Day 13: Mikeltornis to Jurkalne

The day started with a puncture. Luckily I was still at the Piza Guesthouse. The owner very kindly, and swiftly, changed the inner tube and I was on my way by 9.30.

The road to Ventspils was quiet with the forests opening out to big patches of heather.

Approaching Ventspils a wonderful cycle track reappeared. I could no longer that my back tyre felt a little strange; in parts square rather than round. First stop was a bicycle shop. If you ever have a problem with your bicycle in Ventspils I can highly recommend the shop at Rindas iela 44. The inner tube was quickly sorted and my chain oiled. It was then off for a lunch.

My target for the day was Jurkalne so I didn’t have time spare. Onwards out of Ventspils and a right turn along the coastal road. A very different landscape of wheat fields. Not knowing the location of my next hotel I stopped at a garage in Jurkalne. No one had heard of  the ‘Kapa’ hotel. A phone call was made. Then a car appeared which I followed to a house in the village, which is mine for the night. It felt a little strange at first but then I met my neighbours, on holiday from Riga. After that I felt comfortable, less isolated and relished being able to peg my washing outside on a line. I had a wander round and dinner was in a nearby restaurant with very friendly staff.