Dave and his Bike

Not a great nights sleep. Partly due to the wind, but also the proximity of the N102 (main road) which had heavy traffic on it whilst it was still dark. Two cups of coffee soon got me over that.

The first climb out of Aubenas came soon. Hairpins on the map concerned me, but it just meant that the clmb had been graduated nicely and I could ride ‘tempo’ up it. Great views back over the town.

A really lovely road surface and steady descent for a few kilometres was refreshing after the climb, and a nice rest before the long climb up to the Col du Benas at 795m. Into the wind – lots of wind. I met Jane there for a quiche. The descent on the back road was a good few kilometres, steep and fast in places, but hampered by the road surface which wasn’t great. I actually had to stop at one point to cool my wheel rims down. I’m pleased I brought spade brake pads with me.

We met up again in McDonalds in Privas. Romantic setting. Cheap calories. I then picked up a Eurovelo route following the old railway line, which was a 1% downhill gradient and reasonably sheltered for over 15km. Great tarmac too. I crossed the river Rhône at Le Pouzin (met J again briefly) and continued on the cycle route. This time the surface changed, but was well graded gravel and easy to ride on. The wind, however, was back with a vengeance. The next two hours were spent banging into the strong headwind. I thought my legs would only last a short while, but the (small amount of) training I have done must have paid off, as I actually enjoyed myself. The last few days of mileage has probably helped. The gravel didn’t last long, and minor roads to Chabeuil became the order of the day.

Since tomorrow is a rest day and neither of us has slept particularly well, we opted for a B&B (Chambres d’Hôtes) for the night. It was lovely. Really great room and facilities, and friendly hosts who made us a cup of tea on arrival.

After a bedroom picnic, we headed out for a wander around Chabeuil in the dark. Beautiful sleepy little town.

Rest day tomorrow. Hopefully a comfortable bed and a lie in.