Minor Roads and the Vienne River

The B&B had been flooded recently but we still enjoyed the requisite French breakfast, choice of Viennoiserie (croissant or pain au chocolate), cafe au lait or té, crepes with exotic jams like gnossielle, baguette and eggs. We later observed that it was a day of climbs and  the sumpcious breakfast stood us in good stead. 

There were any number of chickens, but this one seemed to hang around the patio. Perhaps she provided the egg. 

After breakfast, Mo used the barn for organizing. 

It was much nicer than the usual campground. 

We rode minor roads with very few cars passing through Antogny-le-Tillac.  In addition, to being at the top of a long slow climb, it also featured an old church,

lovely flowers,

and a faded sign for Le Marais Verrière or the Swamp Canopy.

We didn't visit Le Marais Verrière as it was off our route, perhaps next time. 

We also ride through Dangé-Saint-Romain, which was picturesque but had a lovely downhill road, so I only took one photo. I may need to go back here. 

As we proceeded southward, the roofs of the houses shifted from slate or metal to tile. It's been fun seeing all the different types of buildings along the route. 

From there we headed to Châtelleraulr, which had a lovely bike friendly bridge and chateaux. 

After a break for lunch, we rode up two big hills. They were doable but we were ready for cold drinks when we got to Chauvigny. 

When we rode into the campground, we thought this was a decoration. 

A bit later we met the guy who has been driving it. He is from Germany and quite a character. The trailer is clearly made by hand. Hexsaid he can only go about 15k an hour. We told him that would be fast for us. 

After suitable refreshment, washed the bikes and lubed their chains. We are all ready for our rest day at the midpoint of our ride. Time is flying.