Message to Magoo - by my reckoning the error in my calculations was less than 2%, I would be prepared to consider a similar error with regard to Dardenelles. This concession does not, of course, alter the position of the mooring of the British Fleet prior to the invasion of Dardenelles.
The Blog is Dead, Long live the Blog!!
Tuesday, 26 June 2007
Wednesday, 20 June 2007
The Distance
Total Distance since leaving Worcester on 30th April was 1963 miles which according to my calculations equates to 3,140 Kilometers. My original calculations obviously totally up the creek!
Monday, 18 June 2007
I've made it!!
Friday 8th June
After Thunder Storm - Calm, perfect calm! and after packing wet tent and about 20 miles stopped for the second best coffee of the trip, this one without alcohol, at Margherta di Savoia and then continued on to Bari. Just before Bari stopped and chatted to fellow touring cyclist from Ukraine who was making his way back through Venice, Vienna and Bratislava. Found the ferry and booked overnight crossing to Patras.
Saturday 9th June
Arrived Patras about 1.00pm and booked into hotel and spent the rest of the day looking around Patras which has a big fort at the top of the town, but this was locked up, and it has a fantastic Amphitheater, obviously in use for musical and drama events, but also locked!
Sunday 10th June
Had a job getting up, probably due to time change! but eventually got going along the old road to Pireaus, which runs pretty well parallel with the new one, but has very little traffic on it and is actually very lovely, running mostly on the south side of the Gulf of Corinth. Made about 40 miles and saw campsite, but decided to continue on until the next one, but didn't see another campsite or hotel for another 35+miles. Eventually found very posh hotel, which I checked into.
Monday 11 June
After incredible buffet breakfast continued on to Pireaus. The early cycling still very good and passed over the Corinth Canal, which is a pretty impressive feat of engineering. After the Corinth Canal the traffic started to build up, and continued to do so until it reached epic proportions as I was nearing the Port. I was mighty relieved to finally pedal into the docks and book overnight ticket to Mytilene. Not quite sure how I managed it but booked the most sumptuous cabin, with large double bed, two sofas, TV and view overlooking the bows of the boat; all for 80 Euros.
Tuesday 12 June
Arrived Mytilene about 8 a.m and decided to press on across the island of Lesbos before it got too hot. It felt quite strange being on familiar territory for the first time for 5 or 6 weeks. Stoppped off at Piss Pot Corner for a P! The last hill out of Kaloni was a struggle but as I arrived in Lafionas, I felt great sense of euphoria for the second time on the trip; the first being when I reached Col de Larche in the Alps. Fantastic to be here and put my feet up, enjoy a few beers with Birdy, William, Claire and Liz and apologies to those people who have been waiting for this update and who have surported me over the past 6 weeks. I did try to update 3 days ago, but as I tried to load up the entry managed to delete the entry - fed up!
It's been a great trip and a fantastic experience, I've met some lovely people. It's lived up, if not exceeded my expectations, and I will definitely be doing the return journey, hopefully within the next 2 or 3 years.
After Thunder Storm - Calm, perfect calm! and after packing wet tent and about 20 miles stopped for the second best coffee of the trip, this one without alcohol, at Margherta di Savoia and then continued on to Bari. Just before Bari stopped and chatted to fellow touring cyclist from Ukraine who was making his way back through Venice, Vienna and Bratislava. Found the ferry and booked overnight crossing to Patras.
Saturday 9th June
Arrived Patras about 1.00pm and booked into hotel and spent the rest of the day looking around Patras which has a big fort at the top of the town, but this was locked up, and it has a fantastic Amphitheater, obviously in use for musical and drama events, but also locked!
Sunday 10th June
Had a job getting up, probably due to time change! but eventually got going along the old road to Pireaus, which runs pretty well parallel with the new one, but has very little traffic on it and is actually very lovely, running mostly on the south side of the Gulf of Corinth. Made about 40 miles and saw campsite, but decided to continue on until the next one, but didn't see another campsite or hotel for another 35+miles. Eventually found very posh hotel, which I checked into.
Monday 11 June
After incredible buffet breakfast continued on to Pireaus. The early cycling still very good and passed over the Corinth Canal, which is a pretty impressive feat of engineering. After the Corinth Canal the traffic started to build up, and continued to do so until it reached epic proportions as I was nearing the Port. I was mighty relieved to finally pedal into the docks and book overnight ticket to Mytilene. Not quite sure how I managed it but booked the most sumptuous cabin, with large double bed, two sofas, TV and view overlooking the bows of the boat; all for 80 Euros.
