The First Casualty

The day started off nice enough. We finally had some sunshine! The Traveling Hillbilly sat on the ferry on the way to Brac, sipping a cappuccino, enjoying the view and thinking about what a nice life it is. Why can’t everyday, or at least more days, be like this? What a special day it was starting off to be.

As we pulled into the marina, I’m struck once again by the images from the fairy tales I heard as a kid. It feels like we are stepping back in time, to a different world. It just doesn’t seem real.

We get to the hotel, get checked in and then it’s off in search of lunch. Our trip leader informs us that most of the restaurants are closed or no longer serving food, however if we go across the way, a tiny woman named Marta (spelling?) will open up for us and make us something to eat. While some of the group opts to go to the grocery store, others opt to take a nap; a few of us head over to see Marta. Marta does not disappoint!

After a quick bite, we head off to explore the village around our hotel and find several great photo opps. Then it’s time for our first ride of the trip! After reviewing the rules and some key safety tips, we final head out on our bikes to Dol, the next village over.

As we bike along the narrow road, we are surrounded by mountains, grape vines and an overall amazingly scenic view. I wonder if this is what it’s like to bike in the French countryside. There’s so much charm, grace and beauty, I just can’t believe I’m actually here. It’s truly spectacular.

Then of course, we all miss the first turn and get lost! Luckily we are back on track after a few moments of panic. Halfway through our ride, we come across a great little bar where they have set up some lovely welcome drinks for us. The owner has set out some almonds, figs and brandy (all grown/made on site) for us to try. The bar is actually built into the mountain. It’s stunning.

Time to head back to the hotel and get ready for dinner. As we head into the bar for a pre-dinner drink we are informed that one of our group has already been injured. Apparently, she fell coming down the hill on her way back to the hotel. She has been transported to the hospital to be checked out. We are all saddened to hear that one of our group may be hurt and most likely will not be joining us for our ride tomorrow. Here it is day one and we’ve already been lost and had a major casualty.

The Traveling Hillbilly sends out a prayer for Linn and hopes tomorrow turns out better.