Le Puy en Velay Camino

Wednesday 15 April, we travelled by train from Paris to Le Puy-en-Velay, where our journey is set to begin. The scenery was stunning, rushing past the window in a blur of colour and countryside. By the time we arrived in the late afternoon, there was a noticeable chill in the air. The town felt calm and quiet - a welcome contrast to the busy streets of Paris and Amsterdam.

With one full day to explore, we woke to perfect weather. Following the signs along cobblestone paths, we made our way to the cathedral and cloisters, which led us on to the statue of Notre-Dame de France—an imposing figure cast from melted cannons. From there, we continued to the chapel of Saint-Michel d’Aiguilhe, perched dramatically atop an ancient volcanic chimney rising 82 metres above the town.

Following a very French lunch of cheese, charcuterie board with baguette and wine, the rest of the day was spent preparing for the Camino ahead.