3 June 2016 (fine and hot with afternoon shower) 40km

It rained lightly all night but with the help of the protection of the tree we were under, the tent kept us dry and we woke to a cloudless morning about 6am.  Went over to the toilet block which we seemed to have to ourselves so plugged in the computer and the solar charger to top that up.  There was a Danish rowing team staying here apparently but we think there were flasher toilets upstairs that they all used.  People came and went all morning – not huge amounts but our tent was tucked away in a private corner.  Took our time having breakfast and packing up to allow the flysheet plenty of time to dry and the computer time to charge.

We have noticed all houses in Hungary seem to have fences and locked gates which are used all the time.  Nobody leaves their gate open.  The area we were in last night, we were very happy to be behind a locked fence but would have been happier still if there had been some sort of deterrent on top of the iron railings……like barbed wire!  It was a very rundown area with old campgrounds that were either totally closed down or not open yet for the summer season.  Meanwhile, vagrants had moved in and there were a lot of unsavoury characters about.  The campgrounds looked like nowhere you would want to spend your summer holidays.

So we were pleased to have survived the night and set off at 8am to find a cycle route into the centre of Budapest.  We guessed our way and found our way back onto EuroVelo 6 which ducked and twisted all over the place, trying its best to keep cyclists away from the busier roads by using parks, alleyways, footpaths, train stations and quiet roads.  You definitely had to keep your wits about you to keep an eye out for signs as well as pedestrians, other cyclists, traffic and trams.  But somehow we made it and the views I promised Pete were magnificently on display as we cycled down the side of the Danube on this hot, sunny morning.

Parliament, Budapest

Budapest is made up of two cities, Buda and Pest and after taking photos of the Parliament buildings, we cycled up the hill to the Buda side of the city.  Here we were treated to a photo fest, including the castle, the Palace and Matthias church, as well as other opportunities. 

St Matthias Church, Buda

We were having to view something of interest, then find cover, not only for ourselves, but for the bikes as the usual weather pattern was not letting us down. Big black thunder clouds rolling across the sky, with accompanying showers. Sheltered in one of the castle tunnels for a while and in between the raindrops, took some more shots.  Around midday, we were getting hungry, but we’d just found a spot by the Palace which had free wifi. Whilst Julia goes to log on, she tells me to grab something to eat, from the any of cafes, bars and eateries available up on top of the hill. Off I set, but soon returned with bad news. “They're charging an arm and a leg up here” I said, “We’ll get something when we trip down below into the town”  “But I’m starving” replies Julia  “I’m not getting ripped off there” says I.  Shortly after we made the ride down the hill into town and Julia feasted like a king….at Burger King…..don’t ever tell me I can’t show a woman a good time!

Chain Bridge, Budapest

Spent an hour in there doing wages for the guys at home, as the internet connection up the hill had been useless. That sorted, over a couple of nice burgers (we don’t usually eat at Burger King) and we googled campgrounds in Budapest.  Found one not too far out from the city centre so jotted down directions and then headed off in search of it.  

Kids sit on the bridge enjoying the view.  This is a very popular thing to do, especially at night.

Found it easily, booked in and was delighted to find it was slightly less than last night but had all your power, wifi and washing thrown in!  Couldn’t believe it so chucked all our washing on and then dived in for a cold shower as it was now stinking hot.  Question is, what to dry yourself with when nearly everything you own is in the wash – turns out you can dry yourself with a sock.  It takes a bit of time and a bit of wringing out, but it can be done.

While we were loading the washing machine for the second time, we met a girl called Sam from Bognor Regis who has been travelling with her partner Ant since September last year, in a camper van.  Wow they have been to some places!  After our washing was done, Sam came over with a couple of pieces of chocolate cake that they had got from a restaurant last night.  Apparently they had a whole cake and couldn’t eat anymore so we were very grateful recipients!

We then contemplated eating out as it is not very expensive, but it is still way more expensive than making your own, so we feasted on lentils, pasta and a fresh corn on the cob.  Then it was into town to get some night shots.

We took off about 8.30pm and zipped around the packed Budapest streets and promenades. Really vibrant city, lots of activity and with all the major attractions lit up, it brings everybody out to play and dine and dance,….oh and eat and drink of course….but that’s done all through the day, whatever the time. Got some great shots especially when you consider that we’re not using a tripod. 

It was after 11pm by the time we were settled back in the tent. Julia uploaded some photos, but after some time and a coffee, it was time to get some shut eye. Overnight temperature expected to be 19 degrees, with tomorrow looking at 29 degrees. We’ll wait to see what the day brings!