Into the Jura

The Doubs River

We have a new river friend now - the Doubs. We left the Saone, joined up with the Canal Rhin au Rhone for a while, and now the gentle, slow-moving, scenic Doubs is by our side as we have made our way into "the Jura". This is an area of smaller mountains to the northwest of the Alps in France. We've certainly seen the landscape change from completely flat to a beautiful, gradually narrowing valley with steep, limestone cliffs that are completely covered by dense, lush woods. The architecture has changed a bit too. I've noticed the village churches have different kinds of roofs, and the houses look a little more Tirolian to me.

Along the Doubs this afternoon


It's now just over three weeks since the start of the ride, and Frank and I are still enjoying every moment. We had every opportunity to put ourselves  and the bikes on a train and fast forward to our destination, but we made a decision to ride the whole way to the Swiss border and the city of Basel. So far, it has not been a hardship. The scenery is varied enough to keep it interesting, and now we're enjoying a spell of suunny weather.

Boat on the Saone River about to enter the Rhin au Rhone Canal


 The wedge sandals have not yet made an appearance though! In fact, yesterday was the first day I saw any French ladies wear sandals and tank tops. Up till now it has been too darn cold. Frank and I got new sleeping bags before this trip, which are rated for -8C. Well, good thing we didn't get the +5C bags that we were contemplating. I've been wearing leggings plus my hoodie and socks every night until now!!

Strolling the streets of Bescanon


Last night we had another hotel night, this time in the city of Bescanon. A couple of people had recommended this as a city worth lingering in. So we spent a full 24 hours there and rested the legs a bit. Did some sight- seeing and enjoyed wanderjng around the city and it's citadel.

Sightseeing in Besancon

Preparing salad to go with tonight's roast chicken

Our panniers are always a lot lighter before we go grocery shopping! Every few days we try to stock up on a few things. Tonight we found a SuperU in the little town just before the campground and got a BBQ chicken. Made up some fresh salad to go with it, and the with obligatory bottle of wine and fresh baguette  we were all set. I think we paid €4 for tonight's bottle.

Chocolate and wine
The baker (boulanger) is coming by the campground at 8.10am in the morning, and apparently he will sound a bell! We don't need any bread for tomorrow's breakfast, but that might be our wakeup call anyway!

Comments

  1. Iveta bxJune 1, 2019 at 10:43 PM

    It's very lovely - the green banks along Doubs. You look very stylish Daphne, even though you carry your wardrobe in your panniers!

    ReplyDelete
  2. DaphneJune 2, 2019 at 9:32 AM

    Yes the Doubs was a lovely valley and a popular recreation area it seems, one of my favourite areas so far. Thanks for the stylish comment! It's not easy with such limited luggage!

    ReplyDelete

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