Gordon: After 800 kilometres we parted company with the Loire today. In its stead we are now predominantly following canals. These make for lovely cycling: they are flat, lined with trees, and you see interesting things such as canal boats, locks, and canal bridges. The later are particularly interesting, as they involve the construction of a usable canal above a river.
The canal system we are currently following is marketed as a circular cycle route in the Bourgogne (Burgundy) region. Like the Loire velo route, it would make an excellent and accessible region for a two week cycle holiday. It would not be necessary to bring your own bike, as there are many rental companies. These often cooperate so that a bicycle can be rented in one town and left in another. Just a suggestion for anyone casting about for vacation ideas.
I had a cautionary experience with some of the excellent cycling infrastructure today. We encountered one of the cubical, stainless steel toilets that are self-cleaning. In a bid to save water Ruth held the door open so I could use the facility after her. Of course, as soon as she closed the door the toilet roared into its self-cleaning routine. There was water everywhere, and in particular sheets of it flowing across the floor and soaking my shoes. On the plus side, I can vouch for the thoroughness of the cleaning of this type of toilet.
I am sorry ... just catching up on your blog ... had to make a comment to this one when I broke out laughing at the toilet incident ... love it! Julie R.
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