Had Yai – Trang, Day 3

Had Yai – Trang, Day 3 (49km)

Woke up to a view across the fields with beautiful mountain backdrop. Got the bike ready and soon there was the question: ride like a tiger, or tag along with the snail? The decision was quickly taken, today should be a shorter ride as I expected less shade, in particular out towards the sea.

Satun for lunch was the first mission, well worth it. The food was so good that I ordered two plates of rice, with two different toppings each. Added some iced Thai milk tea, and there I was, a totally happy rider, ready for the second leg of the day – to the sea!

I managed to avoid most main roads, but the sun burned down relentlessly and I was thankful for every bit of shade, for every little cloud. Luckily there were more and more of the latter, so I reached the seaside quite all right. Still, those monkeys sitting in the shade of the mangrove trees lining the road for the last 8km, I think I saw them grinning…

On the plus side I arrived early by the sea, checked in, and relaxed for an hour before checking out the local area. The beaches are nothing to write home about, yet the ambiance of the two fishing villages, the laid back feeling, the ever friendly locals and a few inviting spots at the edge of the water were well worth the stop at this low key destination.

Finally, after another ride of about 15km around the peninsula, it was time to stretch the legs, enjoy the sunset, and a few cans of Leo.

Today’s ride was not very long yet much more tiring in a way than yesterday’s. First, there was much less shade, and few clouds, and then a constant sea wind made cycling harder during the last 8km or so heading out Laem Tanyong Po. The seaside was quite enjoyable and the friendliness and the comfort of the Rimhaad Villas resort made up for this day’s less than stellar riding.