The Val de Loire

We broke camp and rolled out of Beaugency looking forward to another day in on the Loire Velo route headed for chateaux and abbeys. 

We rolled through several spots under repair or construction. 

But in most cases they said cyclists were allowed. At one innundation warning, cyclists going the other way said the path was good. 

We paused briefly at this laundry area from the 1600's. The French word for spring is puits. 

After washing clothes, you ascend this alley back to Chaumont-sur-Loire. 

That looks like a peaceful route home, if rather uphill. 

Then we took a long downhill roll through Cour-sur-Loire where the square featured a farmer who appeared to be driving a cart pulled by reindeer. If you drive a cart, wouldn't it be nice to have it pulled by reindeer? 

Then, alone in the park, we snacked under a grove of cherry blossoms. 

We took a break just because it was so peaceful. From there we go headed into Blois for groceries. It was quite steep but there were well engineered paths with switchbacks that made the climb doable.  

The town of Blois was predictably lovely. The bridge features a structure they call a pyramid. 

The view included the Church of St. Nicolas. That might explain the Cour de Loire reindeer figures. 

We took more minor roads over Rilly-sur-Loire where a balloon had just landed.

And thuroughly enjoyed the downhill ride to our camp, La Poteries Camping. We are wrapping up the day on their lovely terrace overlooking the Loire. 

And are enjoying some local wine. 

Our dinner reservation is at 7:40. This is proving to be an outstanding day and route.