After 10 days skiing, followed by a flu-like affliction that meant (1) I didn't turn up to the Primrose Path 100 and (2) when I attempted to ride it a week later I could only manage 40km before packing, I managed to get a couple of commutes in. Both felt quite good and I was pleased.
Yesterday it was time for a longer ride. As we had people staying and things to do I couldn't leave particularly early but got away at 10.25. The idea was to try and explore new areas so I headed for Stourhead, a wonderful National Trust house to the north east.
Hardly saw a car all morning, just half a dozen vintage motorcycles on a run. Lovely lanes with fantastic views across completely unspoilt countryside.
Just before Stourhead had a black moment and had to get off and walk up the hill to King Alfreds Tower. However I am now learning that if you push on through things invariably get better. They certainly did at the cafe at Stourhead, where the chocolate cake was laid out and you could select your own slice. I was grateful that whoever had cut it wasn't very good at portion control and there was one which was double the size of the others. It would have been rude not to take it.
Shortly after this hail came down. There are two interesting facts about hail. 1. It has a strange ability to find its way inbetween helmet vents and 2. It make a pinging sound as it bounces off bicycle frames. It didn't last long though and the skies cleared and I was feeling good and strong after the cake.
The remainder of the ride continued as before with quiet lanes and fab views. I think this has the making of a calendar event, the distance is right and the corners are in the right places for controls. Only about 5 km on roads with a white line down the middle. It also has a 'sting in the tail' in the shape of Batcombe Hill, which even after 10k is hard work, but after 105 I managed to ride it, albeit with a slightly increased heart rate. It's always good to have to 'dig deep'.
117 km total, a cracking ride, plenty of places to stop for food and drink en route. One I'll certainly be doing again.
