78.1 miles, ascent 1459 metres, average speed 12.0 mph, riding time 6hrs 29mins.
Left Bagnoles in misty conditions which cleared after our first climb, leaving an overcast sky to the brew stop at 14 miles. The lovely Isabel drives the brew van which is stocked with all sorts of delicious goodies as well as tea, coffee and soft drinks. We all have our own mugs with our names at the bottom so the we know who’s who when we drink!
The route to the lunch stop at Sille Le Guillaume was undulating with steady climbs and long sweeping descents. As we approached lunch the sun came out – the first sighting of the trip. I had another nice surprise when our dear friends Mike and Catherine joined me at lunch and brought a present of two slices of fruit cake which went down well with my post ride beer. The route flattened out after lunch but, just so thing didn’t get too easy, quite a strong crosswind got up.
In Verron we had to walk through town as a large flea market was taking place. After almost 70 miles in the saddle I did think about making an offer for the saddle on the child’s bike in the photo!
Longest day of the tour completed!!!
So it was the longest stage, 125 km is very good. Fortunately it was relatively flat. In a few days, the first foothills of the Massif Central … serious things will begin. The organization looks perfect. Diet is very important to conserve energy. Good luck for today.
Hi Peter,
It is so nice to read about your trip. You seem to be doing well, take care and have fun too.
Love from Bill and Brenda x