Béthonsart to Arras 25K
This was definitely a dog day of August. Someone said the temperature was 37C/98F.
We were on an unmarked alternative route the last day and half and reconnected with Via Francigena marked path near Etrun, about 10k before Arras.
The views were more of the same. Still pleasant but very reminiscent of Iowa and Nebraska and too few trees. Some cloud cover during the morning was most welcome. We were welcomed in downtown Arras by Renee, a secretary for the Arras pilgrim association who had made a reservation for us at Anne Frank Foyer which turned out to be the best value stop so far.
€40 for a private room with shared bath and a big hearty dinner of chicken, beef and several sides.
More than ample pilgrim food. breakfast in morning was included.
We mostly sat around in the afternoon attempting to minimize our sweating.
Tried visiting the nearby Cathedral but it was closed.
At Renee’s invitation we attended a nice 6:30 Mass at Notre Dame des Ardents Parish Church.
Walking up to the back we saw a sidewalk marker for Camino de Santiago and the priest walked up. We had a nice conversation about Camino de Santiago and Via Francigena.
He then welcomed us pilgrims formally during the Mass. Renee kindly provided a Booklet of Accommodations in France for the Pilgrimage which was of great use for the next 4 weeks in France.
August 2020
