beach but it was obvious that the cliffs are very unstable, just mudstone and sand.

Back at the site it was so hot we sat out all afternoon.

Fri 14th

Overcast but a bit milder. Stayed around site except for going to farm shop for some plums. Sunny and breezy.  Went to Nelson Head for meal.

Sat 15th

After a heavy dew it soon warmed up and dried up in a breeze.

We took awning down and packed up.

Hot and sunny again but cooled off when sun went behind clouds.

Sun 16th

Up and away by 0900, not a bad trip, roads very busy once we got to Midlands. Home by 1.40

 219 miles

 A nice break, the site was okay but facilities not up to standard. We learned that the place was being bought out and there was a lot of activity going on, clearing barns etc.

2018 July Hampshire

 Hampshire July 2018

Wed June 25th

We left home at 10.40 and got to Three Trees camp site in Romsey. At 2.30.

It was a very hot day and by the time we had set up we were shattered. Had a microwave meal and an early night. Very hot overnight had to leave windows open.

Thurs 26th

It was very hot and humid again. Stayed on site doing nothing except seek shade. Had a short walk round site, there is a small farm shop manned by a man in a caravan in a field with ducks, hens and other assorted birds. Also another field with a lily pond and big building going up.

Shower/toilets very basic.

In the evening we went to Hunters Inn and had a very nice meal.

Fri 27th

Another very sticky night but there were a couple of heavy showers.

A bit overcast when we got up. We drove to Milford on Sea and parked, we could se The Needles on the Isle of Wight quite close, the beach was a bit shingley and Crackers was not very impressed, just mooched about. We stopped for a drink then drove round to Keyhaven a spit  of land that led to Hurst Castle. There were lots of children crabbing off a small bridge and men fishing in the sea. We then drove though the New Fosers where we saw quite a few ponies with folks and through Beaulieu which was crowded and there were donkeys on the pavements with foals. We carried on to Hythe Marina where we parked again and strolled along watching a boat being launched and then sat looking over Southampton Water and had an ice cream. There were three large cruise ships at anchor and ferries crossing. There was a small ferry which was at the end of a long pier which had a sort of train taking passengers out to the boat. It was very hot and sunny again.

Back to site, we tried to sit outside but there were a couple of showers. Later we went to The Hunters Inn for fish and chips.

Sat 28th

Rain overnight, blustery and cloudy in the morning. Wyn and Carol came over on their bikes in the afternoon. It was cooler windy and showery.

In the evening we went to a Chinese restaurant, it was very good but quite expensive.

Sun 29th

It rained all night and all day. We went to Wyn's for R to watch Grande Prix. Called at Aldi in Romsey and pet shop, got Crackers another halter, summer weight! A very wet day but not cold.

Mon 30th

I had arranged to meet Jen for a visit to Historic Portsmouth Shipyard and see the Mary Rose.

Overcast and a bit showery. Rich drove me to Portsmouth park& ride (getting caught up in road works!) went to Historic Naval Dockyard, greeted by HenryV111! 

A fantastic day visiting the Mary Rose and Victory. Wonderful exhibitions, very well presented with so much information. The serif acts off the Mary Rose astonishing. Henry V111 gave a great talk about it. His costume was so authentic looking and he was so much the part. The day turned out quite nice and sunny.

It was so good to have time with Jen, first time in years really .

Very tiring though, Rich picked me up and we went to Hunters Inn for a meal then an early night. 

Tue 31st

A shower this morning but day soon warmed up.

We drove to East Boldre where we'd stayed with motorhome at the Turfcutters Arms, stopped for drink/ice cream then drove to Hatchet Pond where we stopped and had a picnic, it was very pleasant, lots of people about swans and gulls on water and ponies on the shore .Crackers had a paddle and chased sticks into the water.

Back for a lazy afternoon and cooked the first meal of the hol.

We'd Aug 1st

Cold this morning but blue skies, it warmed up and was quite hot. Sat out most of the day, took a walk to pub up the road,M had a drink and back. A very old pub with outside space but quite expensive food.

Thurs 2nd

Another hot day. Drove into Romsey and went to King John's house, dogs not allowed so Rich went back while I looked round. Interesting Medieval to Victorian house. Did a bit of shopping in Aldi then back for lazy afternoon in the sun/shade. I put my foot in a hole and fell over outside toilets, sprained my ankle.

In the evening we went to Amesbury to take Wyn & Carol out for a meal for Wyn's birthday. Carol bandaged my foot.  A nice evening and back as it was getting dark.

Fri 3rd

A cool night but another hot day. We went to Eling Tide Mill, again dog not allowed so I went in while Rich had a coffee, then we walked round the mill pond and reed beds. It was very pleasant, saw a couple of young lads who had been swimming in the, very murky, water. There were many old and interesting oak trees. Called to book fish and chips at Hunters, had a drink then back for a lazy afternoon.

After meal we sat outside for quite a while as it was still very warm.

