Clermont-Ferrand to Bourges

The next morning we go through our usual routine. Find a boulanger, a boucher, and a fromager to secure makings for a picnic lunch. We still have part of a bottle of wine, so we have the essentials. Oh, and don't forget breakfast, a pain au chocolate and a cappuccino.

There is a lot to see today and not a very long travel distance. First we head for Vichy, source of healing waters and center of the collaborationist government during World War II. After the defeat of France, the Germans occupied France and the French moved their capital here.

On the way, we find another old chateau, the Chateau de la Roche

It dates from the 11th or 12th century. 

Another chateau  (Chateau Effiat) a few miles down the road once belonged to one of Napoleon's marshalls.

Lunch is on the banks of the Seine in Vichy before we explore the city.

There is an opera house

Source of Vichy water

The Hotel de Ville (city hall)

A quiet inquiry and we can explore city hall

Evening finds us in Bourges and the app which, until now, has found us reliable lodging, fails us. The Hotel Aurore is listed as a 3 star hotel with a restaurant. When we arrive for our prepaid stay, it is only a two star and one could argue that the picture at night is more accurate.

Au - 1 1/2 star