Tour de France

Today's TdF route comes near us, finishing in Cap d'Agde. Had thought about catching a train to Sete to watch the race coming through, but it's too hot for crowds so am settling for the cooler, indoors, TV option.  As it's also Bastille Day it will be more crowded than usual. 

We recently went to nearby Agde, a lovely unspoilt town which, 2500 years ago, was a thriving port. Over time the silting up of the Herault river pushed the coastline from its walls and it's now surrounded by canals. Its fishing heritage is much in evidence in the medieval streets and squares. A much nicer place than its 'evil twin', Cap d'Agde, which is a sprawling and characterless modern resort.

Merv is currently in the Alps, providing support for a cycle trip going over some of the cols of this year's Stage 11, including Col de la Madeleine and Col de la Croix de Fer - although the group won't be doing them all in one day like the TdF riders!