We looked in lots of bike shops today as Kris has more or less decided to replace his bike. This took up a lot of our time. In the second shop we bought a new seat column for Kris’s bike so at least it is ridable.

The first part of our journey was lovely – on bike paths all along the lagoon. The seaside towns of Port Leucate a and Barcares are sprawling and full of holiday apartments and cafes.

We found a great bike path going to Rivesaltes – along an old railway line, wide and newly surfaced. On either side were apricot orchards, the trees laden with fruit. Also mountains in the distance now.

It is very noticeable today that the architecture is different here – we are getting close to Spain.

Peripignan is a large city. Wonderful fountains and avenues of shady trees near the tourist office. Also arborists up in the trees with mountaineering gear pruning them. After spending some (fruitless) time in a city center bike shop, we had a look at the palace, before going to look at bike shops on the outskirts.

The last shop we went to was the best – Veloland – but it was getting late and we were pretty tired so we plan to go back tomorrow.

Our accommodation is near a town just outside the city – Cabestany – it is on a rural block with horses; swimming pool, lovely views from a large porch and hares in the driveway. We had our picnic dinner on a table near the pool where it was nice and cool.

Highlights:

• Peripignan palace (Palais of the Kings of Mallorca – construction started 1276) – especially the moat and the view of the city from the top tower.