It was the final day of the cycle tour today and nearly everyone chose to skip the ride however Mamfa and Steve the GP decided to ride the 26kms from Vilnuis to Trakai Castle. It was a mix of busy roads, rural roads, cobblestone paths and gravel/sandy paths through the national park. We arrived at Trakai Castle just as it started raining again.

The castle dates from the 14th century and was a key city in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. It fell into disrepair and was rebuilt starting in the 1950s.

We then had a traditional Lithuanian lunch of chicken broth with dumplings and kybyn (pork filled pastie) – both delicious. After driving back to Vilnuis, we had our final dinner together with the tour group after first having champagne on the rooftop of the Radisson. Mamfa had beaver stew which was quite tasty. There was also boar and venison on the menu.

Overall, it was a very enjoyable cycling tour, despite the weather. The guide was great and the 15 others on the tour were all friendly, supportive and great company.

This day in sporting history (14 June)

2021Cristiano Ronaldo removes sponsors coke bottles from his press table at the European Championships, prompting the company share price to drop $4 billion.