I got up early today even though I slept fitfully and my sheets needed to be wrung out when I awoke. Perhaps that is why I did get up so quickly. Not much fun to marinate in your own sweat! Middle age is awesome.

I took Sophie on a different walking route that kept us on the streets around St. Denis in an effort to keep her from getting muddy. Yesterday’s walk had required a bath and I wasn’t eager to repeat the process. We walked around different neighborhoods and I appreciated the varied gardens and ornamental plants. Some gardens here are covered in crushed rock with the odd palm or rose bush dotted around. Some gardens have lush lawns and others are typical French gardens with veggies and flowers all neatly combined.

When we returned I did a quick Peloton ride with my girl Jenn Sherman and then showered and put on a dress! I decided I would adventure to the spa town of Bagnoles de L’Orne and I imagined myself sitting in a decent restaurant eating a big lunch so I dressed the part. I also brought my sneakers and exercise clothes in case I was inspired to do a more rigorous hike.

When I arrived in this beautiful town, I walked past several cafes and restaurants. I found a nice French restaurant with outdoor dining and a set menu which I decided to splurge on. Just as I was walking in, the hostess told me that they were all done accepting patrons for lunch. Bummer. I had my eyes on some oysters!

I walked back past several patisseries and bars to find a little place advertising burgers, paninis and salads. I have craved a cheeseburger in these last few weeks so I opted in for a more casual lunch. I was able to get a cheeseburger Classique (cheddar, lettuce and tomato) with frites and a glass of wine for 10 euros. It was super yummy.

I decided to explore the town on foot and walked past several hotels with thermals spas, and a beautiful lake. The architecture is unique here. The houses are mostly stone but they have brick trim and accents of tile. It is a beautiful place. While on my walk, I popped into the Casino to use the bathroom and saw that there was a cinema, restaurant and bar there. I’m not really into gambling but it looked like a busy place even on a Tuesday afternoon.

Before I left, I walked up the hill to this beautiful church. It afforded great views of the town and lake below. I will return here to do some longer hikes. I saw evidence of trails on steep ledges next to the town and there is a forest path I found that begs exploring.