67 miles ridden – 5500 feet climbed.

Another glorious day – at least that’s what I think – through picturesque countryside and attractive little villages and towns. The temperature was better – around 28C – and the breeze wasn’t to bad especially when it was behind us towards the end of the day.

The climbing was mostly long and gentle although there were a couple of nasty short 12% plus sections. It’s critical to get a rhythm going and then you can plod on but it has to be said the rhythm gets boring after 10 miles of climbing!

Still, the views were worth it:

We had another great pasta lunch just before halfway. Trouble is that however delicious the pasta is, having to go straight into a 2 mile climb before your legs are ‘back in’ with a full stomach is more difficult than one imagines.

Sue had another good day (in my opinion!) as although the distance wasn’t as high as yesterday the amount of climbing was more than she had ever done. 5500 feet is 25% high than Ben Nevis so think about that on top of cycling 67 miles! She is physically aware of her achievement!!!!

Coming over the final summit we had a view of the whole Florence area. Pictures don’t really do it justice because it is a huge urbanised mass but tomorrow we will cycle through at least the historic centre.

We have covered 340 miles so far and we are all feeling it to some extent or another. Tomorrow we will arrive in Siena where we have a rest day which everyone is planning for. For now, the priority is dinner.