Our Gateway to Biscay
Les Sables D‘Olonne heart of the Vendée region and known as starting point for its famous single handed around the globe sail race.
We knew that this place was special due to its rich nautical history but also because it would most likely become our stepping stone from France across the gulf of Biscaya to Spain.
However, first things first: what surprised us was the blend of town … French holiday and beach atmosphere with all the ugly modern buildings that come with it, switched up with Mediterranean flair houses, belle epoque chicque and markets!
The marina was unusually large and had showers with proper shower heads, no time limits and a temperature regulation function. You know you have become a sailor if this kind of stuff sparks your joy!
We weathered another storm, did some shopping and restocking and enjoyed the well sheltered marina. André finally had a good nicht sleep again!
Since this marina is a typical stopover we also used the time to connect to fellow sailors for sharing stories and a drink. As such we met up with the crew of Martini Xpresso to hear about their tips for us sailor novices just before our first crossing, and to have a „borrel“. Another boat which was also following us for a few stop now was Medusa sailed by Beate, Klaus and their cat Canella. We shared some good stories and they adopted us into their fleet watching from a distance as we sailed on.
We did some sports as well as prepared and planned for our crossing about which you will hear more in our next post.
