24 June 2018: Wheathampstead to Maulden

Our Sunday ride started in Wheathampstead from where we headed north into the Chiltern Hills. This meant a few climbs but also some downhill through a tranquil countryside along small roads.

The crops started to turn yellow, together with blue skies, green woods in the distance, and colourful meadows it felt like a good summer day (just shortly after the summer solstice). Once we reached the top of Hexton Hill we could enjoy how the hard worked for potential energy was transformed into forward speed down towards Stondon. There we had breakfast, after which Alistair and Phil went back home but therefore we were joined by Adrian and Jeff.

Ronnie, Jeff, Jackie, Steve & Adrian at Maulden

Going along the Scenic Route we went around Southill Park and climbed up Haynes Church End. From there it was another descent into Clophill, where we had lunch at "The Dog & Badger". Enjoying our drinks and food in the garden we were still able to count the vast amount of goals shot by the English team before the half time.

On our way home we enjoyed the empty roads while the game was continuing (although the short bit along the A6 was still busy with cars). Another big hill needed to be climbed when leaving Barton-le-Clay. After the Hill Jeff and Adrian went back, and Jackie, Steve, Richard, and Ronny descended the dry Mimram river valley to Whitwell, where we stopped for tea at Emily's Cafe, before attacking the final hills on the way home.

Ronnie 24/06/2018