West Coast 2018

53 miles Woke up early thinking we might have to cover over 80 miles to the next state park. As it happens we were able to stay with Brian and Nicole at Bandon. Set off before 8am and covered the first thirty miles in no time We saw a flock of Egrets prior to stopping for breakfast: We arrived too early for any of the Charleston diners to be open so we had a coffee before our breakfast (with more coffee). By the time we finished I wa feeling a little wired. After breakfast we set off up the seven devils hill - this has a severe reputation but the views were worth the effort. We arrived at Brian and Nicole’s house knowing they wouldn’t be in until later so we put up our tents, cycled to town to get food then, once showered sat and enjoyed the view from the house of the river Coquille Once Brian and Nicole arrived home we spent a few hours making some new friends (enjoying several glasses of wine in the process). 

59 miles A later start today settting off at 8.30am. There is less of a hurry - we’re meeting another friend, Simon Pooler a friend of mine (a friendship that stretches back to University) on theCalifornian border on 3rd August. This stretch of coast is famous for Seals and a Sealion colony. We spotted a colony of seals early in the ride: Then joined the tourists to see a Sealion colony: Over lunch I took the opportunity of free WiFi in the diner to face time Sarah. It was wonderful to see and speak with  her even for a few minutes. I also face timed Simon P who we at meeting up with on the 3rd. He was busy packing and repacking kit – we both looking forward to his arrival. The afternoon ride was breathtaking as we rode up into the hills: And spotting more eagles on the wing. We camped at Umpqua State Park, again meeting up with our Canadian friends Steve and Anna. The campsite is by a lake and I joined Steve for a swim – it was clear and cool. Just ...