Sat 4th

Warm again  this morning. My foot swollen and bruised but not too painful.

Went to Stockbridge, we met Karen at the Fighting Cocks pub, very busy lots of families and ponies and donkeys standing about. Had a nice meal and catch up with Karen.

Lazy afternoon sitting in the shade.

Sun 5th

Very hot again, had a quiet day on site.

Mon 6th

Up early and got 0730 ferry to Isle of Wight. Went to Waitrose and got picnic then on to Osborne House which was just opening. I went round the house while Rich walked the dog. After we drove trying to find somewhere to have our picnic but got lost going round and round, in the end we stopped in a layby and of course when we set off again there were one or two really nice spots we could have used. We went to Totland Bay it was a small bay and we managed to park and went for a drink on a nice terrace bar, enjoyed watching a young family having fun. We then went to Yarmouth where again we parked and sat and watched the ferry going out, some people ran  on just as it was ready to go. We then thought we'd get a meal and spent ages looking for a pub, going twice round an industrial park in Ryde before giving up. When we were in Cowes we saw a sign and went down a lane and found The Breeze, it was a very " yachty" looking place but not too pricey. We had to sit outside because of the dog and it was very hot. We watched a chap trying to get into his car as he'd obviously lost his keys, he was about to break the window as we left.

Ferry back as the sun was setting Home by about 9.30. 

Tue 7th

Very hot again, took awning down and packed up, went to Asda where I got a support for my ankle and some bits of food.

After lunch it tried to rain but just a few spots, very close and humid. 

Site fees £300
Fuel          £240
Other       £800
Miles         757

2018 Spain

Mon Jan 15th
We set off at 0730 and made good time arriving in Portsmouth at about 12, not a bad run but rain was throwing up a lot of dirty spray.
We had a meal on the ferry then went to the local nee with recliner seats where we dozed on and off.
Docked at 8.30 - 9.30 European time and made our way to the site in Ranville at 9.10 -.10.10   , without too much trouble driving over Pegasus bridge on the way, managed to pitch without unhooking, the site was very muddy.
Miles travelled 185
Fuel £65
Site fees €21.90

Tue Jan 16th
We were not that early getting up after not a very good night, always strange the first night.
We got breakfast and packed up and were away by 10.15. We kept to the toll roads and it was a very different journey bypassing all the towns large and small. There was not much traffic on the roads but there as a lot of rain and spray with intermittent bouts of sunshine glaring off the road and in our eyes, it was also very windy. We started out with 8c and in the sun it reached 13c
We arrived in Poitiers at 3.00. We were sited on the road because the site was very wet, this meant we could have stayed  hitched but unhooked to level up.
Miles travelled 221
Fuel €59
Tolls €41.80

Wed  Jan 17th
A better night even though it was very windy.
Up and away by 08.10. Took a wrong turn at the start and had to go 10 miles up the autoroute and 10 miles back!
A very long days driving, the autoroute was very quiet for the most part, cutting right through the countryside so quite uninteresting, the weather varied between bright sun and heavy rain.  As it was a toll road the route was longer than the usual one, we were shocked by the toll prices.the temperature was between 6 and 13, at the site in the evening it was quite mild.
The site is okay had a   hot shower but why don't the French have seats on their toilets!!!
Arrived at La Rupee at 3 pm.
Miles travelled 330
Fuel €74
Tolls €66.9
Site fees €17.66

Thurs Jan 18th
Up and away by 0900, went to find Auchan for fuel,very convoluted way to find it but we filled up with fuel then found the shop, this was in a vast shopping complex and took me ages to find then the shop was so big took ages to find the bakery. 1000 by the time we left Toulouse.
Not a bad trip, sunny all the way although we could see bad weather off to our left all the time.
We arrived at Capmanay at 1pm, booked in and set up. It was lovely and sunny so we sat out for a couple of hours and took the dog for a walk round the site. It is a large site with some nice permanent bungalows with beautiful views across to mountains. I leant against a cork oak and got covered in soot, apparently there had been a fire five years ago and lots of caravans had been destroyed, we spoke to a couple who told us this, they had lost theirs but now had a new one.
Miles travelled 159
Fuel €93
Tolls €36
Site fees €20.75

Fri Jan 19th
My birthday, had some nice cards.
Calm morning, we set off at 0840 and had a good run, it was bright with cloud coverage. I saw a couple of almond trees in bloom and we started to see some orange groves. A lot of the journey was through heavy, dirty industrial areas with a pall of pollution over a large area near Barcelona.
We arrived at Alcossebre at 1.30, booked in and parked the van. I took Crackers on the beach then we both had shower. The rally stewards visited us to welcome us. It was hot and sunny. We had beans on toast a walk on the beach and an early night.
Miles travelled 239
Fuel €39
Tolls €38.50
It has seemed a hard journey, Rich suffering with his back. We used toll roads but found them very expensive and not saving much in fuel costs. The route was not always shorter and sometimes boring and soporific.

