For once we didn’t have to worry about mozzies as we were safe and sound in our mobile home. We even managed to sit down for a proper breakfast at a table. What hadn’t changed was the weather, again very overcast with the constant threat of rain. On the way out of Parthenay we were rewarded with great views of the citadel
and then of the old town that followed it.
As the trail left town, both Tim and I had to get off our bikes and push uphill ! The mountains of Spain hadn’t defeated us, but an insanely steep bike path did.After that, things levelled out a bit and we had a great ride along the Thouet River.
The trail also crossed a wonderful 10th century bridge.
We stopped in the shade of an old church in Gouge, also from the 9th century with later additions. Apple pies for snacks. Across from the church were the public toilets, a bit run down and shared with a swallows nest. This time my privacy was disturbed by flying birds.
Next on the list the rather pretty town of St Loup.
Feeling peckish around lunchtime we stopped for coffee and Croque Monsiuer for the ridiculous cost of €8 each. Back to bread and cheese tomorrow.
We had hoped to visit and stay in Thouars, but it turned out the campsite was closed. In order to keep the mileage sensible, we missed Thouars and headed across country along tiny country roads to the next site in Montreuil-Bellay. We may stay here for a few days and tour some of the Loire Valley.
Day finished with a lovely meal of Ducks Gizzards salad and steak, washed down with beer and calvados – lovely !
Steady Pedals 