July 7, 2010
Montceau-les-Mines - Chagny: Lots of locks
Our route continues along the Canal du Centre, just at one point does it detour into the hills, which means work for us but at the same time a pleasant change.
We are now slowly gaining altitude. The locks on the canal are closer together and higher. Lock for lock, we approach the watershed between the Atlantic and Mediterranean where "Ecluse N°. 1 Méd" and "Ecluse N°. 1 Océan" meet. Yes, and the pedalling really does get easier when we reach lock number 1 on the downhill side although the gradient is minimal.
The countryside is becoming more interesting, mountains crop up and we see some of the famous vineyards of Burgundy. The only flaw today is the persistent headwind, otherwise a gorgeous day of cycling. I think I am enjoying it more than the better known Loire bike path.
| Heart | 0 | Comment | 0 | Link |
We end the day in a great little campground in Chagny, well-run by a young and charming French-Brazilian couple. The giant screen set up at their little restaurant for the World Cup Semi-Final, Germany vs. Spain, makes the day perfect - at least for Janos, for me not so important. The Spanish are better and deserve their victory.
Today's ride: 47 km (29 miles)
Total: 1,420 km (882 miles)
| Rate this entry's writing | Heart | 2 |
| Comment on this entry | Comment | 0 |