We left Blaye in good time when it was still coolish. The first few hours were pleasant, again riding through mostly vineyards as well as some lovely bike paths through forested areas. We are often riding on parts of the EuroVelo routes which are are established bike routes throughout Europe. Sometimes they are pathways, sometimes small rural roads.
Unfortunately the day got very hot, we had to ride almost 80kms, it was a Sunday, and we were riding in a very rural area. So with still 30 kms to go, 35 degree temperatures, and no open bars for cool refreshment and recovery possible we arrived in Cognac completely spent. To make matters worse George was struggling with an upset stomach so wasn’t at his best. At one point he took a drink of warm water from his water bottle and almost vomited (not true – GG)😝.
Luckily (or not, George does choose our accommodations carefully) our B&B host was ready for us and provided ice and refreshment immediately as well as help finding somewhere to eat supper. We had a light meal and hit the sack early for a well earned rest.
After a good sleep we were ready to explore Cognac. Obviously this is where they make the liquor cognac and there are several companies that produce it. I only recognized a couple names (Remy Martin and Hennessy) as I am not a connoisseur. We went on a tour of one of the oldest companies that is housed in an old chateau/castle where King Francois the first was born and lived back in the 15-16th century. I enjoyed hearing about the history of the building, less about how they make the cognac. I think for others it was the opposite. At the end of the tour you could taste the cognac, which I didn’t like, could not manage to even finish the sample. C’etait trop fort pour moi! 😝. George enjoyed his. Later that evening we tried the other specialty of the area: Pineau des Charente which is like port or a fortified wine. This was very nice. 🍷😊
Cognac is a lovely little city situated on the Charente River. We enjoyed wandering around the old city area that has many ancient homes, fortresses, and gates dating from about the 16th century. It is amazing to think about how long people have lived in the very buildings we are visiting today, and we complain about poor wifi or AC.
geeteetravels 
Tara is still drinking, that’s a good sign, but no puppies! They must have been at home enjoying AC and ice water. Glad you made it! I think you need a thermos water bottle for Christmas. Dean says Cognac is the “best stuff in the world” and that Tara needs to toughen up a bit!
There are lots of puppies here, I guess I am not drawn to them as much as you. I will try…
We have thermos water bottles at home but they are heavy and they don’t fit into the bottle cages. Unless someone has invented something new?
Oooo. I’m more than a little envious of nice quiet scenic roads, no traffic to speak of, castles, wine tours, lovely company… A wee dram of cognac would be delightful too. BTW 31° at home today.