Tuesday 12 June
Arrived Mytilene about 8 a.m and decided to press on across the island of Lesbos before it got too hot. It felt quite strange being on familiar territory for the first time for 5 or 6 weeks. Stoppped off at Piss Pot Corner for a P! The last hill out of Kaloni was a struggle but as I arrived in Lafionas, I felt great sense of euphoria for the second time on the trip; the first being when I reached Col de Larche in the Alps. Fantastic to be here and put my feet up, enjoy a few beers with Birdy, William, Claire and Liz and apologies to those people who have been waiting for this update and who have surported me over the past 6 weeks. I did try to update 3 days ago, but as I tried to load up the entry managed to delete the entry - fed up!
It's been a great trip and a fantastic experience, I've met some lovely people. It's lived up, if not exceeded my expectations, and I will definitely be doing the return journey, hopefully within the next 2 or 3 years.
Saturday, 9 June 2007
Towards Bari
Wednesday 6th June
Arrived Termoli mid afternoon and stayed in 'bed and breakfast'. Great to sleep in clean bed after 3 or 4 nights camping. Great meal with mussels in Termoli last night. Left early and had I think the worst days cycling so far, across very sparse countryside and against stiff headwind. A lot of the surrounding area seemed to be dominated by Quarrying. Eventually arrived in Ippocampo, where I managed to persuade workmen to let me camp!
On another issue I am sorry to see that the level of chat has dimished from an acceptable level since "Birdy" has entered the fray. Perhaps it's just as well that my journey is coming to an end.
Thursday 7th June
Much better days cycling, after almighty thunder storms last night. The first time that I've ever felt nervous in a thunder storm! Arrived Bari mid-afternoon and bought ticket for overnight ferry to Patras.
Arrived Termoli mid afternoon and stayed in 'bed and breakfast'. Great to sleep in clean bed after 3 or 4 nights camping. Great meal with mussels in Termoli last night. Left early and had I think the worst days cycling so far, across very sparse countryside and against stiff headwind. A lot of the surrounding area seemed to be dominated by Quarrying. Eventually arrived in Ippocampo, where I managed to persuade workmen to let me camp!
On another issue I am sorry to see that the level of chat has dimished from an acceptable level since "Birdy" has entered the fray. Perhaps it's just as well that my journey is coming to an end.
Thursday 7th June
Much better days cycling, after almighty thunder storms last night. The first time that I've ever felt nervous in a thunder storm! Arrived Bari mid-afternoon and bought ticket for overnight ferry to Patras.
Tuesday, 5 June 2007
The rain is not only in Spain!
Saturday 2nd June
Pouring with rain when we woke this day of departure and parting! So accompanied Sweetheart to the airport, and kissed goodbye. By the time I had got back to Cosy House, the rain had eased so I set off, with a brisk wind which for once was behind me, so made good time, and reached the East coast just north of Rimini, at a place called Cesenatica. Found a good little hotel amongst a hoard of other holiday hotels.
Sunday 3rd June
Made my way south east through Rimini and other tourist resorts. Some very up market and some not so! Stayed the night at Fano Camp Site. Enjoyed a great coffee with a bunch of young people, Italian, Belgian, and Brazilian. Coffee consisted of two spirits mixed, black coffee and a small slice of lemon peel. Apparantly it's what the local fishermen drink. One of the best coffees I've ever tasted.
Monday 4th June
I felt very tired yesterday, but much better today. Packed up and on the road before 9 having eaten breakfast in campsite bar. The wind is still behind me, so I am taking the opportunity to get south before it gets too hot. Stayed the night in camp site in Via Violle, which sums it up, because it is vile! The atmosphere is a bit like Butlins, and at about 9.30 a group starts up, and "oldies" starting dancing.
Tuesday 5th June
Good cycling with the wind still behind me. I'm sticking to the coast road, it's too hilly back from the coast, but some of the countryside up in the hills looks really lovely. Making my way to Ortona tonight. Clocked over the 1,500 mile mark today.
Pouring with rain when we woke this day of departure and parting! So accompanied Sweetheart to the airport, and kissed goodbye. By the time I had got back to Cosy House, the rain had eased so I set off, with a brisk wind which for once was behind me, so made good time, and reached the East coast just north of Rimini, at a place called Cesenatica. Found a good little hotel amongst a hoard of other holiday hotels.
Sunday 3rd June
Made my way south east through Rimini and other tourist resorts. Some very up market and some not so! Stayed the night at Fano Camp Site. Enjoyed a great coffee with a bunch of young people, Italian, Belgian, and Brazilian. Coffee consisted of two spirits mixed, black coffee and a small slice of lemon peel. Apparantly it's what the local fishermen drink. One of the best coffees I've ever tasted.
Monday 4th June
I felt very tired yesterday, but much better today. Packed up and on the road before 9 having eaten breakfast in campsite bar. The wind is still behind me, so I am taking the opportunity to get south before it gets too hot. Stayed the night in camp site in Via Violle, which sums it up, because it is vile! The atmosphere is a bit like Butlins, and at about 9.30 a group starts up, and "oldies" starting dancing.
