For Greg, each summer is an opportunity to maximize his cycling adventures and see more of the world than can be viewed from the window of a moving vehicle. This cycling summer culminated with a new adventure: a tandem bike ride! Not only that, but a 100km (62 miles) tandem bike ride, plus the to/from the starting point. Basically an 85-mile day pedaling with a friend through the beautiful countryside.

Cycling in France is a different experience than what is typical in the U.S. Less striving for distance, more enjoying the ride. On this day, a group of five tandems from a local cycling club rode this with a chase car that ferried their backpacks with lunches, extra waters, etc.

When they stopped for a leisurely lunch break, they set out an pre-lunch aperitif spread which included a drink, some nuts, and bread with different types of pâté spreads. Only after that did the group eat the lunches they had brought and share in some tarts and desserts brought by some of the riders. Contrast that with a food break in the U.S. which is usually short, with just enough time to eat a quick bar with protein and carbs, refill your bottles, and maybe a bathroom break.

Along the way, the group stopped at this amazing chateau:

Domaine de La Richardière, was built by the heir of the family of distillers that developed Cointreau liqueur in Angers in the late-1800s. The chateau is still lived in and managed by the Cointreau family and has been home to six generations. It hosts guests and events as well.

The end of the ride was celebrated with champagne and the riders returned home tired and sore, but having enjoyed a fun activity, gorgeous scenery, and great weather together.

“The best way to see France is on a bicycle!” said one rider.