On Monday, I loaded my gear on the bike and set out towards Nantes. The weather was splendid.
The first major task was crossing the Loire Bridge. There was steady traffic moving by me while I stayed to the very right of the bike lane. I considered taking a picture from the highest point, but with the slight wind and tight conditions, I chose to keep moving. I was further influenced Kenny Roger’s "The Gambler", which was running through my mind at the time. This crossing would be rather sketchy in high winds, especially on two wheels.
After getting crossed up initially, I found my way along the EuroVelo 6 route without too many wrong turns. Long, flat stretches were commonplace. Route signs at major junctions were something I looked for and appreciated.
Having a little time on my hands before Kelly Pigott, my riding partner, arrived (due to his late flight), I toured a Spanish galleon on the deep bank of the Loire. The replica ship gave me a historical understanding of wind powered sailing ships in the early age of nautical trade. The hammocks in the crew quarters were inviting.
I met Luc, our Airbnb host, at his place and had an opportunity to chat before Kelly arrived from Madrid with his boxed bicycle.
Kelly and I spent the evening socializing at a lively spot on the western end of an island in the middle of the Loire.
Tuesday was a day to grab groceries and a few essential touring items. We took an Uber to a local Decathlon store. I picked up a cheap pair of cycling sunglasses, bicycle tubes to fit my new wheels, bottle cages and an inexpensive yoga mat.
In the evening, Kelly put his bike together and we cooked a salmon dinner while watching Argentina defeat Nigeria in the World Cup.
Tomorrow, we ride.
No comments:
Post a Comment