Sunday, 15 July 2012

Canoeing in Dordogne

Seven of us spent a (long) day canoeing on the Vézère River, a tributary of the Dordogne River. The Vézère is lined with limestone cliffs riddled with numerous caves, many of which are of great significance in prehistoric studies. Mario was clearly having fun!

Vicki and Tristan


Kate and Maggie

Mario busy taking pictures while Alan and Joy do all the paddling.


In the morning, we were alone on the river and the calm water was like a mirror. We passed nice little springs feeding the river and slowly came along medieval castles perched along the banks.





We were able to stop on a small island for a nice picnic lunch, and even found a place with tables and very good coffee. How civilized!


A Barbary Duck expecting some food from us.

Canoeing under the overhanging cliffs offered very eerie feelings. The upside-down ferns were described by Tristan as flying over a forest.







We also paddled by large caves and rock shelters occupied from prehistoric times through the middle ages. It was like we were travelling through time! But in the end, it was a very long ride. We were gone for 6 hours and canoed 28 km. Everyone was tired, but impressed by the trip.

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