16,5 KM on foot – Saturday 19 June

After only 4 days on the road, our group of walkers has increased exponentially. A local group of randonneurs from Guînes had heard about our presence in town and to our excitement, they decided to join us along the 16,5 km to Licques.

On paper today’s stage promised to be easy and fast, without any considerable difficulties. Some minor climbs but nothing extreme, and the soft drizzle falling on our heads was definitely better than yesterday’s rain showers.

But of course, as happens so often, a certain surprise was waiting for us down the road. Even though it wasn’t a particularly wet day today, the past days’ thunderstorms had turned some dirt roads into very muddy paths. For us walkers this wasn’t a huge problem, we just had to be careful not to slip. Our video maker Mattia however is travelling with an e-bike and found himself stuck in the mud at some point. Strong will and incredible patience pushed him further through the mud, and after 30 minutes of struggling we came out on the other side. With the wheels completely packed with mud, a nearby farm offered solace: a water hose came to the rescue, and after some thorough cleansing the bicycle was as good as new!

We continued our way towards Licques across the endless green fields, here and there observed by grazing cattle.

Upon arrival in Licques, we were amazed by the incredible hospitality offered to us by the locals: from lively host Colette to the visits organized by the Municipality to the amazing dinner in the evening. Thank you Licques, you have been perfect! 👌🏻

TODAY’S WALKERS

Myra Stals, Social Media Manager (EAVF)

Luca Bruschi, Director (EAVF)

Brigitte Soulary, President (FFR)

Didier Morel (FFVF)

Clair Waïss (FFR)

Massimo Tedeschi, President (EAVF)

Bouco’Rando (local club of walkers)