I'm posting from Saugues, a very nice little town of 2K mid way through the highest climb on this part of the Camino, 500 metres yesterday over a 13 km hike, another 330 metres tomorow over 20 km.  It is interesting to see the effects of generational change in this part of the world.  Every hamlet and village I passed through had homes, farms and shops for sale and this town has many stores closed.  Kids moving to the city.

However, the Way of Ste. Jacques is reviving things quite a bit.  Lots of pellerin on the roads, many special events and attractions, and in a town this size, a shop with a knowledgeable owner that was a regular shoe store doing not too much business that now has half the store dedicated to hiking equipment of high quality and propering.  The way marking is very good but you have to be careful; the Ste Jacques path is newly marked with yellow/gold marks and signs but there is another system of hiking trails with similar marks.  best to watch for both the Camino marks and the GR65 white and red marks as well.

Also, to my surprise, a 13th century church with an altar to Ste Noel Chabanal, one of the Canadian Martyrs, who was born here.

Hints for those contemplating a similar journey:  bring 2 MEC super absorbant towels, one for you and 1 for squeezing laundry, it is hard to get things dry.  Bring a light cup or water bottle in addition to a hydration system, lots of potable water but the fountains are constructed in such a way that you need a cup.  I brought a few energy bars to help me keep going these first few days and I am very glad I did.