Strolling in the rain...

We had a most enjoyable if rainy day in Pont Aven, with many taking advantage of nice restaurants, shops and cafés before and after walking. Leaving the town via the Xavier Grall river gardens, we made our way up to the Chapelle de Tremalo to see Gauguin's inspiration for his famous Yellow Christ painting. Then a pleasant stroll through the Bois d'Amour and back along the river. It was great to see regulars and holiday makers alike (thanks to the Central Brittany Journal's kind publicity), and to meet Brittany Walks latest addition, Roger and Sue's puppy Megan, photographed by Lesley.

Pont Aven - Tues 7th, 2pm (new start time)

We have a short walk at the pretty artists' town of Pont Aven on Tuesday 7th, starting at 2pm (NOTE NEW START TIME). This is an easy stroll on leafy lanes and woodland tracks. The meeting point is at the wooden passerelle over the river in the rue du Port, near the restaurant Le Moulin du Grand Poulguin (about 300m south of road bridge in town centre). Please note that this is market day, and parking in the area very near the meeting point may be difficult in the morning. After the walk some of us will be visiting the town art gallery, which has many examples of the famous Pont Aven school of painting, a style developed in the late 19th century by a group including Gauguin, Bernard and Sérusier.

Autumn Study Days - find out and have fun

Brittany Heritage Services will be offering three study days this autumn:

How to Read a Breton Church will give you all you need to understand churches and chapels around Brittany (and be able to give your friends and visitors impressive guided tours!). We'll cover basics of architecture and statuary in the morning, then go out for some practical work.

Britons in Brittany will look at some historical connections between Great Britain and Little Britain, covering culture, trade and conflict. This will provide a lot of insight into Brittany's past and reveal some surprising cross-Channel links.

Understanding Brittany will be a simple guide to the key events and issues that have led to Brittany's distinctive development, also giving a clearer perception of the region today.

The location for these study days will be Huelgoat, and there are only limited places for each one, so think of booking early (discount) for these lively and stimulating events! Details of dates and prices are on the Brittany Walks website (brittanywalks.com) or www.brittanyheritageservices.com.

Lesley's Nature Watch - Why everyone needs at least one Buddleih!

Seen on 1 of my 8 Buddleias in just 10 minutes yesterday: Swallowtail, Meadow Brown, a pair of Brimstones (Male pictured), Comma, Red Admiral, Gatekeeper, Small White,....these were just the butterflies. there were also many Bees of different species, a green Shield bug & so much more....... Note: Plant in sunny spot, dead head flowers when finished to promote longer flowering & prune hard in the apropriate season (BBC Gardeners World have a great website where you can find all pruning information).Most butterflies prefer the highest flowers that are sitting in direct sunshine.

Saw a Swift yesterday, the first I've seen for over a week. I think the majority have left us now & flown back down south. Of Swifts,Swallows & Martins, Swifts are the last to arrive & the first to leave.

Lesley's Nature Watch

For the last few years Brittany Walks has benefited greatly from Lesley's wide knowledge of all aspects of the natural world. She tirelessly answers all our questions about birds, butterflies and flowers, as well as illuminating our coastal walking holidays with her astute observations.

We are very grateful for all her contributions, and now Lesley has kindly agreed to post a regular nature watch series on this blog, so keep a look out for her entries in this space.

Lucky with the weather AGAIN!

Only a few drops of rain fell on our Plouezoc'h walk yesterday, and we are able to enjoy the lovely scenery - even the rare sight of the Dourduff estuary with some water in it (one of those half-full/half-empty attitude tests) - in perfect walking conditions. After a break at the Café du Port, we continued up the Bay of Morlaix with good views of the Chateau du Taureau, and then along narrow rural paths back to the bourg. Thanks to everyone who participated.

Plouezoc'h Walk

Our next walk is on Tuesday 17th August at Plouezoc'h, north of Morlaix. This is one of our favourite routes, including a wooded estuary, the Bay of Morlaix and a cross-country return. We will make a stop at the coastal village of Dourduff - time for a coffee or a seat by the sea if the sun is shining. The route is about 8kms, Level 2 with no particular difficulties.

Start from the church in Plouezoc'h at 2.30 promptly. All welcome, 3€.