Kiew Kacham to the Hot Spring Resort :)

Thursday October 26, 2017, 46 miles (75 km) - Total so far: 1,155 miles

(1,859 km)

Leaving the town as it was just waking up was the icing on the cake - getting to stay in this small mountain town felt like a real treat (don't expect much to 'do' - it just feels very Lao!) The views were somewhat shrouded in mist and cloud, which didn't make for great photos, but it was very atmospheric.

Today wasn't as tough as yesterday, but it was still tough enough! Some steeper sections than yesterday, but less climbing overall and mostly in the first half, although there's an unfriendly hill right before the hot springs. Stunning scenery, particularly in the second half. Lots of villages, and views of others that must only have dirt roads. Farming on the steep hillsides.

Thanks to the French couple (Anna and Martin) for the tip about the hot springs! I knew about the place but mistakenly thought it was the other side of Kasi. Not only is there a lovely pool to soak in, but the bungalows are only 80,000 kip (if a little dusty) AND it makes for a very sensible break in your journey, distance wise. The resort is marked on maps.me (although it's a bit tricky to find amongst the zoom levels - maybe that's just me) and is about 20km before Kasi, if you're heading south. You can't miss it. Cold shower but you can't have it all ;)

We had lunch at one of the many restaurants in Phou Koun. A bustling little spot. We also bought donuts from the market.
Dinner at the resort restaurant - surprisingly good food but (veggies) make sure you tell them you don't eat meat as my 'mixed vegetables' had pork in it!

The French cyclists turned up a bit later, and it was really great to share stories over a Beer Lao or two. I have been a bit disappointed not to meet more cyclists! This pair are super-chilled and made me realise that my planning and fretting levels are off the scale. Going with the flow is my goal from now on....