On this trek we have a schedule, it's essential that we are in Sanremo in Italy on 23rd March 2018, that gives us five days to travel from Calais, across France, into Italy and to the north coast. Google maps tells us that is about 1260 km with a projected driving time of around 19 hours. Experience tells us that in a motorhome the Google time estimate is far too low, we allow at least 25% more, especially in France because we have the 'avoid tolls' options set.

We have our overnight stops planned with contingencies, in the event to being delayed or making better progress than expected we have aires identified. Our target is around 250 km each day, so day 2 should see us in Reims.

It was a cold start in Calais, around -3C, we ate breakfast, sorted out the Hymer and drove to the service point. First job was to fill up with fresh water, unsing a 2 euro token purchased from the machine. Following our usual way we also dumped grey water and emptied the toilet cassette. As a general rule we travel at least 3/4 full of fresh water, empty the grey water and cassette at every opportunity, unless there is a good reason not to. That may sound extravagant, but experience tells us it's the best way.

We set off in the direction of Reims, making good progress. Fuel was running low so we filled up at a service area where we paid a high price, hitting 100 euros for a fill, first time ever that we have spent that much on fuel, but it's unlikely to be the last time. Supermarkets are almost always the cheapest for fuel, but sometimes you don't have that option. We drove on, swapped drivers and kept going. The time remaining on the navigation system did not seem to decrease, we stopped for lunch on an Aldi car park as we passed, then called in and purchased a few essential supplies - wine and cheese. Then pressed on as quickly as the roads allowed. We eventually reached Reims at around 5pm, much later than we wanted. Next problem was to find the aire, and then discover how to get past the barrier. Fortunately there was a telephone number on a notice and when we called a helpful person lifted the barrier by remote control.

In view of the lateness of our arrival we decided to postpone eating and make a quick visit to the cathedral before the light faded. It was bitterly cold as we walked to the cathedral. Surprisingly there was no entrace charge. As a place of worship we don't think there should be a charge. This is one of the great sites of France where kings have come. The interior was dark as the light outside faded, but it did have a remarkably peaceful feeling inside. After our visit we walked back then ate, tidied up and went to bed absolutely exhausted.

Temperatures today hardly crept above freezing, but it felt good to be driving through the varied countryside of northern France. Small villages, farms, we see them all from our elevated position and really enjoy the variety.

Summary of motorhome trip

Today

Cummulative

Miles travelled shown at the start of each day.