Total miles 918
Total fuel €265 + £65
Total tolls €tolls €183.20

Sat Jan 20th
A bit cooler this morning. We put the awning and kitchen tent up and I had a clean and sort out inside, this took us till about 2pm. We only just got the car on the pitch.
We did nothing else except take Crackers on the beach, had a scrap tea again as neither of us felt like eating out.

Sun Jan 21st

It was a lovely day, we went a drive into town and up to the lighthouse, and a quite day otherwise it was around   23c but quite breezy.

Mon Jan 22nd

A lovely sunrise aver the sea again, another sunny warm day, not as hot as yesterday a cool breeze.

We went to Mercadona at Oreposa del Mar for a few things. Then to the Chinese restaurant in  Alcossebre. Spent the rest of the day reading and doing a bit of crochet.

Tue Jan 23rd

Another bright, sunny morning, again a bit cooler.

We drove to San Antonio to see if it was open, it was. Carried on and called at Torranostra, found a lovely empty beach which we strolled along for a while, it was beautiful, blue sky, blue sea rolling gently on the sands.

Drove back along back roads, we noticed quite a bit of farming activity. The area that was abandoned and a proposed golf resort was planned seems to be being repopulated with quite a few new olive and almond trees planted and quite a  few areas newly ploughed, also one or two houses seem to be being renovated.

After lunch we had a swim then I did a bit of knitting.

 

Wed Jan 24th

Cooler this morning but warmed up as the sun came through.

We did very little today, sat in the awning and read, knitted etc.  In the afternoon I went to a craft group where I made a card, it was not really a class, just ladies sharing their stuff, I enjoyed it.

Stroll on the beach after tea. Couldn't play DVD as drive seems to have broken!

Thurs Jan 25^th

Cool and overcast this morning. We drove to Benicassim and had a walk round the market, I got some wool, some strawberries and double yoke eggs. We then went to Bonterra Park and had a meal, it was very nice, 3 courses with wine for 12.50. back to site and we both had a doze.

Fri Jan 26^th

Rain overnight, not heavy and windy but not too strong, quite a bit cooler amd overcast this morning.

We went for the rally meal at the Pensionistas, this was very nice. Lazy afternoon with a couple of short showers.

Sat Jan 27^th

overcast and windy this morning. More showers in the night.

In the afternoon we played boules with a couple, John and Joan, enjoyed that, and even though it was windy it was not too cold

Sun Jan 28^th

Simon's 50^th birthday!

Windy and very grey this morning, the sea quite rough, still not really cold though.

A very lazy day crocheting, reading etc. did have a walk on the beach after lunch though.

Mon Jan 29^th

A clear., bright morning but a chill in the air.

We did some washing and it dried quite well in the sun, although there was little breeze.

We went into town and got a couple of things from Chinese shop then had meal in Chinese restaurant.

Walk on beach and lazy afternoon.

Tue Jan 30^th

Cold this morning but clear skies.

We decided to drive down to a harbour we'd seen on the map, Castellon, it turned out to be a huge commercial port and we managed to get in on a one way system then had to get out again, luckily the security man opened the barrier for us.

We ended up on a dog beach where we gave Crackers a bit of a run. We drove back intending to have some tapas at San Antonio but when we got there thay only had meals and no snacky tapas so we went back to van for some crackers and pate.

Lazy afternoon, sunny but soon cooled down.

Wed Jan 31^st

Cold and clear again today but the sun got quite hot throughout the day.

Another lazy day, I went to craft meeting in the afternoon and painted a landscape.

Stroll on beach after tea.

Thurs Feb 1^st

Cool and overcast this morning. Sun came out for a while and we decided to groom and bath Crackers then we found we hadnt brought her brushes so a quick trip to Chinese shop.

She wasnt thrilled by her bath but looked and smelt better for it.

It startd to rain after tea, only gently but went a bit cooler.

Fri Feb 2^nd

grey skies and windy today, quite cold.

We went to the rally meal at Tropicana restaurant, it was very nice.

Short cold walk on beach.

Sat Feb 3^rd

Very windy in the night but everything stayed pegged down

A mixed day, breezy,cloudy cool and warm in turns.

In the morning I did some housework and cleaned the van out.

Had a game of boules in the afternoon, with just one man and I had a swim.

Sun Feb 4^th

Just started to rain as we woke up and got heavier and continued all morning.

We decided to go to Mercadona in Oropesa but when we got there it was closed for renovations. We decided to look for a restaurant we had been told about and headed past the airport and to Benlloch. We didnt find the restaurant but drove into Benlloch and there were roads closed off, we thought we'd see why, thought it could be a market, it was but there were only two stalls both veg. The whole centre of the town was closed off. We went to a small cafe/cake shop and had a coffee, we were given a piece of sweet bread with it, this was very nice, we bought some to take away, also a tomato slice which was delicious.

