A good traveler has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving.
Apremont sur Allier
Rollover this photo for a different view, and click it for yet another.
Apremont-sur-Allier had been recommended by Jean-Charles from the VHP forum as being a nice place to stop for a picnic and it was fantastic. It started well when I stopped outside an unreasonably pretty cottage on the outskirts and ended up, as I usually do, in conversation. Firstly with the lady of the house, who quickly rushed in to get her husband so he could see the drôle de velo too (funny bike).
With river views
The whole village was just gorgeous, I imagine it must be swamped with visitors at times. It's officially designated as 'prettiest village in France' though several are it turns out, equal prettiest.
This row of houses look out on the river Allier. They all have nice gardens, with beautiful and varied plantings, and relaxed and friendly people live there, at least that's true of the few I spoke to. One of the couples I spoke to, to ask their opinion of the brasserie that would open in an hour, recommended instead a place in the next village, a recommendation I'm very grateful for. So, thank you Mr & Mrs Marinier of Apremont.
Picnic spot
This could have been a picnic spot had I followed Jean-Charles advice and had I food enough to justify a picnic.
Their first avowed intent, to be a pilgrim
Whilst looking at the menu in the Brasserie, which didn't seem at all bad, I'd met this couple, trio if you count the Shetland pony. I'm used to being on the most unusual form of transport but this couple definitely beat me. There were walking to Santiago de Compostela with a pony!
Anyway, enough of idle wandering and taking photos, on to the next village and the restaurant recommended to me, I'm starting to feel hungry even though it's only 11.15am.