Day 5 - Through the Fields of France

Day 5 brought us another hot summer day on the road, but by now we have settled into the rhythm of the journey.

The plan for the day was 73 km (45.4 miles), and we completed the ride in 4h28 of cycling time, with a total duration of 7h48 including all the stops, breaks, photos, and little moments that made this adventure so special.

One thing that changed on this day was our pace. Teresa started learning how to ride efficiently in the wheel behind dad, understanding how much easier and faster cycling can become when you draft properly. It was amazing to see her gaining confidence with it, holding the wheel, keeping the rhythm, and suddenly cruising much faster while using less energy. Little by little, she is starting to ride not just with determination, but also with strategy.

We started the morning riding through the peaceful French countryside, surrounded by endless golden fields that looked like giant blankets spread across the landscape. Wheat, barley, oats… everywhere we looked, the crops moved gently with the wind under the heat of the sun. The roads were quiet, rolling gently through villages and farmland, making it really enjoyable.

One of the biggest highlights of the day came during a simple picnic stop by a small pond. Ducks happily splashed in the water while frogs sang somewhere hidden in the reeds. We sat there together as a family with absolutely no rush.

After the break, we continued riding through more beautiful countryside. Along the route we spotted cows, sheep, goats, rabbits, hares, chickens, dogs, cats, and countless birds singing around us. It felt like cycling through a giant living postcard.

The route then took us through the beautiful landscapes of the Epte Valley, where quiet roads and green scenery made the kilometres pass quickly.

Later, we joined the fantastic Trans’Oise route, a wonderfully smooth former railway trail that made riding fast, comfortable, and enjoyable despite the heat. These old rail routes really are a dream, gentle gradients, long straight sections, and no traffic.

Another special stop of the day was the Castle of Gisors. We took some photos, enjoyed the atmosphere for a while, and then got back on the bikes for the final stretch.

From there, the trail seemed to pull us effortlessly towards the planned finish. The kilometres disappeared quickly, and before we realised it, another successful day was completed.

Five days into this adventure, what feels truly remarkable is watching Teresa keep going, day after day. Facing the climbs, pushing through the heat, and sometimes finishing the day with some discomfort, only to wake up the next morning and do it all again.

There are moments when we both feel physically drained and mentally low. Moments where the energy is simply not there. But somehow, when the time comes to ride, the commitment speaks louder. And above all, the purpose speaks louder.

And that is what makes this journey so special.

And to everyone following this journey, supporting, donating, sharing, sending messages, cheering us on, or simply taking a moment to encourage Teresa, thank you.

Every message genuinely lifts us on the difficult moments and reminds us why we started this adventure in the first place.