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GUEST BOOKS Many thanks to our host Angela. We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay here in St Palais in your lovely peaceful abode. Visited Blaye, St Emilion, Royan, St Palais sur mer & le chateau de Mirambeau (expensive coffee – 14 euros for 2!) also loved the dinner at Le Petit Moulin nearby. The week has gone all too quick, but as your know, that’s a good sign – not all thanks to the fabulous wine! But the the weather, vineyards, sunflower fields and general ambience. There are too many people missing out on your lovely retreat and pleasant hospitality – get yourself advertised in Holland! Thanks again and lovely to meet you and your family. Carpe Diem. C’est tres jolie! Ps Great pool ! Samantha & Klaas-Jan, Holland, les hortensias, 31st July 2010
We had a wonderful week full of good food and wine, and some lazy days by the pool. Plenty of relaxation and interesting visits to Bourg, Blaye, Talmont sur Gironde and Bordeaux. The sand dune of Arcachon is to be climbed once, on a cool afternoon, and never again! We especially recommend J Bregier, master chocolatier in Blaye! Thanks to Angela for the hospitality and help with translation and being so warm and welcoming. Hugo is a sweetie. Mind the wild pigs! Patricia & Dan, Southampton, les lavandes, 25th July 2010
Charming spot. Swam every day. The chateaux La Roche Courbon well worth a visit also the amphitheatre at Saintes. Had a pleasant day in Blaye with lunch in the citadel. Hazel & Paul, Weymouth, les iris, 24th July 2010
Dear Angela Thank you for your warm welcome to this peaceful haven. The stress of London life has been left far behind after a week of complete relaxation – reading, swimming and sleeping by the lovely swimming pool. We haven’t ventured far – everything we wanted is here! Hugo came to “supervise” the BBq in the evenings – lovely company! With best wishes for the future. Susie & Clive, London, les lavandes, 10th July 2010
Thoroughly enjoyed the peace and quiet, the birds in the morning, lying by the pool and most of all your attention, Angela, to our comfort and enjoyment. Loved the welcoming lilies and roses! Weather has been wonderful and how great to be able to eat and drink in the shade. We will have happy memories of our stay here. Paddy & John, northern Ireland, les lavandes 26th June 2010
Thank you very much for such a lovely stay. We have had a wonderful week with great weather, great trips out and lots of BBQs. We recommend hiring bikes and cycling from Arcachon to dune de Pyla! We hope the weather stays this good for your throughout the summer. Ash & Russ, London, les hortensias, 26th June 2010
Thank you Angela for your most welcome hospitality and the extra special almond croissants. A great centre for exploring this part of France. We should like to recommend the following places;- The citadel at Blaye – went twice!! Arcachon and the dune – a long journey but well worth the visit & try to combine this with a visit to St Emilion on the way back (a round trip of approx 190 miles) Much closer to “home” Vitrezay – a wildlife sanctuary with good level walks and choice of boat trips & visitors centre. Walks and bike rides around local lanes – beware of hills but great to see variety of vineyards. Although weather was not as good as expected – some rain and lower temperatures – the week has been most enjoyable. Best wishes for the future Lynda & Ian, Bristol, les lavandes 12th June 2010
As usual we are always the last!! (last page in the guest book) There is absolutely “nothing” left for us to say – we cab only say that Hugo is an incredible star, not to mention Angela. Good luck with all your ventures. Candida & Anton, Surrey, les lavandes, 7th October 2009
Our only complaint is the fact that our stay was so short! This is our second visit and our admiration for Angela and for the whole area is not diminished in the least. The weather was beautiful; the food and markets wonderful and the accommodation both comfortable and spotless. Thank you Angela – we shall return! Patti & Terry, London, les hortensias, 2nd October 2009
Not quite warm enough for the pool – though we gave it a go ! Very tranquil setting compared to home. Only the cockrel for background noise. Enjoyed day trips to Jonzac, Cognac, Blaye, Paulliac, Margaux and St Emilion – spot the trend! Sad to be leaving but had a great time. Thanks to Angela and her library for making day trips easy to plan. And apologies to Hugo – we never did get the BBQ going so no nice tit-bits! Mary & Nigel, London, les lavandes, 19th September 2009
Here we are again! Another recuperative two weeks and great weather almost all the time. Done nothing, been nowhere - perfect
Julie & Martin, les lavandes, 1st August 2009
Many thanks Angela Pam & Rob, les hortensias, 4th October 2008 We've had a lovely time here. The sun was shining all week! Wine tasting at Les Tourtes was fantastic - very friendly, we had our own personal tour! The beach at Royan was endless and most of all the pool side sunbathing was very quiet and relaxing thank you! Alysan & Dan, les iris, 27th September 2008 What can we say that has not been said before. We too have had a relaxing, enjoyable stay and, as others before us, have made a fuss of the dogs! We wish you all happiness for your future plans, we will seek you out in Boscastle "if not to rescue you"! Au revoir, a bientôt Janis & Patrick, les lavandes, 27th September 2008 We had a mixed bag of weather. Sometimes sunny and sometimes stormy. I like to fish but must admit the lake was the winner this time. I managed one tench but lost several larger fish (you always get the fisherman's story of the one that got away!) One thing that could be relied upon is Hugo turning up to give instant company. We enjoyed the beach and shopping at Royan and the market in Blaye. Locally Jonzac is worth a visit especially the creperie in the square. Angela has made us feel most welcome and her local knowledge is very useful. Had a swim most days although the water was about 19° (Angela did warn me). We brits are a hardy lot! A very relaxing stay and we hope to come back to the area again. Sadly it looks like Angela will be in Cornwall! Liz & Phillip, les lavandes, September 19th 2008 Thankfully the weather has been very kind to us and we have enjoyed blue skies and warm sun - a great improvement on Lancashire. Have enjoyed our days in the Gironde - lots of relaxation and reading our books, eating outside and enjoying delicious french food and wine. Our trips around the vineyards have been very interesting and probably the picture we took of Chateau Lafitte is the nearest we will get to the famous wine. We can recommend Le Petit Moulin as an excellent restaurant with a very generous host. A very relaxing and enjoyable few days Sheila & Eric, les iris, 17th September 2008 Excellent, restful stay. Weather Wine Welcome all superb Sue & Peter, les hortensias, 30th August 2008 What a pity about the weather! Sun the day we arrived and on the day before we left - rest was rain! Never mind we managed to get to Cognac and Jonzac and Blaye - loved the citadel, over to Paulliac but aborted trip to St Emilion - torrential rain. We were the only people on the beach at Royan - but not for long - it was too cold! Still it has been worse at home! Rest was very relaxing and managed to get through 2 books! Janette & Brian, les iris, 16th August 2008 Thank you for your hospitality - it has been a very peaceful child-free week! The market in Blaye (Weds) was well worth the visit - the fish queue was amazing (and the fish!!) The coast road from Blaye-Bourg is pretty and the restaurant St Pierre. . . . .