A final blog from me, with no trembling lip to match my trembling legs. Final thoughts should dominate this entry and they are all positive. Alan put forward the idea of this trip, so the first thing I should record is that it is all his fault. Physically this last two and a half weeks has been the toughest sustained task I have ever done, so my main feeling is relief to stay the course. We have come to understand rural France well, mostly our experiences have been positive. I have lots of great memories and many quirky ones such as Alan telling a hotel receptionist that a double bed was not right in our room as we are not homosexuelle. AB

A final entry and one more night before I am obliged to return Foggy, Compo and Clegg to their respective retirement homes. There to dream of challenges completed and winter fuel payments and concessionary travel benefits to come. I hope they retain fond memories of our trip as they rest in their high back chairs. The wrinklies did well and have stories to relate to their fellow OAPs in the public library on a weekday morning.
Until next year when they dust down the candle wick bedspreads and rinse out their cycle shorts for just one more trip. Watch this space.
Almost a thousand miles covered in total...mmmh? Maybe 1500 next year. APL

Near journeys end, England and retirement are on the horizon! It seems a very long time ago since we set off from England. A great 'holiday', memorable for the friendly banter, lovely countryside, good food and great cycling. Feeling physically and mentally fit for the next phase of my life. What a great start. DH

We are now at the ferry terminal and 'mission' has been accomplished. Hats off to the 'A' team for their fantastic achievement - few can say they have cycled France from top to bottom - a huge 'well done' to you both! As for the 'B' team, well we too have achieved what we set out to do, albeit a much more modest challenge. Overall a fantastic holiday ... we are of course all indebted to our 'better halves' for tolerating our indulgence, so a huge thanks to you all! JS