The seemingly unvarying landscape of the previous weeks was definately broken through this section. We were treated to endless vineyards, secluded forest tracks and long sandy beaches. Spent a couple of days cycling through the Medoc wine region before pulling up in Bordeaux. Took an organised wine tour to the St Emilion region, visiting the vineyard of Chateau Cantin as well as the town of St Emilion itself. The vineyard visit was interesting and the town very charming, the highlight being its massive underground church excavated into the limestone (the largest in Europe). Bordeaux was equally beautiful, especial along its river at night. Returning to the coast we visited the Dune de Pilat, an enormous sand dune 3klms long and 117m high which forms an imposing barrier between sea and forest. From there we headed south along a vehicle-less, tranquil forest path. The flattish terrain ceased as were neared Barritz, particularly from Bayonne onwards. With the sun blazing we set up camp in Barritz for a couple of days, enjoying its beaches and rocky headlands. We weren't on our own, we saw a fully robed nun wading shin-deep in the surf .. bizzare and amusing! Distance to date: 1866klms