Those of us at the alternative hotel successfully negotiated the early start we craved so well, and Peter kindly delivered our navigation devices so we could get away. It was a great morale booster for us all. We are all strong steady riders, just appreciative of the extra time this allowed.
You might notice that the road slopes up, immediately we crossed the border the first pinch hill hits. Walked that, but after that I rode well. It was one of those days which are a combination of managing it well and my bike and I just fitting together. Some lovely country before lunch, including a coffee stop in Langholm. Still making good time.
Lunch is in the car park of the Samye Ling Tibetan centre, a Buddhist complex including temple, garden, retreat house and tearooms. It is unexpected and beautiful in the middle of a stunning valley. Very peaceful and a welcome respite today. Still a way to go.
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| Stupa |
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| Temple courtyard and entrance |
We had a magnificent run along a river valley and I loved it, I flew along, then turned left into a stiff headwind. Bugger. Ploughed on and turned out of it for a whole, more gradual long uphill, more down down downhill into Peebles. My best days riding so far if you follow statistics. All I know is that my legs worked, my bike seemed to like it and way we went. Might happen again, might not.
Peebles is in the throes of the annual Beltane Festival so for a change we have arrived while something is on, not just before or after it is happening. And we have tomorrow off the bike. Three cheers.. hip hip hooray.
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| Glimpse of the band and entourage across the river accompanying the Beltane Queen home |
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