August already… Time for most French people to take their annual holidays and so the same goes for your « Mary »! Though there will be no more blog writing until September, yours truly will stay in the beautiful Vendée and try to enjoy it a little whilst running a brand new B&B (which seems to be already attracting a lot of visitors in its first season!). La Ruette is only 15kms from the Côte de Lumière and a bike ride away from the stunning Lac du Jaunay, an area well worth a visit if you like the outdoors…
In addition to the cycling trails around the lake, you can enjoy several walking trails, one of which lined with tree-stump works of art. Then there is fishing of course – permits can be secured from local campsites or the grocery shop in La Chapelle Hermier, as well as pedalos and canoes to get closer to the water (as sadly swimming is not allowed).
Little ones will also enjoy the donkey rides nearby at Calin Ca-Anes (€4 per child) whilst their parents may want to opt for mussels or a savoury pancake at the Auberge du Jaunay overlooking the lake. If so, make sure you keep some room in your pudding stomach for the scrumptious « Crepe Tatin » – a warm apple-filled pancake drizzled with salty caramel sauce, sprinkled with fresh almonds and, on request, a scoop of vanilla ice cream… Need I say more?!
The highlight of the summer season is the Fête du Lac (Sunday 7th August this year) – good food, drinks, music and of course a spectacular fireworks display over the water. So, as you can see, even work isn’t that bad when you’re lucky enough to be living here all year round…
Bonnes vacances!