(something) did a lovely pave de boeuf avec frites (overlooks the Gironde with houses built into the cliff face). Venture inland about 1hr drive to Aubeterre sur Drome where there is a V1 century church (eglise monolith) carved into the rock face. Beautiful village too (gets very busy at peak times but there are lots of different little places to lunch in). St Aulaye (just outside Aubeterre) is very pretty too. You can take the ferry from Blaye-Lamarque and drive up to the Pointe de Grave, ferry to Royan and drive back town. Coastal roads more interesting. The chateaux (Medoc) are beautiful and there are loads to choose from. Paulliac on coast (D2) has good places for lunch. Hugo loves walks but if Amy wakes up to find you didn't take her. . . . .she gets very excited (and disappointed too). Dave never caught anything in the lake (but then he never does at home either) We did see some very big splashes though. We only had a week, did lots and still found time to lounge by the pool. *you don't eat the heads of the little white shrimps which are very tasty, eat the bodies with the shell on!* Bonnes vacances! Louise & David, les glycines, 16th August 2008 Thank you Angela for a very relaxing stay! We really enjoyed lazing by the pool (Gayle!) and fishing (Mark!) - although without a catch, unfortunately. I even improved a little at ping pong! We had a lovely time in Royan - stunning modern "Notre Dame", nice sandy beach. We also enjoyed looking around Blaye and Bourg. Thank you for your hospitality, all the best for the rest of the season and enjoy your next visit to Cornwall! Gayle & Mark, les lavandes, 16th August 2008 Another lovely, relaxing week - once again we were made very welcome. Thank you! Imogen & Steve, les hortensias, 16th August 2008 A lovely spot. Nice & peaceful but within reach of good places to visit. Thanks Sue & Brian, les hortensias, 9th August 2008 Despite mixed weather (in August! in France!!) it was an interesting area to explore (possibly house hunting?). We liked Jonzac and also Jarnac further afield near Cognac - in fact the whole area seemed lovely with so many sunflowers and vines in abundance. No wonder we couldn't try every wine in every chateaux- but would recommend la Rose Bellevue and also l'Auberge du Petit Moulin for meals - but better to book! Bonnes vacances Jane & Alan, les iris 9th August 2008
At last we managed it - visited nowhere, just relaxed by the pool and read. It's taken 4 years to achieve but it's been the best holiday at Lou Paradou yet. A bientôt Hilary & Andrew, les iris, 26th July 2008 Great week, the weather maxed out at 40° with the pool at 26° Good base for sightseeing or just doing nothing as you please. Places we visited Talmont sur Gironde - 12th century church and a great little village selling pottery and other artesan, good. Bordeaux - nice compact city, 2 great churches, do the park and ride, best way into town. Cognac - All of France is closed between 12-14pm, nice little town Blaye, Medoc, Royan - Drive to Blaye, take the ferry 20 euros, drive up the Medoc, take the ferry to Royan, drive back to St Palais Saintes - nice river, take a trip, it has more churches and an old part of town, even saw a live beaver in the river Wine - what can you say so much of it my liver hurt Eating out - Only at the Grey Horse up the road in Mirambeau, 25 euros set menu but too much to eat Gite - nice quiet place, Angela was a real good guide Back home - long drive to St Malo on the long leg home Food - buy the moules in St Ciers market on Sunday morning, cook them in white wine, garlic, shallots and stir in cream at the end. So fresh they jump on your plate Fiona & Kevin, les hortensias, 26th July 2008 Weather mixed at beginning of the week but then very sunny and hot. Lovely tranquil spot, gite very comfortable and perfect for 2. Highly recommend Chateau des Tourtes at St Caprais de Blaye - very informative and interesting wine tasting. Recommend visiting Pons, Cognac & Jonzac. Have seen otters and many birds of prey in local area around water ways. Thank you Angela for your hospitality and a lovely week! Maggie & Kevin, les lavandes, 12th July 2008 A lovely relaxing week. Didn't think that we would enjoy the peace and quiet so much. Mind you, the ten foot walk to the pool was exhausting!! Thank you Angela for being so friendly and Hugo and Amy are so well-behaved that we had no choice but to spoil them. Would like to recommend the Chateau des Tourtes in St Caprais de Blaye for wine tasting - we were made most welcome and given a tour of the whole complex. Once again a wonderful week, wish it was 2 or 3 or 4. Oh well back to work. Jackie & Keith, les hortensias, 5th July 2008 What a lovely area we chose to visit. The weather has been fantastic, France is so considerate in choosing only to rain at night! We made the most of the fabulous location visiting, first of all; Royan (great beaches); Rochefort, La Rochelle (pretty port); Bordeaux; Blaye (great market); Cognac (great tour of Henessey including a boat ride); Angouleme; a drive through Saintes and St Emilion (most beautiful and picturesque with great wine and wonderfully helpful locals). Definitaly appreciated the lack of children, nice and quiet, a real escapist holiday! It has been great to relax by the pool in the fabulous weather and having tasty dinners on the terrace after our long days of exploring. It goes without saying we had lots of gorgeous cheese and wine (and a fully stocked car to drive back for our 4 nights in Paris and then back home!) An idyllic week, we hope your week(s) are as good as ours. Bon Vacance Kathryn & Mike, les iris, 28th June 2008 We stayed for 2 weeks, it would have been better had it been for 4. A little haven of peace and quiet and wine (good wine) at 3 euros a bottle; A real steal! We wish you well in the future "Bon Chance" Thanks for all the help with translations Kim & Harold, les hortensias, 14th June 2008 We had a lovely week despite some inclement weather. We visited Cognac and a distillery. On a wet day we went to Bordeaux. On a lovely sunny day we went to the market at Blaye and had a swim in the pool to cool off. We also had a trip to the coast at Royan on another lovely day. Once again we have enjoyed our trip to France. Thanks for your hospitality Angela Veronica & Peter, les iris, 31st May 2008 Very relaxing - just what we needed after a stressful few months having moved house and subsequent renovations works! Weather excellent - just a couple of damp mornings - temps up to 30° after luch around the pool. Caught a couple of tench on sweetcorn in the lake - also caught the terrapin - first time this year it seems! Days out at Blaye and Royan also Jonzac and Cognac. Read a few books, always made to feel welcome by Angela, her son and of course Hugo and Amy. Hope to return soon. Jacqui & Pete, les lavandes, October 13th 2007 We have enjoyed our stay at les hortensias. The weather has been good apart from a couple of mornings when it rained, turning into a beautiful afternoon and evening. There are many interesting places to visit - Saintes, La Rochelle, Cognac and Royan. Blaye is very nice too and has a wonderful market on Saturday mornings. Many thanks to Angela for being so welcoming. Very best wishes Santa & Dave, les hortensias, 5th October 2007
