Day Fifty-Seven

8/07/25 - Day Fifty-Seven

We woke at 7, taking time to have breakfast and coffee this morning. We set off rejoining a quieter road running parallel to the Central Balkan National park. We could see the “toilet” that Sam and Isabel had pointed out to me last night. It was an old USSR building sitting on a hilltop, looking exactly like a toilet! We passed through a town, taking the opportunity of a Lidl to stock up on food. Then disaster struck me again: my other rear rack eyelet snapped off, but we were soon on the road again after a strap and a cable tie were put to use. It was surprisingly sturdy, holding up perfectly for the rest of the day. Then after hitting a pothole my water bladder somehow got holed and began leaking water. Things really weren’t going my way, but glad of the company, I kept a cool head. 

We stopped for a proper lunch in Stara Zagora, 38 miles in. I have to hand it to Isabel and Sam, they are in luxury compared to me and it really was a joy to indulge with them. Sam cooked up a creamy, vegetable pasta sauce, and it wasn’t long before our bellies were full. I picked up a new portable charger while I had the chance and we set off at 5 to tackle the remaining miles of today’s target. The road out of town was horrible, a busy dual carriageway followed by a busy single carriageway. There was a savage headwind and I got a puncture to top it all off, how lovely! If I were alone today, I fear I would have had a serious wobble, but it took it all in my stride. Or perhaps I was just learning to take things as they come? Turning off the main road brought the group a collective sigh of relief, combined with a perfectly placed water tap, we took 5 to rest. The last miles were delightful, cruising in the golden light, chatting and searching casually for a camp spot. We found one easily on the edge of a farmers field, and after trying my best to set light to it, and a second round of pasta for me, we wound down for the evening. The sunset was mega. Another lovely day in da bag!

 

The Soviet toilet!

 

 

 

This cracked me up a lot more than it maybe should have!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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