The Burgundy canal really is beautiful, very rural and unspoilt.
We are hardly seeing anyone – just the eclusiers, VNF workers, fishermen, walkers, cyclists & an occasional boat going upstream.
And mostly it is very quiet – lots & lots of birdsong and the sounds of livestock in the fields. I’ve heard the drumming of woodpeckers, the cries of raptors up above, the shrill call of kingfishers as they dart across the water and the songs of blackbirds, magpies and many more. Saw several Jays yesterday.
Spring is in full swing with lilac and wisteria in bloom everywhere. And the wild flowers are just lovely, I’ve been trying to recognise some with my trusty ‘I spy wild flowers’ book……..
Cowslip, Bugle, Greater Stitchwort, Petty Spurge, Forget me Not, Buttercups, Daisies, Dandelions, Clover, Tufted and Common Vetch, Common Bird’s-foot=trefoil, Thyme-leaved Sandwort, Black Medick, Ground Ivy and White Dead Nettle – to name but a few!.
We have been working with Wilfred (my latest role is eclusier’s assistant!), who is a stickler for his full lunch break.
He is happy to leave us in an open lock while he goes off for his dejeuner! So today ‘lock 39’ was our own private restaurant!
As you can see from this rear view (no comments about size of arse please!) we do not have much leeway in locks at all – about 25cms each side. Can be interesting!!!
Piedaleau 