Woke up shortly after 5am this morning. The air is mild but damp, the tent too. The little one held up! Although I felt a few drops trickle on my neck during the night… a stop at some outdoor shop will sort this out.

Despite everything, I slept and slept long! Around 9pm, unable to hold on any longer, I fell into a rather restless Morpheus’ arms, who woke me many times with wrestling matches from an UNID (Unidentified Nighttime Animal) and headaches.

The tavern hosting me asked me to leave early in the morning (I’d probably scare the customers), so at 5:30am I’m already on the road. No breakfast, no toilets, no problem.

Well, actually problem: Wales decided to throw its finest collection of anti-cyclist tools at me, namely endless climbing, rain, and headwind that pins you to the spot. So, before I could even eat anything, there I was on 17% ramps, under a penetrating drizzle: a holiday dream.

I stop 1h30 later at a service station to clean up and have a large coffee. One of the most peaceful moments of the day, without a doubt.

After that, the real road can begin. Not much to say about it except that I wanted to give up 20 times, thought about my friends on sunny holidays 30 times, and questioned my life choices 40 times. And what about the temperature? 21° in the sun, THANKS Wales.

Finally, it’s the return to England that improves things. Less climbing, no more wind or rain. Less grandiose landscapes too, it’s a transitional stage, let’s say.

Highlight of the day: I managed to find a small fast food place still open in a village (much rarer than you’d think!) And then a campsite 3km away. So the day ends perfectly. I’m full, soon clean, and the night promises to be drier than the last.

Side note: my tent setup was disastrous last night, which explains the discomfort. Today it’s 100x better and guess why? I followed the assembly instructions that I MYSELF wrote. But really, what a surprise, honestly.

It is indeed small, but comfortable and I think quite waterproof. Scotland will confirm or not this last point, no doubt.

P.S. I was very touched by all your messages, I discovered them this afternoon while eating a very mediocre sandwich between two sheep fields, hands freezing, and it warmed my heart. I hope you’ll continue to enjoy following the adventure. Thank you!!

Comments

Moum

My Ivan, I just read your moving message… yes, moving, because we feel like we’re there! I can very well imagine what you “endured”…! Weather-wise, if it consoles you, here it was also 21 in the sun… and well, a bit grey, a bit windy, a bit rainy, it’s the weather you prefer, isn’t it? Hang in there! You’ll make it even if I think indeed, these picturesque reliefs must be a real leg-cutter!! I kiss you!

Dad

Beautiful metaphor of life, this stage! I think today can be better by following these few paternal tips. This morning, avoid the towns of: “Rainhill”, “Boremount”, “Anger pass”… and let your “rivals” head towards “Painful Gulch”. When you see Liverpool, avoid humming “Let it be”, think rather of “Here comes the sun”. After leaving the “Scousers”, you’ll enter “Midges Paradise”, you should then prefer crossings of: “Downtown”, “Downwards Village”, “Belowpool”…. The campsite is located in “Bottom Street”… You can then whistle “I’m a poor lonesome cowboy” on the handlebars of your faithful steed. Come on son.

Max

A fine story, inspiring respect and admiration! Looking forward to the rest, enjoy yourself to the fullest, and never forget that even in the hardest moments, “it always comes back up”!

Sandrine

Well then my references regarding “beetles” are sufficient but I need to update those concerning Lucky Luke!! What courage anyway! And especially writing us these lines in the evening that we’re passionate about! We look forward every day to discovering the continuation of your incredible adventure!!