24th July 20km ish

I chose the steep hill. I pushed the bike up the steepest bit (270m, a convenient sign) and then struggled up the rest. My plan of 'down hill but avoiding the main road' went a little bit wrong when I got stuck in a housing estate full of dead ends (and so steep ups). Apart from that little detour, it was an easy little trip. 

I had breakfast and wandered down to the beach. I spent a merry hour stone hunting (honestly) and taking photos until my belly was rumbling again and so I had lunch. 

I was holding off getting to the ferry port too early but eventually gave in. I checked where I needed to check in and then sat back to relax. 

There were cyclists on an organised tour as well as some tourists like me. They and I got chatting. It was all going so well until one less than likeable character (even cyclists can be pains in the neck you know) insulted my saddle. Well, insult my bike, insult me. He went on to spout off about his philosophies of life and the road. Eventually I went to check in early. Sitting out there in the burning sun was blessed relief. 

The ferry was quiet so the wait was short. The sea was still and the crossing was, once again, sickness free. Disembarking I saw the philosopher but luckily got talking to a bloke in his underwear (brief-ly -ha ha) so didn't have to listen a second time. 

The Newhaven Lodge was easy to find and cycle friendly, however the welcome was less than genial. The room was a bit tired but then again, so was I. 

Galley