We have had a lovely September in South West England – lots of sunshine and warm weather – but today dawned dull and overcast. The journey to Dover was the same with light drizzle falling as we navigated the M25. However within 30 minutes of leaving the shores of England, we were in bright sunshine and this continued when we reached France.
We normally avoid motorways except when absolutely necessary but this time decided that we needed to put some kilometres on the clock so we continued on the pay motorway towards Rouen. After 66 km we came to the pay station and paid over £10 for the privilege – another reason for not using pay motorways! The only purpose of motor ways is to cover the distance quickly, you miss all of the interesting sights of a country that way.
Our first stop was Oissel, just outside Rouen, an aire in a lovely, quiet location next to the Seine. There are only two designated motorhome places here but it is out of season and we were the only people there. We were a little concerned about the nearby church as its bells were very loud and rang the four quarters and struck the hour twice about one minute apart. We have heard this before in France and can only assume that it is done for the partially deaf – Did I hear the clock strike ten? Fortunately, the clock stopped striking at 22:00 and didn't start again until 07:00 – unless we just slept through it!
Photos: The aire at Oissel; the Seine just a few metres from the Oissel aire.
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