Behens to Eu
As is so often the case on our journeys, the wind was opposing, and on our outwards leg we struggled to maintain a decent speed. An interim stop was proving essential, and the old historic mill at Visse presented a good choice for just that.

An old mill, by a stream, where we could sit and.... well, maybe not. The waters weren't murmuring soft and low, and if there was going to be a heart's desire, then her name wouldn't be that of an over-large, circus-performing animal who quit her job and celebrated the fact with extremely loud nasal exhalations! Not on your Nelly!!

Nevertheless, as the photos hopefully confirm, it was (still is) an interesting place exuding character, charm and tranquility, and the ideal placed to rest those legs awhile  before tackling the hill in our immediate path.

On to our first destination of the day!    
The old mill at Visse (ignore those shorts!)
Why the interest in Eu (prononuced 'uh')?. Well, first and foremost, it is quite an historic town. Secondly, it provides that rare opportunity for the aural joke, so emphatically represented in the 1970's by the one involving Nicki Lauder's name. In Eu's case it would probably go something like...: ' And where have you been today, Jacques?' 'Eu.' 'I said, where have you been today, Jacques?' ' Eu!' ' For God's sake man, listen - where have you been today?' 'Eu!!' 'Oh, Forget it!' 
Too late to apologise now, so I'll move on (or should that be back?) to the historic part.

The chateau, shown left, featured  prominantly during Queen Victoria's reign when there were major attempts to attain 'entente cordiale' between France and Great Britain. The then French king (yes, a king, even after the French revolution - for a while, anyway), Louis Philippe entertained Victoria at the chateau in the 19th century - twice!
The Chateau at Eu
The church of Notre Dame at Eu (shown below) was actually built in memory of the archbishop of Dublin who died in Eu in 1180. His body lies in the crypt.

Overall a town that is as much interesting for its unexpected ties with the British Isles and Eire as it is for its French history. If you want to learn more about Eu, then click here. See if you can find the picture of 'the most beautiful woman'  - it's all down to personal taste I am sure!
Notre Dame Church
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