(^34) While searching for a place to pitch the tents, we encountered a picnic area. In true
Esther style, she chatted with a family camping nearby. They promptly fed her grilled
chicken, salad, bread and tea. Later, the fog rolled in and a freezing night was spent
at the picnic area.
Eregli camping - Zonguldak – 34 kilometres
A good descent, with fantastic vistas along the coast and mountains, led to
Zonguldak. Due to the short distance, Zonguldak was reached early. A comfortable
abode was sought as this was Esther’s final destination. From Zonguldak, she
planned on bussing to Istanbul to catch her return flight to the UK, and I couldn’t
believe how quickly her time had run out.
Zonguldak - Bartin – 67 kilometres
Esther’s bus departed at 13h00, and we got her and her bicycle on the bus without
any hic-ups. Once we waved her goodbye, Ernest and I pedalled onwards towards
Bartin.
The route led via Filyos and an extremely hilly ride on a partly gravel path with
narrow hairpin bends and loads of trucks. Shortly beyond Filyos the way, mercifully,
levelled out as it approached the main road.
Bartin - Kurucasile – 75 kilometres
We woke to a beautiful sunny morning and, as could be expected, encountered more
hills en route to Kurucasile. Nevertheless, we stuck to the shores of the Black Sea,
where we had lunch, and shortly beyond that, caught up with Julie and Mayo.
leana
(Leana)
#1