Climb, Baby, Climb

Could be another hot one so we opted for a shorter ride. Kim decided to choose the longer of the two short ones even though it meant a lot more climbing for a few extra miles. Her obsessions are becoming more intense with age. 

But the day could not begin without a few more sunrise photos. As we approach the equinox our easterly view aligns with the river below. 

The cooler overnight temperatures along this shady flat prelude got us into the climbing mood even though there was a long 8+ percent grade ahead. 

Could not bike by Les Milandes without recognizing the former home of Josephine Baker. The black entertainer from the 1920's who invented the banana skirt fled the US for France  to escape the overt racism even though she was a loved performer.  

We have passed this way many times before so when this brick hut came into view we knew the most challenging section was behind. Although we were familiar with the downhill the path we followed took us toward Allas les Mines (pronounced Minns). To our surprise we discovered our first C road down to the town. It was a narrow one lane road through a wooded section which was quiet (one car passed us), windy, and shaded before reaching the town below. We descended from about 700 foot elevation to 200 feet requiring little pedaling. 

Out of the hills and into the flats we can cruise along the flood plain and along the river. Here we are and glad to be. 

Hard to resist pictures of funky stuff, especially biking themed. 

The old abandoned brick factory is still there. Has the potential of being a great fixer upper, but guess no takers since last year. 

Some times a bush is more than a bush when nature calls. A secluded pathway is good to find when the need can not be ignored. 

Thought about stopping in Baynec for our coffee stop but a good photo of the castle across the way from Castelnaud will have to do. As ground zero for the 100 years war (1337-1452) opposing fortifications was great for keeping an eye on the other guys which is why they are lined up along the Dordogne river. 

But we had a better idea and decided to add a few extra miles and find a spot in La Roque. This shady riverside cafe is an ideal spot even if we have to pay tourist prices.

 

Kim is happy here which means everyone is happy here.

Besides we could stop by "The Patio", our chosen restaurant for dinner to make a 7PM reservation without telephoning. Some times our non-existent French does make simple tasks difficult, or impossible. 

Tonight was dinner for two. We got a warm welcome especially when we told the proprietor that we ate here last year with Ali and Rob.

 

Lovely dining patio nestled against the limestone cliff that La Roque is known for. A burger and beef carpaccio was a perfect combination to share along with two ample helpings of frites. Even simple French dining is a pleasure.