Early start today 7:45 breakfast to be on the road by 9. 18 miles of crazy driving to clear Naples. Quite exhilarating really. I actually like the drivers because there is very little aggression. The rules are only loosely followed, but I think that there is better interaction between road users, more give and take. No one seems to get angry if you make a mistake. We stopped for coffee when we cleared Naples, all three groups and support drivers managing to convene at the same place. Then we split up, a few doing the flatter coastal route, but most tackling the climb over to the Amalfi Coast. All agreed that going at individual paces was best. I cycled up with Emma for company, went through the tunnel which was well lit, and out to our cafe meeting point on the other side. The little restaurant provided us with one of our best meals yet, all home grown home cooked food, several different courses arriving. Andy made friends with Salvodali who looked like a cross between a poor ageing Elvis impersonator and something from the mafia.
We then had the most fabulous descent, outstandingly beautiful. Winding it's way through terraced vines and houses built into the hillside, stunning sea views, goats in the road etc.
Joining the Amalfi coast road, we then enjoyed a rolling ride and refreshing rain. Soaked, we stopped at a bar for ice creams and coffees. On our final stretch of road, Jacky and Stewart came adrift from their bikes and sustained a fine collection of flesh wounds between them. After some time mopping up blood and checking limbs, they were able to cycle on for the final few miles. Dated hotel with stunning views. Great dinner 10 minutes up the road.
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