5^th July

Today we have arrived at another Passion, that of Michel Marcoult in Barbonne Fayel. After sampling his selection of fine champagnes we plumped for 2 of his best and set about our evening routine whilst waiting for our purchases to chill. Alas it takes a long time so our bottles are still unopened. C`est la vie! We had to settle for Vin Rouge and farm cider as we watched the amazing sunset over the vineyard.

6^th July

We have arrived at the Lakes of Aube. The Passion here is a Pizza Restaurant so we decide to wild camp next to the Lac du Temple. Some really nice cycle rides joining the lakes, but no real places to pull over amongst the trees.

7^th July

Next stop Troyes with its beautiful old houses and many churches. Unfortunately it is Monday and all museums are closed. The municipal site here is good and close to the centre (about 20 mins walk) with food shops close by. Spotted a fantastic Citroen camper, over 28 years old, here are a couple of pics.

8th - 9th July

So into week 2 and we travel to Lac du Marcenay, a few miles East of Auxerre, and camp at Camping Le Grebe right by the lake. Really good forest cycling here and many small villages within easy riding distance along very quiet roads. Plenty of history, and lots of vineyards. Total mileage in France is now 760. We are going to drink one of our bottles of Champers at the 1000 mile mark.

11^th July

Mileage is 860, weather is RAINING!!!!

Spent last night on a Passion site, a lovely vineyard in the middle of Burgundy, vines for as far as the eye can see. Decided to eat out, found a lovely little restaurant, and spent slightly too much money (70 euros), on a fantastic meal and a VERY nice bottle of red…

There is something to be said for quaffing red wine in a restaurant, when you can see the Domain it was made in literally across the street. We are going to carry on down into the Rhone valley today, so watch this space… pics to follow