Day 10: La Bernerie en Retz to Noirmoutier via Passage du Gois

 


Today we left the grand Chateau hotel Domaine de le Gressiere for the island of Noirmoutier via the Passage du Gois. There was much discussion about the passage and what strategy we might take.  The Passage du Gois is a road from mainland France to the island. The road is only passable during low tide and 1.5 hours before and after.  Towers have been built along the way in case of emergency breakdown; one can climb the tower as the tide rushes in😬.  We decided to leave early enough that we would be able to start over before lowest tide.  

Here are the thoughts of some of the riders that morning:

     “I was worried about the timing of the tides and not making it to the start in time”

     “I was worried about geese stuck and having to climb one of the towers which would be scarier than the crossing itself

     “ I was concerned about a horribly slippery surface covered in seaweed……and sharks”

     “ I was worried that A…n wouldn’t get there in time…..let me change that to that we wouldn’t get at the same time together”

The way to the passage was quite different from previous riding days.  We rode through fields, oyster growing pools, and serene fields.  





As we approached the passage, Ann discovered that she only had 11% left on her battery 😬. She bravely rode on!  And we all crossed in safety!




And found ourselves at a wonderful seaside eatery.


Ann smiling in spite of crash wounds (from a previous day) while her battery charges inside. 

Here are some of the thoughts people had about the crossing:

“It was really cool being on a road that is under water half the time….and not while we were on it!”

“It was very cool being on a road in the middle of the Atlantic”

“I was amazed at how far out the tide was and at how many cars were on the road. 

“I was happily to see that the French can be as stupid as Americans, driving their cars so far off the road.

“I liked the smell, and the drama of the bloody girl” (a young woman crashed her bike and an ambulance came whizzing by)

“I loved seeing all the shellfish collectors”

The îles de Noirmoutier is known for its sea salt production. 


Lauran on the quai. 


Overall it was a fabulous day!  We are loving the adventure!

Weird French things:





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