After a leisurely breakfast the various peletons assembled as usual at 9.30 at the front of the hotel for instructions as to routes for the day. We again had the pleasure of Stuart leading us and Patrick sweeping. We were a much bigger group with the addition of other cyclists who wanted the challenge of a hilly day.
A couple of people had taken advantage of the first day's ride to assess their bikes, Ray and Liz had swopped for different sizes. The bikes are a dream as they seem to roll all on their own and the first part of the morning was spent on small roads through beautiful country. Of course it was not to last "the hill" came upon us and we set off up the many many zig zags with determination and much dripping of sweat and stops for the necessary rehydration.
Those who had ridden this col up to Luc before remembered the lengthy crossing along the top but had forgotten how long it was...you think you are up ...you are not.
The summit eventually appeared in the form of a garage with cafe attached and cakes and coffees and toilets and all things cyclists love.
The descent was pure joy especially for ex motor cyclist Ray who knew how to take the bends. Some then headed to the hotel restaurant for lunch while others stopped on the seafront for beers before showers/swims/saunas.
And Paul!
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