It was another perfect day for cycling. We did 65 K with a pretty stiff cross/tail wind that wasn’t much of a factor. Most of the ride was on macadam (roads) again today. We can travel so much faster on macadam as opposed to gravel.
Brian and Mark had very minor falls when they couldn’t get their shoes unclipped after coming to a stop in Amboise because of pedestrians. Mark insists he fell just to keep Brian from suffering the embarrassment alone. Since no one got hurt, I can say it was very comical. A touch of the two stooges.
We ate a light lunch in the town of Amboise after touring the Chateau du Clos Luce, Leonardo da Vinci’s home the last years of his life, 1516 to 1519. Worth seeing but perhaps a touch overpriced. Beth was going to meet us but the parking was limited and she couldn’t get there in time because of a detour due to an accident. She met us for lunch instead and then toured a different chateau while we pedaled off.
Beth passed us coming into Blois (tonight’s destination) but we were able to beat her to the hotel. There is something to be said for traveling by bike in city traffic, especially when there are dedicated bike lanes. I must say that throughout this trip, the motorists have been very courteous to bikers. We assume many drivers also ride bikes.
Walked to a restaurant, as usual. Beautiful vistas in this city. So far, my prettiest city. Didn’t bring my iPad to take pictures tonight. Bummer. Might be able to take a few as we are leaving tomorrow morning.
Today’s pics for the blog.
The brothers outside Leonardo da Vinci’s chateau.
Typical view of today’s bike path/local road.
My traveling partners still at da Vinci’s.
Brian at lunch. The chateau of King Francis I, the one Beth toured, is in the background.
Relaxing in the hotel bar after the day’s ride. That carpet is really ugly!!
Tomorrow we plan to stop at Chambord, another chateau. It’s kind of on our way to Orleans where we will spend our last night on the Loire River. It’s hard to believe tomorrow is our last full day of riding. It’s been a great trip. We are thinking next year Germany and then the following year the Provence section of France. We’ll see.
Hope you are enjoying the blog.