First visit in 4 years

We recieved a wonderful welcome in Nevers, when we visited in June. Our trip included a visit to an arboretum including a 4 course meal in the Orangry. We also attended the Napoleon 3rd Fete in Vichy, when the whole town appeared to have been transported back to the 18th century.

We arrived at the station in Nevers at 6.30pm on the 15th June, after a smooth journey. We were collected by our hosts at the station, and spent the evening recovering with our hosts.

On Friday we visited L’ Arboretum de Balaine. These gardens were originally created by an English family living in the house in the 19th century. After a leisurely lunch we enjoyed a wander around the grounds admiring the many trees and plants from all over the world.

On Saturday we drove to Vichy where in addition to attending the Napoleon 3rd Fete, we had choice of a guided tour in french or english.

After lunch we had a look around the Fete, many of the stalls were based on paintings by the Frnech impressionist paintings. In addition to stalls in the park demonstrating traditional crafts, there were demonstrations of dancing. If you wanted to have a go at 18th century dancing, then that was possible too.

On Sunday we spent the day with our hosts. Some people visited the local markets and sights around Nevers. In the evening we had an excellent meal at a local restaurant.