We managed to do most of the things mentioned by earlier visitors in this book. We ate and drank well - we covered the region for about 150kms around - and we tried to absorb a little French culture - and we have enjoyed ourselves immensely. We now go back home for our own summer. Thank you Angela! Yvonne & Dick (Sydney, Australiq), les iris, 29th September 2007 Lovely weather, beautiful scenery - it is so peaceful here, and with a comfortable gite, it really has been a relaxing holiday. Thanks to Angela's helpfullness, and her two able assistants (Amy & Hugo) we have thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. Good luck Angela! Maureen & Frank, les hortensias, September 24 2007 No-one in this book has, as far as I can see, mentioned the entire set-up: the whole idea of having only 4 gîtes is wonderful and greatly contributes to the friendly atmosphere. We have socialised and made friends with our neighbours - but had we wanted to be isolated, that too would have been acceptable. Add to that the wonderful bonus of having your excellent cordon bleu dinners, Angela 10 evenings out of 14 and I can't think of any other set-up so conductive to a truly blissful holiday. Sally Who'd 'ave thought it 14 days of:- Sensational Sun, Fantastic Food (from Angela 10 delicious dinners); Brilliant Baguettes; Consummate Croissants; Perfect Peace; Abundant Alcohol; and last but not least Lots of Laughs primarily with Anne and Terry in the adjacent gite. We did very little away from the "Lou Paradou" but did visit St Emilion, the Marais, La Rochelle and the Market at Blaye. At La Rochelle we shopped for spirits at the largest supermarket we have ever seen - the Carrefour in the Centre commerciale de Beaulieu. Very reasonable prices for whisky etc. Ken Sally & Ken, les glycines, 15th September 2007 Fantastic weather made for a really relaxing week. Add to this lovely beaches (the sea is warmer than the pool!!) and good rugby!! Enjoyed some good B-B-Q's but watch out for the mosies - "death on wings" What a shame we have to go home. Best wishes Joan & Jeff, les hortensias, 15th September 2007 A wonderful relaxing week, even the weather was fantastic! Terry caught a few large carp in the lake! Made some good friends in Sally and Ken next door and enjoyed several glasses of wine on warm evenings. Also spent the day with them in St Emilion which is well worth a visit we thoroughly enjoyed it. The beaches surrounding Royan are excellent. Thank you to Angela for providing her delicious meals and for making us so welcome. Hoping to come again soon. Anne & Terry, les iris, 8th September 2007 Very relaxing, fantastic weather all week, and a beautiful place. Hopefully we'll return. If prepared to go further afield, a "two ferries" trip through Medoc is well worth it. The Atlantic is even warmer than Angela's fantastic pool. Great coffee and patisserie on the square (2nd right) at Mirambeau. Good food and friendly service at le Petit Moulin, St Caprais. But you could easily spend a week going nowhere. Thanks Angela Cathy & Douglas, les lavandes, 7th September 2007 Diolch yn faur* - merci A lovely, calm stay. Such a beautiful area to explore and enjoy. I love the library! With our son in Bordeaux, we're sure to return. Thank you for a lovely time Angela and great choice of dogs! Pib bendith* / Every blessing Andi & Louise, les iris, 30th August 2007 *I apologise if the Welsh is badly copied, thank you for being such lovely guests, a pleasure to receive - Angela Just what the doctor ordered - peace and tranquillity. We will be back. Ideal place to see a lot of the french countryside. Joyce & George, les lavandes, 1st September 2007 Such peace and tranquility and everywhere you look - vineyards with little villages nestling, waiting to be explored. We've so enjoyed being here and weren't even tempted to watch the news or open a newspaper. Thank you Angela, you have created a perfect hideaway and made us feel very welcome. Best regards Joanna & Jack, les hortensias, 25th August 2007 A really relaxing break; just what we needed. Such a pity we forgot to book the weather! At least we knew it was raining back home - some consolation! We have enjoyed revisiting familiar places and some new. Thank you to Jack for telling us about the beautifully painted church in St Ciers. We are sad to be leaving our "home from home" but are looking forward to a few days in the Correze with friends. No doubt it will manage to rain even more there. Thank you, Angela Lilian & Ian, les lavandes, 25th August 2007 Lovely relaxing holiday. Beautiful weather, fishing, reading and lots of wine - what more could you ask!! Visited some interesting places - St Emilion, Jonzac and Blaye. Best wishes and many thanks Julie & Andrew, les hortensias, 11th August 2007 Once again thank you Angela for a fantastic week. Weather has been superb as has the company. A really relaxing break!!! Thanks and see you soon Jane & Martin, les lavandes, 11th August 2007 Once again we are going home relaxed and refreshed after a week of self indulgence - no-one to think about apart from ourselves! We have enjoyed good weather, after a rather unsettled start, the sun did shine and the temperature rose. We spent a lot of time sitting, or rather lounging, and reading but did manage to prise ourselves away from the sun loungers and pool to do some visiting. Cognac was a must! Thank you Angela for making this a comfortable and very pleasant stay. We will return! With very best wishes. Love to Amy and Hugo Wendy & Ian, les hortensias, 4th August 2007 Thank you very much for your hospitality. We have greatly enjoyed our stay - and particularly the peace and quiet we have found here. We feel much relaxed and refreshed. Thank you. Stephen & Peter Harvey, les glycines, 4th August 2007 Our third visit, so perhaps that says everything! We enjoyed l'hotel France et Angleterre for a splendid lunch in Pauillac en Médoc and can recommend buying wine from La Martellerie just down the road towards St Aubin. Croissants