Distance 52 miles

Ascent 530 metres Descent 464 metres

Another night, another storm. Thunder, lightening and torrential rain. The compact nature of our tent means that it is our panniers or us that stay dry. No contest.

A lovely ride through vineyards, orchards and along the Garonne. No opportunity to recharge our devices and battery packs in the last three days so have had to be judicious in their use.

We have found another use for Christophe. Alison was finding it difficult to find her way around the campsite. A little help from Christophe and she can go direct to the shower block.

We are blending in nicely with the locals. Today as we cycled through La Raole a young man stopped to ask if we knew the way to the prison. We can’t decide whether we look like honest and trustworthy individuals or ex-cons.

Arrived at the hotel and the receptionist told us the nearest restaurant was 3km away. So we walked round the corner to the all you can eat Chinese Buffet. Perfect.

We have mosquito bites to add to the bumps, cuts and bruises. They are driving me mad. I am getting desperate and considering the hot spoon technique.

Google it.