September 1st, 2006

We left Bordeaux early in the morning by train to St. Émilion. This was a short ride on the train which took only about 45 minutes and avoided a fair bit of dull and busy road riding.

We arrived in St. Émilion before 8 am and waited for 1/2 hour before the bakery opened (summer hours).  It was well worth the wait as the croissant and pain chocolat were heavenly - soft, crispy, hot and delicious. After we fed the beast, it was time to hit the road.  We headed south to the Dordogne River.  The main roads on the north side were way too busy but a very small D130 on the south side was very quiet and perfect for riding. The land around here is totally covered with vines.  There are plenty of wine châteaux and caves along the way.

Ste. Foy-la-Grande is a quiet town with plenty of British tourists.  Next week is the British-French Festival.  The town is covered with paper and plastic flowers.  Have to find out why tomorrow.  Tomorrow is also the weekly market.  This is suppose to be the largest one in the region.  Should be interesting...