Feeling refreshed after a day off, we set out early, only to be overtaken by the local cycling club. Robyn decided she wanted a tow, and since it was a bunch of old fellas, we tucked in behind them for a few kilometres much to their amusement.

The rest of the day had a bit of everything—country tracks, canal paths, fast empty tarmac, and the most splendid bike route into La Rochelle, where the Sunday crowds were out in full force. We’d made such good time that we could explore the town, check in, have a swim, and still head out dinner.