Monday, September 10, 2007

Sept 10th - Clear Across to France: New Romney to North Foreland (Almost!)

Today's route

Today's leg to Broadstairs started speedily. The route from New Romney through Dymchurch and Hythe to the outskirts of Folkstone was flat and the promised northerly breeze had not yet set in.

Leaving Folkstone involved the biggest climb of the day from sea level to over 500 feet. Starting from the town and negotiating a steep streets and lanes we finally emerged from the trees high above the town. Heading for Dover we soon reached the Battle of Britain memorial, where replicas of a Spitfire and a Hurricane join other memorabilia to commemorate the events of the summer and autumn of 1940.

The run down to Dover was easy and fast. However, just as with Folkstone, the climb out past Dover Castle was tough. Once at the top there were great views over the harbour. Although there was a slight haze, we could see the French coast to the south. At the same time, we could also see all the way back to the nuclear power stations at Dungeness.

The route to Deal across the top of the cliffs was easy, but some ambiguous signs and worsening weather made the section to Sandwhich slightly awkward. A couple of short climbs got us to Ramsgate. The final section to Broadstairs was poorly signed and we ended up covering a couple of extra miles before reaching our B&B.

Today's picture shows boats in Ramsgate harbour. We finally elected to leave the visit to North Foreland lighthouse until the following morning.

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