Toot, toot!

Thursday April 17

Today was a day spent touring around Nantes. The first aim for the day was the Petit Train. We missed the 10am one by a whisker so sat and had a coffee (as you do) while we waited for the next one at 11. A tiny cafe, barely wide enough for 2 bums, and we crammed in there with some of the tour group of 33 Canadians, who were also waiting for the train. Sitting outside was not an option - it was freezing. 

The train circled the city, passing by significant buildings, museums, monuments and shopping precincts. Unfortunately the commentary was only in French but we had a map so were able to figure out what we were looking at. Apart from being freezing cold it was a nice way to view the city. 

Our little train journey begins.

The opera house in Nantes.

Beautiful fountain.

Train route.

No spirit levels here - but it's still standing.

One of the important businesses in Nantes - Lu biscuits.

Buskers - well located outside the castle.

Happy Easter - beautiful window displays. 

Castle of the grand ducs of Bretagne.

The cathedral - undergoing restoration.

Our next planned visit was the town market but on visiting the shop selling local specialities we found that the market was due to close at 12 - bummer, not long enough for a visit. So, off for a visit to the castle of the Ducs de Bretagne. We thought it would be like other castles/chateaux, with rooms fitted out with period furniture etc, and descriptions of what each room was used for, but, no, this was a museum which chronicled the history of Nantes, and there was really little about 'who' lived here and when. One titbit we picked up was that it was the residence of Queen Anne who was Queen of France twice after remarrying after her first husband died. She died young - from memory about 37.

Finally, lunch. We were quite late so by the time we picked a restaurant there was only one lamb stew left. Rob got the stew and Kerry and I had croque monsieur. Not a fan of the sandwich - it had a sweetish flavour to it. Reminder to self - don't order this again.

Quick visit to supermarket in the city before boarding the tram back to base. All very tired - sausage and leftover paella for dinner.