Contis Plage

Today  I passed 1000 kms and, while doing so, managed to ride just over 100 kms from south of Arcachon to Contis Plage. Disappointingly, the odometer returned to zero rather than show 1000. never mind! This might seem impressive but, if you had met Madam at the Hotel last night you would understand my desire to put as much distance between her and me as possible!

After the stalwart efforts of my friends at Volteo-Batteries

and a brief and unplanned visit to Bordeaux Airport in an abortive attempt to sort out a Travelex related issue…..don’t ask! I boarded the train to Arcachon and watched anxiously as my bike hung like a side of pork. I had to have help to lift it on and off but, gracious to a fault, the other cyclists rallied around.

Up and away early this morning while Madam was still feeding the crows, I headed off not sure where I would end up tonight because I hadn’t been able to book ahead because of the poor internet connection.

The cycle path was good for the whole day and the weather was warm but sometimes overcast which was helpful for me and my pale skin. I avoided Mimizan Plage. Gilly and I were there about 35 years ago – was that with you and Alan, Marg? – the last time we were there all there was was a dead whale and a strong smell. Recent reports suggest it hasn’t changed much, except for the whale of course.

As an aside and talking of smells, I have been making a careful study of passing cyclists, not least because I am so slow compared to most.

Men waft by with no noticeable whiff but every passing woman brings with her the scent she has chosen for the day. Not something I would normally notice but it makes a change from the smell of pines. Hooray for the fragment women of France!

a few photos from my route today:

First view of the sea after the big dune at Pyla

Some steep hills between Biscarosse Plage and Biscarosse. I love my Pedelec!

Lovely views at the top

The canal feeds into the lake near Parentis

One of your mates Lucy? A rare Frites stall at Parentis

Lunchtime companion

Make that companions. Proof that my dog attracting skills are truly international

A lovely spot for a drinks stop

The balcony of my hotel room for the night. Washing done!

A pretty hotel garden tonight.

Contis Plage

They were a long way away. Can anyone tell what they are?

I am making plans to try and camp for a few days at St Jean de Luz before I get to Hendaye and on into Spain. If the weather holds it would be a shame not to use the camping kit I have lugged all this way. On the other hand, this hotel is very nice, and warm, with a comfortable bed……