Bike: Saint Etienne to Roanne, 56 miles, 1900 feet of climb
Accommodation: Cocooning au coeur centre ville (Airbnb); host Blandine. One-bedroom apartment, kitchen, wifi, washer. Very nice, clean apartment.
This was another day when it was hard to leave in the morning. We knew we had a long ride, so we planned to get on the road by 9:00, but we had so much fun talking to Olivier at breakfast that we didn't get away until after 10:00. What interesting people we meet! Olivier and Francoise are from France, but they lived in South Africa for many years, and raised their family there. Olivier was involved in the trade of South African lumber. At some point, they returned to France, and their three children and five grandchildren now live in France and Switzerland (Geneva). Olivier does woodworking and had two tables made of slabs, like the ones Ken has made. He and Francoise also love art and music, and gave us some recommendations for music in Paris when we spend two days there at the end of the month.
We did finally get on our way. First, 40 miles of mostly downhill. Then, two big climbs. The scenery was beautiful. and after we left the suburbs of Etienne behind, the route was mostly on small country roads. We were pleasantly surprised. We had expected more urban sprawl.
Roanne is another big city. We went exploring after dinner and loved looking at the old buildings. Mostly we were tired and glad to get this big ride behind us. We have just one more even longer day tomorrow, and then the rest of our trip should be easy--at least, that is the plan.
No photos today. The scenery was interesting, but we were just living in the moment and forgot to snap shots.
