Just after eight thirty we bid Pascal and Maurice 'bonne route' and headed of over a undulating trail through the sand dunes to the next town to pick up some supplies as it was Sunday. We'd enjoyed our time with the two Frenchmen, and smiled at the thought that tonight Maurice would be parading around another campsite in his red boxers without a care. Having left early we felt a cycle to La Rochelle was achievable if the rain was not too heavy.
Lunchtime arrived and just when we needed one a picnic table appeared right by a large tree. We were in the middle of nowhere what were the chances? And then the thunderstorm began. The tree provided shelter for a while. We resorted to a prayer to god to make it stop. And it worked. The sun came out drying out protective clothing that had not been to efficient.
As we cycled the signs stating the distance to La Rochelle seemed to hardly drop. Then we were diverted onto another route. Tired, frustrated, hot and bothered and with no campsites around we felt another prayer to god was required. We left the cycle route and headed four miles into the countryside. The campsite was closed. Help! Fortunately a lady behind the gate alerted the owner and he let us in. The site only opened July and August, but we could pitch our tent. He unlocked the sanitaire, but there'd be no hot water. We didn't care. Cash paid we settled in. Fig and cherry trees alongside unkempt hollyhocks have the place charm. Gary said we could eat as many as the cherries as we wanted.
Well what a result. Thanks god. Angela has calculated that we have cycled around sixty miles today. Tomorrow we will cycle down to nearby La Rochelle in the hope of boarding a train to Bordeaux. Looking forward to a small lay in, in the morning. Gary said we couldn't stay if we'd want him to unlock the front gate too early. Fine by us. Meanwhile we hope not too much rain will fall in the night. Perhaps a prayer's in order.
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