Distance 32 miles

Elevation gain 824 ft

Temperature 33 degrees

The day started with a dilemma. It was hot and we had a hill to climb. Taking into account our elderly state we discussed whether we should leave early to avoid climbing in 33 degrees.

But we didn’t have our stamp for the Credenziale and hadn’t seen the marvellous mosaic floors and frescoes. The Cathedral didn’t open until 8.15 and the Chiesa di san pietro didn’t open until 9.30 am.

The heat had unexpected consequences. Kevin promised us a 21 mile ride that would take an hour and a half. We left at 11.00am, anticipating arriving in Santa Maria Di Leuca for a nice long cool drink and a delicious lunch at 1.00pm.

Six hours and 32 miles later we arrived at our destination. The heat does not agree with Kevin. He faltered, hallucinated and finally gave up completely and shut down completely. Wendy Wahoo, usually so steady and reliable became confused and tried to take us in the opposite direction to our destination. Dehydration we think. We were reliant on the map showing large towns only. A painfully slow day on the bike.

We have a plan for tomorrow. Kevin has promised us a 10 mile ride in 44 minutes. We say that will be a piece of cake. We shall see ……..

It will take a long time to get to Rome at that rate. But we are pensioners and have all the time in the world.

And finally we are staying in an old monastery called Albergo Sanctorio. We arrive to find it called Stella Maris. Confused? Join the club.

Goodnight.