Even though Pontain is only 26 kilometres from Benut by main road, we chose a route of 40 kilometres in an attempt to avoid traffic. It worked, most of the day we followed small side roads and enjoyed the whole journey, yes there was still a little main road riding but only short stretches.
Burning the undergrowth
We could not get into the homestay until 3:00 pm today, so once we had checked out it was time for some bicycle maintenance. Janet’s needed the axle plate tightening, this is a result of a long term problem with the Rohloff hub which will be going back to Germany when we get back home. Mine was just a repair to the saddle, it has actually worn out.
A scene from today
Today was a reasonable days cycling, certainly the first 35 kilometres was along almost traffic free roads and tracks, but then we rejoined the main road for 25 kilometres more, this was not so nice but still OK.
Lovely cycling even some shade
Due to the comfortableness! of the bed (King Koil Mattress for reference) we had to prise ourselves out of it this morning. Once up we walked over the road for our breakfast then finished packing (taking around 30 seconds) to start out for 9:30.
A nice view out to sea
As predicted the bed had seen better days and sleeping on springs is not a restful way of spending the night. We still bounced our way out looking forward to a good days cycling.
Colourful fishing boats waiting for the tide
Today was the complete opposite of yesterday, no main roads at all. To start off it was 2.5 km down to the ferry.
Kingfisher on a wire
The cycle today was mainly along the 5 a main road. Straight out of the hotel doors and turn left onto the 5.
Blue tailed bee eater on a wire
We had a very relaxing day doing nothing, not many pictures at all. It did mean we are actually planned over a week ahead now, which is very unusual for us.
It did rain very heavily around 3:30 pm but we just watched it bounce off the road from the dry of a small restaurant.
Rain from the resturant
After the main roads of yesterday the first 15 kilometres today was beautiful cycling, small zero traffic roads. We passed a lot of palm oil plantations, a couple of very small villages and lots of cattle. A good start to the day.
Animals, birds and trees. Something for everyone.
Today was our shortest day for a while so a 9:30 am start, nice and leisurely.
A nice rustic boat and woodyard
Cycle Travellers 