Messing about on Rivers - again

I love canals. Want to stop?  Just pull in to the bank and hammer in a couple of pegs. But - I love rivers more. We descended the deep lock onto the Soanne and when the guillotine gates slowly slid open everything the world became bigger, wider and more relaxing. Exiting the canal cut we immediately met an approaching large peniche (commercial barge) and rather than going into panic mode (my default position) and yelling 'get into the side!' 'look out!' we just swung nonchalantly to the right with regal wave and drifted past.

Lock from Canal du Centre onto the River Saone

  A great evening of musical and theatrical entertainment in the narrow, cobbled streets of Chalon sur Saone compensated somewhat for the rather expensive night in the port. Pity about the drenching thunderstorm. Thunderstorms seem to be a daily feature recently. Usually ocuuring about 3 in the afternoon. Anyone would think we were in the tropics.

Chalon sur Saone

We are heading north along the Soanne but have not really decided on a long term plan. Today we are in the pretty fortified village of Verdun sur le Doubs which, as it's name suggests, is situated on the River Doubs - and the River Saonne, and the Petit Doubs. Threequarters of the way to being an island in fact.

L'Avenir at Verdun sur le Doubs

Verdun sur le Doubs

Afternoon thunderstorm at Verdun sur le Doubs

The ancient bridge we are moored alongside has a flood indicator on it which reaches terrifyingly high. When I feel a bit more confident about posting photos again I'll add one to show you! Success!!!

Flood indicator on the bridge at Verdun sur le Doubs