A train alternative

Knowing that we had a long 85km day scheduled, I had researched train routes the night before to give Simon the option of an easier day to help him recover from his cold.  We decided to catch a train that stopped at a station about 14kms from our destination.  It took a while to make the online ticket purchase and whilst having selected the option of travelling with bikes, we still weren’t sure that they would have a spot.   

The Airbnb hostess allowed us to check out an hour later at 12noon so we had a leisurely morning.  We then cycled the short distance to Restaurant 58 which prides itself on a sustainable, local approach to its food, sourcing 90% of their produce within a 58-kilometre radius, with a premium price to match.  It was pleasant sitting outside the little restaurant watching the people pass, and the cold asparagus soup starter was delicious.  We were a little disappointed with the main course – there was a choice of either an egg or a sausage in a Ukrainian borscht. We opted for the latter – maybe the local produce was a bit limited that day. Dessert was tasty though – as we tried both the apple compote crumble and caramel cake.

With a little time to spare, we cycled past the picturesque Chapelle Sainte-Marie, and across a square to Roger Salengro Park, with its interesting sculpture of pigs. We found a shady spot to relax before heading to the station and the train to Lyon.  

We disembarked at Gilly-sur-Loire, a slightly raised and grassy platform.  There wasn’t much to the hamlet, but at least the station was still in operation. After following a gravel path we were soon back on the cycle route and climbed the hill into Bourbon Lancy.  

The Airbnb host met us at our accommodation and found us a secure spot for out bikes before walking us through the little apartment.  We appreciated the bottle of wine he left for us, though could not find any wine glasses.  

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