Dawn at the péage at La Ciotat, sunlight streaming through the cork oak trees and then morning sunshine for breakfast in St. Tropez

See more: Petit-déjeuner in St. Tropez

Provence dawns are special and fantastic, every one a new feast

See more: Sunrise on Cap Canaille

Checking out my mesh riding kit in the heatwave in Marseille. Great when moving but mesh doesn’t stop me heating up when stopped. On safety and protection, there’s a balance between comfort and safety (you aren’t riding safely if you are overheated) but the protection from a full riding suit is undeniable. Maintaining hydration and structuring rest are also important.
But of course I took the opportunity for a bit of sharpening up riding skills on the Col de l’Espigoulier (723 m.) - it’s always good to remember that some curves tighten as you ride through...

Last ride out on this trip so visiting the Mediterranean. Chilling out is not the word, today is the summer solstice: the temperatures are well in to the thirties. The little port of La Madrague retains its charm, now lost by its larger neighbours such as Six-Fours, Bandol and Sanary. Bandol enjoys a particularly magnificent example of municipal roundabout horticulture this year and the town is recovering well from the diseases attacking palm trees elsewhere on the Riviera.

Read more: La Madrague - Bandol - Castellet