Day 11

We decided to start our day by making an extra round trip of about 8 miles, to see the recently completed Millau Viaduct, designed by Norman Foster. Not everyone was convinced this was a worthwhile detour, but Peter and Simon were very insistant, and won their case! Even from our first glimpse of the structure on the skyline it was hard not to be impressed, and Peter and Simon were spurred on to ensure we cycled all the way to marvel at this monumental creation! As we approached, the entire structure became obscured behind a rocky hilltop, but as we rounded the bend we were humbled by the sheer size and elegance of what must surely be one of the new Wonders of The World.

While cycling back to Millau, Simon decided to take "just one more photograph", and lost contact with the other trio, as they made their way southwards. Image captured, Simon cycled confidently on at speed to catch them up, undaunted by much tooting of horns and cries of "Pas de velo, PAS DE VELOOOOO!" He was aware of the stories of the French being much more cycle friendly than the Snotty Surrey 4 x 4 Set, but it all came as rather a shock to realise he was cycling up a slip road leading directly down from the motorway, and that the motorists were desperately trying to avoid an embarrassing accident! Hands held high in shameful thanks, cautious retreat completed, and safely back on the correct side of the road once more, he was now momentarily LOST! Mobile phone to the rescue to contact the Chief Navigator, for instructions to follow the route out of town, over the river bridge in the direction of The Doubie Brothers......well........that's what it sounded like! Glimpse of bridge, river and direction sign to Canyon de la Dourbie seemed a reasonable choice. Thus started one of the most beautiful sections of our journey, as the walls of the canyon rose to tower above us, and shepherd us on our way.

Lunch at 14.45 south of Nant

More to follow.....