Back to site along back roads and still didnt see the restaurant. Quick walk on beach, as although it had stopped raining it was cold and windy.

Mon Feb 5^th

Calm night but raining again when we woke up. It continued most of the morning. It cleared a bit around midday and we drove up to the Hermitage on the hill above the town and took some photos, it was very dramtic with the sun over the sea and a black storm cloud over the land.

When we got back we had lunch n the Tropicana restaurant, this was very nice and we went back to the van for a lazy afternoon. It rained again in the evening.

Tue Feb 6^th

Heavy rain avernight and rained most of the day, very cold. Stayed in.

Wed Feb 7^th

Rain stopped overnight and it was a bit windy. We had clear blue skies but it didnt get above 9 os 10c. We started a bit of packing up.

We took a drive up into the hills, we were not totally surprised to see snow on the higher ones. We headed for a place called Ares del Maestrat. We never actually reached there , the road was so winding and twisty with hairpin bends a sheer drop off the one side and no room to pass much of the time. As we climbed higher there was ice and hail on the road but we were unable to find anywhere to turn round, we just had to keep going up. A van came the other way and stopped us to say don't go any further as it was too slippery. We had to go a bit further before finding somewhere to turn and were relieved to make the downward journey. Although the hillsides were wild there were one or two houses and lots of almond, olives etc well tended but the blossom was not as forward as on the lower areas.

Thurs Feb 8^th

Clear and bright this morning but still cold.

We spent the morning taking the awning down and packing. The sun got warm for a while but there was still a cold breeze.

We went for a Chinese meal then had a lazy afternoon reading.

Fri Feb 9^th

Bright and cold again. We finished packing up and were away by 10 oclock, we arrived at Alegria del Mar at 10.40, 22miles.

It seemed a bit warmer there.

We set up and had tea in the cafe. When we got the awning out we found a coupcle of holes in it.

Sat Feb 10^th

Very cold this morning but also very sunny, cold wind.

We went to Aldi and Chinese shop in Vinaros, got some groceries etc.

Another lazy, cold afternoon.

Sun Feb 11^th

Richie's birthday. He had a good start having to mend the toilet cassette!

It was a bit milder first thing but the wind got very cold even though it remained bright and sunny.

We drove to the marina and had a coffee and some tapas, then back site and sat in the awning, it was warm out of the wind.

When we walked the dog on the beach the wind had dropped and it was quite mild.

Mon Feb 12^th

Cold and overcast today. We did some washing as it had been piling up. It dries but the sun didn't come out to air it.

It didn't warm up all day.

Tue Feb 13^th

Sunny this morning but not really warm. I put washing out to air.

We went to Lidle for a few things then stopped at a beach to give Crackers a run.

Back to the van and sun had gone so got washing in.

Quiet afternoon sewing and reading.

Wed Feb 14^th

A bit milder this morning and some sunshine.

We went into Benicarlo to the market, got some meat from the indoor market.

Had lunch at the site cafe then a lazy afternoon.

Had a game of cards before bed.

Thurs Feb 15^th

A lovely,warm, sunny day. Sat outside most of the day reading and sewing.

Played cards again, it stops us going to sleep too early.

Fri Feb 16^th

A bit damp underfoot this morning, overcast but quite mild.

We went into town to Consum then drove to the Delta D'ebre.

As we drove down one of the narrow roads a van came at us over the white line at quite a speed and took off out wing mirror. This was a bit of a shock and he did stop but denied any fault and drove off. This took the edge off the day but we carried on to the beach. We stopped by some lagoons where they have built a hide overlooking the water where there were flocks of flamingos and lots of other birds.

We walked along the sand for a while then sat and had our picnic, it was warm, bright and very calm. As we drove back we drove through patches of mist.

I contacted the insurers and they said to get it mended and contact them once we're home.

We asked at the office and were told where a Kia garage was and so drove to it, not far away in town.

We were very pleased with the service, immediate attention, saw straight away what we wanted, ordered the part, gave us a price for part plus labour, 345 euro, took a deposit and said it would be in next week, he also duct taped the mirror back on to stop it dangling. All this without speaking English, although the son had a few words which helped.

Sat Feb 17^th

A mixed day, started off quite misty but the sun broke through mid morning. We sat out for a while and in the awning also. Had a walk along beach.

Sun Feb 18^th

A nice, suny day today, spent most of it sitting outside. Walked along the lanes, Crackers seems to have gone off the beach.

Game of cards before bed.

Mon Feb 19^th

Another sunny day. Sat out doing some embroidery in the morning. Went to the Wok all you can eat restaurant which was okay, plenty of choice for cooking fresh, Rich tried a steak but it was very tough.

Tue Feb 20^th

Warm but windy today, sat in the sun read and did some embroidery.

It was very windy in the evening.

Wed Feb 21^st

The wind had dropped this morning but it was very rough in the night.

Warm enough to sit in the awning out of the wind. We took Crackers to the beach below the town for a while, sunny but still quite a stiff breeze.

