The Road to Rouen

There are at least two ways of cycling from Paris to Rouen. You can follow the meandering River Seine passing the Renault factory, a large cement works and probably a couple of nuclear power stations but that probably doubles the distance as the road maps the curves of the river. 

Alternatively you can go ‘over the top’ in a direct line that follows the D14. It’s a fine straight road but one which car drivers claim as their own. So on the way you get honked at as you squeeze to the side following the white line and pray that a negligent lorry driver doesn’t clip you with his wing mirror. All this to keep you on edge.

The authorities seem to have identified this risk and will occasionally tease you off the main road with a cycle path signposted Rouen which will later mysteriously disappear forcing you once again back on to the risky road. At one point someone clearly decided to drive a tank along one section, gouging chunks from the edge just where you want to cycle. 

And finally, just as you are nearing your destination, there is a big sign saying Boos to shock you out of any complacency. Yes, you can take the fast route but then, as the old saying goes, that Road to Rouen is paid with goads and tensions.