The race to lunch

We lingered over breakfast with Frederic and Natalie, learning more about life in France, until it was time to head off.  It was cold and started to drizzle as we picked up the rail trail.  We passed a few people doing the Camino, and one man stopped us to warn us that the route was not the best that France had to offer. 

The next 10kms was very bumpy but nothing compared to the corrugations of Australian dirt roads.  Still, it was a relief to move onto a smoother trail and more open farmland.  Despite the persistent rain, the Voie Verte Bazas-Captieux was pleasant cycling and we made good time to Bazas for lunch. 

As I entered the restaurant looking slightly damp and dishevelled, the waitress confirmed that it was still possible to order the plat du jour – which was a relief, as we had maintained a steady pace in the hope of reaching the restaurant before closing.

The drizzle eased over lunch and it was a relatively dry ride into Langon where unfortunately, I suffered my first flat.  But Simon had it repaired in no time, and after a quick stop at the supermarket for salmon and salad for dinner, together with a nice bottle of St Emilion red, we were soon checking into our Airbnb apartment.