58.18 miles, ascent 1679 metres, average speed 10.6 mph, elapsed time 5 hrs 29 mins.
The day did not get off to a good start. I had forgotten to put my name on my day bag which was dropped off at the hotel in Aubusson the previous evening – I was in a hotel some 3 miles away.
Not a massive problem under normal circumstances except that this morning it was pouring with rain and my good waterproof was in the day bag! So I set off with my light weight waterproof and was very damp within a few minutes. Luckily I was reunited with my bag at the first brew stop at 13 miles and donned my waterproof and every available bit of dry clothing and soon warmed up. The run to lunch was fairly flat with lovely smooth road surfaces so good progress was made. The route to the afternoon stop became hillier and the scenery similar to the Scottish Highlands.
After the afternoon coffee stop the serious climbing began with a 10km climb up the Col de Guery which topped out at 1268 metres.
The scenery was becoming more dramatic with the best views from the very top.
The reward for the afternoon’s efforts was a cold but sweeping 5 mile descent into our destination of the ski resort of Le Mont Dore.
Hi Peter,
Thought of you yesterday as we return our hire car to Caen, ( another story to tell you) pedaling down the road from the ferry to Caen. When I returned home I looked at the road atlas to see how far you have travelled and how well you are doing with all your friends. So interesting to read your progress each evening, you are keeping lots of people happy with your blog. Take care. x