Tuesday 5th June
Good cycling with the wind still behind me. I'm sticking to the coast road, it's too hilly back from the coast, but some of the countryside up in the hills looks really lovely. Making my way to Ortona tonight. Clocked over the 1,500 mile mark today.
Friday, 1 June 2007
Bologna
27th May - 1st June
"sweetheart" and I have had a really great time in Bologna. We can understand why they call this place "La Grassa" - the Fat One. The food here is just fantastic and we seem to have wandered from one great Trattoria to another; each one has its own character and the food is irresistable and inexpensive.
Rachael and Sue Goodfellow joined us for a couple of nights and helped us consume, what seemed like vast amounts of great pasta etc. Great to see both girls, and we had a good time with each other.
The Knees are easing up a little but still too stiff to kneel!
Tomorrow "Sweetheart" returns to England and I will continue my travels down the east coast of Italy, to Bari where I hope to be around 12th June to catch ferry to Patras.
It will be quite strange getting on my "Saracen" again after a great six day break, where I think I have managed to replenish the few pounds that I lost whilst struggling over the Alps!
"sweetheart" and I have had a really great time in Bologna. We can understand why they call this place "La Grassa" - the Fat One. The food here is just fantastic and we seem to have wandered from one great Trattoria to another; each one has its own character and the food is irresistable and inexpensive.
Rachael and Sue Goodfellow joined us for a couple of nights and helped us consume, what seemed like vast amounts of great pasta etc. Great to see both girls, and we had a good time with each other.
The Knees are easing up a little but still too stiff to kneel!
Tomorrow "Sweetheart" returns to England and I will continue my travels down the east coast of Italy, to Bari where I hope to be around 12th June to catch ferry to Patras.
It will be quite strange getting on my "Saracen" again after a great six day break, where I think I have managed to replenish the few pounds that I lost whilst struggling over the Alps!
Monday, 28 May 2007
Bologna with Sweetheart!
Sunday 27th May
Arrived Bologna and spent last night in Youth Hostel. Made my way to "Cosy House" to spend a "cosy time" with Sweetheart! Cosy House is very splendid appartment very near the centre and old part of the city. After booking in and stowing my bike away and enjoying coffee with Gabrielle, the lady of the house, I decided to have a look around town whilst waiting for Susan to arrive.
It's been going throught my mind as to whether to get down on one knee, but the ride over the Alps has made the knees very stiff! - I can't bend zee kneez!
It was really great to see "Sweetheat" when she arrived at about 7.30, and we went out enjoyed a lovely meal together - Ahhhhh!!!
Happy Birthday - Crow! if you are reading this. We will have a drink together when I get home.
Monday 28th May
After a romantic lie-in with Sweetheart!!!!!! We enjoyed breakfast with other guests, an interesting American lady, who had worked in Serbia and was on her way to a wedding there, and an Australian couple. Raining today! but still enjoyed a great day around the old part of Bologna.
Arrived Bologna and spent last night in Youth Hostel. Made my way to "Cosy House" to spend a "cosy time" with Sweetheart! Cosy House is very splendid appartment very near the centre and old part of the city. After booking in and stowing my bike away and enjoying coffee with Gabrielle, the lady of the house, I decided to have a look around town whilst waiting for Susan to arrive.
It's been going throught my mind as to whether to get down on one knee, but the ride over the Alps has made the knees very stiff! - I can't bend zee kneez!
It was really great to see "Sweetheat" when she arrived at about 7.30, and we went out enjoyed a lovely meal together - Ahhhhh!!!
Happy Birthday - Crow! if you are reading this. We will have a drink together when I get home.
Monday 28th May
After a romantic lie-in with Sweetheart!!!!!! We enjoyed breakfast with other guests, an interesting American lady, who had worked in Serbia and was on her way to a wedding there, and an Australian couple. Raining today! but still enjoyed a great day around the old part of Bologna.
Saturday, 26 May 2007
Etienne, the Belgian Commando!
Thursday 24th May
Etienne, a fellow cycle tourist, from Belgium, came over and introduced himself to me. We had a brief chat and it turned out he was off to the same destination, Cremona, that evening. So when I arrived at Cremona camp site I could see that he had already arrived. I pitched tent, enjoyed a glass of wine with an English couple and then Etienne and I ate at campsite bar. We had a lot of notes to compare, though I realise I am an amateur compared to him. He has cycled the Santiago de Compostella pilgimage twice by different routes.
He told me a great tale when he was a commando in the Belgian army. His unit were posted to the Grampian hills on Scottish borders to do some mortar practice. The weather was very cold with patches of snow about. The commander of the unit saw a white patch in the distance and, thinking it was a patch of snow, told the unit to use that as their target. The unit set about mortaring the white patch. It was only when the local farmer came along to complain that they realised it was in fact a flock of sheep. They were eating mutton for the next week!