and pains aux raisins from the boulangerie in St Aubin are THE BEST. Extensive research here! Their bread too. See you next year for another two weeks of total relaxation. Thanks again Angela Best wishes Hilary & Andrew, les iris, 28th July 2007 Dear Angela Thanks once again for providing such a peaceful and relaxing two weeks break for us. This is our second visit - we did very little last year and even less this! Médoc and the ferry crossings from Blaye and to Royan was a lovely day out and the market at Blaye was again an excellent source of roast chicken and tomate farcie!! Les glycines is excellent - beautifully cool and mossie free! We've already booked again for next year - that says it all. Love Brenda & Mike, les glycines, July 28th 2007 As we are English I will start with the weather - some good days, some bad, a little rain but always warm. Feel very relaxed and rested and definitely do NOT wish to go home tomorrow. Our best days out were to the Pyla Dune (well worth the drive), a walking tour of Jonzac, Talmont and a lovely beach side restaurant for lunch at St Georges de Didonne (next to Royan). Hugo and Amy have been delightful companions both at the gite and when taking us for walks. (Note: Amy does not like thunderstorms!!) Went on our very first visit to a chateau (Segonzac) courtesy of our neighbours in the next gite. Excellent! Many thanks to Angela for making us feel so welcome and to Simon for his hospitality. Joan & Pete, les iris, July 14th 2007 Dear Angela Thank you for a lovely stay! We had a week of mostly bad weather, but the great surroundings, good food and wine made up for it!! The dogs have kept us company every day - they are so cute!!! We want to adopt them, however, we think that they have a much better life here than they would in London. . .! Best wishes Elin, Kurt, Juliane & Jamie, les glycines, 7th July 2007 Weather has been cloudy some days but still warm. Have found some pretty enchanting places to visit. Had some pleasant evenings with the BBQ and a few beers and wine. Had a good evening's fishing and caught two nice tench and luckily the mossies were not biting too. Blaye market was very good and the citadel was very good too. Well worth a visit. Vitrezay harbour is also a nature reserve and well laid out. You will see lots of wildlife and also boat rides on the river. We have had a relaxing time. Thank you Angela. XXXX to Hugo and Amy Stella & Colin, les iris, June 30th 2007 Mixed weather (sad but true) did not keep us in or spoil our holiday. We had a lovely time! Visited some good places like St Emilion, la Rochelle, Jonzac etc Angela is a wonderful cook! Taking home nice memories. Jo & Rod, les hortensias, June 29th 2007 Weather could have been kinder, but lovely swimming pool. We came to cycle but hillier than we expected, still enjoyed the scenery and the gite was comfortable. If we come this way again we will return here. Liz & Mel, les lavandes, June 16th 2007 A very relaxing week, nice to get away from it all! Mostly good weather and the pool was ideal to cool off in. The carp eat sweetcorn?! Yeah, right, they had tons of the stuff, but not one fancied the piece on my hook! Very relaxing sitting watching the sun going down with a cool beer though! Thanks Angela for looking after us - Have a great summer, see you again. Jan & Nik, les iris, June 15th 2007 We have had a most enjoyable week here with hot and sunny weather for the last few days. The highlights of our week have been visits to St Emilion, the Medoc, Arcachon where we climbed the Grande Dune and purchasing lots of excellent wine. Some of the wine has to be kept for three years before we can drink it! The gite is comfortable and well equipped and the pool is great to "cool off" in. The restaurants were all of a fairly similar standard. 4Les Platanes' at Etauliers very good service but very restricted menu. Auberge du Chai, very attentive but we were the only customers! Auberge du Petit Moulin, very attractive setting. Le Cheval Gris at Mirambeau 'different' food but very enjoyable ie. less traditional, les Epicuriens, 27 rue Guadet, St Emilion, a very good value lunch in an expensive town. Our only regret is that we don't have a better grasp of the French language so it's back to evening school in September. Jo & Graham, les iris, June 9th 2007 We were here last year, same two weeks, we now feel really rested although would love to stay another week. Weather first week really hot, last week cloudy and stormy, but we have enjoyed getting used to doing things when we felt like it, not tied to time. This place is really ideal for rest and recuperation. Back to the real world, but we will be back next year for the same again. Will miss our morning visits from Hugo and sometimes Amy. Thank you Angela, we hope you will be here for some years to come. Jean & Rob, les iris, 1st June 2007 Location - Ambience - Bonhomie - together with the warm welcome by the very helpful Angela - make for a very pleasurable stay. Bob & Sheila, les hortensias, May 26th 2007. As our first experience of 'gites' living, we cannot believe that all could be as perfect as this! The warmth, the welcome, the attention to detail and the very many little finishing touches have made this an "absolutely fabulous" holiday. Angela (assisted by brother, Ian) have created an atmosphere for total relaxation. She even organised the weatherman to provide early good weather with the pool being inviting enough to entice even Terry to take one very quick dip. For winelovers, the Cotes de Blaye and Bourg provides wines that compare and on many occasions exceed those of the Medoc - if you don't know them, investigate them. All Chateaux we visited made us welcome and readily gave "degustation"! Don't miss La Rose Bellevue, turning one mile to the right, direction Blaye. We could go on forever, but there isn't room. Well done, Angela - we shall see you again. Thanks. XXX to Amy & Hugo. Patti & Terry, les iris, May 16th 2007 A fabulous week doing not very much! A lovely spot to relax and explore the local area. Blaye, St George de Didonne & Talmont were all lovely spots. Thank you - we shall be returning to work in a much relaxed state! Ceri & Martin, les lavandes, May 12th 2007 Everything that we hoped for and more. Angela and Ian along with their mother were more like friends and, as we have a dog ourselves, were compensated by her absence with the company of Hugo and Amy. Had the pleasure of having the first swim of the year in the pool but could have been encouraged by a small wager of a bottle of wine from Angela. A beautiful area, we hope to return sooner rather than later and once again enjoy our bike rides through the vineyards. Liz & John, Belfast, les lavandes, April 14th 2007 Although it has rained for much of the week we can tell this must be a tranquil and relaxing spot (& comfortable bed!) Our "wine" mission accomplished, we return to a hectic time of wedding preparations. Many thanks. Glynis & Stephen, les lavandes March 8th 