We knew we'd need to keep our fitness levels up afer Brittany so on the Friday we hopped back on the bikes for a short ride out to Topsham and back. We were rewarded with a beautiful sunset over Topsham harbour before we headed back home.
On the Saturday we set out to try and join the CTC riders at Kings Garden Centre on the outskirts of Exeter. We'd only been there twice before and both times we had taken different routes, but we thought we'd recognise at least one of the routes...Sadly that wasn't to be and we found ourselves at a junction with the main road and heading into Lympstone. We probably could have found our way back to the Garden Centre, but as time was marching on, the others would probably have been leaving by the time we'd arrived, so we gave up on that idea and decided to carry on into Exmouth and find a coffee there.
As we rode along the new cycle path from Lympstone to Exmouth we could see lots of kites flying above the estuary and stopped to admire the spectacle. Heading into Exmouth, we saw signs for the kite festival and decided to take an early lunch break to investigate. On first inspection there didn't seem to be a lot going on, but as it turned out we were just in time to see some displays. We put the bikes down on the grass and sat ourselves down to watch. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the displays and the skills on show. We saw everything from one man flying two kites at the same time in time to music, to a man flying a kite using a belt round his waste, to four men flying 4 sets of mini kites all together at the same time. It was a delightful, if rather unusual way to spend a break during a cycle ride!
After finding ourselves a very nice, but mischievously difficult to eat without getting it all down your front, chilli fajita for lunch, we decided to head on out to Budleigh along the marked Cycle Route network. This was a bit of a stop-start route, having to stop and cross lots of roads and even coming to some junctions where there didn't appear to be a sign and we just had to guess! Finally we joined the off-road section of the route which is a very pleasant ride if you don't mind a bumpy ride! I also wasn't too keen on the long downhill descent on such rough ground, still being rather nervous from my fall and not 100% confident with my new brakes. However, we made it in one piece and joined the road at the other end. Unfortunately Ant missed the Cycle Route sign at the next junction and by the time I'd stopped, failed to shout loudly enough and caught him up again, we decided we'd just carry along the road down into East Budleigh and then out to Otterton.
We'd chosen to follow a little lane off the main road that would take us into East Budleigh. This proved to be a slow choice as the hedge was overgrown and it was a steep gravelly route...not my favourite combination! Stopping to walk at points, we meandered on down to East Budleigh and were soon back on the bikes again and heading out to Otterton.
From Otterton we had a choice of routes home and picked a direct, but rather more hilly than anticipated route up over Lympstone Common. We had great views from the top and before we knew it we were back on familiar territory...and heading right past the entrace to Kings Garden Centre! I had a bit of a wobble here and started feeling very unbalanced on bike again. As traffic was so heavy, I stopped and tried to set off again, but still felt uncomfortable, so we got off to walk along the main road. This wasn't a great place to be either, but I felt safer walking in a controlled manner than fearing I would swerve out into the path of fast moving traffic.
Shortly after we were back on our bikes again and pedalling home through the lanes. It had been a bit of a frustrating day with missing the CTC crowd, missing Budleigh and having to get off our bikes and walk on a couple of occasions. However, we had enjoyed the kite festival and we'd done more miles than I had expected us to, so overall it had been a worthwhile excursion.
Monday, 12 July 2010
Tour Series - Thursday 3rd June
Back from Brittany and what better excuse for a night off the bike than going to watch a top level cycle race in the heart of Exeter? Joined by friends we set off into town to watch the spectacle.
It was great to see the buzz around town for the event. I was particularly excited to get to the CTC stand and find pictures of us on the Brittany trip only a few days before! We bumped into some fellow Brittany trip travellers and had a quick natter before the action got underway. We also picked up free water bottles from Cycle Exeter and some Devon flags to wave - but we never managed to find an inflatable orange Halfords Hand...how will we ever survive without one?!?
I'd not been to see the Tour Series before so wasn't sure what to expect and had worried that standing round for over an hour to watch a bunch of people going past on bikes every few minutes might get a bit boring. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the time flew by! It was definitely made more interesting by the randomly placed sprint laps that were indicated by a buzzer on the lap before. Unfortunately the commentating wasn't quite up to scratch - a few riders got separated from the pack and despite speculation about a possible crash, we never did find out what actually happened. I know it's not quite the F1 Grand Prix, but I would expect there to be someone out on the rest of the lap / or a camera following the pack that could report back to the commentators and keep the crowd informed.
Having said that, whilst the commentary lacked solid facts and information, it was made up for by the characters of the chaps who were commentating. I have no idea what they were waffling on about at some points, but it was all the more entertaining for it.
If you've not had chance to go before, I would recommend you make the effort to get there another year as it truly is spectacular to see all the racers whizzing by and it's great to have such a fantastic spectacle right here on our doorstep in Exeter.
It was great to see the buzz around town for the event. I was particularly excited to get to the CTC stand and find pictures of us on the Brittany trip only a few days before! We bumped into some fellow Brittany trip travellers and had a quick natter before the action got underway. We also picked up free water bottles from Cycle Exeter and some Devon flags to wave - but we never managed to find an inflatable orange Halfords Hand...how will we ever survive without one?!?
I'd not been to see the Tour Series before so wasn't sure what to expect and had worried that standing round for over an hour to watch a bunch of people going past on bikes every few minutes might get a bit boring. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the time flew by! It was definitely made more interesting by the randomly placed sprint laps that were indicated by a buzzer on the lap before. Unfortunately the commentating wasn't quite up to scratch - a few riders got separated from the pack and despite speculation about a possible crash, we never did find out what actually happened. I know it's not quite the F1 Grand Prix, but I would expect there to be someone out on the rest of the lap / or a camera following the pack that could report back to the commentators and keep the crowd informed.
Having said that, whilst the commentary lacked solid facts and information, it was made up for by the characters of the chaps who were commentating. I have no idea what they were waffling on about at some points, but it was all the more entertaining for it.
If you've not had chance to go before, I would recommend you make the effort to get there another year as it truly is spectacular to see all the racers whizzing by and it's great to have such a fantastic spectacle right here on our doorstep in Exeter.
Friday, 2 July 2010
The Big Tour of Brittany
Finally here it is...the report on the big tour of Brittany!
Day One - Thursday 27th May
Having gone to bed at midnight after repacking my panniers just once more, the alarm went off at 4am for our 5am departure. Luckily Roy had loaded our bikes onto the car the night before, so that was one early morning struggle we avoided. As we drove down to Plymouth, I was excited but nervous about what lay ahead.
We arrived at the port in good time and despite being delayed by the impossible car parking machines, we were finally paid up and we cycled round to join the queue for the ferry. We dismounted to enter the car deck and our bikes were put against the wall and tied up with string! We left our panniers on them to provide some protection and headed upstairs where we tucked into coffee and croissants in the lounge.
As we left port we headed up on deck. It was a beautiful sunny morning and all around us were Navy boats out on exercise. Sitting out in the sunshine, finally feeling like I was going on holiday, the boat was joined by a helicopter which hovered alongside us on two occasions then bowed to the passengers and disappeared again.
At Roscoff we all cycled off the car deck, up the ramp and out into Roscoff. This was fantastic sight to see and I wished I'd got my camera to hand so I could have filmed us all cycling off the ferry and out into France. My initial feeling of elation and freedom was short lived and soon turned to worry as I contemplated sitting on my saddle for the next five days. Would I manage the distances, would I be able to keep up with the group, how painful would days three, four and five be? I was also rather baffled by cycling on the 'wrong' side of the road, particularly when it came to junctions and roundabouts!
The trip didn't get off to a great start, with three people falling off their bikes on the first afternoon! The first accident was caused by me, as I stopped in front of a kerb that those in front of me had merrily cycled up. This caused a bit of a pile up behind me and the first casualty of the day. Later in the day Don got caught out by a deep patch of sand as we left a boarded path across a beach front and Steph lost her balance coming to a quick stop at a roundabout. Everyone was getting used to the full weight of their panniers which aren't too bad when you're cycling, but when you come to a stop, or try and get going again, the bike is much heavier than you're used to. I was dreading being the next person to come a cropper, but fortunately managed to keep it together, no doubt aided by my low saddle position enabling me to put my feet down!
The final section of the ride was a nice descent into Morlaix and before I knew it we were all pulled up at the side of the road near our lodge for the night. Having said that, it wasn't a moment too soon for me as I was wearing my new fingerless gloves and had lost the feeling in my left thumb, which I now gratefully released and waggled about to try and revive it. We sent off a scout to locate the guest house, which didn't take long as it was just a few metres down the road. However, it was long enough for Steph to make the mistake of passing her Minstrels up the line...not to be seen again until quite some time later! We piled our bikes up outside the rather rundown looking building and went in to explore. Luckily at the top of the stairs, the view opened up to reveal a lovely courtyard area and a fantastic house which we had to ourselves for the night. A wonderful lounge area with sofas and a wooden floor, lots of good sized rooms (although not laid out as we expected, causing some last minute revisions to the room sharing plans which had carefully been drawn by lot before the trip...!) and even a swing in the garden!
There was some confusion about the plan for the evening. I'd been led to believe we were going cycle on into town for a coffee, where we would discuss arrangements for dinner. As it happened, several people had already changed and were ready for dinner when we left...meaning some of us ended up going for dinner in our cycling kit (not a good look!). As we got into town, people disappeared off all over the place, some heading to patisseries to get breakfast, others planning to go to the supermarket later. I was totally confused by what was going on...so much for discussing a plan over coffee! We did eventually manage to get some coffee when a lady finally emerged from a seemingly empty cafe - whilst half the group abandoned us in search of alcohol at the neigbouring pub!
Mike recommended a restaurant for those eating out and a jolly fine recommendation it was too! I had a delicious meal and felt very stuffed and contented as we headed back for a good night's rest. I didn't sleep too brilliantly as I was in a strange place, it was pretty cold (I was kicking myself for bringing my skimpy PJs to save on weight in my panniers and at 6am I got up and put my fleece on...should have done that earlier!) and I was worrying about the next day's cycling. We were due to do a 60 mile ride, the longest ride I would ever have done...
