Colmar to Waldkirch 66km

I was keen to get away as early as possible today given the heat. Breakfast was a non-event and not worth the money I paid. I need to be careful with this in future. After coffee, juice and a piece of fruit, I was packing the bike and heading out. 

I rode through beautiful quiet farmland on small roads and dedicated cycleways. It was so peaceful, As the day went on, I was stopping more frequently to cool down whenever I could. I even found a fountain to cool me down! 

My biggest issue at the moment is food. I just can’t get enough calories. With only a light breakfast, and no lunch (just a snack), it’s too late to find anything when I get in around 2-3pm. Then by the time I get to cook dinner, I’m no longer hungry so most of it goes in the bin! I need to find a way to better manage this. It’s not easy as a celiac. 

The campground ended up being up a massive hill and I somehow missed the bike path. These can be hard to find if you’re not used to it and are often behind hedges or greenery. I was misplaced a few times as my iPhone was struggling with the heat and wouldn’t display the screen. The result of the missed bike path was terrible abuse but whatever! I’m not intentionally being in anyone’s way. Interestingly, the police passed me and slowed down and then kept going. 

I stopped by the side of the road on the climb with still 1.5km to go and I just didn’t have it in me. I dropped the bike and sat on the ground and looked for a room in town. I’d had a look a couple of days ago and knew it was more affordable than Strasbourg. The result is I have a beautiful room, the bike is safe, there is a common room with coffee and wine, and I will let someone cook me a meal tonight. I need the calories. 

Tomorrow is another day. Maybe a train instead of the climb. After all, it’s my holiday and I get to choose!