2007 Had a restful, comfortable and tranquil stay. Fortunate with the weather. The stay was short but sweet. Hope the season goes well for you Az, Sarah (& not forgetting Mo), les lavandes 20th February 2007 ps Amy & Hugo were delightful We have had a fantastic week in "les lavandes". Weather has been great - not one drop of rain. Angela has created a wonderful relaxed atmosphere and is always willing to help with advice on days out etc. Royan, St Georges de Didonne, Blaye, Bourg are all worth a visit. Also, Jackie can recommend the shopping in Bordeaux. "Hugo" what a star! Jackie & Pete, Coventry, les lavandes December 16th 2006 Thanks Angela for all your help with dentists. Our 2 dogs enjoyed their holiday as well as us. Explored all over with lots of walks. Even sat on beach - up to 75°/25°c then down to 10°c coming back with wind chill. Beautiful part of France A bientot. Enjoy your break! Jackie & Alan + Becks & Murphy, Normandy, les lavandes November 4th 2006 18th - 24th October - weather changeable but warm(ish) A very relaxing week in a comfortable gite. We enjoyed exploring the surrounding countryside, where there is certainly a choice of different land-scapes, from hillside to seaside. The citadel at Blaye - very interesting; St Emilion - a must wheather wine lover or not; Mortagne, Talmont and that coast was interesting as was the trip along the tiny coast road from Bourg to Blaye. There were many other places as well but too many to mention. Oh, and just one dog-walk. Thank you Jean & Martin, La Creuse, France, les lavandes 24th October 2006 We were only here for four days but we have had a very relaxing stay. Perfect surroundings and most comfortable accomodation. Thank you Angela for your warm welcome and homely atmosphere. Had regular visits to say hello from Aimee and Hugo. We visited Blaye, Bourg and Saintes while we were here. Saintes is well worth a visit to see the amphitheater and cathedral. Both Bourg and Blaye are fascinating places to explore. We actually sat by the estuary at Bourg enjoying warm sunshine! Best wishes to you Angela for the future. Sheila & Mervyn, Rugby, les lavandes, October 7th 2006 Writing in guest books is sometimes difficult - on this occasion not at all. Thank you Angela for making us welcome and providing all we needed. We have travelled widely in France over a period of many years and never cease to be amazed by the varied treats in store. This is an area we have travelled through many times but never stayed. We have enjoyed it so much we could return but France is such a large country that there is still much to see - and regrettably time is getting shorter. For us, and we appreciate that everyone is different, the highlights were (in no particular order):- 1/ Talmont-s-Gironde - medieval and tranquille 2/ Vitrezay and surrounding marshes - particularly watching the marsh harriers hunting. 3/ Bourg - beautiful and tranquille. 4/ Cognac - we went to Hennessey having tried Martell and found the guided tours in English were full for the next couple of hours. Very enjoyable anyway but it could just be worth telephoning in advance. There is a possible alternative - see below. 5/ Domaine du Chaillaud, St André de Lidon - a very quiet 3ha garden with lots of interest for the keen gardener (depending on the season). They also run a free tour of the "cellars" where it seems that it provides all that a tour of the large Cognac houses would show. It is free and includes a taste of both Cognac and Pineau. Not a personal recommendation but could be worth a try. 6/ Chateau de Tortes at nearby St Caprais de Blaye. If you are a wine lover this is well worth a visit. A family business of long standing - and a really wonderful family to boot. Vineyards in Haut Medoc as well as Blaye. We were there for 2½ hours!!! 7/ Auberge du Petit Moulin also at St Caprais. Excellent food, typical French ambiance and a very friendly host. A must. What more can one say! Best wishes to you Angela and to all your future guests. Jenny & Gordon, Upleatham, N Yorks, les lavandes, September 30th 2006
Thanks very much for a lovely stay. Would endorse everything previous occupants have said about restaurants and would like to add Le Preymayac at Blaye, also café de la Rive at Mortagne. Guests who enjoy walking should take Hugo, he will show you the best walks! and keep calm when other dogs bark! Sue & Graham, Cowes, Isle of Wight, les iris, September 24th 2006 We spent 7 days on Canal du Midi, 4 of which had rain, so we were looking forward to a nice week. We weren't disappointed. I like to fish so this was great, and in 2 days a 14lb carp and a 3½ tench fell to sweetcorn!! We shopped at markets and cooked at nights for a couple of nights and ate out for others. As a chef the fresh ingredients were a delight!! Angela is a complete delight. Friendly, knowledgeable and a complete hostess. When a storm was due she "battened down" the hatches for us. We ate at le Cheval Gris in Mirambeau which is very good but they were busy and a comment about the host appears correct! The dogs are great! Try taking them for a walk on a route they don't want to go on!! All in all a great week and one that we will repeat. The "mozzies" can be a problem if you let them. When we sprayed with a repellent - no problem. When we didn't bother or didn't spray - problem. So the choice is yours! Angela, thank you for your advice and kindness - hope you enjoy your cookery book. ps. They were harvesting the grapes whilst we were here - we can't figure out how the machine harvests the grapes without taking the leaves?? (Angela would also like to know. . . . . . .any answers??)!! xxxx Sally & Peter, Meopham, les lavandes, September 22nd 2006 What a fabulous first week with the weather, the pool and most of all the friends we made. Second week weather not great, "lots of rain", but did not spoil our enjoyment. Wednesday 13-09-06 had an " all get together" BBQ with all our new friends. Must thank Angela for all the effort she made to make our stay one of the best holidays we have ever had. Thank you very much Angela, Amy and Hugo Mary & Peter, Newton-le-Willows, les hortensias, 17th September 2006 It would be difficult to imagine a spot more conducive to serious relaxation and simple indulgence. We came seeking swimming, wine and tranquility in an area of France previously unknown to us and have been richly rewarded in our quest, due in no small part to Angela's creative abilities: the delightful grounds, delicious meals, superb pool and the company of like-minded guests. With her friendly, serene and capable nature, she is the perfect hostess. Whilst we are pleased to leave behind the mosquitoes, we take home joyous memories, wine and photographs and a keen desire to be better acquainted with this gentle, verdant area. Rosemary & Keith, Bury St Edmunds, les lavandes, September 16th 2006 We spent a wonderful week resting, eating, drinking and exploring - not necessarily in that order! We loved the pool and managed a good amount