Kyriad Hotel, Geneva

Day 0 Friday 3rd May
Geneva
Hotel Kyriad - Saint Genis Pouilly
85, ROUTE DE LA FAUCILLE
01630 SAINT-GENIS-POUILLY

Easy jet were easy and efficient. They didn't even bother to weigh my bag, which was lucky, and it was swallowed up by the baggage handling machine before anyone discovered there was a bike inside. Three hours later we were sipping espresso in Genève airport and waiting for Rob and Chris to pick us up in the trusty Transit. The same van but a new clutch we were told. More dents, scratches and rust but the same comfortable well known interior that would be so welcoming on the top of a windswept Mont Ventoux three days from now.

Dave Cook and Ian Haygard (veterans of previous trips and both strong cyclists) were also picked up at airport, but "Dr Dave" Whiter had lost his passport somewhere in Heathrow and would only be coming later if it was found.

The Kyriad hotel was 3 star but felt like 2. Tired and simple, with paper thin walls and dim lighting in the corridors. The rooms were basic but clean with comfortable beds and all we needed for a short stay. We were, after all, just passing through.

Russ and chain ring bolt Simon appeared with Dr Simon and Neil just after 5pm, by which time Bob and I had found some beer and crisps. We were starting to get hungry as we had only had a Forsyth's pork pie since breakfast at 6.30hrs. Tea was at 7.30 - too early for Dr Dave to join us after he had been reunited with his passport and forced his way on to a later flight.

An early night. Tomorrow will be a big day.