Another short ride on a chilly, sunny day. We decided to revisit the "P" town (Peyruzel) but in the opposite direction from an earlier ride. The Ride With GPS route planner showed a challenging climb to the top of the ridge, but more than we expected. The planner and reality don't agree but what we expected to be sub-double digit grades morphed into a few stretches into the 2+ chevron (printed Michelin maps classify 8-12 percent as two chevrons, and 12+ a three chevron) category. Our final ascent was on foot pushing the bikes up to the top.
As we started along this way there was a sign indicating "route Barree". We have encountered these before but always able to walk around along a marked detour (detour is the French word for detour).
Not today, as the photo shows. Looks like they are installing a concrete wall to prevent someone or something from going over the edge.
Normally these barriers are masterfully crafted from stone and mortar, but modern times call for modern methods. Big trucks, big bulldozers, and massive blocks makes for easier work. Not as aesthetic but cheaper and not as labor intensive.
Once over the top it was time to head down.
Kim wanted a photo of whatever was hanging our to dry. Have to ask a local what this was.
As we headed back to Daglan we passed the turn off to Bouzic. At that moment a couple round the turn and immediately stopped. It was Ed and Mel, our Bouzic coffee friends. Turns out you meet the nicest people on a Trek, especially those you already know. Offered to buy them a coffee in Daglan but they were headed out for a long drive to pick up some stuff. Maybe next time.
When we arrived in Daglan Veronique was just opening her Creperie. We ordered two double espressos as she drove home to get her dog. She reappeared in 20 minutes so we settled the bill and cruised by Darlene's who greeted us with an enthusiastic "Bon Jour". Six more miles to go.
As we made the turn in Saint Cybernet two cyclists coming in the opposite direction waved. Cyclists usually exchange a friendly greeting then we realized it was Ali and Rob, our soon to be dinner guests. Small world getting even smaller here in France.
Ali (Allison) and Rob showed up promptly at six. Having spend her early years with her family here in Castelnaud she knew the place and passed along the castle path many times. The call home a farm in Bristol, England but their getaway is a house on the ramparts in Domme. During the good weather months they shuttle back and forth usually in two week intervals. We visited their place on last year's trip and snapped a photo no a recent ride to Domme.
As and added treat for our guests they arrived just as these balloons were sailing by. The calm surface made for an ideal reflection, One image that was a first for us too.
After downing a bottle of champagne our menu was not of state dinner caliber but the mozzarella and tomato started, pasta bolognaise, and a choice selection of pastries.
Like most meal gatherings this continued past all our bed times until 10:30. Aside from the lighter side of our conversations we took a deep dive into British life and politics with a full explanation of the ups and downs of the royal family. Our dinner coincided with the presidential state dinner at Windsor castle. Also in the news was their recently fired ambassador to the U.S. tarnished by his past association with Jeffrey Epstein - joining with Prince Andrew similarly tarnished by his nefarious involvement.
We periodically digressed from the so-British talk of God and Country to share cycling stories, traveling adventures, and even covid encounters. While most folks on our side of the "pond" are baffled by their obsession with the monarchy it is frightening to see our own royal want to be. It was a lovely evening which we hope to duplicate on our return visit in 2026. Who knows what will be on the discussion menu for that event.