of "lazing time" despite the changeable weather! (the thunderstorms were quite spectacular and conveniently in the middle of the night!) Thank you for the great hospitality. We really enjoyed the Wednesday evening group BBQ! Good wine, good food, good company. And Hugo and Amy were so sweet and so well-behaved! All the best, Angela. We wish you every success! Regards Susie & Keith, Sheffield, les glycines, September 16th 2006 What lovely people we have met on our short stay with you. The weather has been very kind to us except for the last day. Angela I think you do a great job looking after your gites. Your library is a great idea. If any one likes fish I can recommend Royan for a lovely evening out dining. Just sorry the stay was so short. Pat & Dave, Guernsey, les iris, 15th September 2006, Returning for our second year and just as wonderful as before, we will return. Jill & Malcolm, les iris, Nazeing, September 9th 2006 Fantastic weather for September - can't believe our luck! Lovely location and pool area. The dogs were sweet. Best wishes Bernard, Paula, Les & Gery, les glycines, Holmfirth, September 9th 2006 We have had a wonderful time at Lou Paradou which certainly lives up to its name. After a difficult year of bad health and uncertainty these 2 weeks have hit the spot. Angela's hospitality and attention to detail has provided the finishing touches which has made this holiday so very special. The library has been so useful and the luxury of fresh croissants and baguette delivered each morning on the window-sill was just magic! Also the Sunday night apéritifs were delicious and very jolly occasions. We have enjoyed ourselves despite mixed and sometimes unsettled weather, altho' no one will believe us as the photos mostly reveal blue sky! From lazing by the pool, swimming, cycling, visiting interesting places to relaxing on the verandah and helping reduce the french 'wine lake' - it's been fabulous! The night skies with their amazing star formations will not be forgotten. Neither will the first attempts at fishing, catching the local turtle (be warned it is very aggressive!), an eel and finally the much desired tench! We are returning home much relaxed and refreshed - merci beaucoup Angela Highly recommend Auberge du Petit Moulin - intimate and good food! Mary & Trevor, Felixstowe, les iris, 26th August 2006 We thoroughly enjoyed our week. Our cottage / surroundings were comfortable, well equipped / maintained, and we especially welcomed freshly baked breads delivered to our window-sill every morning courtesy of our gracious host Angela. We found Lou Paradou to be a perfect balance of privacy, companionship and support (in times of crisis . . . eg. Martin's lost cards on a trip out one day). . . . . we would be happy to return and recommend to others. Best wishes Valerie & Martin, Surrey, les hortensias, 26th August 2006 We don't know what Angela puts in the water but we've somehow managed to book again! There are still so many places to visit - if we can work up the energy and tear ourselves away. Yes - there are mosquitoes - they come with the lake and the nearby marshes. As all fishermen's (or fisherwomen's) partners know the Jungle Formula repellent is as essentiel as bait and hooks. Thought we'd "cracked" it this year by taking antihistamine for 2 weeks before coming. However, the Kent mosquitoes won by giving me the worst bite of the year before we left home. Thank you, once again, for your care and attention. Lilian & Ian, Ashford, les lavandes, 26th August 2006 Another wonderful 2 weeks - can't believe we have to go home ! Actually did something this year other than sit around the pool/ on the patio pretending this is where we live. If you're into wine the D2 is worth doing - ferry crossing from Blaye expensive, but does save time (we know we managed to miss it last year and drove round !) Chateau Beychevelle does a very good tour and we managed to get on without booking. They open at 13.30 in the afternoons (closed from 12) St Emilion is really pretty and the tourist info place does wine tastings etc Also made it into Bordeaux and had lunch à la Rick Stein in "La Tupina" expensive but fabulous. Well will have to come back again next year, assuming we haven't bought a house here by then. Thanks again for a wonderful 2 weeks where we've felt so much at home I'm going to have to drag George (the black lab) to the car. He and Hugo will really miss each other. Lots of love and see you all soon Elaine, Andrew & George, Greenwich, les glycines, 19th August 2006
Had a lovely week just wish we had had better weather. Lovely wine, food, people and animals. Margaret & Tony, les hortensias, August 19th 2006 As we said last year, two weeks of complete heaven with lots of good company and wines! Visited a few places, Talmont and Mortagne well worth a visit and Blaye market is an absolute must!! Angela has once again been a fantastic hostess and Hugo is as loveable as ever. Have had a superb holiday and once again can't wait to come back next year. Jane & Martin, Buckley, les iris, 12th August 2006 A la prochaine ! A lovely and very relaxing week! Angela has created a tranquil and idyllic means of getting away from the 'hustle and bustle' of many of our normal lives. A very warm welcome complete with Amy and Hugo who are always in need of feeding! Great idea having holiday accomodation for adults only - sadly "Bump" means we will probably have to slum it in future years with other families with kids . . . . . at least until we find a good babysitter! Jo, Jean-Paul & Bump, Mansfield, les hortensias, 12th August 2006 Enjoyed our stay immensly. Have booked to come back next year. Extremely peaceful surroundings, where relaxing is easy. Got on great with the other guests also. Blaye market and Bordeaux are both trips well worth doing. Can't wait till 2007 ! Catherine & Darren, Manchester, les lavandes, 12th August 2006 A haven of peace and tranquility - a perfect place to unwind and relax. Thank you Angela for your hospitality. We have enjoyed our stay so much and are already talking about our holiday next year! We did manage to tear ourselves from the gardens and pool to visit some of the area - Cognac was a must as was Jarnac with the Courvoisier distillery, and it was fascinating to see vineyard upon vineyard on our travels. It's a shame most of the sunflowers had finished. The week has gone so quickly but we are going home refreshed - thank you once again. We hope to see you again. With very best wishes Wendy & Ian, Braunton, les glycines, 5th August 2006 We came last year, then this year and we have booked for next year . . . . . . it must be the peace and quiet, the weather and just maybe, the no bloody kids! Jackie & Phil, Chorley, les hortensias, 5th August 2006
