After our short break in Barritz you could say au revoir to the so-called rested legs ... here come some hills!The first of many located on the French/Spainish border, 455m ascent over 9klms before free-wheeling into San Sebastian (proven to be quite a small climb in comparison to the subsequent climbs in this stage but at the time 'huge'). On arriving in San Sebastian we were greeted by a friendly German fellow enquiring on what language we spoke and if we ...

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 v...

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 am...

480miles/770klms later we find ourself in Normandy. So far we have journeyed through the major towns of Brugge, Ghent and Ypres in Belguim and south through the French contryside to the historic region of Normandy. The cycling in Belguim consisted mainly of canal paths and some unintended detours thanks to the confusing directions of the locals. Cyclists everywhere and of every age. Thankfully the terrain was flat, allowing time for the legs and backsides to adju...

Beautiful Brugge! Almost our launching point for our journey, but before that.... Left London on Sat 17 Apr - wonderful farewell ride through our temporary home town for the last time, catching all of the major landmarks on the way (Buck House, Big Ben et al). Caught train south to Lyminge for an English farewell meal with some good friends. Appalling weather on Sunday morning almost delayed departure but battled the elements to catch ferry from Dover to Calais, ...