Rocroi and Cambrai France

Travelled: 163km
Visited:Rocroi and Cambrai
Stay:Marcoing-aire, free parking and service point. N50.121422 E3.181880

We travelled along the Meuse River for a bit on our way to Rocroi where we stopped to have a look at the fortified centre which was first constructed in the 16th century in a star shape. In 1673 Vauban made some additions to greater protect the town. 

We had a pleasant stroll around and noticed there was a nice aire for motorhomes just out of the Gate de France. The french know how to do flowers.

Keeping the streets clean... esp. from doggy doo! Which can always be risky walking in french streets'

We continued on, stopping at the aire in Le Cateau Cambresis for a cuppa before taking to the road again to Cambrai. The area here has varied points of interest including WWI and WWII battles, embroidery, mining, mills, underground quarries, the artist Matisse and many churches and abbey -one of which brews beer.

In Cambrai we parked near the tourist office and after getting a walking map of the town, set off for an explore. Tomorrow is to be their major annual festival, so most of the main streets and squares were full of carnival rides and attractions. 

We had a look at the Notre Dame Cathedral which was rebuilt in 1696 

and then walked past the baroque styles Jesuit Chapel, the belfry and the Town Hall.

 After a bit more of a look around we made our way out of town to a quiet aire in Marcoing.