Well the last two days have been interesting. Yesterday I had low expectations, basically I was heading south to Namur overland away from the Meuse River. In other words, along mains roads alongside lorries etc. The first 20 Ks didn’t disappoint. In fact they exceeded expectation as the rain started.
But… after an hour the rain disappeared and I found myself on Ligne 147, a repurposed railway line – smooth, gradual gradients that went all the way to Namur. That night I stayed with the most wonderful hosts, Bernie and Jacques, who put my cycling feats to shame – 2 years ago they walked from Namur to Italy over a period of 3 months – check it out here.
As for today, despite the fact I was cycling the Ardennes, my expectations were again not high – due to …. the impending rain. I hoped to get in about 40 kilometres before the rain – No, it came early and stayed for the day – with little respite. On the plus side all the wet weather gear fulfilled its purpose – still I was water logged at days end. But…Nothing like a good beer to make the tough times disappear.
Funny thing, When I got off the Ferry in Holland I had about 700 Kilometres to go to get to Samour on the Loire. 5 days later I’ve still got over 600 kilometres to go. Something to do with changing routes and going where it’s interesting. Tomorrow another day in the Ardennes then not sure yet..