In our attempt to see more of France on our journeys south, we booked into a hotel next to the Lac du Der-Chantecoq, in the Marne. It is one of the large artificial lakes that stop Paris from flooding, and is surrounded by beautiful old villages with timbered walls.


We stayed at the Hotel Cheval Blanc in Giffraumont Champaubert, a rather pretty little village. The restaurant was good,although rooms were a little small and very hot.