You never know what’s round the corner

It was just Sonjia and me – everyone else who usually turns up for the slower OGILS ride on Wednesdays had something else going on – and Sonjia suggested Helston boating lake. Anything was fine by me as long as we got some climbing in (preparing for the Sportive on Sunday) and you can’t go far out of Falmouth without climbing…so we went the usual route via Gweek and the Sainsbury’s roundabout, down to the lake, and had coffee there. We headed for home round the back of Helston, through muddy/dusty lane, right at the old school, a mile or so on the A 394, and left at the layby – all to avoid Carnkie Hill. How lucky that we choose that route! About two thirds of the way along, an interesting sight made us stop – six clear plastic domes in a field, like mini Eden Project biomes. Curiosity got the better of us, we pushed the bikes up the muddy track and were soon greeted by the guy in charge, Fraser, who gave us the full tour. Lavender Parc is the new venture on Underlane, described on their website as ‘ sleeping under the stars in your own luxury dome’. Each bubble is the size of a small room, very comfortably fitted out with a big bed, and everything you need. On the same platform is a shower and loo, as Sonjia said ” It’s nicer than my one at home!” The whole set up is off grid, with a bore hole for water, lots of solar panels, and a septic tank sewage system. They have just dug a deep fire pit for guests to sit around in the evenings, and lots of lavender has been planted, hence the name.
We were very impressed with the whole project, and so far they have had plenty of bookings. The only downside seems to be that the site is rather far from anywhere for a meal – the Golden Lion at Stithians would be the nearest. As for cafes for a bite to eat – well, who better than the Wheelers to suggest places! so we hope to stay in touch and may even end up helping them with a ‘where to go’ map for their guests. Meanwhile, if you find yourself cycling past, do go in for a chat – you’d be made welcome.
So we set off for home via Halvasso and Hill Head Road – now nice and smooth after being resurfaced. A good ride with a fascinating stop-off. 30 miles for me. Liz

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