We have enjoyed our two week stay immensely. The extremely peaceful surroundings at Lou Paradou have encouraged us to totally 'unwind' to the extent that we have actually done very little besides relax! The pool has been a wonderfully refreshing and fun experience in temperatures that regularly topped 40° throughout our stay. Food, wine, friends, comfort and good reading made for an excellent holiday. Trips out to Blaye (3 times - the market is very good!), St Emilion and Mortagne sur Gironde and visits to local wine producers gave us a full flavour! of the area - Wonderful. Thanks Angela for your help, advice and friendship. We hope to return. Brenda & Mike, Leicester, les lavandes, July 29th 2006 Well - we've stayed twice as long this year and have done half as much visiting. The weather, and the company, have made for a superb holiday again. Many thanks Angela A bientôt Hilary & Andrew, Leicester, les hortensias, July 29th 2006
Thank you very much for a wonderful week. Just what we needed. Arriverderci Geraldine & Settimio, South Wales, les iris, July 29th 2006 What a lovely getaway spot. Beautiful area and a fabulous, cosy cottage - we have been made very welcome indeed. Thank you for treating us so well! Imogen, Steve, Erin & Tom, London, les glycines, 28th July 2006 Thanks again for a wonderful and relaxing holiday. Best wishes to you and your family. Hope to see you again in the near future. ps THE CARP ARE GETTING BIGGER! Sue & Peter, Manchester, les glycines, 22nd July 2006
We came to chill out for the week and we chilled out so much we almost froze - in temperatures in excess of 40°. Can you believe that? Everything that has been said before in this book is true. Angela has been a wonderful hostess, providing us with excellent take-away meals every night - not as you perhaps know them. She is an exceptionally good cook and provides you with a four course meal - make sure you try at least one while you're here. Thank you very much Elma & Bill, Leven, Fife, les iris, 22nd July 2006 We have enjoyed the hospitality and welcome by all at Lou Paradou. Recommended visits:- 1 St Emilion - Do the underground guided tour, 45mins, tickets from the info office. 2 Drive the "Corniche de Gironde" between Blaye and Bourg and take the walking tour of Bourg as shown by map from the Tourist Office. 3 Good fish restaurant at Mortagne by the old port. If you wish to purchase wine to take back to the UK I thoroughly recommend the "Chateau Lussan". We went with Simon (Angela's friend) for a tasting and learnt a great deal about appreciating their lovely wines. The pool has been lovely after a day out and with 40°c over the weekend the gites remained cool. Have a good stay Di & Tony, les glycines, Buckden, July 8th 2006 ps. Hugo and Amy are not gourmet dogs! They eat everything.
Thank you very much for a very relaxing week - a perfect "get away from it all" Highlights were trips to the Médoc and St Emilion along with lazy days at the pool and BBQ. Jane & Stephen, les iris, Leeds, July 8th 2006 Our stay here has been extremely relaxing. We have very much enjoyed lazing by the pool, walking the dogs, fishing (I caught 3 x 2½-3lb tench) and listening to the incessant rain on our last day. Lou Paradou is an ideal base for sightseeing: we were impressed with Blaye, St Georges-de-Didone (nr Royan), Rochefort and La Rochelle. Thank you to Angela for the lovely gathering for aperitifs - we thought it was a really good idea to enable everyone to get to know each other. You have also been extremely willing to advise us when we have asked questions. In terms of food, le Cheval Gris in Mirambeau is delightful - although we had to wait a little while to be served, we were kept entertained by the slightly anebriated owner! Highly recommended. The take-away pizza place is also good and has a very friendly owner. We shall be very sorry to leave but will arrive back in the UK a good deal more relaxed and rested. We hope to see you again! Thank you Melissa & Andy, les lavandes, Cambridge, July 7th 2006 ps. Have just returned from a lovely meal at the Petit Moulin in St Caprais (5 minutes away) and had a wonderful last evening. Very reasonable prices, gorgeous food and extremely genial host. "Paradis" Thank you Angela for letting us share your little haven. We arrived tired and stressed out but are leaving (very reluctantly) relaxed and chilled beyond belief. The area is beautiful, we did: Cognac - the Hennessy tour is very good. La Rochelle - aquarium worth a visit. Climbed the Grande Dune at Côte d'Argent. Blaye, Saintes, Royan, Talmont, Paulliac, Médoc, all worth looking at. We even managed an afternoon on the beach! To eat out: Strongly recommend the Auberge du Petit Moulin. The staff are very friendly and the food excellent. Tip! If you have travellers cheques "La Poste" will cash them for you. Finally! Accommodation excellent - we will be back!!! Bientôt Many thanks Pauline & Martin, les iris, Telford, July 1st 2006
We have had a very enjoyable stay. We have travelled to Ile d'Oléron, La Palmyre, St Palais-sur-mer, Meschers-sur-Gironde and our favourite Talmont-sur-Gironde. We also did a trip to the Hennessy Tour in Cognac, very interesting. The market at Blaye is a must on Wed and Saturday, especially the fresh fish stall, they also have a citadel that is worth a visit. The fishing Alan enjoyed, caught carp, tench and A TERRAPIN TWICE!! Beware of the MOSQUITOS Diane & Alan, les lavandes, Warwick, June 30th 2006
We have had a lovely week here. Visiting lots of places and enjoying the pool. Finding good restaurants locally was a challenge at first but we got a list (left in the library!). Also watch out for the moustiques! Bon vacances Glynis & Neil, les hortensias, County Armagh, June 24th 2006
A wonderful, relaxing place to chill out or explore the fascinating area. Lovely accommodation and a warm welcome from Angela, Hugo and Amy. We particularly enjoyed the bird life on a trip along the estuary to Port Vitrezay (through St Bonnet sur G) where there are lakes and a fish and bird reserve, newly set up. Very relaxed after a week, just wish it could be longer. A bientôt, j'espère Penny & Mike, les hortensias, Norwich, June 17th 2006
For the second time, a quiet and relaxing holiday which was just what we needed. Cycling most days out through the vineyards and woods. We even got lost in the forest and had to back track through heavy growth - not good for Anne's back but exciting. We go home fatter, relaxed and ready for our next holiday. With best wishes Anne & Charles, les lavandes, Stratford, June 17th 2006
Excellent accomodation, very peaceful and with good weather, we enjoyed relaxing beside the pool. Meals were very good indeed. Jean & Graham, les hortensias, Bath, June 3rd 2006
