2025 Tour Day 19 - Suisse Normandie Part 2

When we woke up there were 11 tents, and 3 RVs all nestled together on a small parcel of land meant for 6 tents. Cozy. But honestly it wasn't a problem. We were first up and out and ready to climb back to Caen. And climb we did. Up and down and up again.  This part of the journey was different roads than yesterday and we got some spectacular views, like this poppy field. 

Seriously breathtaking. 

The green tunnel of trees made for beautiful light and shade. 

And then there were more hills to climb. 

Until we found our way back to the flat and safe and pretty Voie Verte Rail trail and back we cycled.

The paths are lined with spring flowers. 

We even found a little tiny strawberry. 

We already had a bakery in mind for our mid morning snack. Check out the baguettes! (We had pain au chocolat of course.)

Snack time on the trail. 

As we approached Caen, and the end of this section of the trail, more bridges and more people. 

At our lunch stop, we were lucky enough to share this picnic table with new friends. This family of 3 boys ages 8-6-4, shared not only their table but they shared their lunch too! So kind, and so yummy. 

And then we were back in the suburbs of Caen, and found both wind and rain 🤣

We are back at our familiar campground for another night's rest, another night with a picnic table, and so many chatty birds. 

This campsite does not have an accurate address on Google, or an accurate phone number. It was a challenge to find two days ago, but today we knew the way. 

On the ride here, we stopped to help a fellow cyclist (Charles) who had a map out and looked anxious. Sure enough he was looking for this campsite. So he followed us here. It is a very interesting place, carefully, slowly and meticulously run by an older gentleman, who remembers the war, and remembers supply planes (Allies) landing on the fields across the street.  So much history everywhere here. 

Our friend Alistair is on a ferry back to England tonight. Bon voyage. 

His place at the campsite has been taken by Peter, from the Netherlands, who is cycling home after spending the last year in Spain doing the Camino etc. 

So many interesting people we get to meet. 

Strava stats. 

Now that's getting your climbing in early!