Un peu prétentieuse

Fourvière Basilica overlooks Lyon, sitting slightly above the old Roman Amphitheatre which is one of my favourite places in the world, and is a classic example of Cathlic over-the-topness. W actually had two trips to it today, reliving my uni days by taking the funicular railway up the hill (first time to the St Just line to see my old uni residence; second time the line to Fourvière after the sun made an appearance).

The morning had started at 5am. Not through choice, but rather because of an absolutely stonking thunderstorm. Sadly our hotel is overlooked and there was no real way to see what was actually going on.

The wandering took in some traboules (tiny alleyways between streets) and old hangouts, culminating in a pint a the Smoking Dog, complete with the same barman as worked there 16 years ago. That was weird. Some shopping in between (of a macaroon making nature, and some stuff for Mel), and we'll be topping off with a meal at Café des Fédérations in about 25 minutes. And then we wave goodbye to Lyon (in truth I think its charms have worn off on Mel) to heard for the Tarn Gorges (complete with vultures and wolves) and the Millau Viaduct.

Shattered. Still not de-stressed from work. But happy.mhave to say I'm looking forward to escaping the city tomorrow as well. Bring on the hills and the wildlife.