Friends of the Garonne

The other day, we went on a cruise along the Garonne. It wasn't a long cruise. The boat wasn't big, the seats weren't luxury and there wasn't food or drink.

But it was great.

There were five of us. We were in an aluminium punt with an outboard motor and a canopy roof.

We left Tonneins with our hostess Monique and Captain Yannick. We travelled slowly around the long, lazy loop that stretches from Lamarque to the Le Mas d'Agenais bridge.

The Garonne canal hugs the river for a couple of kilometres, an artificial bank separating the two.

Monique produced a book of photos and information sheets about the fish and wildlife in and around the river.

This dossier also contained photos of recent and historical floods.

Yannick had plenty of yarns about the river. Once upon a time there were no trees along the bank, planting anything was strictly forbidden.

Using long ropes, humans hauled cargo boats along the river. They formed relay teams and did about four or five hours before handing over to the next team. It was how locals made a few sous to survive.

Yannick said in the Middle Ages, a Royal decree made poultry and game the sole preserve and privilege of the Court.

People along the river got sick of eating fish. Unrest fomented.

Good King Henry IV stepped in and rescinded the decree ... and the region's famous Poulet au Pot was born.

Monique speaks good English. She and Yannick love the river. They go to schools and talk to the students about its rich history.

They are an affable and highly knowledgeable pair and made our cruise enjoyable.

Monique Bonfils is contactable on 0651112247 or go to www.loscaminsdelaiga.com