These are the adventures of Andy and Sally Rawnsley on their narrowboat "The Puzzler". We have been living on the boat for over nine years now and are still loving it. Our Ulster born Shih Tzu, Shannon, has grown up, and has taken over the boat! After three wonderful years in Ireland, we transported The Puzzler to The Netherlands, and spent a year there. In 2015 we went southwards, to reach the north of France by June. After glorious weather throughout the summer, we arrived in Roanne in late October, and enjoyed our winter in this friendly port. We cruised extensively in France in 2016, 2017 and 2018, returning to Roanne each winter.


Wednesday 20 July 2016

7th - 10th July At St. Valery with train rides to Le Crotoy and Cayeux.



Walking part way round the bay, it is a good view across the Baie de la Somme to Le Crotoy.


The old town gates are still there, way up above the main town of St Valery.


This part of town is renowned for these hollyhocks which line the streets.


There are many attractive nooks and crannys in the town.


It gives the impression of being a very well cared for town.


There is a large harbour for sea going boats at St Valery.


We are taking the steam train round the Baie de la Somme to Le Crotoy.


Off we go!


The carriages are really historic, with wooden seats. No home comforts here!


Our route takes us across the salt marsh where sheep obviously find it palatable.

The tide was out at Le Crotoy but Shannon was not even allowed on the beach on her lead, which seemed a bit harsh.


We went in the front carriage on the way back, right behind our steam train.


On Saturday we took the diesel train to go the other way round the bay to Cayeux.

Shannon was allowed on the beach here, so had a wonderful time in the sea.


There is a large breakwater of big pebbles here to protect the town.


Again a front seat gives a good view of the poppies in the corn.

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