France Ariege Pyrenees

Camping Le Prelombard, Tarascon sur-Ariege Sunday 5th to Sunday 19th June 2005

We left England on l7th May, and ambled our way slowly through France, enjoying the different regions and the wonderful weather. Then, leaving our Dordogne site very early on 5th June we set off to meet our Abbey friends.

As we approached the mountains, the views were indescribably beautiful, and we soon reached Tarrascon and were greeted by our marshals, who were excited to be pitched directly under a Spanish Green Woodpeckers nest. We were the first to arrive, closely followed by Sheila and 'Arty, and before long everyone was settled, except for 2 vans due to arrive the following week (sadly our new ralliers, Brian and Diane Hilton were unable to join us, due to Diane being advised not to travel after a spell in hospital). That evening a welcome at the Marshall's 'tent city' got Barry his first red card!

Next evening we were invited to the bar to meet Elisabeth and Gus, our hosts, and Didier, the 'dishy' camp owner; the welcome being as warm as the weather (very hot) with loads of free punch, nibbles and cakes. It was a taste of the incredible service, friendliness and help to come, which made it the best French Rally yet!

The next few days set the pattern for the first week, with everyone 'doing their own thing' in the day and joining up on the 'free pitch' to eat at night. The 'twitchers' amongst us could be seen at any time of the day with binoculars or cameras trained at the woodpecker's nest. It soon became a curse though, as the never ending stream of reluctant young, screamed vociferously as their equally noisy parents urged them to leave the nest. By the end of the week at least 5 had flown and even the keenest birdwatchers breathed a sigh of relief to be able to 'siesta' in peace!

There was certainly plenty to see and do - a trip to Andorra; a 'paddle' in the hot (78°F) thermal pool at Ax-les-Bains; visit the incredible Chateaux perched high on the top of mountains, or any of the quaint villages abounding in the area; climb to the summits on winding mountain roads (as long as you aren't terrified like me!); raid the local supermarkets; play off your heat of the table tennis competition; swim in the lovely pool, or just relax and soak up the sun.

Our last 2 couples, Iris and Pete, and John and Noreen arrived on the Saturday, enabling our Marshals to really wine and dine us all in style! We were soon all very replete - especially Sheila who somehow managed a 3rd helping of Spaghetti Bolognaise!! Unfortunately, halfway through, a storm arrived and everyone was convinced that the May's had brought it with them. It certainly didn't dampen the fun though, or the enjoyment! With a full complement of ralliers, we were ready for a busy week of events.

Monday morning we set of early in convoy, led by Elizabeth and Gus and a French shepherd, for a walk to the high pastures and see the 400 cattle grazing. What a wonderful walk on the roof of the world, ending up with a gourmet shepherd's picnic of locally made produce. How sad for the drivers who couldn't drink!!

Wednesday was another early start to visit the Airbus factory at Toulouse, again led by Elisabeth and Gus. A real eye-opener to see the assembly line and be told that a new plane leaves the factory every day of the year-the sky must be full! Then it was on down to the river for a picnic and boat trip. Another unusual and great day out

Thursday saw us all battling out the boules contest, with our crack team Roger, Nigel, 'Arty, Sheila and myself routing the competition. Tony and Nigel played the big table tennis final, and although it was a close thing, it was finally won by Nigel.

Friday we had a morning trip to the subterranean river of Labouiche - a 1500m boat trip up to 70 metres underground, through caverns of fantastic stalactites and stalagmites. Another 'once in a lifetime' experience!

Then sadly, it was time for 'flag' at 5:30 with a great big thank you to our marshals and hosts for all their hard work and effort to make our holiday so special. Afterwards, we all got into our 'glad rags' and made our way to the restaurant for a specially cooked 'Last Supper,' washed down with a 'few' carafes of wine!

Saturday, and it was time to pack up ready for the off, except a few lucky ones who were staying on or moving on south. When all was done, we had the real 'Last Supper' and sadly said our goodbyes.

Many thanks to Irene and John, and Rosemary and Roger for a 'super rally!'

Also to Elisabeth and Gus for the wonderful experiences they arranged for us; and to all our friends for being such great company!

Julie and Barry K