Distance today = 50.20 km; Total distance = 18,220.85 km; Location = Longevelle sur Doubs – 47 27.146′ N, 06 39.439′ E; Start time = 0845, Finish time = 1700

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/286748126

More rain today, but it was relatively light. At around 10C, the temps haven’t been too bad either.

The whole day was essentially alongside the Doubs River. I believe this is pronounced ‘doobs’, as in the shortened version of ‘fadoobadahs’, the saggy bit of skin and fat that hangs from the back of the upper arm if you hold your arms outstretched with palms facing up. That’s if you have fadoobadahs. Anyhow, it’s a very nice river, with high cliffs along much of the banks, which are heavily forested. I even saw a deer swim across the river this morning.

The first 16 km of the run was on very quiet roads or bike trails, although the remainder of the day was on much busier roads. The final 6 km was really busy, with no shoulder, and I did not like finishing the day that way at all.

We were not sure where we’d find accommodation, and expected to have to drive into the small city of Montbeliard. However, at virtually the exact spot I’d nominated to finish at, Carmel found a gite (B&B). She was very pleased, after yesterday’s difficulties. It’s a great place, with a very nice proprietor, Jipi. Our room backs on to the river, with a balcony and all. What a stroke of luck!!!

This region used to be part of Germany, until Napoleon reannexed it in 1793. It was also the centre of the German Renaissance in the 16th and 17th centuries. The landscape is very German looking, and the architecture is looking more German all the time. I should actually reach Germany the day after tomorrow.