Friday 25th May
Although still very hot, I made the sennsible decision of heading north to flat country, so getting the bulk of the miles done before it gets to hot isn't too much of a problem. Etienne and I agreed we would meet up again that evening before we went our separate ways. He was on his way to Rome, while I am just over a day from Bologna and a few days break with "Sweetheart". We met up at Guassala Youth Hostel which was a pleasant enough place, and we enjoyed a good meal together at a nearby club/restaurant. Problem only occurred later when a group of young italians decided to have a party downstairs, so couldn't get to sleep until 2.
Saturday 26th May
Left Guassalla Youth Hostel and enjoyed breakfast in town with Etienne, before saying goodbye, promising to keep in touch by email. Made my way to Cento, thinking I could find camp site or lodging for the night, but couldn't fing anything, so carried on to Bologna Youth Hostel for the night. Looking forward to seeing "Sweetheart" tomorrow.
Etienne, a fellow cycle tourist, from Belgium, came over and introduced himself to me. We had a brief chat and it turned out he was off to the same destination, Cremona, that evening. So when I arrived at Cremona camp site I could see that he had already arrived. I pitched tent, enjoyed a glass of wine with an English couple and then Etienne and I ate at campsite bar. We had a lot of notes to compare, though I realise I am an amateur compared to him. He has cycled the Santiago de Compostella pilgimage twice by different routes.
He told me a great tale when he was a commando in the Belgian army. His unit were posted to the Grampian hills on Scottish borders to do some mortar practice. The weather was very cold with patches of snow about. The commander of the unit saw a white patch in the distance and, thinking it was a patch of snow, told the unit to use that as their target. The unit set about mortaring the white patch. It was only when the local farmer came along to complain that they realised it was in fact a flock of sheep. They were eating mutton for the next week!
Friday 25th May
Although still very hot, I made the sennsible decision of heading north to flat country, so getting the bulk of the miles done before it gets to hot isn't too much of a problem. Etienne and I agreed we would meet up again that evening before we went our separate ways. He was on his way to Rome, while I am just over a day from Bologna and a few days break with "Sweetheart". We met up at Guassala Youth Hostel which was a pleasant enough place, and we enjoyed a good meal together at a nearby club/restaurant. Problem only occurred later when a group of young italians decided to have a party downstairs, so couldn't get to sleep until 2.
Saturday 26th May
Left Guassalla Youth Hostel and enjoyed breakfast in town with Etienne, before saying goodbye, promising to keep in touch by email. Made my way to Cento, thinking I could find camp site or lodging for the night, but couldn't fing anything, so carried on to Bologna Youth Hostel for the night. Looking forward to seeing "Sweetheart" tomorrow.
Thursday, 24 May 2007
It ain't 'alf 'ot Mum!!
Tuesday 22nd May
I thought it was me who was feeling the heat, but now I realise that all the Italians are feeling it as well! After leaving camp site in Alba, made my way to Allesandria, after stopping of at beautiful little hillside village of Neive. By the time I had got to Allesandria I was pretty exhausted by the heat, so although the Youth Hostel that I found there was a bit strange, I was pleased to find a clean bed and a shower. Found a great little pizza bar, where I enjoyed great pizza, large beer and glass of beer for 8 euros. Two very jolly fat Italians running the bar.
Wednesday 23rd May
It's getting hotter. Apparently 33 - 35°C. But felt better today. Made my way to Pavia, and found good campsite. Had quite a long chat with Dutch couple and a Belgian Cyclist who was towing all his gear on a little trailer - I reckon I could have managed the cast iron bath after all, Magoo!
Thurday 24th May
Got up early and all packed up before 8.30, so as to try and get some miles in before it gets too hot. Good tactics, because I managed 40 miles before 1.00. Arrived in Cremona, which is where I am now. I've just got directions to camp site.
Lovely town. Not too far to Bologna now, and a few days break.
I thought it was me who was feeling the heat, but now I realise that all the Italians are feeling it as well! After leaving camp site in Alba, made my way to Allesandria, after stopping of at beautiful little hillside village of Neive. By the time I had got to Allesandria I was pretty exhausted by the heat, so although the Youth Hostel that I found there was a bit strange, I was pleased to find a clean bed and a shower. Found a great little pizza bar, where I enjoyed great pizza, large beer and glass of beer for 8 euros. Two very jolly fat Italians running the bar.
Wednesday 23rd May
It's getting hotter. Apparently 33 - 35°C. But felt better today. Made my way to Pavia, and found good campsite. Had quite a long chat with Dutch couple and a Belgian Cyclist who was towing all his gear on a little trailer - I reckon I could have managed the cast iron bath after all, Magoo!
Thurday 24th May
Got up early and all packed up before 8.30, so as to try and get some miles in before it gets too hot. Good tactics, because I managed 40 miles before 1.00. Arrived in Cremona, which is where I am now. I've just got directions to camp site.
