Free Day in Clamecy

I have learnt the value of so called Free Days whenever we are doing these extended rides. On this ride I have included more of these free days than we have ever had previously, Perhaps this is a concession to the fact that we are all getting older, or perhaps it is because these trips are not just about cycling. We also want to immerse ourselves in the French way of life as well.
After the long day yesterday, it was somewhat of a relief knowing that we could spend the day exploring this very historic and interesting place. As we wandered the narrow alleyways, we could feel the sense of history that was all around us. This is classed as a Medieval City and it is easy to see why. The French do not seem embarrassed about buildings that carry the scars from hundreds of years of use. There is no hurry to carry out any restoration works on these old buildings. The principle is clearly "Even if it is broke, don't fix it". It is a refreshing contrast to the attitude of the Germans who go to the opposite extreme of so completely restoring old buildings that a lot of the original character is lost in the process.
Tomorrow we get back on the for the ride to Corbigny. After the break today I will be glad to get rolling again.
It is also worth nothing that today was the first day of cycling for Group 2. They are completing exactly the same ride as us, but two days behind. By Friday Group 3 will be riding and we will have three groups all riding the Nivernais at the same time.Read more