The Lizard of Champtoceaux

I had been sitting at the scenic lookout in Champtoceaux when my attention was grabbed by a small movement near my feet. When I looked down I saw the most beautiful little lizard I have ever seen. It was covered in bright green spots and was calmy feasting on small insects.
For the next several minutes I was captivated as it scuttled too and fro, seemingly oblivious to my presence. It was one of those special moments that will be forever etched in my memory. I tried my best to let it know that I was not a threat and that it could safely stay as long as it wanted. Way down below me the greatly diminished Loire snaked before me. From this elevated viewpoint, it was clear to see just how far the river had retreated from its normal dimensions. Now there was vastly more sand than river.
Unfortunately the magic moment was brought to an end when a local fellow walked straight toward me. Although I tried to signal to him about my little reptilian friend, he did get the message and stomped right through, sending my friend back into the bushes.
Earlier in the day we had left Montjean in overcast conditions, but not before we had stocked up with provisions for our picnic lunch from the lovely Boulangerie. We then jumped on the bikes to begin the 40 km ride to Champtoceaux. John had volunteered to lead the ride, and he took off like a man on a mission. We quickly formed a conga line of riders flying along at around 26 kph. Since we were all riding ebikes, that is the maximum speed we could ride, before the motor assist cuts out completely. Although most of the early riding was on a public road, the traffic was almost non existent and the surface was smooth.
Around 11.30 am we found a delightful location for our picnic lunch. It was complete with tables and toilets and was the most peaceful spot you could imagine. The rain had held off and the sky had now lightened enough to indicate that we were in for a fine afternoon.
Our picnic location even had the unlikely addition of a flying fox, and some of the more adventurous members of our team had a go on it. Since I did not want to run the risk of breaking the overhead cable, I wisely refrained.
Although nearly all of the day's ride was flat, I knew that the final section had a significant sting in its tail. The last time I had ridden this I was riding an analogue bike, and I well remember how hard it was to climb to the township. This time we were all riding ebikes and were actually looking forward to the challenge. And what a difference it made. With the aid of a little electrical assistance, all our riders reached the top of the climb feeling exhilarated. I suspect that some were even a little disappointed that the climb was not longer.
Our home for the night is the very comfortable Hotel Champalud.

Editor's Footnote. I later found out that the probable identity of my little friend was the western green lizard (lacerta bilineata).Read more