Lovely town. Not too far to Bologna now, and a few days break.
Tuesday, 22 May 2007
Alba
Tuesday 22nd May
Arrived Alba Campsite, which is very special, only a year old and with every mod con, swimming pool, washing machines etc. I've actually done a load of washing, so shouldn't be too smelly for meeting "Sweetheart" on Sunday.
Christina, the charming young girl on reception at camping, advised me on a restaurant to try in Alba. This was brilliant choice, everything that an italian restaurant should be - great food, busy bustling atmosphere and Paulo the waiter, who obviously has an interest in the business, a great bloke. He introduced me Matt Patterson who used to live in Worcester, and says he can remember Jo when she was at school!
Arrived Alba Campsite, which is very special, only a year old and with every mod con, swimming pool, washing machines etc. I've actually done a load of washing, so shouldn't be too smelly for meeting "Sweetheart" on Sunday.
Christina, the charming young girl on reception at camping, advised me on a restaurant to try in Alba. This was brilliant choice, everything that an italian restaurant should be - great food, busy bustling atmosphere and Paulo the waiter, who obviously has an interest in the business, a great bloke. He introduced me Matt Patterson who used to live in Worcester, and says he can remember Jo when she was at school!
Monday, 21 May 2007
1,000 Miles
Cost me 9€ at internet cafe to update this morning and I get to camp site in Alba and internet is free! Godamit!
Got up this morning, put on my NBCC tee-shirt (NBCC is the Naunton Beauchamp Cycling Club for those who are not aware of this exclusive club - total membership - 2), anyway put on NBCC tee-shirt, because today is the special day that I passed the first 1,000 miles. Since I put my tee-shirt on, I have had several comments on the very tasteful colour chosen for these exclusive shirts!
One other person who I must thank, in encouraging me and helping me set up the justgiving page is Peter Maple. Thanks Pete for all your support.
Also thanks Sweetheart for your comments, and I now have details of Cosy House, in Bologna - see you there on Sunday, looking forward to sharing a bottle of wine with you.
Got up this morning, put on my NBCC tee-shirt (NBCC is the Naunton Beauchamp Cycling Club for those who are not aware of this exclusive club - total membership - 2), anyway put on NBCC tee-shirt, because today is the special day that I passed the first 1,000 miles. Since I put my tee-shirt on, I have had several comments on the very tasteful colour chosen for these exclusive shirts!
One other person who I must thank, in encouraging me and helping me set up the justgiving page is Peter Maple. Thanks Pete for all your support.
Also thanks Sweetheart for your comments, and I now have details of Cosy House, in Bologna - see you there on Sunday, looking forward to sharing a bottle of wine with you.
Saluzzo
Sunday 20th May
After breakfast in campsite bar made my way to Saluzzo, where I found excellent "Bed e Breakfast". Couple could not have been more charming and brought me a basket of cherries, just picked from the garden. Walked into the Old Town which is just charming, apparently known as the little Sienna of the North. Enjoyed seafood spagetti in Tattoria.
Monday 21st May
Got up and opened french windows to my room to find beautiful breakfast laid out on patio. The best breakfast I've had so far. Set off about 9.30 and am now in Bra, which isn't nearly as exciting as I thought it might be, because there isn't much in it! I wonder if they could twin Bra with Knockin!
After breakfast in campsite bar made my way to Saluzzo, where I found excellent "Bed e Breakfast". Couple could not have been more charming and brought me a basket of cherries, just picked from the garden. Walked into the Old Town which is just charming, apparently known as the little Sienna of the North. Enjoyed seafood spagetti in Tattoria.
Monday 21st May
Got up and opened french windows to my room to find beautiful breakfast laid out on patio. The best breakfast I've had so far. Set off about 9.30 and am now in Bra, which isn't nearly as exciting as I thought it might be, because there isn't much in it! I wonder if they could twin Bra with Knockin!
Over the top!
Saturday 19th May
Set off on the last 750 meters climb with some trepidation, but looking back it was a great experience. Fantastic scenery and lovely weather. The only other cyclists that I saw in the Alps were "Tour de France" types, who whould pass by at what seemed an amazing speed. Some shouted "Bon Courage!" as they sped passed, which I'm not sure was an indication that I was completely mad or were words of encouragement. Anyway, I took it to mean the latter and in some small way it helped me on my way.
Celebrated, as soon as I crossed the Italian border with Panini and Biccheri Vino Rosso!
Made my way to Cuneo, where I found good campsite and enjoyed a couple of beers and meal in great little campsite bar.
