Is this really happening?

This is the Epic cycle ride that has been epic in its uncertainty before it even begins. I am posting this now that I have arrived at the start, hoping that the trip won’t be thwarted by the resurgence of the shitty virus in France. The Tour de France also starts today so fingers crossed we will all be able to ride our bikes to the finish line.
I am delighted that I have escaped from the stresses and strains of teaching at a screen, working from home for the past 6 months has definitely had its ups and downs. The legs have pedalled numerous miles as an essential sanity preserver, but Cambridgeshire miles, although lovely, are not exactly mountainous and this trip has some rather large mountains to climb.
I usually hate Stansted airport with its wheelie bag obstacle course and chaotic queuing, but it was almost civilised in its pandemic sorry state. The plane was about 1/3 full and hurtled from the stand to the start of the runway instead of dawdling in a plane queue.
I may have to quarantine when I return and I’m not a huge fan of the face mask, but I am so grateful to Dylan at Ride and Seek that he decided to run this trip on a break even basis.
Ryanair kindly delivered my bike to the correct airport and undamaged, phew. I was picked up from Girona airport and driven straight to the hotel in Madremanya. Avoiding crowded cities is definitely going to a theme of this trip in complete contrast to the Iron Curtain trip this time last year which feels like a lifetime ago. 
There is a lovely view from my hotel room 

And very tasty non-alcohol beer

I am so excited to do what makes me happy - escape on Bob the bike in beautiful countryside (and eat tons of patisseries obviously!)

Comments

  1. Tryce M.August 29, 2020 at 11:25 AM

    Have a lovely adventure! I will be thinking of you as you conquer all of the climbs and miles. May this cycling holiday be another great one to add to your memories.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Tryce M.August 29, 2020 at 11:26 AM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Rachel MillerAugust 30, 2020 at 1:06 AM

    Enjoy my lovely friend. Be safe and munch away on those pastries xxx

    ReplyDelete
  4. Cathy VSeptember 1, 2020 at 5:27 AM

    Great start. Enjoy

    ReplyDelete

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