Day 2 - Friday 28th May
I had a delicious custard pastry for breakfast, but by the time we left, I had butterflies in my stomach and was feeling extremely nervous about the 60 miles that lay ahead. It was a beautiful morning and I was lulled into a false sense of security as the day began with a long flat stretch along the estuary. This was followed by a long but gentle climb up a hill and I was pleased that I'd made it to the top without too much of a struggle. The rest of the morning's route is a bit of a blur, but I do remember the coffee stop! We arrived at a fantastic bay and sat outside a cafe, with more delicious pastries from a patisserie Kirby had spotted around the corner. Despite the great food and coffee, this was to be the first of many stressful coffee stops! By the time I'd locked my bike up and found my purse, most people had already bought cakes, sat down at the cafe and ordered drinks! Then it all happened in reverse as I was slow to get back to my bike, put my bike lock and purse away and to put my helmet, glasses and gloves back on ready for departure. During the trip I became increasingly obsessed with trying to perfect the routine and not end up last all the time!
After coffee we had a climb up from the bay and a nice gentle descent down again. We stopped briefly to regroup and continued on our way. The next section contained some very steep hills. Not realising how many there were going to be, I think I pushed a bit too hard too soon and wore myself out. However, the first time I got off my bike to push was going down a steep rough path which I just didn't have the confidence to tackle. There was no sign of this section ending, so I eventually got back on the bike and found Roy waiting for us just round the corner. After this was a very steep climb and already flagging, I got off to walk up. I managed to keep on the bike after that, but when we rejoined the others who had stopped to wait for us, I was really feeling the heat and feeling completely exhausted. I got off and spent a few minutes in the shade sipping at my water. I hoped we were nearly at the lunch stop...but alas, it was still a long way off.
It seemed like a very long time until our next stop, which was at a bakery. Everyone scuttled into to get supplies and yet again, by the time I'd found somewhere to lean my bike against the wall and get my purse out, everyone else had bought food, had a munch and were getting back on their bikes again! I thought we were stopping here for lunch, but this was just a brief snack stop on the way to the supermarket to get lunch... So before I had chance to even have a nibble on my goodies, we were heading off again. The town was busy and as often seemed to happen, I got separated from the group at a junction. I'd assumed the supermarket was just around the corner, but it was around several corners and then up a great big hill on the main road...it seemed never ending and I have never been so pleased to see a Lidl store!
Another rush to lock up the bikes and purchase supplies. This time we weren't the last to finish, but back outside an argument was brewing in the camp. Some wanted to move on and find a nicer spot for lunch whilst others were hungry and wanted to stop and eat in the car park. I was definitely in the latter camp and much to my relief, some had already plonked themselves under a tree and started their picnic!
I felt much better after a good lunch, some time under a shady tree and the wonderful discovery that there was after all a customer toilet in the Lidl store! There was an option to take a short cut from here to our accommodation, but that cut out the coast and we were after all supposed to be training for our London to Paris bike ride. So, we put all our gear on again and followed our trusty leaders.
Despite the group voting to stay together and do the longer route, we ended up with an unexpected split! For once, being at the back of the group paid off as Roy was cycling with us and decided not to follow Kirby and his merry gang down a no through road! Shouts to try and alert them to turn round weren't heard, so we left a couple of people at the junction expecting them to come back and we headed on with Roy, out onto the main road and then back on to the path we wanted to join. From the path, we could see a very steep rough gravelly track coming up out of the valley. We sat down to wait for our lost companions, but there was still no sign of them. Eventually a few shouts were heard and Roy and Ant tried to call down and direct them to us. By this stage though, Kirby had found another route through, so they turned back and followed his lead... Eventually they all arrived back with us, covered in nettle stings and telling us their tales of adventure through the forest and findng a fantastic little church in the middle of nowhere. Whilst it did make a good story to tell, I was still quietly very pleased that I'd not gone down that route and had taken the easy ride! I think I would have been in tears if I'd had to drag my bike through nettles! Despite the second group finding us, we'd lost the people who had stayed at the junction and not caught up with either group. A couple of phonecalls later we established that they'd carried on into the next town and would meet us there for coffee.
We stopped at a fantastic beach side cafe with great views out across the sea and some fabulous stacks of boulers that looked like Dartmoor tors sitting in the sea. I was finally feeling like we might make it to our destination and looking forward to a rest at our hotel. Just as I thought we were nearly there, Kirby suggested a detour to look at the pink rocks on the coast. 'It's mostly downhill' he said...you can't pull the wool over my eyes...that means mostly uphill on the way back! It was worth the detour though, the rocks were very pretty and it would have been a shame to miss them (and to miss Steph's first paddle of the trip!)
The final leg of the day became a real struggle again for me. We'd made it to the town we were staying in, but our hotel was a couple of miles away on the other side of town. I was coping quite well until we came to a huge steep downhill run. For most cyclists, this would be a dream, but it really is my worst nightmare. By the time I got to the bottom of the hill, my arms were hurting from pulling on the brakes and I was more out of breath than I normally am going up hill. Everyone else had disappeared across a roundabout and I felt thoroughly frustrated and fed up at being so far behind again. At last we came across our hotel next to a big roundabout and I was sure I couldn't have cycled another mile. In fact, when Steph realised she'd done 59miles according to her cycle computer, she decided to go out and cycle round a bit more to make it 60miles...and there was no way I was going to do that! I'd taken off my helmet and seen the bike shed...I was not going another centimetre further!
It was just after 8pm when we arrived and dinner had been booked for us in town at 9pm, so after a quick shower and change, it was time to head back out again. I was feeling sore, had some chafing that I was worried would only get worse during the rest of the trip and felt completely exhausted as I sat on the stairs waiting for the rest of the group to join us. However, after the nerves of the morning, I was feeling delighted that we had made it and over dinner, I even allowed myself to have a cider! I was still nervous about having to do another four days riding after this...but for now I was going to celebrate our achievement and our longest ride ever! The hotel was lovely and the cider, combined with a nice snug bed and heavy duvet combined to provide a very welcome wonderful night's sleep!
Day 3 - Saturday 29th May
It was raining on Saturday morning giving Geoff and Penny the opportunity to show off their fantastic waterproof ponchos as we gathered in the hotel car park. I was yet again worrying about the day's ride as I was still feeling sore from the day before and wasn't looking forward to another day in the saddle. However, our coffee stop seemed to come round quickly and we stopped in a lovely little town where market day was in full swing. The place was full of character and it was a joy to soak up the atmosphere in the busy cafe.
Moving on from there, we headed out to the coast again. We crossed a 'submersible route' across a beach and then joined a fantastic bit of coastline, free of traffic and with wonderful views. There was an impromptu snack stop whilst some went off to find the bushes and a little further on around the corner, we found a block of toilets! I was glad I had waited! We found a perfect little stop for lunch that was a small shop, bakery and cafe all under one roof. As it was still raining it provided a brilliant stopping place. The service was terribly slow and we graciously let locals pick up their one loaf of bread, as the 14 of us queued with bread and cheese, admiring the beautiful selection of cakes and wondering how on earth it could take so long to make one cup of coffee!
Don gathered up various bottles and cans to make adjustments to his bar bag. I thought he was being a bit optimistic to think he could fix it with such primitive means, but to my amazement after the failure of the first attempt with the water bottle, the fanta can worked...and even more amazingly, continued to hold up for the rest of the trip! Well done Don - very resourceful!
I began to tire again towards the end of the ride and as Penny valiantly checked out the local area for food supplies (we would be staying nearby for the next couple of days) my enthusiasm started to fade. We took a detour to the next point on the map, which proved to be little more than another beach and a roundabout we all cycled around at the bottom before heading back again! At least now I knew we were going straight to our accommodation, so it was worth making the effort to get there. We had a bit of a climb up to Lanmodez, but then we turned off the main road and found ourselves in the car park at our destination! Hoorah!
The accommodation was basic, but clean and adequate. Our group was taking over the whole of the top floor and there was a great big kitchen and dining area meaning we could stay in and cook dinner if we wanted to. By now I was completely exhausted and the only option for eating out was to cycle into town. I just couldn't face getting back on the bike again, so I took a shower and sent Ant off with the group to get supplies for dinner. It was good to take some time out and I sat and chatted with Don as we browsed through the leaflets on the local area and used the internet connection to post a quick update on the blog (which was kept very brief because the keyboard was all topsy turvy - made worse by the fact that it was very similar to our keyboards, but just a few key letters were in the wrong place...too much for my tired brain at this stage!)
Our night in was really enjoyable. We ate olives and sipped wine whilst Geoff and Penny oversaw the creation of a fantastic chilli. We chatted and got to know our fellow travellers more, Geoff told us about his involvement in the origins of Quorn, Ant provided music through his phone, amplifying it with a saucepan and Don, Jenny and I shared physio and yoga moves in the dining area! The evening was topped off by a beautiful sunset, another glass of wine and a very precise share of some creme brulee puddings!
Day 4 - Sunday, the day of 'Rest'
When we arrived on Saturday night I was really tired and really looking forward to a rest day and the trip to the island nearby. It would be a day when we could leave our panniers behind, travel light and enjoy the local area...or so I thought!
The ride to catch the ferry was somewhat further than I had thought. I really struggled to start with in the morning and I had been shaken up a couple of times when the wind caught my bike and knocked me sideways. I'm still not used to the lightness of my new bike and without the panniers to weigh it down, it felt rather more skittish than I felt comfortable with. Once we'd crossed the bridge over the river, the riding seemed easier and flatter and I was pleased to make it to the boat and to leave my bike behind for a while. As we were locking up the bikes, Penny came to hurry us along as there was a boat just about to leave - so once more, it was a frantic rush to get sorted, lock the bikes up, find our money, get tickets and get on to the boat.
All on board, I started to relax and enjoyed the short ride. Arriving at the island, we all wandered into the main village and stopped for a coffee. Roy found a supermarket which provided fantastic picnic supplies, but unfortunately Geoff's heroic quest to find the Tourist Information Office went unrewarded when he found it was closed.