Set off on the last 750 meters climb with some trepidation, but looking back it was a great experience. Fantastic scenery and lovely weather. The only other cyclists that I saw in the Alps were "Tour de France" types, who whould pass by at what seemed an amazing speed. Some shouted "Bon Courage!" as they sped passed, which I'm not sure was an indication that I was completely mad or were words of encouragement. Anyway, I took it to mean the latter and in some small way it helped me on my way.
Celebrated, as soon as I crossed the Italian border with Panini and Biccheri Vino Rosso!
Made my way to Cuneo, where I found good campsite and enjoyed a couple of beers and meal in great little campsite bar.
Saturday, 19 May 2007
The Alps!
Thurs 17th May
Stayed night last night in Chambre d'hote in St Croix. Raining again but climbed up Col de Cabre 1180 metres and ate sandwich in bar at top, when I came out it had stopped! Lovely downhill to Gap where I couldn't find camp site, so stayed at Formula 1 hotel.
Friday 18th May
Lovely weather at last. Easy cycling at first but then some hard climbing. I've never seen so many motor bikes - I think this must be the Mecca for "bikers"! The hard climb is worth it because the scenery in spectacular. Camped in Barcelonnette, which is a lovely town. Got up early and have just made a quick stop for breakfast before last steep climb to Col de Larche and Italia.
A note for John Daws and "the Bolt" - We ought to come here on our Motor bikes, it really is brilliant biking country. And thanks John for your comments, and sorry to have missed you at Rugby Club reunion. Just off to climb last 700+metres!
Stayed night last night in Chambre d'hote in St Croix. Raining again but climbed up Col de Cabre 1180 metres and ate sandwich in bar at top, when I came out it had stopped! Lovely downhill to Gap where I couldn't find camp site, so stayed at Formula 1 hotel.
Friday 18th May
Lovely weather at last. Easy cycling at first but then some hard climbing. I've never seen so many motor bikes - I think this must be the Mecca for "bikers"! The hard climb is worth it because the scenery in spectacular. Camped in Barcelonnette, which is a lovely town. Got up early and have just made a quick stop for breakfast before last steep climb to Col de Larche and Italia.
A note for John Daws and "the Bolt" - We ought to come here on our Motor bikes, it really is brilliant biking country. And thanks John for your comments, and sorry to have missed you at Rugby Club reunion. Just off to climb last 700+metres!
Wednesday, 16 May 2007
Crossing From Loire to Saonne
12th May
Spent the night at excellent Chambre d'hote in Diou.
13th May
Got up reasonably early only to find puncture in front wheel! but eventually made steady progress to Chauffailles, pitched tent in excellent camp site where Dutch were having a caravan rally - all were very kind, gave me beer salad etc, as all Dutch people are except "Baby" who makes disparaging remarks about me feeling at home in Moronville! Storm Clouds were brewing, and there was almighty Thunder Storm in the night.
14th May
Still raining but packed up and set off. 7 miles up hill and then almost all downhill to Villefranche. Still pouring and although only 35 miles called it a day and found good inexpensive hotel.
15th May
Off before 9, after petit dejeuner in great hotel bar. Made 74 miles today with wind behind me alongside Soanne and Rhone though Lyon, brilliant city to cycle though with cycle paths all alongside river passing markets etc. 744 miles total so far. Pitched tent in St Vallier alongside Rhone.
16th May
On my way towards Alps. Thanks Magoo for "confortable words" - "The lord Alps those that Alps themselves!"
Spent the night at excellent Chambre d'hote in Diou.
13th May
Got up reasonably early only to find puncture in front wheel! but eventually made steady progress to Chauffailles, pitched tent in excellent camp site where Dutch were having a caravan rally - all were very kind, gave me beer salad etc, as all Dutch people are except "Baby" who makes disparaging remarks about me feeling at home in Moronville! Storm Clouds were brewing, and there was almighty Thunder Storm in the night.
14th May
Still raining but packed up and set off. 7 miles up hill and then almost all downhill to Villefranche. Still pouring and although only 35 miles called it a day and found good inexpensive hotel.
15th May
Off before 9, after petit dejeuner in great hotel bar. Made 74 miles today with wind behind me alongside Soanne and Rhone though Lyon, brilliant city to cycle though with cycle paths all alongside river passing markets etc. 744 miles total so far. Pitched tent in St Vallier alongside Rhone.
16th May
On my way towards Alps. Thanks Magoo for "confortable words" - "The lord Alps those that Alps themselves!"
Saturday, 12 May 2007
A few thanks!
Thanks to everyone who has supported me both with donations and with support on the blog. Thank you Ben for looking up blog and passing comments on to mother - Cheers crow and the Barrel! And thanks to everone for their birthday good wishes. And thanks to Magoo for giving me the idea of thinking destination St Tropez instead of Lafionas! Merci bucket to you all!
Leaving Sully sur Loire
11th May
After having a great birthday with Patrick and Ros, and much merriment in Sully trying to find out whether it would be possible to get papers sent out to France 'poste restante' - poste master decided he wanted me to go to Allency; but I didn't want to go to Allency because I am 'Monsieur Velo'! (don't laugh bladder).
