Day 18: Le Pradet -- Sainte-Maxime

60 miles.

This was the most beautiful bike ride I've ever taken (though days on BRAG around Griffin come close). There was a great 30 mile bike path as wide as a street from Le Pradet to Le Lavandou. After taking this picture an older woman approached me snapping her fingers and shaking her head, saying "Damn, that's a sweet bike." of course she said it in French, but I think that's the translation.



Many bikers were on the road. We give the head nod of solidarity and keep going. When stopped, several people approached, saying they love my bike and "Bon courage." I guess that means good courage, or good luck? I usually respond in Spanish without pronouncing the second half of every word.

The best beaches are between Le Lavandou and Cavalaire-s-Mer. There are beaches in these little coves that you can only get to by biking or walking, so they aren't too crowded.



This was another climbing day, but the views were worth it.



Ohhh la la! Va-va voom! Men, blow your hair back and unbutton your shirt just one button too far. Ladies, tease your hair, pout your lips, and wear your big sunglasses. Get in your Bentley convertible and take a ride on the wild side (just don't hit the biker). We're in the French Riviera!

I took the scenic route around the peninsula of Sainte Tropez. The land was beautiful and the best part was watching the fancy cars and people go by. It's a subtle mix of hiding behind tinted windows yet wanting to be seen. The actual town of Sainte Tropez was flooded with tourists -- all of France has the same vacation in July. Don't forget to bring your yacht.



10 miles around the bay is Sainte-Maxime. There's a bike path connecting the towns. While riding 5 young Frenchmen on bikes with curly hair and no shirts passed me from the other direction, cheering me on. Mmmm...



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