North Afriac

 We've arrived at the beautiful city of Salamanca and have booked into a nice basic hotel situated right in the centre . Although the room was small the bed was comfortable Heading out our first sight was the amazing Plaza Mayor which apart from being one of the largest and beautiful I have seen it honoured many historical figures with their faces being immortalised in a plaque surrounding the square. An interesting fact is that the only foreigner to be given this honour is the Duke of Wellington for his role in defeating the French and liberating Spain in their war for independence as it is referred to here.  Although the weather was chilli , with a warm coat , we explored the rest of the city and could not help but be in awe of the beautiful architecture and history of the City. I have never seen so many churches/Cathedrals situated  so close together within the city. After a few afternoon drinks we treated ourselves to a nice dinner in keeping with the city. Tomorrow o...

 After a lovely stay in San Sebastián we have moved on to Pamplona.  It was in fact only a hours drive away so a very relaxed day. We are staying in small hostel in the heart of the old town (I always try and stay in the old town) and have to report that it is like towns before a very attractive historic centre, unlike the outskirts. Now obviously Pamplona is know for running with the bulls, but to our relief not whilst we visit. We did however walk the course and were amazed at how narrow the streets are and have to admit I don't think either Martin or I would have much chance of surviving.  We also visited the Cathedral which was breath taking and to my surprise is the resting place of Anna De Cleves, Henry VIII's fourth wife. Martin has also booked dinner at Katuzarra, a renowned steak restaurant where all the food is cooked on smoky charcoal. Can't wait.

Last night and today have been absolutely lovely here in San Sebastián, where we have been able to walk around the old town and enjoy the beautiful historic buildings and the wonderful coastline. We have experienced an amazing array of Pintxos on our tour last night and cannot believe what great value the food and wine is.  So our last night here will be a repeat and then ready for the off tomorrow.  Pamplona.

I thought I would start this blog on arrival in Spain. So after 3 days of incident free travelling through France, staying at Tours, La Rochelle and Bordeaux we  have arrived in San Sebastián. As always each place had its pluses and minuses.  Tours a very unattractive place but off the motorway and a nice steak restaurant.  So NO pictures. La Rochelle was beautiful with a simple but clean and comfortable hotel on the harbour front. Drinks on waterfront and Irish pub for the rugby. :-( Bordeaux a big city but a lovely historic centre. A view of Martin's family vineyard (quite distant I understand) and a  comfortable city hotel, with nice food and great wine. San Sebastián is lovely and we have a great little, not charming, hotel close to the sea front and walking distance to the old town and its many tapas bars. Its been raining since we arrived but sun and 23 degrees tomorrow. 😎😎