Km 4125 to km 4262, La Bastide (France) to Le Vigan (France).
Day 129
30/08/2022 – 26km
Easing back into it today. Only 26km, and on easy terrain, it flew by. I was done very early, and there was definitely that voice at the back of my brain urging me to continue on, but I didn’t listen. I’m trying to hold myself back, especially as I’m just starting again.
It felt good to be moving. When I’m walking I don’t notice anything wrong. It’s just when I’m resting that I notice I’m still breathing a bit more heavily than I should be.
I mostly followed the Robert Louis Stevenson trail today, as it was going to my planned destination, just a little more directly than the GR7. There were a lot of other hikers, I can definitely say it’s a popular way. I’ve even seen quite a few pack mules, which I always enjoy meeting, they’re beautiful animals. My guess is that Stevenson used one, and now it’s a “thing”.
Day 130
31/08/2022 – 36km
A noticeable change in scenery today. Yesterday it was green fields and forests. Today it was granite boulders, scrubland and dusty trail. It was very beautiful, hence many pictures.
I think I’m feeling better again (compared to yesterday, not completely), but it’s hard to tell. I remain cautiously optimistic.
Day 131
01/09/2022 – 39km
I was woken up twice in the night by pigs wandering too close to my tent. They were strangely unresponsive to me making noise, but I was able to ward them off with my small torch.
The main location today was Barre des Cévennes, a beautifully dense little village of tight alleyways, built below a picturesque rock outcrop.
I had lots of wide open views today, of hillscapes stretching in all directions.
Day 132
02/09/2022 – 36km
Some very heavy rain today, but thankfully not for too long. There’s a lot forecast for the next few days though.
I was planning to stay at the campground of the town I’m in, but I learnt that the tent part is closed this year. So I’m in the cheapest auberge.
Whilst waiting in a park before check-in, I got talking to a local family and they invited me back to their place for a drink and we chatted for a while. They were so welcoming. Later I went out for dinner with another guy staying in the auberge. I’m glad my French is just about good enough for these interactions.
As a health update I feel much better. But I think I’m going to be wary for the rest of my hike. Perhaps that’s not the worst thing.
Looking good! I’m glad you’re back on track!
The “pigs” are wild boar in this case?
Yes, the pigs are wild boar (sanglier, en Français). I don’t know how big they were, but they make some scary noises when you startle them.
I often see them in the mornings and evenings though and the look sweet enough.
Sehr schön, das hört sich doch wieder gut an!
Essen sieht auch besser aus 😉
Danke, und ja ich denke das besser Essen hilft. Schade haha.
So glad you are getting your energy back Ben . Dad has been getting himself fit to keep up with you next week!!
You’re doing so well x
Thanks Kim. I’m going to do my best to try and balance progress with taking care of myself going forward. Fingers crossed.
Really looking forward to spending some time with dad soon.
Great to hear you’re making progress again 👍🏻 Fingers crossed for you. Fabulous photos as usual!