We
spent a lot more time on the campsite this year than last
year, because a) many of the train and bus drivers were on
strike, making services unreliable (we didn't like the idea
of getting a train somewhere and then not being able to get
back again) and b) Matthew was sick on Thursday morning. We
turned the disadvantage into a virtue, and enjoyed a relaxing
time taking in all that the site has to offer. Starting at
the caravan, the view along the river, with the sun shining
through the trees, the ducks flying full throttle and landing
on the river, startling the geese and delighting the children,
and the peaceful sound of flowing water.
From
the caravan we could walk along the river to the park where
the sheep grazed within an enclosure. They very co-operatively
came up to the fence to be petted. The amusements here were
rather decrepid, including two slides with a choice of landing
on gravel or stinging nettles. However, the climbing frames
provided some physical challenge to the boys, and James was
delighted when the sheep dog was scared off by some geese.
There
was another play area near the swimming pool, with an interesting
selection of neglected amusements. A day or two of a 'Handy
Andy' would make this a really desireable play area. James
and Matthew enjoyed sitting underneath the climbing frame.
Both
of the boys had a fascination with the digital camera and
video we were using exclusively this year (no films except
for the disposable waterproof). Problem was, they were forever
running up to the camera to see themselves just as soon
as a picture was taken. At least with the video we could
take time to sit down and watch.
We
only ate at the restaurant on the last night. On our day trips
we had large (and expensive) lunches, and having stocked up
at the Intermarche in Menton before arriving at Pylone we
had a certain amount of food to get through. As soon as we
arrived at the restaurant, James remembered what he had eaten
for pudding last year, and what he wanted again. Luckily chocolate
mousse is still on the menu, and although they shared a main
course, they managed a whole mousse each.