Undeterred, we set off to walk across the island and get to the Lighthouse on the far side. It was on this stroll that we stopped to take off some layers and Steph discovered her large bottle of iced peach tea was in fact iced tea concentrate! Bless! Reading the bottle confirmed that this should have been quite obvious...but never mind. We all enjoyed having iced tea in our water bottles for the rest of the trip with the additional sugar supply being much appreciated - thanks Steph!
The island was beautiful and provided wonderful views, cute cows and calves, gorgeous flowers and an atmospheric rocky coastline. We found a sheltered stop amongst some rocks on the far side of the island to have our picnics, before trekking back again to catch our ferry. On the way back, Steph and I went to use the facilities, but decided it against it when Steph was rather unnerved to find that I could see her through the 'window' which was just a hole in the wall! We stumbled across some other tourists on the way back who were enquiring about the distance to the lighthouse. They all seemed very unimpressed and not long after, it became apparent that they had turned back again. Back in the village, Steph and I made a beeline for the toilet block, only to find the situation wasn't much better there - this time there was no 'window' but there was also no light...
Getting everyone back on the ferry turned into a bit of a quest! The tide had gone out and we had to walk around to another quay. Unfortunately, some of the group were merrily sitting drinking tea completley unaware of this and then had a mad dash to make it to the boat! As the next one wasn't for an hour and all of our bikes were tied up together at the other end, I was very relieved when the last of our group stepped aboard!
It was on the ride back that I really hit my limit. We were cycling down a fairly gentle hill on a main road and I was really struggling to keep upright on my bike. It had been noted before that I have a tendency to lean right on this bike and this becomes a particular problem when I'm cycling down hill. My left arm gets locked in position and I really struggle to try and correct this and regain control of the bike. As we were going down the hill I was constantly fighting the bike and was terrified of drifting out into the traffic. Most people had already steamed far on ahead of me as I came to a stop to regather myself, but then burst into tears. Geoff, who had stayed back with me, gave me a big hug and reassured me that I was cycling in a straight line, but I just felt completley at the end of my tether. Joining up with Roy, we stopped on a wall to have a rest and then the rest of the group came to find me and offer their encouragment. This only resulted in me bursting into tears again, which was terribly embarrassing, but great for getting lots of attention and offers of treats! After this, we split into two groups, with one group going ahead and our group taking it easy as others were also feeling tired and there was no rush to get back for the evening.
Once I'd stopped, I felt ok again - although mostly embarrassed at having broken down in front of everyone. Everyone rallied around me and kept chatting to me and keep my spirits high - so thanks for that guys. Following everyone's advice, I'd drunk lots of water when we'd stopped, so a bit further on, I was desperate for the loo! Penny had spotted some back up a hill so I went back to use the facilities. It was another 'squat' loo, which usually I don't mind, but after several days on the bike and an increasingly sore knee, (I won't go into details!) this was almost more hassle than it was worth...
Finally we had a walk up a steep hill, which cut off a corner, and then pedalled on back to the accommodation. As the supermarket was shut, the only option for dinner was to cycle into town. No one thought I'd want to go, but I was determined not to sit in feeling sorry for myself all evening. The last thing I wanted was to be left out - and although I'd had a difficult day, it wasn't particularly because of tiredness or aches and pains that I'd struggled, but because I was struggling with my balance on the bike, particularly on long down hill sections. I felt silly for not being able to master such a basic aspect of cycling, but had to keep reminding myself that I'd only had my bike for four weeks and had only been back on the bike for a couple of months since my injury...so looking at the bigger picture, I was doing quite well. It just didn't feel like it at the time!
Once at the restuarant I was rewarded by a lovely little cat coming to spend the evening on my lap. I'm a huge fan of cats and having some cat cuddles was just what I needed to lift my spirits. The Italian restaurant served up a good dinner and I was glad I'd made the effort to make it there. Unfortunately it was still pouring with rain when we left and in the dark with the roads all wet, I was terrified of braking and slipping. Most of the ride was uphill, so that was ok, but I was particularly scared on the down hill stretch and just had to grit my teeth and get on with it. I avoid night riding if at all possible, but it was worth it for a good dinner in good company and the end of a tough day.
Day 5 - Monday 31st May
This was the turning point of our journey when we would start making our way back towards Roscoff. I was pleased to be heading back again as it meant the end of the trip was in sight. Much as I was enjoying it, I was getting progressively tired and wasn't sure how much longer I could keep this cycling malarky going!
We had a fast morning of riding on good roads and I guess it must have been mostly flat or downhill. I was starting to get sharp pains in my shoulder again though and it was with great relief that I pulled up at our first stop. We stopped for coffee in a lovely little town and sat outside in the square. I thought I was ahead of the usual pastry buying rush when I'd been to the supermarket and got back in time to order coffee...but then it turned out the plan was to buy lunch in the supermarket...so off I toddled again! Ant accidentally released a dog from the cafe when he was searching for the toilet door...oops! My hopes of doggie cuddles were soon dashed when the owner came out and shooed him back indoors again. Boo!
Kirby excelled in finding us a fantastic lunch stop. We pulled up outside a castle next to a lake, which was just glorious. The castle wasn't open, so we set out our picnics in front of the main door much to the bemusement of the few tourists who arrived hoping to visit the castle! Steph modelled our Brittany cheese for us, as we tucked into more bread and cheese some ghost shaped crisps, which were surprisingly moorish!
We had a long climb up from the Castle after lunch, but it wasn't too steep, so settling into low gears we plodded along slowly, stopping every now and then as views opened up of the castle down below. We made good progress to the next town where the group stopped by the church in the centre. Unfortunately as Ant came up to the kerb he hesitated, changed his mind a bit too late and came off his bike. Luckily it was a very low speed incident, but he had stopped himself with his hand and had grazed his legs. After a couple of minutes to recover, we got back on the bikes as we weren't far from our destination. Ant's bike was immediately unrideable, but fortunately we quickly realised that this was because the saddle had been knocked out of place, so this was easily solved. We took it easy down the hill, with Ant riding one handed for much of the time. The hill became very steep towards the bottom and I struggled to steer. I ended up leaning on the bike again and feeling very tense. Geoff had been watching me to try and work out how to help the situation, but sadly his advice went in one ear and out the other I was holding on to the bike for dear life and had little capacity for processing any other information! Fortunately, at the bottom of the hill, the others were gathered by our hotel for the night - we had made it! Jenny exclaimed 'wasn't it an amazing ride down that hill?...' Sadly I couldn't agree!
We stopped for a cuppa before checking in. My teapot was so hot I had to put my cycling gloves on to pour the tea! It was a gloriously hot afternoon and my remaining chocolate rapidly became mush...but that didn't stop Mike begging for some! As it was only early afternoon, the keen cyclists amongst us were planning an additional ride up to a viewing point. Er...yes, that's 'up'...which would obviously have to be followed by 'down'. Not for me I'm afraid (why am I a cyclist?!?) For once I didn't feel guilty for turning the opportunity down though. I needed a rest. I'd done loads more miles than ever before on this trip and we'd just arrived at a beach front hotel on a gorgeous sunny afternoon. This was meant to be a holiday after all...
I decided to join Steph for a swim in the sea. It was a long hike down to the water's edge and dipping our toes in, the water felt lovely and warm. Encouraged by this and Steph's cries of 'it's lovely Amanda' I stripped down to my costume and waded my way in. Once the water got past my knees it became freezing. Steph promised it would be better once I was in and besides, I had to make use of my swimming costume as it was one of the few items I'd brought with me and not used. It was cold...very cold...and no, it didn't get better once I was in! It was nice to be swimming in the sea, but after only a few minutes, I started to get a tingling in my left arm which worried me a bit. We were a long way out from the shore as the water was so shallow, so I decided I would head back in. A couple of minutes later I got a tingling in my right arm too and hastily waded back to the safety of my towel. As I dried off walking back to the hotel, Ant created a masterpiece in the sand. Of what? A bicycle of course!
After a nice warm shower (and flooding the shower room!) there was still time for a rest before dinner, so we sat and appreciated our sea view whilst snacking on iced gems - or 'Crack-Its' as they were called in France! Dinner was a bit of a confusing affair. We had a fantastic table with a sea view (which those who had a room without a sea view got to sit and appreicate) but the waiter couldn't seem to get our food order right. We all eventually ended up with some food and I enjoyed a nice glass of wine. For pudding I chose the melting chocolate pudding which was bizarrely stone cold, with cold custard (how do you make cold chocolate melt?!?) It didn't taste quite so good as it looked, but I was more than satisfied and feeling extremely sleepy I headed off for another well earned sleep. Back in our room, we discovered a merry band of keen cyclists who still hadn't had enough exercise for one day who were out having a stroll on the beach...this lot are far too energetic for me!
Day 6 - Tuesday 1st June
Twas the last day of Brittany…
Twas the last day of Brittany and all through the house,
a few cyclists were stirring, quiet as a mouse.
Early to breakfast was the order of the day,
There’s a ferry to catch and we mustn’t delay.
Filled up on fresh bread and croissants and coffee,
It was down to the bike shed, all getting ready.
We’ll set out in small groups, too much traffic for more,
Oh if only the cyclists could all count to four!
In a side road the twos, threes and fours reunited,
But oh no, another NO THROUGH ROAD is signposted.
There’s a route through on my map, Roy did declare,
So onwards we pedalled so blissfully unaware.
On around the corner and we came to a halt,
A steep path up ahead and it wasn’t asphalt.
Many of the cyclists very bravely rode on,
With the weaker amongst us pushing bikes along.
Once more together and with everyone mounted,
The journey continues, but we’re not astounded.
Heading on along the route, high winds they arose,
I‘m feeling tired now, with sore knee and numb toes.
After many long miles and too many lorries,
A familiar roundabout brings the promise of coffees.
It’s downhill then flat and alas here comes the rain,
But at least we have all made it back to Morlaix.
Huddling round hot drinks and lots of nice pastries,
Steph spots a friend and recommends the bakery.
