A Cyclist’s Dream
France Stage 05 – Orléans to Blois 66 Km (Wed 13 June 2018)
Weather: 10⁰C min – 17⁰C max, mostly overcast but fine
“Live life to the fullest, and focus on the positive.” ~ Matt Cameron
Given the task of designing the perfect bicycle route you would probably come up with something like … a safe, smooth, wide, paved path, well signposted, running alongside a majestic river, branching away occasionally to showcase a charming village, picturesque country, or an impressive mansion or castle. The result would be something like the Loire à Vélo route that I enjoyed today.
One of those charming villages was Meung-sur-Loire, where I just had to stop for a cappuccino and a baguette to enjoy later along the way.
I was overjoyed to see blue sky when I awoke this morning, but alas the sun soon became shy again and hid behind a sky full of clouds. The maximum temperature was only 17 degrees and it felt even colder because of the chilly breeze that persisted.
The occasional gravel sections did not detract from a good ride, because the surface was so smooth and well-compacted that it was like a sealed path. It would not be so good if it was raining though.
Blois, where I am staying tonight, is a magnificent town with an impressive centre and several historic monuments as well as the renowned Château de Blois in the centre of the town. A former residence of French kings, the Château is a majestic building that is unusual because it features several different architectural styles – Gothic, Flamboyant Gothic, Italian Renaissance and Classical – a wonderful range of French architecture.
If my next five days of riding along the Loire à Vélo are as good as today I will be able to look back at a memorable tour, particularly if the weather becomes a bit more like summer.
You are doing great Kevin – not so easy if the weather is lousy ! Keep it up – hope the sun comes out for you tomorrow.
Thanks Ursula. The forecast tomorrow is “mostly cloudy” which implies that I might get to see some sun. You never know!
Two tractors!! Love the converted bus & sculpture by the river!
Always on the lookout for tractors and cows. That is your birthday present!