Meyrueis – day 18

21 Jun

We started the day with a 6km, 450m climb to the causse Mejean, the plateau at the top of the gorge. It was a steep hill with many switchbacks and it took about 75 min. to do. I think it even surprised George how hard it was. He said it wouldn’t be too bad before we started, I was a bit worried by the look of it. He always says if the map and the terrain differ, believe the terrain. I have my own version: if what George says and the terrain differ believe the terrain. However
climbing up always gives you marvelous vistas and we were not disappointed. We rode across the top and then down the other side, again a spectacular view of the Gorge du Tarn below. While on top we passed an aerodrome where gliders were being launched, quite fascinating to see. Coming down these steep switchback roads is tricky on this long and heavily laden bike. We have to use the extra drum brake on the back wheel or the brake pads on the wheels could potentially heat up the tires and cause a blowout. I also feel a bit uneasy as I have no controls and must trust my captain, which I do mostly.
After descending from the causse we rode along the bottom of the gorge enjoying the beauty of the mountains, river, cornices and the pinnacle rock formations. We passed an area where vultures nest in the cliffs. There were many circling around overhead; maybe they thought we weren’t going to make it.
We were supposed to continue in this fashion until reaching our destination for the evening but once again George and the terrain differed and we had to do some more climbing at the end of the day after already riding 60kms. We were très fatigué when we finally arrived, 78 kms and a total ascent of 970 m.
We had a well deserved cold drink as soon as possible once in Meyrueis, although George had difficulty communicating that he wanted a grande biere and got a petite. We do struggle with French.
For supper we had pizza with smoked salmon and goat cheese, a big salad, and a chocolate and coconut crepe for dessert. Yum!