Along the Vienne

It was an easier day today along quiet roads along the Vienne river. We were deep into cow country and the evidence was beneath our tyres. We cunningly crossed the viaduct to avoid the drop into town and up the other side and got stunning views into the bargain.

The Vienne was used a lot for tanning and the hooks for hanging the skins on are still visible on some of the old houses. They also have iron bars on the window a because of the wolves. 

We passed lovely little villages, mostly deserted of course, and dropped down into Confolens for coffee and pick up stuff for a pique nique. The bunting was out, the sun shone and the tarts looked gorgeous. 

We ate lunch in a small village and sat at picnic tables by the river. Our intention was to swim in all the different rivers but so far no one has taken the plunge. 

It was an uphill finish into Rochechouart and found a little hotel by the square. Wandering around we watched a boules competition in full swing including youngsters and ancients with toddlers looking on. 

Another big evening meal celebrating a rare local breed of pig the Black Bottom. Speaking of which we spent time planning when our rest day could be to give some rest to our sore backsides. We are hoping that things will improve!

Km cycled 60  Metres climbed 728. No injuries/mechanicals