Distance 40 miles

Ascent 912 ft gain

Temperature 79 degrees

We look forward to the day when everything works out as planned.

First stop was the Cathedral – it didn’t open until 10.30am so a delayed start to the day. Visited the Cathedral but no stamp for our Credenziale.

Charlie recommended the route today. She advised a glorious coastal route with rolling hills and spectacular scenery. We were looking forward to a pleasant ride.

There is no scenery to enjoy in a tunnel Charlie. To be accurate, in a series of four tunnels. The day was continuing with its underground theme. Dark, noisy and absolutely terrifying. We made it through – there was no viable alternative. Never, ever again.

The helicopter was back in action today. A couple of sweeps around us as we sat under the shade of a tree by the beach, eating peaches. We wondered if they were looking for a couple of elderly ladies who had left a black package in a hotel room this morning. We have plans to retrieve the package tomorrow. But we can’t reveal the operational details. It could all go horribly wrong.

We are enjoying the camaraderie of the road. Every man in Lycra waves and cheers us along. We feel part of a team. But where are the other women cyclists?

The mosquitoes have been in action. I am covered in bites. Antihistamines are not doing the trick. May have to resort to the hot spoon technique. Even that is difficult as we didn’t bring any metal spoons.

Just an average day on the road. It is going to be busy tomorrow.

Have a good weekend. We intend to.

Good night