The gang is back together

First day of riding, today, if only to make sure the bikes (and legs) still work as they should. It was also the first day together as our group, and we settled into things super easy like old friends should.

Some last minute excursions to the ocean for a swim (me) and a final exploration of the old town (B), and we transferred hotels, unloaded the bikes and built them up.

David promised a ride along the valley as a warm up, although since Nice is surrounded by the Maritime Alpes, no one really understood what valley that was. Of course, there is no valley, and our warm up ride was a nice little taste of the Alpes, with 10 times harder a ride waiting tomorrow.

All the bikes work well, we still know how to ride them, and everyone is looking forward to the challenge ahead. Ruari, our new host, is great.

We said farewell to Nice with dinner at Garabaldi Square (namesake of the fountain in the photos). I'm including mug shots of everyone (Thanks to Mark) and a picture of a super double chocolate dessert (for Sydney), and yummy crusty bread (for my lovely wife).

Love to all at home.

One Last Day of Relaxation

Today was our last real day in Nice to sit back and enjoy the Mediterranean. In addition to the customary swim in the ocean, most of the day was spent looking for gifts for loved ones and taking one last chance to explore the city. B found the old city's cemetery, and I climbed to the old castle, church, and fortress on the massive rock outcropping behind our hotel. At the top was a great sign, essentially saying the State doesn't use pesticides or chemicals in the Parks, so you shouldn't either in your home garden.

We all found the flower market in the afternoon, and some cute dogs that seem to own certain streets and tables in the old town. B got some great shots of all the yummy treats in the shops.

At the end of the day, we met up with our old friends and cycling partners for the week to have a great dinner together. Not much of narrative today, just photos of a beautiful city.

Love to all at home.