Poivre Rouge (buffet bar centre)

Travels were lovely, if somewhat short. Cruise lasted exactly 5 days - 2 days out, 1 day stop, 2 days back. Leak in calorifier system means we lose coolant from engine a the rate of 3.5 litres a day.

Our stop was at Chauny, where we ate at the former Karaoke Bar which is now open every day. Ron howled when we left him so we took him with us and ate on the terrace at the rear of the restaurant.

We're planning a return trip to the Poivre Rouge just outside St Quentin (5 mins from the Port by car) which we discovered when we stayed at the hotel next door in between Gites. The food here is very good. It is a chain of restuarants set up by local 'traitures' (caterers). The 'all you can eat buffet' starter is very fine indeed. It's very modern but the food is classically good with modern presentation.

Getting a bit fed up now. We've been away for over 6 weeks and managed only 4 days cruising. The rest has been working on the repairs and painting. Hoping to be home in the UK early next week.