Made good progress alongside the Loire and found great campsite on an island on river in La Charite sur Loire. Cooked myself Steak Hache and Fried onions and swilled it down with Cote du Rhone!Brilliant!
Clocked up 62 miles today and just passed 500 total.
12th May
Left La Charite sur Loire after good petite dejeuner and made further good progress until I found this lovely little bar with internet, Albert settled me down with a computer for no cost! apparently they have a computer club here. I've just ordered myself an ommelete from Vero, they look so good.
Merci, encore, M. et Mme Bladder pour votre hospitality - M. Velo!
After having a great birthday with Patrick and Ros, and much merriment in Sully trying to find out whether it would be possible to get papers sent out to France 'poste restante' - poste master decided he wanted me to go to Allency; but I didn't want to go to Allency because I am 'Monsieur Velo'! (don't laugh bladder).
Made good progress alongside the Loire and found great campsite on an island on river in La Charite sur Loire. Cooked myself Steak Hache and Fried onions and swilled it down with Cote du Rhone!Brilliant!
Clocked up 62 miles today and just passed 500 total.
12th May
Left La Charite sur Loire after good petite dejeuner and made further good progress until I found this lovely little bar with internet, Albert settled me down with a computer for no cost! apparently they have a computer club here. I've just ordered myself an ommelete from Vero, they look so good.
Merci, encore, M. et Mme Bladder pour votre hospitality - M. Velo!
Thursday, 10 May 2007
Sully sur Loire - Base camp!
9th May
I was sorry to leave Moronville after such a good time staying in such comfort, but got on the road again just after nine. Weather better but still overcast and strong cross wind. Eventually reached the Loire about 30km east of Orleans and had a good cycle along the banks of the river until I reached Sully sur Loire. Found Patrick and Ros on camp site just on north side of river. Walked into Sully and enjoyed good meal, then returned to camper van for a Jameson or two.
10th May
C'est mon anniversaire! Ros cooked great breakfast to celebrate, two birthday cards a Rugby World cup cap, and "Magnetic Mary" as birthday presents. Patrick and I are going into Sully to take a look at Chateau this afternoon and book birthday meal.
I was sorry to leave Moronville after such a good time staying in such comfort, but got on the road again just after nine. Weather better but still overcast and strong cross wind. Eventually reached the Loire about 30km east of Orleans and had a good cycle along the banks of the river until I reached Sully sur Loire. Found Patrick and Ros on camp site just on north side of river. Walked into Sully and enjoyed good meal, then returned to camper van for a Jameson or two.
10th May
C'est mon anniversaire! Ros cooked great breakfast to celebrate, two birthday cards a Rugby World cup cap, and "Magnetic Mary" as birthday presents. Patrick and I are going into Sully to take a look at Chateau this afternoon and book birthday meal.
Wednesday, 9 May 2007
Moronville
8th May
The weather still bad, so decided to spend another night at exellent chambre d'hote.
8th may is France's day of remembrance of those killed in World War 2. Yves and Florence invited me to join them at simple ceremony in Courbehaye, the next village. During the ceromony each of the names of those killed in the two wars was read out. A really quite moving few moments. Enjoyed the rest of the day around Moronville.
9th May
After a good breakfast started out just after 9 en route to Sully sur Loire to meet up with Patrick and Ros (M. et Mme. Bladder!. The weather looks a little better.
The weather still bad, so decided to spend another night at exellent chambre d'hote.
8th may is France's day of remembrance of those killed in World War 2. Yves and Florence invited me to join them at simple ceremony in Courbehaye, the next village. During the ceromony each of the names of those killed in the two wars was read out. A really quite moving few moments. Enjoyed the rest of the day around Moronville.
9th May
After a good breakfast started out just after 9 en route to Sully sur Loire to meet up with Patrick and Ros (M. et Mme. Bladder!. The weather looks a little better.
Monday, 7 May 2007
Chartres
6th May
Stayed the night in Chambre d'hote in Nogent le Roi and arrived Chartres about midday. Enjoyed croque monsieur at little bar and booked Chambre d'hote with Florence and Yves Hurbault in the lovely little hamlet of Moronville. After a lovely hot bath I enjoyed a splendid meal with my hosts who could not have been more hospitable. Not sure whether to spend another night here because the weather forcast is not good - and the hospitality here is so good!! Anyone else wanting to share this wonderful place should log on to:- www.gitedemoronville.com.fr
Stayed the night in Chambre d'hote in Nogent le Roi and arrived Chartres about midday. Enjoyed croque monsieur at little bar and booked Chambre d'hote with Florence and Yves Hurbault in the lovely little hamlet of Moronville. After a lovely hot bath I enjoyed a splendid meal with my hosts who could not have been more hospitable. Not sure whether to spend another night here because the weather forcast is not good - and the hospitality here is so good!! Anyone else wanting to share this wonderful place should log on to:- www.gitedemoronville.com.fr
Saturday, 5 May 2007
J'arrive en France
Monday 30 April
Set out at 10am. Very pleased to off at last. Met 'crow' and Margaret for lunch at Kineton, which was a great send off.
