We caught an early morning ferry so that we would dodge traffic when we arrived at Calais. It was a little confusing finding the right place to check in, but after that it was dead easy. The P&O staff were helpful and friendly both on and off the boat.
Securing your bike is your own responsibility. A bike rack is bolted to the floor and straps are provided but the rest is up to you!
Getting out of the port is easy, just follow the 'Sortie' signs, then take the turning for 'Centre Ville' before you get on the motorway!
Shortly after leaving the port we heard a rattling and realised the pannier straps were not properly adjusted.
After donning coats to combat the light drizzle i locked in compass and headed due south.
Near the edge of Calais the tire popped off the rim, probably due to too higher pressure. After sorting out that issue we continued heading south to Guines where we passed up an opportunity to go to a Carrefore for some breakfast.
We kept on pedalling onwards to Licques and encountered our first hills with our fully laden tandem. As our strength and energy waned our lack of sleep, food and preperation became ever more apparent and we decided to find a campsite to recover in when we arrived at Licques.
On the outside of Licques we stopped for a Giant Pain au Chocolait before heading out to find our campsite.
Des Pommiers had a 'Compleat' sign outside but after enquiring we were allowed to camp on the grass near the carpark.
We pitched the tent in a semi daze before stowing our gear and crashing.
Lots of lessons learned today:
- Be well rested
- Eat well
- Have a Practice Run!
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