Weather has been hot over the last few days. This has meant early starts so we can do as much as possible before it gets too hot. Was a bit of an effort on Sunday as we watched the final of the Heineken Cup in the local bar!
The walk on Sunday continued through wonderful undulating countryside. The only problem is that pilgrims liked to take the high routes rather the low one. The climbs are meant to help the spiritual contemplation obviously !
A relatively short walk resulted in an early arrival at Le Silvetat. There were four of us by now and three went off for a quiet sail on the lake before supper.
Luckily there were no incidence with pedailloes as we had to depart at 6 o'clock in the morning.
It was great to hear from Angus that we had won a Classic in Ireland. Sheikh Hamdan seemed very pleased when he rang for a progress report.
Yesterday was another early start as we had to get 20 kms to meet Judy who was to take Edward and Michael to catch the plane in Toulouse. It was sad to loose them as we had experienced some great times over the last 4 days.

Saturday 22nd May

Friday was gruelling ! We climbed over 4000 feet and then had to descend down a very rough path in full glare of the sun. Last two days have been through wonderful countryside but have also involved a few step climbs.
Over half way now and hopefully into flatter ground. Weather is holding - I'm not sure how we would have managed in the mountains on wet stones.

Thursday 20th May -

Much better day today. Steep climbs but stunning views. You can see for miles. In fact what lies ahead looks interesting!

Richard Lancaster's Charity Walk

The Route Saint Jacques
WALKING THE PILGRIM’S ROUTE

The walk, which starts in Arles and will finish in Toulouse will cover approximately 425 Kilometres of undulating terrain, and I have given myself just over two weeks to complete it. I am fortunate to have gathered a small group of friends who will be coming out to accompany me on various stages.
Whist I hope to gain great satisfaction from completing this challenge, I would like at the same time to benefit three of my favourite charities.

http://www.justgiving/richardscharitywalk for Racing Welfare
http://www.justgiving/richardscharitywalk2 for Macmillan Cancer Support
http://www.justgiving/richardscharitywalk3 for the Army Benevolent Fund
any contributions would be very welcome.

To update you on progress:

20th May 2010

Day 5 and I am begining to realise what an undertaking this is. We are in the mountainous areas and the tracks are tough. Not helped today by a major map reading fault ! Not my fault I hasten to add ! We have at least covered over 150 kilometers since last Friday.
Head into the isolated area of the Haut Languedoc tomorrow.