The mountains are calling

Wednesday 7th May

Our last night with Kerry last night at an airport hotel. We had a lovely buffet dinner at a restaurant a short walk away. Probably one of our nicest meals. It was then an early night ready for today.

Kerry headed to the airport at 7 for her flight and by 8 we were packed and on the road searching for breakfast. Seemed like we were passing through the only area in France where every little village didn't have a bakery. We eventually took a backward detour to the town of Meaux (visited in 2014) where we knew we could find breakfast. Lovely juice, coffee and pastries, and very cheap.

No real sightseeing along the way though we did see a monument to Napoleon and the battle of Montmirail, February 1814. Napoleon won against the Russians.

Monument to Napoleon and the Battle of Montmirail.

Further along the road as we came around a corner in the village of Montmort we came across this Chateau, a medieval fortress that became a castle during the Renaissance. Montmort is one of the most beautiful listed historical monuments in Champagne. We didn't see any evidence that it was open to tourists, so just did a drive by shooting.

Chateau in Montmort.

Stables

Lions on the gateposts. 
This Chateau had a moat and drawbridge.

Onwards via Epernay, champagne central. It was surprising that we were getting close, and no signs of vines till the last gasp. We came into a bit of a valley and there they were spread all over the hills on one side of the valley. We didn't stop for tasting - we were on a mission to get to our overnight stop. We did drive in to the centre of Epernay but weren't impressed - just a huge village and very busy.

A tower that caught our eye in Epernay.
Might have a purpose, or just advertising. 

Another relais for lunch where Rob got 'chatting' to a couple at the next table.  He spoke no english (apart from kangaroo) but they did talk about the area, what to see in Alsace region, where we are headed tomorrow, and he shared a glass of his wine with Rob. It's great that even with our limited French we are engaging with the locals. I think there will be a bit of wine tasting in the next few days. 

Tonight we are back to our old known accommodation - Premiere Classe. Nothing flash, but we know the formula and are happy here.