The Basilica of Sacre’- Coeur de Montmatre

Today is my last day in Paris. It’s Saturday and I head out early to walk to The Basilica in Montmatre. Parisians are heading out for a jog or yoga or food shopping. Montmatre is a gorgeous collection of cobbled streets, stone appartments with lovely little balconies, shops cafes hairdressers and optometrists so many optometrists.

The fruit and veg stores are works of art each showing the most fantastic looking produce. White asparagus are everywhere at the moment. There are secondhand dealers as well set up in what must be the weekend market. I have a wee look but would need a shipping container to bring home the fab French furniture and objects.

I stop for breakfast in a cool cafe its croissants are big and have fillings and fruit. I have one with fresh raspberries and pistachio cream. Delicious.

The roads start to get steeper and suddenly I am here I stand below a heap of stairs but can see the Basilica now. At the top the view is awesome back towards Paris. The crowds aren’t to bad I am not sure if I am going to go into the church so wander around. By the time I get back to the entrance there are a couple of hundred people in the line. That’s decided I get the funicular down the hill and head back into town. For John Wick fans this is where Keanu Reeves had a fight all the way to the bottom of a long flight of stairs.

Musee de l’Orangrie

By the time I arrive it’s hot and uncomfortable outside. My feet hurt I am devastated by what’s happened in Bondi Junction which I have just read about on my phone while having lunch.

There is no queue and I go straight in. This museum houses a special collection of Monet’s work I have been looking forward to seeing it.

The works are held in two oval rooms. They form the infinity symbol. Monet himself requested natural light and for the works to be viewed in silence. They are spectacular and worth the effort. The building is cool and calming and welcome reprieve from the heat and crowds outside.

I end the day with a ride on the Hop on Hop Off bus a final circuit of Paris to bid my farewell.

Distance Walked 18km

Pilgrim Spotted- None

Paris, some thoughts

It’s been an amazing week. I have loved visiting Paris.

The crowds and security have made it a challenge at times but all these can be overcome. It’s been a wonderful wonderful time.

Watching the French way of life. Their passion for beauty, art food and traditions are everywhere.

Merci Beaucoup Paris.

But it’s time for my next adventure!

Tomorrow, I head to the start of the Camino, St-Jean-Pied-Port near at the base of the Pyrenees.

I want to share some of the amazing food I have enjoyed this week and will do this in coming days. Thank you for kind comments it’s been fun blogging my experience and lovely to get such nice comments.

Xx