As they share tales of Brittany, it soon becomes clear,
The sea we had bathed in is killer algae infested, oh dear!
After much laughter, more coffee and some shopping,
Kirby declares that we’d better stop stopping.
Out in the market square, it’s time for some grooves,
As Ant shows Sue and Mike his salsa dancing moves.
Onwards and upwards, as we leave Morlaix behind,
The rain is relentless, oh how cruel and unkind.
What a way to finish their adventurous trip,
A weary band of cyclists who just drip, drip, drip.
At last at St. Pol and a welcome stop for lunch,
On onion soup and croque monsieur we all munch.
The rain has now stopped as we near our journey’s end,
We can dry out cycling the three miles round the bend.
Watch out for the slippy train tracks we were advised,
So I stop, get off my bike, feeling very wise,
But everyone else they just cycled straight across,
Leaving me at the back, so much time I have lost.
The roads get busy as we head for the ferry,
But with spirits lifted, I’m feeling quite merry.
We have completed our longest cycle ride yet,
Who would have thought it, I would never have bet.
Down at the Port and Don spots some friendly faces,
They have journeyed by coach, it’s like Wacky Races!
Everyone’s waiting to sail back across the sea,
Some sad it’s over but not sleepy tired me!
Up in the ferry lounge and some have disappeared,
Can Steph gather the wanderers? Seems not it is feared.
One here, one there, the secret plan has been battered,
But I’m off for as sleep as I am just shattered.
Awakening again, it’s time for some food,
And a celebratory cider to lighten the mood.
By the end of the crossing, we’re gathered once more,
Now Steph can at last reveal what she has in store.
With all of us awake now, watered and well fed,
It’s time for our heart felt thank yous to be said.
Well done trusty leaders we have all made it back,
But wait, Roy doesn’t have his jacket in his sack.
What can be done, we all take a good look around,
An announcement is made, but the coat is not found.
Now we must go, as the car decks are ready,
Back to our bikes, we hope they’ve stayed steady.
Out with our passports through customs to the car park,
We say our goodbyes setting off home in the dark.
A stop off at Sainsburys for some bread and some milk,
I’m dreaming of a warm bed and sheets made of silk.
Back to reality as we arrive at Trews Weir,
There’s no sign of the garage key anywhere near.
Please no, I don’t want to drag my bike up the stairs,
But retracing our steps we find the keys elsewhere.
Thank you to all the cyclists, you made a great group,
A wonderful, lovely travelling troupe.
Two hundred miles over six varied days,
I may return next year, but now I’m off for a laze!
If you've not had enough yet...lots more photos are online here:
http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/109016090027779222527/Brittany2010#
Post Script!
So, back at home, what are my reflections on the trip? Overall it was a very positive experience. I learnt that I can get back on my bike 5 days in a row and survive! I learnt that some cycle shorts are better than others (and many thanks to Lel for suggesting I take Sudocrem with me - it worked a treat!). I learnt that it's very satisfying to take yourself off with your bike and all your luggage and travel 200 miles around Brittany!
On the downside I learnt that cycling for 5 days in a row is very tiring! Rather than filling me with confidence, the trip made me realise just how much further our London to Paris trip would be. It was quite a wake up call for both of us and we knew we'd need to do a lot more training in the next few weeks. I was also worried about the pain in my shoulder, my uncomfortable knee and my difficulties with balancing on my bike. Surely at this stage I should be able to manage the basics?!?
Back to the positives, our travelling companions were fantastic - they were supportive, encouraging and an inspirational group of people who stayed patient and happy despite being dragged through stinging nettles and taken off on wild goose chases in search of a coffee stop, or the next pretty little village! Thank you everyone! I also learnt I'm not the only one who manages to say thank you in three or four different languages before remembering which one is the French!
And finally...things I packed and didn't use:
1. My waterproof trousers (and in hindsight, I really should have worn them on the last day!)
2. My winter cycling leggings...but better safe than sorry.
Things that would have been useful:
1. Bungees! It never occurred to me that I might want to attach a baguette to the back of my bike...or that I might want to attach wet clothes to the top of my panniers so they could dry out during the day. Genius! I shall feel like a real pro next time.
For now...Gracias and Adios, hmmm - maybe not. Grazi and Arriverderci...non: Merci, Au Revoir!
Day One - Thursday 27th May
Having gone to bed at midnight after repacking my panniers just once more, the alarm went off at 4am for our 5am departure. Luckily Roy had loaded our bikes onto the car the night before, so that was one early morning struggle we avoided. As we drove down to Plymouth, I was excited but nervous about what lay ahead.
We arrived at the port in good time and despite being delayed by the impossible car parking machines, we were finally paid up and we cycled round to join the queue for the ferry. We dismounted to enter the car deck and our bikes were put against the wall and tied up with string! We left our panniers on them to provide some protection and headed upstairs where we tucked into coffee and croissants in the lounge.
As we left port we headed up on deck. It was a beautiful sunny morning and all around us were Navy boats out on exercise. Sitting out in the sunshine, finally feeling like I was going on holiday, the boat was joined by a helicopter which hovered alongside us on two occasions then bowed to the passengers and disappeared again.
At Roscoff we all cycled off the car deck, up the ramp and out into Roscoff. This was fantastic sight to see and I wished I'd got my camera to hand so I could have filmed us all cycling off the ferry and out into France. My initial feeling of elation and freedom was short lived and soon turned to worry as I contemplated sitting on my saddle for the next five days. Would I manage the distances, would I be able to keep up with the group, how painful would days three, four and five be? I was also rather baffled by cycling on the 'wrong' side of the road, particularly when it came to junctions and roundabouts!
The trip didn't get off to a great start, with three people falling off their bikes on the first afternoon! The first accident was caused by me, as I stopped in front of a kerb that those in front of me had merrily cycled up. This caused a bit of a pile up behind me and the first casualty of the day. Later in the day Don got caught out by a deep patch of sand as we left a boarded path across a beach front and Steph lost her balance coming to a quick stop at a roundabout. Everyone was getting used to the full weight of their panniers which aren't too bad when you're cycling, but when you come to a stop, or try and get going again, the bike is much heavier than you're used to. I was dreading being the next person to come a cropper, but fortunately managed to keep it together, no doubt aided by my low saddle position enabling me to put my feet down!
The final section of the ride was a nice descent into Morlaix and before I knew it we were all pulled up at the side of the road near our lodge for the night. Having said that, it wasn't a moment too soon for me as I was wearing my new fingerless gloves and had lost the feeling in my left thumb, which I now gratefully released and waggled about to try and revive it. We sent off a scout to locate the guest house, which didn't take long as it was just a few metres down the road. However, it was long enough for Steph to make the mistake of passing her Minstrels up the line...not to be seen again until quite some time later! We piled our bikes up outside the rather rundown looking building and went in to explore. Luckily at the top of the stairs, the view opened up to reveal a lovely courtyard area and a fantastic house which we had to ourselves for the night. A wonderful lounge area with sofas and a wooden floor, lots of good sized rooms (although not laid out as we expected, causing some last minute revisions to the room sharing plans which had carefully been drawn by lot before the trip...!) and even a swing in the garden!
There was some confusion about the plan for the evening. I'd been led to believe we were going cycle on into town for a coffee, where we would discuss arrangements for dinner. As it happened, several people had already changed and were ready for dinner when we left...meaning some of us ended up going for dinner in our cycling kit (not a good look!). As we got into town, people disappeared off all over the place, some heading to patisseries to get breakfast, others planning to go to the supermarket later. I was totally confused by what was going on...so much for discussing a plan over coffee! We did eventually manage to get some coffee when a lady finally emerged from a seemingly empty cafe - whilst half the group abandoned us in search of alcohol at the neigbouring pub!
Mike recommended a restaurant for those eating out and a jolly fine recommendation it was too! I had a delicious meal and felt very stuffed and contented as we headed back for a good night's rest. I didn't sleep too brilliantly as I was in a strange place, it was pretty cold (I was kicking myself for bringing my skimpy PJs to save on weight in my panniers and at 6am I got up and put my fleece on...should have done that earlier!) and I was worrying about the next day's cycling. We were due to do a 60 mile ride, the longest ride I would ever have done...
Day 2 - Friday 28th May
I had a delicious custard pastry for breakfast, but by the time we left, I had butterflies in my stomach and was feeling extremely nervous about the 60 miles that lay ahead. It was a beautiful morning and I was lulled into a false sense of security as the day began with a long flat stretch along the estuary. This was followed by a long but gentle climb up a hill and I was pleased that I'd made it to the top without too much of a struggle. The rest of the morning's route is a bit of a blur, but I do remember the coffee stop! We arrived at a fantastic bay and sat outside a cafe, with more delicious pastries from a patisserie Kirby had spotted around the corner. Despite the great food and coffee, this was to be the first of many stressful coffee stops! By the time I'd locked my bike up and found my purse, most people had already bought cakes, sat down at the cafe and ordered drinks! Then it all happened in reverse as I was slow to get back to my bike, put my bike lock and purse away and to put my helmet, glasses and gloves back on ready for departure. During the trip I became increasingly obsessed with trying to perfect the routine and not end up last all the time!
After coffee we had a climb up from the bay and a nice gentle descent down again. We stopped briefly to regroup and continued on our way. The next section contained some very steep hills. Not realising how many there were going to be, I think I pushed a bit too hard too soon and wore myself out. However, the first time I got off my bike to push was going down a steep rough path which I just didn't have the confidence to tackle. There was no sign of this section ending, so I eventually got back on the bike and found Roy waiting for us just round the corner. After this was a very steep climb and already flagging, I got off to walk up. I managed to keep on the bike after that, but when we rejoined the others who had stopped to wait for us, I was really feeling the heat and feeling completely exhausted. I got off and spent a few minutes in the shade sipping at my water. I hoped we were nearly at the lunch stop...but alas, it was still a long way off.
