traveller issue 4
We have to say that all through the process of arranging and actually having the rally, the site team were so helpful and approachable, nothing was ever too much trouble. With everyone in and accounted for we prepared for our welcome drinks and nibbles, which then had to be postponed due to rain.
An 'orientation' walk was organised; Vezac is small with no amenities, but it's only about 15 minutes stroll from Beynac, which does have, several very nice restaurants and a chateau. Fast forward to the evening and we had our 'Welcome' drinks and nibbles. There was only one first time rallying couple, but there were others who 'didn't rally often', but they the end of the aperitifs everyone was getting on like the proverbial – seasoned ralliers chatting to everyone, new ones relaxing, everyone enjoying the wine.
During the course of the rally, we offered guided walks to Marqueyssac, a chateau which offers some spectacular gardens along the ridge of the hills above the Dordogne and, on another day, along the Dordogne to Castelnaud - a spectacular chateau sitting above the valley. The valley is known for its 'cinq chateaux' which are all visible from Marqueyssac.
A canoe trip was organised along the Dordogne. Twenty went along and enjoyed a picnic on the banks of the river in the process, although a couple of our canoeists did have a close encounter with one of the bridges. There are also lots of cycle tracks in the area, which quite a few took advantage of during the 10 days we were there.
So, all in all a worthwhile exercise; Time was spend checking invoices and calculating exchange rates, which we've not had to do before, but in the end it all went well and it seems a 'lovely time' was had by everyone.
