Day 8 St Chely d`Aubrac-Espalion 28th August

Stage 7

23.7 Klms, 270 m

Rain again today, but we trek through ancient forests and through medieval `hameaux`(hamlets). I walk alone in the forests with the rain filtering down through the trees and mists in the valleys.

After four days of rain, my wet weather clothes give up and i am soaked, but amazingly my cheap `air cooled` boots are holding up due to a weatherproofing spray Hartmut put on them.

During a break for lunch, I see Hartmut and Ermghart pass by and hail them. They both look great and are feeling better as the trip goes on. I give them both a massage before saying goodbye. We never know if we will meet again on the trek.

Espalion is a bit like Le Puy en Velay- a tranquil river and ancient stoned roads, buildings and of course churches. However, the restauranteurs are again a bit rude and inhospitable.

My smile meter however remains at 7/10