51.32 miles, ascent 1477 metres, average speed 10.4 mph, 4 hrs 55 mins.
A shorter day today but still with a fair amount of climbing. We had the now customary early morning climb followed by a fast descent to a lake and spectacular iron viaduct.
There was a long hard flog up to the brew stop at Faverolles after 12 miles. I found the climbing a little difficult this morning probably due to a combination of long climbs yesterday and having picked up a cold. The cold mornings mean dressing up well but then becoming hot on the first climb then cold on the long descents. Some nice blue sky with huge white clouds and more great scenery. 
Lunch was taken in Aumont-Aubrac at 30 miles. Coffee came up quickly at 12 miles where Isabel produced a fine treat of dark chocolate- she really treats us well with snacks. There was a long climb after coffee followed by an even longer decent into tho lovely town of Mende which I am now going to explore a little and perhaps find a pharmacy! Thanks for your comments, they are very encouraging.
Peter, Auvergne being my home region, it was with great emotion that I read your journey. Indeed I know all these roads very well and I myself traveled by bike in my youth. Do not be afraid of the odds, because there are many, and the one we have done together in Provence are very easy in comparison. You have the chance to appreciate the diversity of landscapes of France, which makes it all its charm. Good road and see you soon.
The lozère is the least populated French department, therefore the wildest. In the 19th century, probably a rabid wolf, named “the Beast of Gevaudan” terrorized the area by killing villagers. The nature is well preserved and if you cross the Causse, the landscape is “lunar”. The temperatures should start rising in the next steps …
Nicely blogged Peter, enjoying watching your progress. Lots of ascending!
It was lovely to speak to you yesterday Dad. So proud of your endeavours and loving the historical commentary from your French cycling friend, Bruno. I hope ‘le rhume’ clears soon. Ready for the ‘big one’. Hope your bike is looking after you. Looking forward to the next instalments. Love you. X