Drôme and Ardèche - on both sides of the Rhône

Although it's still cool outside, it's dry, and the sun is coming out. This makes breakfast taste even better.

First, I just go to the supermarket across the street; the bike desperately needs a high-pressure cleaner. I had already cleaned the bags, clothes, and shoes last night in the hotel. Riding in the rain on unpaved paths has unpleasant side effects for cycling. But after 10 minutes, everything is back in order, and we can get going.

The route continues south from Valence along the Rhône or the canal, often switching sides over bridges.

As on the previous day, agricultural fields and some industrial sites alternate.

At each dam on the Rhône, there are large hydropower plants, and of course, along the river, the usual nuclear power plants in France are present.

At Rochemaure, I cross the Rhône on the famous narrow suspension bridge. Staying on the bike amidst the swaying of the bridge and side winds is not easy at all.

The route stretches out, especially because I had to take a detour of a total of 15 km to the next bridge due to the closure of a bridge over the Drôme estuary in the morning. But there is always something to see. Nonetheless, I am glad to reach the hotel in Bourg St. Andeol at 5:30 PM.

Km/Day 100.19

Total km 1,125.77