And they are off!

So we finally get on the road, although the first two days are a bit of a phoney war.  Bearing in mind the heat we decided that a first day of 53 miles with over 6,000 ft of ascent was a bit optimistic so we split the day in two. Accommodation was a bit of an issue so tonight we are staying in an over-priced B&B, with decaying grandeur being the best description. The building operated as a hospital during the civil war and I'm not sure much has changed since (apart from the owners I guess). The only AC unit in our 'suite' is cunningly placed in the corridor between the bedroom and the sitting area, so the only place at an acceptable. Temperature is the corridor - lucky bikes!

Last night we went to World of Beer, where faced with 500 bottled beers and over 20 more on draught, Chris nearly went into meltdown. I was a little surprised when a 'small' glass of wine was served in a full tumbler, but somehow I managed to finish it!  Back at the hotel we packed the panniers, which are much emptier and lighter than usual. Given that the 10 day forecast does not have a max temperature below 80, or a minimum below 60, hat, gloves, leg warmers, long sleeved cycling tops and waterproof trousers all seemed like unnecessary weight, so we are travelling lighter than ever before - probably as well given the ascent .

Today was only 30 miles and the first 10 just got us out past Charlottesville airport. After that the roads got much quieter and the fat and sugar hits improved immeasurably - welcome back HoHos et al. We stopped at a tiny store and filling station for a cold drink mid morning. There were 2 fuel pumps - on the furthest side of one it said 'Sorry, out of order -  go to other side'. On the other side it said 'Sorry, out of order - go to the other pump'. On the other pump it said 'This is the other pump - go to the other side, this side not in use'.  On the other side it just said 'Out of order'!!!!!!  You might think it would be simpler to put up a sign saying 'Sorry no gas', but where's the fun in that?

We got to Stanardsville by lunchtime as it was only 30 miles and have been trying to fill time since. We are currently taking advantage of 'Happy Hour' on the second floor balcony so we can access wifi - we are in an annexe where there is no signal. Breakfast doesn't start until 8.30 and with the predicted heat and the ascent tomorrow we want to get away earlier. Apparently they are going to leave Continental breakfast in our room so I'll be interested to see what appears. Shortly we are heading to 'Sals' for dinner - the food here is expensive and a bit posh, which by the look of it shouldn't be a problem at Sal's!!!

Pictures are of our salubrious 'elevenses' spot and a sign for the Bugmart, which the Mechanic seemed to think might be useful - can't imagine why he wanted me in the photo......(also our B&B)