OLD FOLKS IN AN OLD TOWN

First, a brief introduction to Sarlat:

SARLAT-LA-CANEDA

This small village lies in the center of the Dordogne region of France (formerly called Perigord), just one province north of the Spanish border. During the hundred years war, which ended in 1453, the scenic Dordogne River separated the French and English forces, which accounts for all the scenic castles that dot its high cliffs. Now the area is famous for all its numerous prehistoric caves with paintings that date back around 18,000 to 10,000 years BCE. It's also justifiably famous for its food, especially truffles, duck, and walnuts.

Today's itinerary, except for a mandatory trip to the Le Clerc supermarket for toilet paper, cereal, bread, and roses (yellow), was open, so Bob tackled the mystery of the French washing machine. The house came with detailed instructions for using it, but even so, such machines require the patience of a saint (Sebastion?), the attitude of an engineer, and most desirably, the experience of a Margaret. Bob had the first two, but lacked the third. He did successfully complete one load, which is still drying, and has started another.

After a light lunch at home, we wandered into Sarlat, and

Typical square in old town Sarlat

did our tourist-neck-craning tour of this beautifully preserved old village. Bob took some photos, and we stopped for awhile at cafe, sitting in the sun, watching other tourists stroll by. By late afternoon, we were back for down time, but stopped for a few minutes to watch some locals across our street play Pentanque. Some of the balls used in the game apparently come with the house, so tomorrow, maybe Bob and Karin can issue a challenge.

Beautiful old town of Sarlat

Neighbors playing Pentanque.