Will miss Hugo's greeting each morning and peace and quiet. This is a great place from which to explore the region and beyond. St Emilion - A lovely old place with period charm and modern prices. Bordeaux - A big, very busy city but well worth a visit. Royan - Pleasant seaside town about 45 mins drive. Blaye - 30 mins, nice market Wednesday and Saturday market, till 1pm, very good. Cognac - Nice town, brandy distillers, well worth the visit. For anyone who shares in my interest in World War 2. The cockleshell heroes raid on Bordeaux harbour is a must. The ships they sunk can still be seen at low tide (so I am told). There is a good book on this in the library. Oradour - 2 and a half hours drive. Remains of a village where the Waffemm SS massacred all the inhabitants of the village and raised it to the ground. This in reprisal for partisan activity following the D-Day landings in June 1944. On a happier note the swimming pool area is a great suntrap and the gardens and lake wonderful. Will recommend to others. Liz & Martin, les glycines, New Addington, Surrey, June 3rd 2006 Thank you Angela for having the foresight to creat a timeless haven for the overworked and stressed out, no matter what the weather. The most relaxing and chilled out experience we have had. We would recommend it to anyone and are coming back next year (we have already earmarked our holiday). Locals very friendly and helpful even when our French is much to be desired. The weather although changeable has been good and better than England! Didn't travel too far, no need, everything was here, even two lovely dogs to pat and occasionally share our toast with. Blaye is worth a visit or two, the citadel is enormous with amazing views over the Gironde estuary, and their wine isn't bad either! Jean & Rob, les iris, Weymouth, 1st June 2006 In spite of the rather awful weather, high winds and rain, we have really enjoyed our week - les hortensias is very comfortable, well equipped and pretty too! Many thanks to Angela for her help and friendship - we hope to return amid sunshine another time. Au revoir Christine & Stan, les hortensias, West Sussex, May 27th 2006
Dear Angela This has been a perfect spot for a real unwind - sun, fishing, birds, swimming, eating and drinking - we loved every minute in this delightful spot. We visited Bordeaux on Sunday and went to the market at Quai des Chartrons (north of the main city) and saw a bit of the town - luckily no shopping Visited chateaux on the west bank of the Gironde - ferry from Blaye - Chateau Beycheville you can go round without reservation. Lafitte, Mouton Rothschild and Margaux all require reserving. St Emilion was beautiful, a lovely medieval town but wines from the area expensive. Try local chateaux for cheaper wine. Le Petit Moulin Auberge (2 miles down the road towards Blaye) - good food but not cheap. Hugs to Amy and Hugo and many thanks. Ann & Chris, les glycines, Malvern, Worcs, 20th May 2006
Relaxing time, amazing weather. Angela and dogs extremely welcoming and helpful. The area is lovely and the locals very friendly. Chez Lisou in St Ciers is very good value for lunch - 4 courses 10 euros! The wine in the Côte de Blaye is very drinkable and very good quality and value for money. You can get a good wine for around 4 euros a bottle and a very good one for 6-7 euros a bottle. Chateau Maison Neuve in St Palais is excellent as is Chateau Haut Grelot in St Ciers. The Otard distillery in Cognac is well worth a visit. English tours several times a day. The brandy is equally as good as its more well known competitors. Anne & Richard, les iris, Louth, Lincolnshire, May 20th 2006
Just a wee note of our thoughts on our holiday. Be "AWARE" of the mosquitos!!! Fishing was good and all species present were caught (roach, carp (7lb!!!), tench) over the week. Our neighbour Chris even caught a 19lber!!! Surroundings are beautiful and driving on the wrong side of the road got easier!! Pool feels cold at first but once in it is of great relief. Buying a box of dog biscuits is a must for Hugo and Amy!! Hugo is just a big plaster!!! Jane & Scott, les lavandes, Saltcoats, Scotland, May 20th 2006
Weather has been wonderful - defied all expectations and forecasts. Les hortensias is fantastic, all of the comforts of home but none of the chores. We came here looking for escape from our life and found serenity in the atmosphere Angela has created (even if the pool is freezing!) We especially enjoyed having Amy and Hugo as surrogate pets for the week. Thank you and 'au revoir' Priscilla & Mark, les hortensias, Fleet, Hampshire, April 20th 2006
Angela Thank you so much for helping to make this a most enjoyable and relaxing holiday. Your subtle suggestions on places of interest were very much appreciated. Although we ventured out almost every day we did find time to relax in the evening in this very peaceful location. We hope to return soon and will positively recommend it as a holiday destination to both friends and family. Go n-eirt qach cion adh leat sa seasur amach romhat. Beir bua y beannacht Carmel & Niall, les lavandes, Donegal, Ireland, 16th April 2006
Thanks Angela - Had a lovely week despite nearly a whole week of rain! * Gîte warm and cosy - especially appreciate very comfortable bed and pillows! * Nice to have satellite, even though we couldn't be bothered to watch it except to catch up on news and football results. * Animals lovely - greeted by a wet and soggy Hugo most mornings when we woke up. * Can recommend the following - - Tour to Hennessey Quais at Cognac (only tour open in March, but very interesting and good value) - St Emilion - very interesting - Pineau! - red, white & rosé, also Blaye wines. - Night out at le Mirambeau bar/café on Friday night for steak & frites - bit ex-pat but okay, good value and nice food. - House-hunters speak to Polly Hughes at Maison Direct, she was extremely helpful! CAUTION! - only place we found to eat on Sunday night was Le Christophe on the main road towards Mirambeau. Food was good, but we got charged extra 19½% tax, but didn't get any change back from 70 euros for 60 euros bill!! Also don't touch the wine which is conveniently placed on the tables - it is the most expensive on the menu! Apart from above we have had lovely meals in St André, Marennes-Plage, Cognac and a very good value 10 euros tout compris meal in a truck stop about 3kms south (just outside St Aubin) - eat and drink as much as you like!! Hope your 2006 season is successful Sally & Zeb, les lavandes, Bodmin Cornwall, 1st April 2006 Sister, Sitting with an aperitif watching the sun set through the windows and looking forward to dinner, surely this sums up a relaxing way of life in a truly special part of France. Having read all the generous and genuine sentiments of the guests who have stayed here I feel especially proud of the unique atmosphere my sister Angela has created here. We have just spent a wonderful family Christmas together; so many having so much fun. I felt I had to write a small note. I hope everyone enjoys their next season here, Angela does her very best to ensure you do, it may seem easy but she works so hard to ensure that everyone's stay is so perfect; very few are up and working by 06.00 every morning. Keep doing everything as you do sister - you can't go wrong. With love Ian, les lavandes, Taunton, December 29th 2005 ps. Why does no-one mention BOURG - it's fabulous and 30 mins away
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