Three Strikes and I am Out in Amboise

Bash, Ouch. That hurt. Of course I only have myself to blame. One thing that you need to be acutely aware of when you are living in the crawl space above the ceiling of a 300 year old mansion, is that you are likely to knock yourself senseless every time you stand up.

In spite of the ever growing number of concussions I am accumulating (I think the count was about 4 in the first 30 minutes), I do really love this place. It is actually the fourth time I have stayed in the Clos D'Amboise and, although it might be a serious threat to my cranium, it is so much more interesting than the Mercure we spent the previous night in, back in Blois.

The 43km ride from Blois had been accomplished without drama. Thanks to John and David we even found a glorious Boulanger to stock up on cakes. coffee and lunch. Even the big climb after lunch did not constitute a challenge for our seasoned athletes. They got to the summit so easily, I suspect that they were all la little disappointed that it was not a little longer than it was.

The last few km to Amboise are across the top of a large, exposed plateau. On our last ride through here back in 2019, this was the place we were assaulted by a most evil headwind. Back then we were riding analogue bikes, and it really was hard work. Now with the aid of a little electrical assistance, it was quite easy.

After each team member was ushered to their respective rooms, we had time to change into our best gear for a formal dinner. For me that meant putting on my long pants and French cap. I thought it looked OK, but it seemed to be amusing to everyone else. We did all agree that the dinner at the Clos D'Amboise was exceptional. As I retired to my room, I wandered if the famous ghost would keep me company during the night. It may have done, but I was too tired to chat to it.Read more