Day 27: 10/07/17 Port L'Ilon to Conflans

Today we had a lazy morning, a cooked breakfast and did started school before setting off. We weren’t exactly sure where we were heading as there were a few options for tonight, and none of them looked particularly reliable, though we were aiming to do about 50km. Our friends Paul and Carol were heading to an island that was supposed to have a beach and swimming pool on, which sounded appealing but we really needed to cover more ground and this was only 30km away.

The kids were really good about boatschool, both getting on with their tasks nicely, and Esme deciding to do some work on telling the time in addition to her normal work. It wasn’t too hot, and there were only a few spots of rain.

After a while I thought I could see a slide on the bank, Patrick pointed out that it might be the swimming pool Paul was heading for… think he’s going to be disappointed!

Despite the dilapidated water park there were some lovely houses on the opposite bank in this area, complete with swimming pools and jet skis.

After the one lock of the day we decided to look at Conflans as our first option for a halt for the night. Unfortunately the small 10 boat pontoon was full, but luckily a Dutch boat offered to let us raft alongside them.  They had been here a couple of days and told us where to find groceries so we set off in hunt of the ice cream as I had offered as a reward for good school from both kids. We then walked up towards a park, ate the ice creams, and enjoyed a good hour or so playing with French kids.

We enjoyed the view of the river and looked at how heavily laden some of the Peniches were, even their bollards were under water in some cases.

Back to the boat for dinner via a scenic route following the footprints; and a chat with the Dutch about where they had come from. There is a lot of wash from passing boats, but the halt is free!

Patrick is getting a little bored with motoring everywhere but for once in my life I am truly enjoying every moment, even the very hard ones. I have faith that this will turn out to be good for our family, and we will all grow as a result. Looking forward to Paris the day after tomorrow!