18th April 25
The Duchess
When we travelled down to France we towed our 50 year old Series 3 Landrover (the one I had to tow earlier this year). We have named it The Duchess.
In England I am not too bothered whether I travel in it or not but, here in France, I love it. Matt says I’m like a kid with a new toy and every time he drives it I’m always very excited to go with him even if it’s a boring errand. I jump in my seat and wait for him to go.
Others have noticed this and say that it’s my happy place. They say my demeanour changes and this smile is fixed permanently on my face while I am in it.
It’s a fun car to travel in. It has a top speed of 45mph, it’s basic and has no mod-cons like power steering or electric windows, it’s noisy and a bit of a bone shaker. So why do I love it so much?
Probably because it’s different and definitely perfect for the mountains. You also get to see the view better, especially with the roof off and it just feels like an adventure every time.
There’s something grounding about its simplicity – no distractions, no screens, just the rumble of the engine and the open road ahead.
I think The Duchess brings out a part of me that gets lost in the everyday rush. She reminds me to slow down, enjoy the journey, and take in the view, especially in a place as breathtaking as this.
So, yes, she might be old, noisy, and a little rough around the edges, but to me she’s magic and somehow when I’m in that passenger seat, bouncing along a winding mountain road, life just feels a little lighter.