We had lunch in the bar and they were cooking the calcots. Lazy afternoon.

Thurs Feb 22^nd

Cool and windy again this morning, it was warm enough to sit in awning.

After lunch we walked as far as the rambla then back along lanes. Sat in awning sewing in afternoon.

Fri Feb 23^rd

Cool morning again but sun warmed up later.

We drove to the garage hoping to have the wing mrror replaced but they hadn't got the replacement.

We went to Lidl then Rich dropped me in town to see if I could get a haircut.

There seemed to be a hairdresser on every corner so I chose one and went in, she said she could do it in 20 mins so I walked around a bit looking in shops, didnt dare go too far in case I couldnt find it again. I then went back and waited 40 mins before she got round to me, I was almost ready to walk out but for the thought I'd have to start again somewhere else and she seemd to be making a good job of the woman she was working on. She did a good job on me, thought shed never stop, it was very short but a good cut and better than the mess it had been for a few wekks.

Sat Feb 24^th

Very cool this morning, I couldnt get warm for ages, then the sun came out and it was lovely sitting in awning doorway, almost too hot.

We walked down to the marina and had lunch sitting in the sun, it was very pleasant and good value. Lazy afternoon.

Sun Feb 25^th

Cool again this morning but clear and bright, soon warmed up. We did some washing which all dried by afternoon.

Sat in sun, had a walk roud the block.

Mon Feb 26^th

Cool again,sun did come out but soon got cloudy and overcast. We went to Aldi and it rained as we were in the shop.

Stayed in and sewed as it was sunny with a very cool breeze.

Tue Feb 27^th

Woke up to rain and it rained all day, cold as well, 4%c.

Stayed in in the morning then drove to garage at 2.30 to find it was closed until 3 oclock, we drove to the beach and gave Crackers a bit of a run, the waves were pounding in and the tide line was a disgusting mess of rubbish.

When the garage opened the mirror hadn't arrived and they didnt seem to be able to get one. We met an English chap who spoke the language and was very helpful. They said they would ring this afternoon when they had been in touch with Kia head office.

Wed Feb 28^th

It rained all night again and all morning, eased off in the afternoon. Still cold.

We heard nothing from the garage so I went to the office and asked if they would ring for me and find out what was happening. Katy made the call and was told that the mirror would be there on Fri and to go to the garage at 6pm for it to be fitted.

We went to the bar for lunch and the entertainment was a Niel Diamond sound alike, he was not bad but we didnt stay late. Lazy afternoon.

Thurs Mar 1^st

No rain overnight and a bit milder.

Another miserable day. Stayed in and sewed went a walk round the block in afternoon when it cleared up a bit.

Fri Mar 2^nd

It stopped raining overnight and there was a bright moon. A nice sunrise and a bit sunny in the morning but it clouded over and we had a few short showers.

We went to the Wok restaurant which was nice but the food could have been a bit hotter. Rich tried an oyster and a razor shell, neither of which he liked.

Went to garage at 6pm to be told the mirror had not arrived but would be there by Mon and to go at 6pm then.

Sat Mar 3^rd

Clear this morning and got nice and warm. We sat outside til lunch then walked into town, thought there may be some activity for the Fallas but all we saw was one group setting up their tables and chairs and letting off lots of fireworks.

Rich's knees hurt so we stopped for a coffee then walked to the marina and had a drink and snack. It went cool so we stayed in for the rest of the day.

In the evening there were the loudest explosions going on and then music started at full belt and continues until around 4am. Not a very good night!

Sun Mar 4^th

Overcast this morning, undecided whether to do washing but the sun came out so we did. It rained so we had to get it in again, it was quite dry so we put it in awning with fan heater for a while.

Sewed in afternoon. The sun came outagin in the evening.

Mon Mar 5^th

The sun was nice in the morning so we put the washing out to air and sat outside.

The garage called to ask what colour the car was, as we couldnt understand what he wanted we went down and he said that according to Kia, from the number on our car it was white. The lad said he had driven to Castellon to fetch it, it had come from Czechoslovakia but would not get delivered because of a Festa. The lad ran off and a minute later a chap appeared with a gadget, presumably to check the colour os car, then we were told to go back a 6pm.

We got the washing in before it rained then went to the bar for lunch, BBQ ribs which were lovely.

When we got to the garage they had it fitted in about 20 mins. No extra charge for painting it or fetching it so we were very pleased.

Tue Mar 6^th

Another mild, sunny morning. We filled up with fuel, called at Aldi then drove to Morella. Id forgotten quite how windy the road was and we were surprised by the amount of big lorries using it, we did see a section where they appear to be constructing a new road quite high up in the mountains.

There was very heavy scaffolding around the one gateway and coach loads of pensioners on trips.

It was very peaceful though and nice in the sun though cool in the shade. We called for tapas at a small bar which was nice, Rich bought a hat,

Quiet afternoon in van. It clouded over after tea.

