Monday 29th July
Distance: 25km(386km), 1305m (4280ft) ascent, 1410m (4625ft) descent

Our start was delayed slightly by a minor thunderstorm and as we waved au revoir to Alistair (who escaped to the dryness of his car) we began walking in the pouring rain. In a mere ten minutes all experienced a flash flood sensation in their boots and our socks became incredibly soggy. What’s more, upon reaching the first town and devouring spinach quiche for lunch Mother was instantly taken by the prospect of staying in the Holiday Inn down the road. As the rain continued to beat down relentlessly she insisted that it was the kind of thing tourists did on holiday. Nevertheless, prying her from the gates of the town we did eventually make it to the Col du Fromage. Yes, the Col of Cheese. There, according to the guide book, one was destined to see great views. On any other day this may have been the case but as we reached the view point a big fat cloud blocked the whole thing. Great ascent. So worth it. Arriving at the gite, our two roommates happened to be the coolest French ladies ever. They noticed Mother massaging my sore leg and immediately whipped out a multitude of oils, creams and magic pills made from flowers to cure me. I currently smell like a selection of herbal teas and am optimistic about tomorrow.