Day 29: Sat 25 Jun - Svishtov to Ruse

Ride: 120km

Weather: fine, cloudy, top temp high 20s

The best part of Svishtov was the balcony of our motel, looking straight down the Danube from a bluff. 

The flash restaurant attached to the motel had no English menu so it was a matter of the waitress struggling to explain the available fare in her limited English. At least she could make herself sort of understood; I am often embarrassed by my lack of language skills when overseas. Throw in two vegetarians and one person who is allergic to butter and cream and you have some fun. The best solution was to tell her what we wanted and she would bring us the closest dishes. All the meals and sweets turned out a treat especially the pancakes and ice-cream. With drinks and dessert it was A$6.92 per head. What a great way to eat out. 

Svishtov turned out to be a surprise after all. As we went for a wander after dinner about 10 minutes from the motel we discovered a modern city, including all the usual array of shops and umpteen different restaurants. Outside this area were the normal deserted and dilapidated buildings in various stages of decay. What a contrast. 

The ride today was supposed to be 86km but I turned it into 120kms for myself only. This decision came as a result of me finding myself on a very busy highway. The 130km/h trucks were a bit disconcerting.   

While on the back road I took the opportunity to explore the hewn stone churches of Ivanovo. Built in the 13 - 14th century by monks the churches are carved out of solid limestone. The environment and man have both played a part in causing a fair amount of damage to them over the years. Still they are a testament to the dedication of the monks, as you can imagine the tools available at that time were pretty basic. Seeing these churches does wonders for one's faith. 

Needless to say I was the last to arrive at the motel today as the others may see the churches during the next couple of days which are REST DAYS!!!