Monday morning we had a farewell breakfast for Marc Andre and Catherine, punctuated by communication with William and Vivienne who, in a complete state of exhaustion, were about to embark on their final leg of their journey to France, from Charles de Gaulle airport to Le Buisson. Train strike nearly over, we thought they would be OK. Marc Andre and Catherine left just after 9. I was glad we would see them again soon, in Geneva on the final section of our holiday.
Today the terns take to the sky for a serious flight. Robert had mapped several rides and we chose one to Cadouin, ……….., Montpazier and back to Belves. 45 km was his estimate. Shouldn't take long! It took all day and was 58km all up.
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| Our tour around Belves |
The terns were brilliant. They were no match for the hired touring bikes, which were actuality pretty decent, but apart from some creaking (the forces on the hinges are enormous, and creaking is normal) and the slight lack of distance from handlebar to seat, I really found them to be a comfortable, and solid ride. With my extra gearing, I could climb fairly steep hills (there were a few) and fly downhill, or push along the flat.
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| Future bread!! |
The bike riding here is wonderful. Although it can be hot, you certainly get some relief as there are lots of forests and the roads are narrow enough for the canopy to be effective.
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| The village of Cadouin was under attack when we arrived. |
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| We should have turned right here. |
A narrow road has its cycling disadvantages, but we have found the French drivers to be generally much more tolerant and patient than Aussies, and they will wait some time before finding a safe passing spot.
We have generally kept to the right side of the road... I think we have both adjusted much better and more quickly this trip to the European driving and cycling. Ben and Rani seemed to enjoy the jaunt, which was reasonably long. I was worried that we wouldn't have time to cook for Vivienne and William who were arriving from Paris after a mammoth commute from Melbourne. Fortunately for us, but unfortunately for them, they missed a connecting train to Le Buisson, and their arrival was 2 hours late. They arrived pale and wan, with William reasonably sick from a sinus infection which made for very unpleasant air travel. They took 54 hours from door to door!!
The meal was superb however, and they were in a much better mood having consumed it.
The meal was superb however, and they were in a much better mood having consumed it.
Also very happy with the bike I rented from Robert and the routes he gave me to explore - no doubt the same... Loving your notes and photos
ReplyDeleteThat's a nice connection... Yes he was passionate. I presume he is an ex-rider, or even a current one? We didn't ask him, but he seemed to know all the right information to convey. Thanks for your comments too, Belinda.. Just catching up with them in reverse order!
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