April 22, 2011

For the first time on the tour we decide to deviate from our planned route.  A cycle tourist from Prague tells us that there is a cycle path all along the coast to a giant dune , the Dune du Pilat / Pyla.  After risking life and limb for the last two days on the insane roads of France, we think a cycle path sounds attractive.  It turns out that it is as the path follows the shores of several picturesque lakes; although at times it is difficult to find our way because of a lack of sign-posts. 

We see the Atlantic Ocean for the first time across a beautiful sandy beach and arrive at the dune, which is spectacular.  It is absolutely huge and is the only sand dune I have seen with a set of steps up one side!

Shortly after leaving the dune we have difficulty finding our route again and it starts to rain, so we call it a day and find a hotel.

Some of you are wondering about Ken’s squeak – I’m happy to report that the greasing of the seat post seems to have cured it.  However, the focus of Ken’s attention has turned to his handlebar grips.  The bikes came supplied with expensive ergonomic grips which were quickly discarded at home as being ‘uncomfortable’.  Ken now finds that the new ones he bought give him numb hands.  So, we either need a bike shop with an extensive range of grips or a plumbers, apparently, as he has some modification in mind that involves pipe lagging.  Give me strength!!  Only 4500 km of this left to go!