Tuesday 28 August 2012

Trans Europa Day 52 – Cannes Rest Day– 0km

A good night's sleep at the Ibis Cannes followed by a stroll around town, a baguette for brunch, a couple of naps and a 3 course dinner with John. Life is good!













Sharon uncrossing her hands....









 




Monday 27 August 2012

Trans Europa Day 51 – Diano Marina to Cannes – 130km.

After a rough night in the tent, we set off in the hope of a repeat of yesterday with a beautiful coastal ride from The Italian to The French Riviera planned.

Alas, being Monday, the traffic was heavy, there were many stops at traffic lights and the hills were much steeper. The sea was still blue and the flat parts through the various towns - and the downhills - were a delight.

We crossed into France at around 57km and it seemed to be all uphill from there..













Despite stops for drinks and strawberry tart, I was exhausted after 80km in 5 hours and with the prospect of another 50km to ride under a scorching sun I was looking for an alternative route. The writing was on the wall...




Fortunately, I took the "Eze" way out and rode the air conditioned train from there to Cannes - the last 50km in one hour - not bad! And Merlin made some new friends as well.. Probably the best 8 euro spent so far on this tour..


 




After checking in at the Ibis Cannes, a short walk from the station, I showered and headed out for a late lunch/early dinner of moules-frites followed by a scoop of passion fruit ice cream. A much more pleasant afternoon than what was scheduled :)







Trans Europa Day 50 – Genova to Diano Marina – 117km

It was a beautiful day to cycle by the sea.

We left Genova in convoy for the first 14km or so passing the ship from Pirates of the Caribbean and we kept the coast to our left as we passed through the various towns along the Italian Riviera.

There is something calming about the sight of deep blue sea and time passed easily even with the ups and downs of hills..

The only downside of the day was camping on rocks or gravel (I chose gravel) but there was a pool at Camping Edy into which I dipped for an hour so before imbibing several cold beverages followed by Miles' dinner of pasta with cod..

Quite a nice day on the road.






 


Trans Europa Day 49 – Genova Rest Day– 0km

A hot and humid day. After updating the blog, I cleaned Merlin and then took off on him to see the sights of Genoa. I used the New York Times article as a guide LINK

The opening line says it all...  Anyway, enjoy the photos!



































Best gelati - closed!













And franchising opportunity of the week - pasta to die for!!