Wed Mar 7^th

Clear, bright morning, cool breeze.

We took a box of biscuits to the garage to say thank you for their good service.

We then drove up to the dam and resevoir, we were amazed to find the resevoir almost empty with the remains of a house and roads in the old valley floor. We saw an ibex walking down there. We had a coffee in the hotel overlooking the floor of the resevoir. We saw a dog running down the slope out trees and a short while after it's owner lookng for it, we couldnt attract his attention to let him know which way it went.

We drove down to a restaurant by the roadside which we'd seen last year, there was a pool behind it, this seemed quite low also. We had a nice meal, menu of the day 13euro. We had to guess what we ordered as it was very Spanish, they brought us a bottle of wine each which we took away with us, dont know if we were supposed to but no one stopped us.

Thurs March 8^th

Warm morning. We drove to Vinaros and parked underground. I went to find the fabric shop and managed to get the right colour embroidery silk. In the square by the church there was a cown and somone maing a spech. I had a while before I met Rich so walked along the front, there was a huge market. I walked back to town and met Rich, he had seen a crowd on the beach with lots of white crosses with names on which he took me to see. I looked it up later and it appeared to be a demonstration for Women's Rights Day, victims of violence.

Sat in the sun in the afternoon did some embroidery. Shower in the evening.

Fri Mar 9^th

A lovely sunny day, warm. We took down the awning etc. Then we went to shops and had lunch at the bar.

When we took the dog out later it had turned very misty.

Sat Mar 10^th

We finished packing up and set off at 0915 after saying goodbye to Lisa.

Gertie took us a rather long route up country, I got rather worried as I looked at the route on my phone and it was very twisty and I was worried that it would end up mountainous. As it happened it was very winding but did not go high up but followed the river Ebro more or less along the valley. It was very pretty and quite different country, many fruit trees and quite green fields. There was a heavy mist as we set off which lasted for a couple of hours. We passed through a few towns but it was mostly country which got rockier as we went along.

We arrived at Roses at 3.10, and had the same pitch as last year.

At 6pm we went to the cafe for a 'welcome'. There were quite few people there but we were the only Brits. We chatted to a Belguim couple who spoke very good English. We were given a drink and a few nibbles. Back to van for an early night.

Miles travelled 263

Fuel 50 euro + 70

Sun Mar 11^th

Sunny this morning but very windy and blustery. We put the awnings up which was difficult with the wind, found a large rip in the awning which we taped up.

We made a quick trip to supermarket.

Stayed in for rest of the day. Luckily the wind died down overnight.

 

Mon Mar 12^th

A nice sunny morning though cool at first.

We walked along the front and stopped for a snack, there was not a lot open but it was a lovely hot mornng,

Back at the van we sat out for a while in the sun until a thunderstorm sent us in. it rained for a while then.

Tue Mar 13^th

Very wet this morning, the awning was very damp. The sun came out a bit later and it dried out quite well.

We walked along the lane to Eroski, Carrefour and Lidl. We got some nice cooked food from Carrefour, spare rib and chicken.

We had the spare rib with a french stick for lunch and the chicken for tea.

It was nice enough to sit out for an hour or so in the afternoon.

Wed Mar 14^th

A bright, clear, cold morning. Once the sun came up it warmed up a bit.

We walked the other way along the front to Santa Margarita. There was nothing that seemd to be open but a lot of cafes and shops preparing to. We walked back to Las Palmeras where we sat in the sun and had a coffee, which surprised us by being cheap, no wonder it is popular.

Back to the van and had lunch outside but it soon got too cold and had to go in.

Thurs Mar 15^th

Today was a lovely hot day after a cold start.

We walked to Lidl, Carrefour and the Chinese shop and got a few things, some cooked ribs from Carrefour again.

Sat outside for a while.

Fri Mar 16^th

A cold start again but it got warm early and we sat outside. After lunch we drove to Empuriabrava to check that the vet was still there, he was. We drove down to the sea and walked for a while. It turned cold in the afternoon and there was a shower in the evening.

Sat Mar 17^th

Sunny this morning. We did the washing. It dried well as it was breezy, it turned quite cool. WE walked after lunch down the lane and past the other camp site, Rich was struggling after a while with pain in his legs and had to stop for a while.

Got the washing in just before it rained.

Sun Mar 18^th

A cool morning. We went to the market, it was very quiet in fact some of the stall holders were just setting up. The sun came through and it was hot but still cool in the shade.

Back to site and sat out most of day until it went cool.

Mon Mar 19^th

Cool but bright again this morning. We drove to Port de Selva, had a walk round and a coffee then back to Roses, as we drove down the twisting mountain roads there were a lot of cyclists which seemed very dangerous. As we came down the mountain we saw a three masted ship in the bay and drove to the port to try and see it, we drove Les Palmeras where we could see the ship at anchor. We had some very nice tapas there. It was cool so stayed in reading.

