As with climbing in the mountains, there comes a point where the cycle tourer needs to rest. Today was that day. We were both very keen for a day off the bike that involved minimal excursion and maximum calorific intake. It was time for an alpine rest day. We were tired.

The other main hub seemed to be the village tabac. Smoking and gambling (scratchcards) is a surprisingly popular pastime here. You can even buy an individual hand rolled ciggy at the till.

Planning our return route and all the logistics involved took up most of the afternoon at the camp. We’ve managed to get an earlier tunnel to allow for now having to quarantine on our return. We’ve made it as early as we dare, as it’s still a long peddle away. Hopefully we can make it in the reduced time frame! 

I took this photo for you Dad – thought you’d enjoy the the way the campsite has really handily put the water tap and camp electric supply so close together! Looks perfect safe don’t you think; as long as you’re wearing wellies! Ha ha! 

We managed to rest well, but did not do so well on feeding. Incredibly, of the four cafes/restaurants in the town, all were fully booked. Thankfully, one place kindly cooked us a couple of take away pizzas before they opened the doors at 7pm. They were delicious, but we could have done with something a bit heartier to aid the recovery. 

As forecast, after a lovely sunset, the towering dark clouds arrived. We had just got into the tent for the night, when the first flashes of lightning lit up the sky. It was one of the most prolonged storms I can remember. Multiple lightning bolts illuminated the tent for several seconds each and the thunder rumbled on for over twenty seconds at a time. We timed the gap between them, listening as it slowly made its way over head. Rain hammered down on the little tent, but we stayed toasty and dry. It seemed to go on for hours…