Jumped back on the bikes after waiting for the rain to clear although the tghe improved conditions were only temporary as most of this leg was tackeld in the rain and wind. First notable stop was Le Mont St Michel (see photo). This granite rock sits proud in the tidal flats of the bay and becomes an island during high tide, linked to mainland by a solitary causeway. We enjoyed a sunny afternoon wandering its many narrow, steep streets and wondering at the amazing abbey that had been built wrapped around the dramatic topography - definately packed with the WOW factor! The elder member of our touring party celebrated his 32nd birthday in Rennes, quiet by normal standards but enjoyable none the less. The city centre had an impressive mix of architecture, blending the old half timbered buildings in their skinny lanes with the grand stone buildings fronting squares. Arrive in La Rochelle following our first night of 'wild'camping out the back of a small village's football ground. The improved weather and presence of a hot shower made this pretty harbour town even more attractive. The harbour, guarded by its three imposing towers and ramparts, made for a perfect backdrop for the small jazz festival that was in swing. Whilst enjoying moules in an authentic local restaurant (specialising in 16 varieties of mussell dishes and home made aperitifs) we meet Dic and Lizzie; a friendly British couple in the process of sailing their yatch "Indian Summer" back to the UK from the Med. They kindly invite us aboard for dinner the following night, along with their delightful Dutch friend Huib (and his dog Zwabber). We savoured a memorable evening of chat, food, wine and port; desembarking in the early hours of the morning well groomed for the next leg of our adventure! Distance to date: 1338klms