It seemed like a very long time until our next stop, which was at a bakery. Everyone scuttled into to get supplies and yet again, by the time I'd found somewhere to lean my bike against the wall and get my purse out, everyone else had bought food, had a munch and were getting back on their bikes again! I thought we were stopping here for lunch, but this was just a brief snack stop on the way to the supermarket to get lunch... So before I had chance to even have a nibble on my goodies, we were heading off again. The town was busy and as often seemed to happen, I got separated from the group at a junction. I'd assumed the supermarket was just around the corner, but it was around several corners and then up a great big hill on the main road...it seemed never ending and I have never been so pleased to see a Lidl store!
Another rush to lock up the bikes and purchase supplies. This time we weren't the last to finish, but back outside an argument was brewing in the camp. Some wanted to move on and find a nicer spot for lunch whilst others were hungry and wanted to stop and eat in the car park. I was definitely in the latter camp and much to my relief, some had already plonked themselves under a tree and started their picnic!
I felt much better after a good lunch, some time under a shady tree and the wonderful discovery that there was after all a customer toilet in the Lidl store! There was an option to take a short cut from here to our accommodation, but that cut out the coast and we were after all supposed to be training for our London to Paris bike ride. So, we put all our gear on again and followed our trusty leaders.
Despite the group voting to stay together and do the longer route, we ended up with an unexpected split! For once, being at the back of the group paid off as Roy was cycling with us and decided not to follow Kirby and his merry gang down a no through road! Shouts to try and alert them to turn round weren't heard, so we left a couple of people at the junction expecting them to come back and we headed on with Roy, out onto the main road and then back on to the path we wanted to join. From the path, we could see a very steep rough gravelly track coming up out of the valley. We sat down to wait for our lost companions, but there was still no sign of them. Eventually a few shouts were heard and Roy and Ant tried to call down and direct them to us. By this stage though, Kirby had found another route through, so they turned back and followed his lead... Eventually they all arrived back with us, covered in nettle stings and telling us their tales of adventure through the forest and findng a fantastic little church in the middle of nowhere. Whilst it did make a good story to tell, I was still quietly very pleased that I'd not gone down that route and had taken the easy ride! I think I would have been in tears if I'd had to drag my bike through nettles! Despite the second group finding us, we'd lost the people who had stayed at the junction and not caught up with either group. A couple of phonecalls later we established that they'd carried on into the next town and would meet us there for coffee.
We stopped at a fantastic beach side cafe with great views out across the sea and some fabulous stacks of boulers that looked like Dartmoor tors sitting in the sea. I was finally feeling like we might make it to our destination and looking forward to a rest at our hotel. Just as I thought we were nearly there, Kirby suggested a detour to look at the pink rocks on the coast. 'It's mostly downhill' he said...you can't pull the wool over my eyes...that means mostly uphill on the way back! It was worth the detour though, the rocks were very pretty and it would have been a shame to miss them (and to miss Steph's first paddle of the trip!)
The final leg of the day became a real struggle again for me. We'd made it to the town we were staying in, but our hotel was a couple of miles away on the other side of town. I was coping quite well until we came to a huge steep downhill run. For most cyclists, this would be a dream, but it really is my worst nightmare. By the time I got to the bottom of the hill, my arms were hurting from pulling on the brakes and I was more out of breath than I normally am going up hill. Everyone else had disappeared across a roundabout and I felt thoroughly frustrated and fed up at being so far behind again. At last we came across our hotel next to a big roundabout and I was sure I couldn't have cycled another mile. In fact, when Steph realised she'd done 59miles according to her cycle computer, she decided to go out and cycle round a bit more to make it 60miles...and there was no way I was going to do that! I'd taken off my helmet and seen the bike shed...I was not going another centimetre further!
It was just after 8pm when we arrived and dinner had been booked for us in town at 9pm, so after a quick shower and change, it was time to head back out again. I was feeling sore, had some chafing that I was worried would only get worse during the rest of the trip and felt completely exhausted as I sat on the stairs waiting for the rest of the group to join us. However, after the nerves of the morning, I was feeling delighted that we had made it and over dinner, I even allowed myself to have a cider! I was still nervous about having to do another four days riding after this...but for now I was going to celebrate our achievement and our longest ride ever! The hotel was lovely and the cider, combined with a nice snug bed and heavy duvet combined to provide a very welcome wonderful night's sleep!
Day 3 - Saturday 29th May
It was raining on Saturday morning giving Geoff and Penny the opportunity to show off their fantastic waterproof ponchos as we gathered in the hotel car park. I was yet again worrying about the day's ride as I was still feeling sore from the day before and wasn't looking forward to another day in the saddle. However, our coffee stop seemed to come round quickly and we stopped in a lovely little town where market day was in full swing. The place was full of character and it was a joy to soak up the atmosphere in the busy cafe.
Moving on from there, we headed out to the coast again. We crossed a 'submersible route' across a beach and then joined a fantastic bit of coastline, free of traffic and with wonderful views. There was an impromptu snack stop whilst some went off to find the bushes and a little further on around the corner, we found a block of toilets! I was glad I had waited! We found a perfect little stop for lunch that was a small shop, bakery and cafe all under one roof. As it was still raining it provided a brilliant stopping place. The service was terribly slow and we graciously let locals pick up their one loaf of bread, as the 14 of us queued with bread and cheese, admiring the beautiful selection of cakes and wondering how on earth it could take so long to make one cup of coffee!
Don gathered up various bottles and cans to make adjustments to his bar bag. I thought he was being a bit optimistic to think he could fix it with such primitive means, but to my amazement after the failure of the first attempt with the water bottle, the fanta can worked...and even more amazingly, continued to hold up for the rest of the trip! Well done Don - very resourceful!
I began to tire again towards the end of the ride and as Penny valiantly checked out the local area for food supplies (we would be staying nearby for the next couple of days) my enthusiasm started to fade. We took a detour to the next point on the map, which proved to be little more than another beach and a roundabout we all cycled around at the bottom before heading back again! At least now I knew we were going straight to our accommodation, so it was worth making the effort to get there. We had a bit of a climb up to Lanmodez, but then we turned off the main road and found ourselves in the car park at our destination! Hoorah!
The accommodation was basic, but clean and adequate. Our group was taking over the whole of the top floor and there was a great big kitchen and dining area meaning we could stay in and cook dinner if we wanted to. By now I was completely exhausted and the only option for eating out was to cycle into town. I just couldn't face getting back on the bike again, so I took a shower and sent Ant off with the group to get supplies for dinner. It was good to take some time out and I sat and chatted with Don as we browsed through the leaflets on the local area and used the internet connection to post a quick update on the blog (which was kept very brief because the keyboard was all topsy turvy - made worse by the fact that it was very similar to our keyboards, but just a few key letters were in the wrong place...too much for my tired brain at this stage!)
Our night in was really enjoyable. We ate olives and sipped wine whilst Geoff and Penny oversaw the creation of a fantastic chilli. We chatted and got to know our fellow travellers more, Geoff told us about his involvement in the origins of Quorn, Ant provided music through his phone, amplifying it with a saucepan and Don, Jenny and I shared physio and yoga moves in the dining area! The evening was topped off by a beautiful sunset, another glass of wine and a very precise share of some creme brulee puddings!
Day 4 - Sunday, the day of 'Rest'
When we arrived on Saturday night I was really tired and really looking forward to a rest day and the trip to the island nearby. It would be a day when we could leave our panniers behind, travel light and enjoy the local area...or so I thought!
The ride to catch the ferry was somewhat further than I had thought. I really struggled to start with in the morning and I had been shaken up a couple of times when the wind caught my bike and knocked me sideways. I'm still not used to the lightness of my new bike and without the panniers to weigh it down, it felt rather more skittish than I felt comfortable with. Once we'd crossed the bridge over the river, the riding seemed easier and flatter and I was pleased to make it to the boat and to leave my bike behind for a while. As we were locking up the bikes, Penny came to hurry us along as there was a boat just about to leave - so once more, it was a frantic rush to get sorted, lock the bikes up, find our money, get tickets and get on to the boat.
All on board, I started to relax and enjoyed the short ride. Arriving at the island, we all wandered into the main village and stopped for a coffee. Roy found a supermarket which provided fantastic picnic supplies, but unfortunately Geoff's heroic quest to find the Tourist Information Office went unrewarded when he found it was closed.
Undeterred, we set off to walk across the island and get to the Lighthouse on the far side. It was on this stroll that we stopped to take off some layers and Steph discovered her large bottle of iced peach tea was in fact iced tea concentrate! Bless! Reading the bottle confirmed that this should have been quite obvious...but never mind. We all enjoyed having iced tea in our water bottles for the rest of the trip with the additional sugar supply being much appreciated - thanks Steph!
The island was beautiful and provided wonderful views, cute cows and calves, gorgeous flowers and an atmospheric rocky coastline. We found a sheltered stop amongst some rocks on the far side of the island to have our picnics, before trekking back again to catch our ferry. On the way back, Steph and I went to use the facilities, but decided it against it when Steph was rather unnerved to find that I could see her through the 'window' which was just a hole in the wall! We stumbled across some other tourists on the way back who were enquiring about the distance to the lighthouse. They all seemed very unimpressed and not long after, it became apparent that they had turned back again. Back in the village, Steph and I made a beeline for the toilet block, only to find the situation wasn't much better there - this time there was no 'window' but there was also no light...
Getting everyone back on the ferry turned into a bit of a quest! The tide had gone out and we had to walk around to another quay. Unfortunately, some of the group were merrily sitting drinking tea completley unaware of this and then had a mad dash to make it to the boat! As the next one wasn't for an hour and all of our bikes were tied up together at the other end, I was very relieved when the last of our group stepped aboard!
It was on the ride back that I really hit my limit. We were cycling down a fairly gentle hill on a main road and I was really struggling to keep upright on my bike. It had been noted before that I have a tendency to lean right on this bike and this becomes a particular problem when I'm cycling down hill. My left arm gets locked in position and I really struggle to try and correct this and regain control of the bike. As we were going down the hill I was constantly fighting the bike and was terrified of drifting out into the traffic. Most people had already steamed far on ahead of me as I came to a stop to regather myself, but then burst into tears. Geoff, who had stayed back with me, gave me a big hug and reassured me that I was cycling in a straight line, but I just felt completley at the end of my tether. Joining up with Roy, we stopped on a wall to have a rest and then the rest of the group came to find me and offer their encouragment. This only resulted in me bursting into tears again, which was terribly embarrassing, but great for getting lots of attention and offers of treats! After this, we split into two groups, with one group going ahead and our group taking it easy as others were also feeling tired and there was no rush to get back for the evening.