Spent the night at Youth Hostel,in the lovely square in Stow on the Wold.
Tuesday 1st May
Great days cycling through Cotswold lanes. Arrived Streatly YH about 4.30. 48 miles today.
Wednesday 2nd May
After quite a hard days cycling and the last 3 miles uphill arrived at the remote YH to find it closed. Much phoning but not response, so decided to camp on ground in front of hostel after neighbours offered use of their annexe toilet and washbasin.
Thursday 3rd May
Set off at 8.45 after packing camping gear. Brilliant bacon butty and mug of tea in Billinghurst. Arrived Telscombe YH about 5.30. Absolutely brilliant YH. Clocked 188 miles so far.
Friday 4th May
Up at 6 to catch 8 am Ferry. Ferry arrived Dieppe at 1.00 pm. Weather completely changed. Really cold wind so spent night in Dieppe.
Saturday 5th May
On the road at 9 after le petite dejeuner. Great cycle this morning through lovely lanes with wind behind me. Arrived Rouen just after 1.00 pm - just over 40 miles!
Set out at 10am. Very pleased to off at last. Met 'crow' and Margaret for lunch at Kineton, which was a great send off.
Spent the night at Youth Hostel,in the lovely square in Stow on the Wold.
Tuesday 1st May
Great days cycling through Cotswold lanes. Arrived Streatly YH about 4.30. 48 miles today.
Wednesday 2nd May
After quite a hard days cycling and the last 3 miles uphill arrived at the remote YH to find it closed. Much phoning but not response, so decided to camp on ground in front of hostel after neighbours offered use of their annexe toilet and washbasin.
Thursday 3rd May
Set off at 8.45 after packing camping gear. Brilliant bacon butty and mug of tea in Billinghurst. Arrived Telscombe YH about 5.30. Absolutely brilliant YH. Clocked 188 miles so far.
Friday 4th May
Up at 6 to catch 8 am Ferry. Ferry arrived Dieppe at 1.00 pm. Weather completely changed. Really cold wind so spent night in Dieppe.
Saturday 5th May
On the road at 9 after le petite dejeuner. Great cycle this morning through lovely lanes with wind behind me. Arrived Rouen just after 1.00 pm - just over 40 miles!
Monday, 30 April 2007
justgiving
I've now got my own page on "justgiving.com". Anyone wishing to make a donation by credit/debit card can do so very easily by logging on to:-
www.justgiving.com/peterbishton
It is 10.00 am monday 30th April. It is a most beautiful morning and I am just setting out on the first leg of my journey. I hope to arrive Newhaven on Thursday.
I'll keep you posted!
www.justgiving.com/peterbishton
It is 10.00 am monday 30th April. It is a most beautiful morning and I am just setting out on the first leg of my journey. I hope to arrive Newhaven on Thursday.
I'll keep you posted!
Monday, 16 April 2007
Charities
I am trying to raise money for two charities; the first is for Will and Ann Neale who are running an Orphanage in Uganda. This is known as the Barnabas Trust.
The second - The Friends of Swanirvar, is an educational establishment run by a team of volunteers in Worcester. The project is based in Bengal in India.
I have leaflets, which detail more fully the aspirations of the two charities.
I am starting out on my travels on the 30th April, cycle down to Newhaven, catch the ferry to Dieppe, head across France and Italy, then catch ferry from either Ancona or Brindisi to Patras. Then from Patras to Pireaus, and ferry to Lesbos.
The charities I am supporting will also be registered with a Website called justgiving.com, whereby sponsors will be able to donate using a credit/debit card. I will let you have details as soon as it's up and running.
The second - The Friends of Swanirvar, is an educational establishment run by a team of volunteers in Worcester. The project is based in Bengal in India.
I have leaflets, which detail more fully the aspirations of the two charities.
I am starting out on my travels on the 30th April, cycle down to Newhaven, catch the ferry to Dieppe, head across France and Italy, then catch ferry from either Ancona or Brindisi to Patras. Then from Patras to Pireaus, and ferry to Lesbos.
The charities I am supporting will also be registered with a Website called justgiving.com, whereby sponsors will be able to donate using a credit/debit card. I will let you have details as soon as it's up and running.
Friday, 13 April 2007
Worcester News
Now I've got a Blog set up I am going to contact Worcester News to get more publicity.
Countdown
Just had this blog set up - I will be keeping you posted - only 2 weeks to go...............
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