Svingrundet

Nauvo, Turku Archipelago, Finland

It was just as well that today was scheduled as a relatively easy day as it was the first day that the skies opened and rained on us for the entire ride. You might think that this would have spoiled the day however everyone seemed really happy and the rain did very little to dent their enthusiasm.

After leaving our hotel we decided that we would ride back in the reverse direction for several kilometres so that we could see a little more of the quaint little town of Korrpoo. We arrived just in time for morning tea and the start of the day's rain. This gave us a great opportunity to relax in a lovely seaside restaurant and watch the boats while we each enjoyed a magnificent cup of hot chocolate.

Since the rain looked it was there to stay we ended up staying until lunch. It was only when it became obvious that the rain was not about to stop that we donned our wet gear and climbed on the bikes. Although the drizzle was continuous the strong winds of the past few days had passed and we were able to ride in very still conditions.

With Jon Bate as our leader up the front of the peloton, the rest of the riders formed a close conga line behind as we cruised along at a comfortable speed. Once again we were reminded of just how beautiful a location this is.

After a wet but fun ride we arrived at our next hotel by mid afternoon and discovered that it was the best hotel we had stayed in for the entire trip. Although small it had a wonderful atmosphere and the rooms were very comfortable and clean. It is this type of hotel that makes travel so special - not the insipid 4 and 5 star monstrosities that some seem to stay in wherever they go. It is the small, privately owned hotels that encapsulate the true spirit of each country and we always stay in this type of establishment wherever possible.

Soon after we arrived the rain stopped, the skies cleared and a timid sun peeped through. This gave us a chance to explore some of the local area.

Dinner was provided by the hotel and was absolutely superb. I am now sitting in my room in broad daylight. The clock says it's almost 10 pm but it feels like 4 pm.Read more