Day 16

After a late breakfast, we chatted with our hostess, Sylvie. She and her husband, Jean, both about our age, had married only 9 years ago, then 2 years later changed their lives. He sold the farm he had worked on all his life, and she packed in her job as an occupational therapist at the hospital, and they bought this lovely house in the country with 3 acres. They have turned it into a successful business, the biggest part of which is about 20 weddings per year, which are hosted in the grounds, along with marquees, a barn, a lake, a lodge to sleep about 12, and then a few bedrooms in the main house (one of which we are in now). As part of the wedding package, they have a pony trap, which she asked if we would like to go in after lunch. We both said yes and assumed it would be a 5 minute ride around the grounds.

There were lots of birds, some quite exotic, and two very friendly King Charles Spaniels. 

We went out into the gardens at 2pm whilst the ponies were prepared. Sylvie speaks English well but Jean's English was only a few words, much like our French!

We circled the grounds which took a few minutes, and then out past the house

onto the road and upwards towards the forest. At this point, we realised we were getting the full monty!

We climbed up and up into the forest, 

and even took the reins for this photo opportunity:

Back at the house, 90 minutes later, we thanked Jean for a wonderful trip (which we think was free?) and were pleased to see Balisto and Alto being watered. There had been a couple of times when the track was so steep, we had got out of the trap and walked to ease their burden. 

As much as we would love to stay longer, we will get back in the saddle tomorrow (the other sort), and cycle to Luxeiul which is a spa town. We plan to spend the weekend there, then it will be the last push. Monday night, in France but on the border.  Tuesday morning into Switzerland and the start of the big climb up the Jura mountains! By Friday night, we hope to be within shouting distance of Wengen.