Tue Mar 20^th

Overcast this morning and windy. The wind was very strong and we stayed in all day except for a quick walk with the dog.

The wind continued all night so didn't get much sleep. As the awning was already ripped we didn't worry about it but were surprised to find it still there in the morning.

Wed Mar 21^st

What a night!!! hardly slept the wind was so fierce and the awning flapping and banging all night. We were surprised to find it still intact, well almost, in the morning.

Another very windy day although bright sunshine and blue skies. Stayed in most of the day, just a quick trip to Carrefour and to take Crackers on a beach, got sand blasted!

Complained about internet, got annoyed with girl on reception telling me it wouldn't work on ipad only on a phone. It had been working fine til today. Went back to girl who spoke English and she sent a young lad round who sorted it out, hopefully.

Thurs Mar 22nd

The wind died down in the night but it was cold in the morning and it started again but not as fierce as it had been. It was sunny and bright.

We walked to Las Palmeros and had a drink and sandwich then walked a bit further and back to the van.

It was still very windy but we sat in the awning out of it and it was pleasant.

Fri Mar 23^rd

Today dawned bright, calm and mild.

We drove to Sant Pere Pescador and to a beach we'd been to before, the parking had changed and the narrow roads were all one way, also the beach, which in the past had been vast and empty, was a mass of noisy youngsters. We drove a bit further and found a car park with a path that seemed to lead to the beach. Sant Marti d'Empuries. We followed it and found another mass of children. We walked past them to where the beach was empty, there were signs for Roman Ruins.

It was a beautiful small bay and we could se Roses across the other side. Just in the water was a huge Roman wall. It was warm and glorious sunshine so we strolled around for a while. We walked back along a board walk and saw the rather large Roman town, sorry not to have time to visit.

Back to Sant Pere Pescador a a meal sitting in the sun at a restaurant by the bridge.

Back for what was left of a lazy afternoon.

Sat Mar24th

Started raining in the night and didnt stop. Grey and cool all day.

Sun Mar 25^th

A grey,overcast morning, still raining a bit. It cleared up somewhat and we walked along the front to see what was going on as there were a lot of people about and some seats had been erected.

There was quite a heavy surf and lots of people in wet suits with what seemed to be a cross between a surf board and a kayak, also a couple of coastguard type RIBs rushing about. Don't know what was going on but lots of people doing it.

Stayed in for the rest of the day as it got cold.

Mon Mar 26^th

Clear and sunny this morning with a breeze.

We drove to Pals, a lovely medieval town. We had a coffee in the square then walked round the old streets and looked at the church and old towers in the town walls. It was sunny and warm.

We then drove to Sant Marti d'Empries again to take Crackers on the beach but saw signs that we hadnt seen the other day saying dogs not allowed, took her on anyway for a quick run. We then went to Sant Pere Pescador to Bon Punt restaurant again for a really nice meal.

When we got back to site it went cool and windy. Very gusty when we went to bed.

Tue Mar 27^th

Overcast this morning, no rain forecast so we did some washing, as I was pegging it out it started to rain. It wasnt too bad. After lunch we walked to Lidle and back, the sun was hot out of the wind but when it went in the wind was very cool. The washing more or less dried.

 

Wed Mar 28^th

Didn't do much today, weather mixed.

Thurs Mar 29th

Clear this morning and it was a lovely sunny day, and warm.

We went to make an appointent at the vet's then had a coffee at Las Palmeros and a stroll along the front. There were a lot of people about and lots in the sea on kayaks or that sort of thing. Lots of coaches and youngsters about.

Lazy afternoon sitting outside.Iris bar for Happy Hour special, 4 tapas and a drink for 5euros, it was cold tapas but nice. We walked down to the bar nearer town and Had a snack and drink there.

Fri Mar 30^th

Sunny and bright this morning, chilly first thing.

The receptionist had told me there is a walk at the far end of town so we decided to try it.

We found the place, by a lighthouse, parked and set off. It was a concrete path hugging the coast below hotels and apartments on the road above. It was a beautiful spot and easy walking for the most part, some steps and slopes. The sea was to our right sparkling under the sun, and there was the lovely scent of alysum in the air. The rock formations that the path was built on were interesting and very different, volcanic and granite , we thought. It was very warm. We arrived at Canyells after about 50 mins walking and found a bar where we had a drink and snack.

We set off back and by then the place was a lot busier with people on the beach and lots on the walk, this made it a bit less pleasant as many had dogs and the space was very narrow, there were also quite a few runners wanting to keep their pace up and obviously peeved by pensioners in the way. It was a lovely walk though, spectacular scenery and hot, Rich was struggling by the end though with his legs hurting.

The day continued warm so I bathed Crackers, she was not pleased and sulked for the rest of the day. We sat outside all afternoon.

 

Sat Mar 31^st

Very cold night, wed not had heating on for a few nights but felt we needed it again.