Once I'd stopped, I felt ok again - although mostly embarrassed at having broken down in front of everyone. Everyone rallied around me and kept chatting to me and keep my spirits high - so thanks for that guys. Following everyone's advice, I'd drunk lots of water when we'd stopped, so a bit further on, I was desperate for the loo! Penny had spotted some back up a hill so I went back to use the facilities. It was another 'squat' loo, which usually I don't mind, but after several days on the bike and an increasingly sore knee, (I won't go into details!) this was almost more hassle than it was worth...
Finally we had a walk up a steep hill, which cut off a corner, and then pedalled on back to the accommodation. As the supermarket was shut, the only option for dinner was to cycle into town. No one thought I'd want to go, but I was determined not to sit in feeling sorry for myself all evening. The last thing I wanted was to be left out - and although I'd had a difficult day, it wasn't particularly because of tiredness or aches and pains that I'd struggled, but because I was struggling with my balance on the bike, particularly on long down hill sections. I felt silly for not being able to master such a basic aspect of cycling, but had to keep reminding myself that I'd only had my bike for four weeks and had only been back on the bike for a couple of months since my injury...so looking at the bigger picture, I was doing quite well. It just didn't feel like it at the time!
Once at the restuarant I was rewarded by a lovely little cat coming to spend the evening on my lap. I'm a huge fan of cats and having some cat cuddles was just what I needed to lift my spirits. The Italian restaurant served up a good dinner and I was glad I'd made the effort to make it there. Unfortunately it was still pouring with rain when we left and in the dark with the roads all wet, I was terrified of braking and slipping. Most of the ride was uphill, so that was ok, but I was particularly scared on the down hill stretch and just had to grit my teeth and get on with it. I avoid night riding if at all possible, but it was worth it for a good dinner in good company and the end of a tough day.
Day 5 - Monday 31st May
This was the turning point of our journey when we would start making our way back towards Roscoff. I was pleased to be heading back again as it meant the end of the trip was in sight. Much as I was enjoying it, I was getting progressively tired and wasn't sure how much longer I could keep this cycling malarky going!
We had a fast morning of riding on good roads and I guess it must have been mostly flat or downhill. I was starting to get sharp pains in my shoulder again though and it was with great relief that I pulled up at our first stop. We stopped for coffee in a lovely little town and sat outside in the square. I thought I was ahead of the usual pastry buying rush when I'd been to the supermarket and got back in time to order coffee...but then it turned out the plan was to buy lunch in the supermarket...so off I toddled again! Ant accidentally released a dog from the cafe when he was searching for the toilet door...oops! My hopes of doggie cuddles were soon dashed when the owner came out and shooed him back indoors again. Boo!
Kirby excelled in finding us a fantastic lunch stop. We pulled up outside a castle next to a lake, which was just glorious. The castle wasn't open, so we set out our picnics in front of the main door much to the bemusement of the few tourists who arrived hoping to visit the castle! Steph modelled our Brittany cheese for us, as we tucked into more bread and cheese some ghost shaped crisps, which were surprisingly moorish!
We had a long climb up from the Castle after lunch, but it wasn't too steep, so settling into low gears we plodded along slowly, stopping every now and then as views opened up of the castle down below. We made good progress to the next town where the group stopped by the church in the centre. Unfortunately as Ant came up to the kerb he hesitated, changed his mind a bit too late and came off his bike. Luckily it was a very low speed incident, but he had stopped himself with his hand and had grazed his legs. After a couple of minutes to recover, we got back on the bikes as we weren't far from our destination. Ant's bike was immediately unrideable, but fortunately we quickly realised that this was because the saddle had been knocked out of place, so this was easily solved. We took it easy down the hill, with Ant riding one handed for much of the time. The hill became very steep towards the bottom and I struggled to steer. I ended up leaning on the bike again and feeling very tense. Geoff had been watching me to try and work out how to help the situation, but sadly his advice went in one ear and out the other I was holding on to the bike for dear life and had little capacity for processing any other information! Fortunately, at the bottom of the hill, the others were gathered by our hotel for the night - we had made it! Jenny exclaimed 'wasn't it an amazing ride down that hill?...' Sadly I couldn't agree!
We stopped for a cuppa before checking in. My teapot was so hot I had to put my cycling gloves on to pour the tea! It was a gloriously hot afternoon and my remaining chocolate rapidly became mush...but that didn't stop Mike begging for some! As it was only early afternoon, the keen cyclists amongst us were planning an additional ride up to a viewing point. Er...yes, that's 'up'...which would obviously have to be followed by 'down'. Not for me I'm afraid (why am I a cyclist?!?) For once I didn't feel guilty for turning the opportunity down though. I needed a rest. I'd done loads more miles than ever before on this trip and we'd just arrived at a beach front hotel on a gorgeous sunny afternoon. This was meant to be a holiday after all...
I decided to join Steph for a swim in the sea. It was a long hike down to the water's edge and dipping our toes in, the water felt lovely and warm. Encouraged by this and Steph's cries of 'it's lovely Amanda' I stripped down to my costume and waded my way in. Once the water got past my knees it became freezing. Steph promised it would be better once I was in and besides, I had to make use of my swimming costume as it was one of the few items I'd brought with me and not used. It was cold...very cold...and no, it didn't get better once I was in! It was nice to be swimming in the sea, but after only a few minutes, I started to get a tingling in my left arm which worried me a bit. We were a long way out from the shore as the water was so shallow, so I decided I would head back in. A couple of minutes later I got a tingling in my right arm too and hastily waded back to the safety of my towel. As I dried off walking back to the hotel, Ant created a masterpiece in the sand. Of what? A bicycle of course!
After a nice warm shower (and flooding the shower room!) there was still time for a rest before dinner, so we sat and appreciated our sea view whilst snacking on iced gems - or 'Crack-Its' as they were called in France! Dinner was a bit of a confusing affair. We had a fantastic table with a sea view (which those who had a room without a sea view got to sit and appreicate) but the waiter couldn't seem to get our food order right. We all eventually ended up with some food and I enjoyed a nice glass of wine. For pudding I chose the melting chocolate pudding which was bizarrely stone cold, with cold custard (how do you make cold chocolate melt?!?) It didn't taste quite so good as it looked, but I was more than satisfied and feeling extremely sleepy I headed off for another well earned sleep. Back in our room, we discovered a merry band of keen cyclists who still hadn't had enough exercise for one day who were out having a stroll on the beach...this lot are far too energetic for me!
Day 6 - Tuesday 1st June
We had an early start on Tuesday as we needed to make it back to the ferry and we wanted to allow extra time for any hold ups on the way back. I was extremely glad to be heading home. We had a lovely time with a wonderful group of people, who had provided much entertainment and merriment, not to mention, planned the whole trip and done all the map reading for us, which meant all we had to do was turn up, pedal and enjoy the fantastic scenery and food that Brittany had to offer.
However, I was really tiring by this stage and it was today that my injured knee really started to complain. Throughout the rest of the trip it had been mostly fine during the day whilst I was cycling and then becoming sore, feeling swolen and uncomfortable in the evenings. After an overnight rest. It had largely been ok again by the morning, thankfully allowing me to continue without much bother. Today though, it had had enough! It was really starting to hurt and as I fought to control the bike in the high winds heading back to Morlaix, I couldn't have got to the ferry port soon enough...and I'm sure it was only the thought of getting back on that ferry and going home that got me through!
Apart from that, the day went well and to finish this post, I am finsih on a positive note and share a poem with you. On the 6 day Brittany trip, there was 6 newcomers, so each person had been asked to write a report on one of the days of the trip. As banter flowed one evening, the idea was concocted that everyone should write their report in a different style. Many different styles were suggested throughout the trip, but I don't think anyone came up with this one. Here's my summary of the final day of the trip....in the style of Dr. Seuss!
Twas the last day of Brittany…
Twas the last day of Brittany and all through the house,
a few cyclists were stirring, quiet as a mouse.
Early to breakfast was the order of the day,
There’s a ferry to catch and we mustn’t delay.
Filled up on fresh bread and croissants and coffee,
It was down to the bike shed, all getting ready.
We’ll set out in small groups, too much traffic for more,
Oh if only the cyclists could all count to four!
In a side road the twos, threes and fours reunited,
But oh no, another NO THROUGH ROAD is signposted.
There’s a route through on my map, Roy did declare,
So onwards we pedalled so blissfully unaware.
On around the corner and we came to a halt,
A steep path up ahead and it wasn’t asphalt.
Many of the cyclists very bravely rode on,
With the weaker amongst us pushing bikes along.
Once more together and with everyone mounted,
The journey continues, but we’re not astounded.
Heading on along the route, high winds they arose,
I‘m feeling tired now, with sore knee and numb toes.
After many long miles and too many lorries,
A familiar roundabout brings the promise of coffees.
It’s downhill then flat and alas here comes the rain,
But at least we have all made it back to Morlaix.
Huddling round hot drinks and lots of nice pastries,
Steph spots a friend and recommends the bakery.
As they share tales of Brittany, it soon becomes clear,
The sea we had bathed in is killer algae infested, oh dear!
After much laughter, more coffee and some shopping,
Kirby declares that we’d better stop stopping.
Out in the market square, it’s time for some grooves,
As Ant shows Sue and Mike his salsa dancing moves.
Onwards and upwards, as we leave Morlaix behind,
The rain is relentless, oh how cruel and unkind.
What a way to finish their adventurous trip,
A weary band of cyclists who just drip, drip, drip.
At last at St. Pol and a welcome stop for lunch,
On onion soup and croque monsieur we all munch.
The rain has now stopped as we near our journey’s end,
We can dry out cycling the three miles round the bend.
