Riding South on the 237
We awake up in Furano to see a 50mm-deep blanket of snow covering the town's rooftops, but - thankfully - the sun comes out and once we start pedalling it actually feels pretty warm. This doesn't stop the few locals we pass from giving us glances that translate to 'crazy foreigners'.
I suggest that we get off the 237 and instead trace some minor farm roads, so as to explore the countryside a bit more. Add a bit of excitement! It seems a good idea to me. Debbie says okay, let's do it.
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The small side roads are thick with snow at the higher points; my spin on this is that it just adds to the sense of adventure. I'm not sure Debbie buys it.
We make a detour to a scenic lake that is off road 237, riding along the winding and quite hilly 465, through two, windy cold tunnels to find the water frozen solid and layered with snow. It's very beautiful; maybe even more so.
There's nobody around.
After taking a few snaps we head back to the quiet 237 as the cafe is closed and so we can't stop for a hot coffee as we'd hoped. No doubt this place is packed in summer and autumn.
On the way a group of deer run across the slippery road in front of us. Startled to see us, one doubles back and flees across the icy lake. I manage to get a snap before it disappears into the firs on the distant bank.
We find a bed in a small hotel later that afternoon and have dinner in the one place that's open.
An American guy and his Japanese wife own it, and as the hotel doesn't do breakfast, he kindly drives us to the local supermarket to get some food for tomorrow - nothing will be open in the morning, he tells us.
Today's ride: 45 km (28 miles)
Total: 284 km (176 miles)
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