Lord Colliers Active Retirement Life

Walking the Canal: From Châlons-en-Champagne to Vitry-le-François.

Today, I followed the Canal latéral à la Marne — a calm, flat stretch of water that’s been part of the landscape since the 19th century. It used to be a busy route for France’s inland trade, but now it’s traded all that hustle for peace and quiet. The water was calm, reflecting the sky above, and the towpaths lined with trees and silent barges still waiting for their next load. It felt like the perfect spot to slow down, reflect, and take calm, steady steps forward.

Along the way, I passed an older pilgrim — a woman in her seventies, walking alone. Even after she disappeared around a bend, I couldn’t shake the image of her. There’s something so inspiring about someone choosing to walk this path solo, especially later in life. She had this quiet strength — grounded, graceful, and steady. It reminded me that these hikes aren’t just about moving your body. They’re about inner resolve. Walking alone takes courage; walking with purpose takes heart.

The day ended in Vitry-le-François, a town that’s all about fresh starts. It was founded back in 1545 by King Francis I after the original medieval town nearby was destroyed. This “new” city was built with Renaissance ideals in mind — orderly, strong, and looking ahead. Its streets are laid out in a neat grid, with wide avenues radiating from the Place d’Armes, showing off the king’s vision of thoughtful rebuilding. Even now, you can feel that spirit of resilience and intention when you walk the streets.

By comparison, Châlons-en-Champagne — where I started — feels bigger and older, full of historic buildings and charming canals. Vitry-le-François, rebuilt after World War I, feels more modern and planned out. Both towns sit in the famous Champagne region, but while Châlons carries a deeper sense of history, Vitry stands out for its spot along the Marne River and its role in trade.

This wasn’t just a day of walking. It was a day of breathing, noticing, and remembering why this path matters. A peaceful stretch along quiet waters, full of chance encounters and centuries of stories.