Watch out for the slippy train tracks we were advised,
So I stop, get off my bike, feeling very wise,
But everyone else they just cycled straight across,
Leaving me at the back, so much time I have lost.
The roads get busy as we head for the ferry,
But with spirits lifted, I’m feeling quite merry.
We have completed our longest cycle ride yet,
Who would have thought it, I would never have bet.
Down at the Port and Don spots some friendly faces,
They have journeyed by coach, it’s like Wacky Races!
Everyone’s waiting to sail back across the sea,
Some sad it’s over but not sleepy tired me!
Up in the ferry lounge and some have disappeared,
Can Steph gather the wanderers? Seems not it is feared.
One here, one there, the secret plan has been battered,
But I’m off for as sleep as I am just shattered.
Awakening again, it’s time for some food,
And a celebratory cider to lighten the mood.
By the end of the crossing, we’re gathered once more,
Now Steph can at last reveal what she has in store.
With all of us awake now, watered and well fed,
It’s time for our heart felt thank yous to be said.
Well done trusty leaders we have all made it back,
But wait, Roy doesn’t have his jacket in his sack.
What can be done, we all take a good look around,
An announcement is made, but the coat is not found.
Now we must go, as the car decks are ready,
Back to our bikes, we hope they’ve stayed steady.
Out with our passports through customs to the car park,
We say our goodbyes setting off home in the dark.
A stop off at Sainsburys for some bread and some milk,
I’m dreaming of a warm bed and sheets made of silk.
Back to reality as we arrive at Trews Weir,
There’s no sign of the garage key anywhere near.
Please no, I don’t want to drag my bike up the stairs,
But retracing our steps we find the keys elsewhere.
Thank you to all the cyclists, you made a great group,
A wonderful, lovely travelling troupe.
Two hundred miles over six varied days,
I may return next year, but now I’m off for a laze!
If you've not had enough yet...lots more photos are online here:
http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/109016090027779222527/Brittany2010#
Post Script!
So, back at home, what are my reflections on the trip? Overall it was a very positive experience. I learnt that I can get back on my bike 5 days in a row and survive! I learnt that some cycle shorts are better than others (and many thanks to Lel for suggesting I take Sudocrem with me - it worked a treat!). I learnt that it's very satisfying to take yourself off with your bike and all your luggage and travel 200 miles around Brittany!
On the downside I learnt that cycling for 5 days in a row is very tiring! Rather than filling me with confidence, the trip made me realise just how much further our London to Paris trip would be. It was quite a wake up call for both of us and we knew we'd need to do a lot more training in the next few weeks. I was also worried about the pain in my shoulder, my uncomfortable knee and my difficulties with balancing on my bike. Surely at this stage I should be able to manage the basics?!?
Back to the positives, our travelling companions were fantastic - they were supportive, encouraging and an inspirational group of people who stayed patient and happy despite being dragged through stinging nettles and taken off on wild goose chases in search of a coffee stop, or the next pretty little village! Thank you everyone! I also learnt I'm not the only one who manages to say thank you in three or four different languages before remembering which one is the French!
And finally...things I packed and didn't use:
1. My waterproof trousers (and in hindsight, I really should have worn them on the last day!)
2. My winter cycling leggings...but better safe than sorry.
Things that would have been useful:
1. Bungees! It never occurred to me that I might want to attach a baguette to the back of my bike...or that I might want to attach wet clothes to the top of my panniers so they could dry out during the day. Genius! I shall feel like a real pro next time.
For now...Gracias and Adios, hmmm - maybe not. Grazi and Arriverderci...non: Merci, Au Revoir!
Saturday, 29 May 2010
100 Miles in 2 Days!!
Just a quick update for anyone reading at home... We have cycled 100 miles in the last two days and we are still alive! There have been some tough moments, but overall it has been lovely. I am typing from our gite in Lanmodez and tomorrow will be a rest day exploring a nearby island...really looking forward to a rest from the saddle!! I cannot upload pictures here and all the keyboard characters are in the wrong place, so I will stop there and do a full update when we get home!
Wednesday, 26 May 2010
Sunday Struggle and a loaded ride
Following a busy week with no mid-week training and a late night on Saturday after the quiz, we determinedly fought off our longing to stay in bed and dragged ourselves up to join the Sunday ride from Clyst St Mary to Killerton. We'd not done this route before but thought it would be a nice morning ride to keep us ticking over...
...unfortunately the lack of mid-week training and our overall tiredness really showed. Even on the flat along the river heading into the wind we were feeling tired and struggling to get going. I would probably have decided to go on our own ride at our own pace had Bob not cycled past us (twice!) on the way to the start route and alerted everyone to the fact that we were (very slowly...) on our way. The ride began with some steep ascents along a route we'd often cycled in the opposite direction, but never tried doing backwards. It's definitely harder this way round! As well as struggling up the hills, I also felt really wobbly going downhill and on the first big descent had to stop and steady myself briefly before continuing on. Robin did a great job of keeping an eye out for us and encouraging us along, but I was all too aware that the rest of the group were steaming ahead and constantly having to stop and wait for us. The climb from Clyst Honiton up to the Broadclyst turning wasn't as bad as I expected and I was glad that the route seemed to be flattening out a bit. Having only ever driven to Killerton on the main road before, I had no idea where we were cycling and I was delighted to find that we were soon on the familiar road up to the National Trust property.
It was a truly gorgeous day but we decided to sit inside in the shade to enjoy our tea and flapjacks. It was great to see Stephanie again and discuss our upcoming trip to Brittany and what we're planning to pack. Stephanie is amazingly organised and had already packed over a week ago and tried riding her bike with her panniers. I duly noted that we should try and do that before we set off on the trip.
Everyone was heading off in different directions afterwards, so we decided to head back home and spend the afternoon packing. We attempted to follow the route back home and almost got it right, but I think we took a more direct route and found ourselves in the centre of Broadclyst rather. No matter though as we knew the way back to join the road back through Clyst Honiton. As we got back to Clyst St Mary we decided we'd extend our ride a bit further and go out to Topsham to have lunch on the quayside. It was a perfect day for it and we got in the mood for France by enjoying some nice fresh bread with some brie. After the morning, this was just what I needed to convince myself that cycling's not so bad after all! We didn't get round to packing in the afternoon, as the weather was just too nice so we headed out for a stroll in the sunshine and an ice-cream. Time to chill out in the sunshine is just too precious to miss...
So having finally packed some stuff in our panniers on Monday we set out last night for a test ride with fully loaded panniers. I found this absolutely fine on the flat sections, but it wasn't quite such an easy ride once we hit the hills. It could just have been that we've not been training as much recently, but we really struggled with the climbs. There were a couple of occasions when I came very close to getting off my bike and pushing it up the hills, but somehow found the strength to keep pedalling until I reached the top huffing and puffing and with my legs complaining loudly. Unfortunately I didn't have the nerves of steel needed for the descents the other side and twice I had to stop and get off my bike as I felt so unsteady and convinced I was going to end up in a heap in the hedge! I can only hope that there aren't too many steep hills in Brittany! I had another issue trying to get going on a hill and also had a near miss when I got off my bike to take a photo of a lamb and misjudged the weight of my bike, almost ending up on the floor with my bike on top of me. I think the weight could take a bit of getting used to...I just hope I can get used to it before I start getting tired and losing my ability to react quickly!
On the way back we bumped into my stepmum, sister and their dog Shadow. My sister has just learnt to ride a bike and seems to be doing really well, so I warned her that it could become a bit of an obsession and lead to ridiculous challenges like the one I'm facing now! We gratefully accepted some encouragement and wishes of luck for the trip and headed back home for a well earned dinner.
Anyway, there's not much more we can do now - except that I need to stop writing this blog and get some sleep! (Who booked us on a ferry that requires us to leave at 5am?!?) I don't feel I'm entirely ready for a grand tour, but I'm as ready as I'm going to be and I'm hoping it will be a great experience and a fun adventure, even though I know it's going to be hard work and pretty painful at times (or possibly constantly after day 2!) The highs and lows will all be posted here...watch this space!
...unfortunately the lack of mid-week training and our overall tiredness really showed. Even on the flat along the river heading into the wind we were feeling tired and struggling to get going. I would probably have decided to go on our own ride at our own pace had Bob not cycled past us (twice!) on the way to the start route and alerted everyone to the fact that we were (very slowly...) on our way. The ride began with some steep ascents along a route we'd often cycled in the opposite direction, but never tried doing backwards. It's definitely harder this way round! As well as struggling up the hills, I also felt really wobbly going downhill and on the first big descent had to stop and steady myself briefly before continuing on. Robin did a great job of keeping an eye out for us and encouraging us along, but I was all too aware that the rest of the group were steaming ahead and constantly having to stop and wait for us. The climb from Clyst Honiton up to the Broadclyst turning wasn't as bad as I expected and I was glad that the route seemed to be flattening out a bit. Having only ever driven to Killerton on the main road before, I had no idea where we were cycling and I was delighted to find that we were soon on the familiar road up to the National Trust property.
It was a truly gorgeous day but we decided to sit inside in the shade to enjoy our tea and flapjacks. It was great to see Stephanie again and discuss our upcoming trip to Brittany and what we're planning to pack. Stephanie is amazingly organised and had already packed over a week ago and tried riding her bike with her panniers. I duly noted that we should try and do that before we set off on the trip.
Everyone was heading off in different directions afterwards, so we decided to head back home and spend the afternoon packing. We attempted to follow the route back home and almost got it right, but I think we took a more direct route and found ourselves in the centre of Broadclyst rather. No matter though as we knew the way back to join the road back through Clyst Honiton. As we got back to Clyst St Mary we decided we'd extend our ride a bit further and go out to Topsham to have lunch on the quayside. It was a perfect day for it and we got in the mood for France by enjoying some nice fresh bread with some brie. After the morning, this was just what I needed to convince myself that cycling's not so bad after all! We didn't get round to packing in the afternoon, as the weather was just too nice so we headed out for a stroll in the sunshine and an ice-cream. Time to chill out in the sunshine is just too precious to miss...