Ive been thinking I have an UTI so went to pharmacist, they couldnt give me antibiotics but gave me some natural remedy, hope it works, its most uncomfortable.

We walked to Las Palmeros for a coffee then down as far as the old town and back, the sun was lovely but it was blustery.

In the afternoon grey clouds rolled in and there was a couple of claps of thunder, it got very windy again.

 

Sun April 1^st

Easter Sunday. The day started clear and bright and soon warmed up, but there was a chilly breeze.

We walked to Carrefour and sat out for most of the day.

Mon April 2^nd

Overcast and breezy this morning. We drove to Cape de Crues and stopped at a couple of viewpoints, couldn't find the place we'd visited before, I was very uncomfortable with a UTI. When we got back to Canyelles we went in the cafe we'd been in before then back to site.

We went for a meal at Las Palmeros. It was cold and very windy so we went inside, it was very full and noisy and a different menu from outside, more a restaurant.

Lazy afternoon, still very blustery and cool.

Tue Apr 3^rd

Overcast but mild this morning, the hills were shrouded in clouds.

I decided to go to a clinic as I was still struggling with UTI.

I booked in quite easily then had to wait to see a nurse. I waited about 2 hours! I was the second person there but others kept being called in who'd arrived afterme, I assumed they were calling locals first, then they called a couple of tourists who had arrived after me so I got up and complained, bearing in mind all this time I was dying for a wee but didnt dare move in case they called me! Rich was waiting in the car and he came to see what was happening. I was finally called and given a prescription for anti biotics. Not impressed with Spanish clinics.

We went to the pharmacy and I took a dose of the medecine. We then drove to Sant Pere Pescador filled up with cheap fuel, 0.99euro a ltr.

Went for a meal at the cafe by the bridge, it was very pleasant sitting outside as the sun was coming out.

Back to site and sat out and read.

 

Wed 4^th April

It was a glorious day. The weather was lovely.Warm and sunny.

We packed up the site and threw away the awning.

We then walked along the front, it was beautiful, Roses at it's best, sun sparkling of the sea, boats bobbing about and a few people braving the waves, it was quite choppy with some surf.

We went to Si aul Plau cafe where we had a lovely lunch and a couple of drinks sitting in the hot sun watching the world go by.

Back on site we sat for a bit, Rich finished of chores then we walked Crackers down the lane.

A lovely last day with the weather showing us what it could do if it tried.

It continued warm into the evening and there was a light shower.

Thurs 5^th Apr

Up early and ready to go by 0845. We went to Carrefour to get some cooked food for the journey only to find that the chickens werent ready for an hour.

While parked there realised that the brake lights weren't working, Rich tried everthing to get them working with no success.

Went to vets and got Crackers sorted then set off at 10.30.

A fairley uneventful journey on the toll roads, there were a lot f police at the peage on the border and later on about a dozen National police vans on the road.

Stopped at an Aire by Carcassone for lunch.

Arrived at La Rupe Toulouse at 2.15 Whilst parking realised that the brake lights were working.

Sat outside in lovely sunshine for an hour then walked along a canal before tea and an early night.

 

Miles travelled 179

Tolls 36,40 euro

Site fees 17.66euro

 

Fri Apr 6^th

Up and away by 0850, a mild sunny morning.

A reasonable run, not a lot of traffic, hot and sunny all day. We saw lots of yellow meadows, presumably dandelions, and cowslips on the roadside. There were rape fields just starting to bloom and we passed quite a few fruit fields.

Lovely and hot, sat outside til 7.30

Arrived at Poitiers 3.40

Miles travelled 263

fuel 67euro

Site fees 19.80euros

Sat April 7^th

Up and away by 0835, went to Super U for fuel then had to wait for shope to open. Got a couple of things for tea. Away by 0910.

Decided to use toll road as 60 mlies shorter. First section very busy with lorries, roadworks etc but once past Tours it was very quiet.

Arrived Caen at 1.20, it took a while for the manager to appear and book in. It was calm and pleasant even though overcast we sat outside for a while.

We walked into Ranville then had tea and an early night. Had a shower just after tea  and it rained all night.

Miles travelled 221

Fuel 68 euros
Tolls  56 euros

Site fees 21.9euros

Sun April 8^th

Up and away by 0600, it was very wet and soggy.

Had a bowl of cereal on dock then waited to board until 0800.

A very calm crossing, fog all the way and hardly a wave. The ship was full of teenagers making quite a bit of noise, we were glad of the booked seats wher it was a bit quieter, although we think most people did not book and pay for them.

Docked to a very wet and misty Portsmouth at 1.30, 12.30 British time.

A reasonable run except for the spray and low visibility. Home by 5.

Total miles of journey 2236

touring miles 829

Another good trip, the weather was not too kind this year, quite cold, a fair amount of wind and rain.

This will be our last trip to Spain in the winter, we find the journey hard and the Driving is getting too much for Rich let alone the setting up on site.