So having finally packed some stuff in our panniers on Monday we set out last night for a test ride with fully loaded panniers. I found this absolutely fine on the flat sections, but it wasn't quite such an easy ride once we hit the hills. It could just have been that we've not been training as much recently, but we really struggled with the climbs. There were a couple of occasions when I came very close to getting off my bike and pushing it up the hills, but somehow found the strength to keep pedalling until I reached the top huffing and puffing and with my legs complaining loudly. Unfortunately I didn't have the nerves of steel needed for the descents the other side and twice I had to stop and get off my bike as I felt so unsteady and convinced I was going to end up in a heap in the hedge! I can only hope that there aren't too many steep hills in Brittany! I had another issue trying to get going on a hill and also had a near miss when I got off my bike to take a photo of a lamb and misjudged the weight of my bike, almost ending up on the floor with my bike on top of me. I think the weight could take a bit of getting used to...I just hope I can get used to it before I start getting tired and losing my ability to react quickly!
On the way back we bumped into my stepmum, sister and their dog Shadow. My sister has just learnt to ride a bike and seems to be doing really well, so I warned her that it could become a bit of an obsession and lead to ridiculous challenges like the one I'm facing now! We gratefully accepted some encouragement and wishes of luck for the trip and headed back home for a well earned dinner.
Anyway, there's not much more we can do now - except that I need to stop writing this blog and get some sleep! (Who booked us on a ferry that requires us to leave at 5am?!?) I don't feel I'm entirely ready for a grand tour, but I'm as ready as I'm going to be and I'm hoping it will be a great experience and a fun adventure, even though I know it's going to be hard work and pretty painful at times (or possibly constantly after day 2!) The highs and lows will all be posted here...watch this space!
Quiz Night
Just a quick post to say a huge thank you to everyone who came along to our French themed quiz night. It was great fun to organise and everyone seemed to have a good time. Congratulations to Jeign Craig and her team 'Les Baguettes' who won and well done to everyone who took part - all the teams did really well, especially on the anagrams, which resulted in a 6 team tie-breaker question! We raised just over £200 from the event, which is fantastic and a great boost to our sponsorship so far.
Thursday, 20 May 2010
My life seems to consist of training and sleeping and on the days when we have a day off from training I feel too tired to do anything! Last week we spent two evenings in the gym trying to build up our fitness and then on Saturday it was back on the bikes.
After a late night leaving do on Friday night, we finally set off at midday on Saturday armed with Pippa's directions for her Madhatter ride. We had no intention of getting round the whole route as we just wouldn't have time to complete it, but we hoped to get a good few miles in before home time. The first section of the route was really lovely and we had quiet roads and wide lanes to cycle through and I felt like I was coping comfortably with the hills, which was great! I hadn't realised that we would cross the top of Woodbury Common on the route to Otterton Mill and the climb up to the Common was the first to make me dig in and I was really beginning to look forward to our lunch stop. The views from the top of the Common were glorious and it was a great quick stretch to ride along. However, I was rather terrified by the time we came down to our turning for Otterton Mill. I'd been going faster and faster down the road and it felt like the bike was really sliding around beneath me. I'm not good at going fast! It was a relief to turn off the main road, but we were soon confronted by another steep downhill section. As we turned a corner we could see flood signs and water across the road at the bottom of the hill and despite braking as hard as I could, there was no way I could have stopped. Luckily when we got there it was only a very shallow stretch of water across the road and we passed through perfectly safely, but I'd had visions of ending up in a soggy heap at the bottom. A narrow escape and a clear sign that my brakes still need a bit more adjusting!
From there we followed signs to Otterton Mill where we stopped for a fantastic lunch. I've never seen such a huge jacket potato and with all the side salads too, it would have easily fed both of us! After refuelling and resisting the temptation to stock up on chocolate brownies (due to the fact that we had a perfectly good packed lunch in our panniers!) we headed back out to the bikes. When I rejoined Ant after using the facilities, he had just been chatting to a chap who'd turned up on the same bike as his...who turned out to be my tutor from University! It's a small world and it seems that everyone cycles these days!
From Otterton Mill we had a good run to Ottery St Mary and both still felt ok, but as time was ticking on and we needed to be home for guests in the evening, we decided to consult the map and plan our route home. We couldn't quite work out all the different roads leaving Ottery (which my old work colleagues will laugh at, as I could never find the route back to Exeter through the one way system!) so we decided to stick with Pippa's directions up to Feniton and to cut across to Talaton from there. Finding the way was easy enough, but the hill up into Talaton came close to defeating us. There were a couple of occasions where I really thought I'd have to get off and walk, but somehow we both managed to push through and make it up to Talaton. We stopped briefly outside the pub to check the map before making our way over to Broadclyst. The route to Broadclyst was surprisingly tiring and the wind was determined to slow us down! After another quick stop in Broadclyst to apologise to our guests and let them know we'd be a bit late back, we continued on our way back. We were both tired and hungry by now and the hills combined with the battering wind as we headed into Exeter were wearing us down. The relief of seeing our road was dampened when a car went to pull out at the bottom and I struggled to brake in time. I've tried my brakes on our hill many times before and usually it's fine, but after a full day of cycling my hands were tired and aching and I just didn't have the strength. Luckily the car saw me coming and stopped, but it was another tense moment and a final reminder to do something more drastic about the brakes.
On Sunday we joined Don for the CTC ride out to Bickleigh. Lyndsay joined us at Stoke Canon and we found we had lots to chat about as she teaches at the school I used to go to. We had a nice leisurely ride through the lanes chatting to one another, but as we joined the main road, we were also joined by rain and we all made a beeline for the dry and the promise of a nice cup of tea at Bickleigh. I made up for the previous day with a well-deserved chocolate brownie! We had a rather extended coffee stop, possibly due to the weather and possibly due to lots of people deciding to drive and not being in a hurry to get back on their bikes! It wasn't quite such a leisurely ride back to Exeter. Don set a fast pace and as I struggled to keep up, I began to fear that our imminent trip to Britanny may be rather beyond me! We said goodbye to Don on the Quay and headed home for lunch. Phew! I was relieved to learn on Monday that after leaving us, Don had been tired too and had caught the bus the rest of the way home...perhaps there's some hope for us after all!
After a late night leaving do on Friday night, we finally set off at midday on Saturday armed with Pippa's directions for her Madhatter ride. We had no intention of getting round the whole route as we just wouldn't have time to complete it, but we hoped to get a good few miles in before home time. The first section of the route was really lovely and we had quiet roads and wide lanes to cycle through and I felt like I was coping comfortably with the hills, which was great! I hadn't realised that we would cross the top of Woodbury Common on the route to Otterton Mill and the climb up to the Common was the first to make me dig in and I was really beginning to look forward to our lunch stop. The views from the top of the Common were glorious and it was a great quick stretch to ride along. However, I was rather terrified by the time we came down to our turning for Otterton Mill. I'd been going faster and faster down the road and it felt like the bike was really sliding around beneath me. I'm not good at going fast! It was a relief to turn off the main road, but we were soon confronted by another steep downhill section. As we turned a corner we could see flood signs and water across the road at the bottom of the hill and despite braking as hard as I could, there was no way I could have stopped. Luckily when we got there it was only a very shallow stretch of water across the road and we passed through perfectly safely, but I'd had visions of ending up in a soggy heap at the bottom. A narrow escape and a clear sign that my brakes still need a bit more adjusting!
From there we followed signs to Otterton Mill where we stopped for a fantastic lunch. I've never seen such a huge jacket potato and with all the side salads too, it would have easily fed both of us! After refuelling and resisting the temptation to stock up on chocolate brownies (due to the fact that we had a perfectly good packed lunch in our panniers!) we headed back out to the bikes. When I rejoined Ant after using the facilities, he had just been chatting to a chap who'd turned up on the same bike as his...who turned out to be my tutor from University! It's a small world and it seems that everyone cycles these days!
From Otterton Mill we had a good run to Ottery St Mary and both still felt ok, but as time was ticking on and we needed to be home for guests in the evening, we decided to consult the map and plan our route home. We couldn't quite work out all the different roads leaving Ottery (which my old work colleagues will laugh at, as I could never find the route back to Exeter through the one way system!) so we decided to stick with Pippa's directions up to Feniton and to cut across to Talaton from there. Finding the way was easy enough, but the hill up into Talaton came close to defeating us. There were a couple of occasions where I really thought I'd have to get off and walk, but somehow we both managed to push through and make it up to Talaton. We stopped briefly outside the pub to check the map before making our way over to Broadclyst. The route to Broadclyst was surprisingly tiring and the wind was determined to slow us down! After another quick stop in Broadclyst to apologise to our guests and let them know we'd be a bit late back, we continued on our way back. We were both tired and hungry by now and the hills combined with the battering wind as we headed into Exeter were wearing us down. The relief of seeing our road was dampened when a car went to pull out at the bottom and I struggled to brake in time. I've tried my brakes on our hill many times before and usually it's fine, but after a full day of cycling my hands were tired and aching and I just didn't have the strength. Luckily the car saw me coming and stopped, but it was another tense moment and a final reminder to do something more drastic about the brakes.
On Sunday we joined Don for the CTC ride out to Bickleigh. Lyndsay joined us at Stoke Canon and we found we had lots to chat about as she teaches at the school I used to go to. We had a nice leisurely ride through the lanes chatting to one another, but as we joined the main road, we were also joined by rain and we all made a beeline for the dry and the promise of a nice cup of tea at Bickleigh. I made up for the previous day with a well-deserved chocolate brownie! We had a rather extended coffee stop, possibly due to the weather and possibly due to lots of people deciding to drive and not being in a hurry to get back on their bikes! It wasn't quite such a leisurely ride back to Exeter. Don set a fast pace and as I struggled to keep up, I began to fear that our imminent trip to Britanny may be rather beyond me! We said goodbye to Don on the Quay and headed home for lunch. Phew! I was relieved to learn on Monday that after leaving us, Don had been tired too and had caught the bus the rest of the way home...perhaps there's some hope for us after all!
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