Читать книгу The River Rhone Cycle Route. From the Alps to the Mediterranean онлайн

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Safety and emergencies

Weather

The first half of the route is in the continental climate zone, typified by warm dry summers interspersed with short periods of heavy rain and cold winters. Below Lyon the route enters the Mediterranean zone with hot dry summers and mild damp autumns and winters. The greatest rainfall is in autumn and often occurs in heavy downpours. The beginning of Stage 1 is exposed to mountain weather with heavy winter snowfall, which in some years can remain on the ground until June.

The Rhone valley south of Lyon and the Mediterranean coast are subject to the Mistral, a strong cold but dry wind that blows from the north to the south down the valley. It is most common in winter and spring, but can occur at any time of year. Mistral winds often exceed 40kph during the day, but die down at night. As the route in this guide runs north to south, if the Mistral is blowing it will be behind you!

Road safety

Throughout the route, cycling is on the right side of the road. If you have never cycled before on the right you will quickly adapt, but roundabouts may prove challenging. You are most prone to mistakes when setting off each morning. Both Switzerland and France are very cycle-friendly countries. Drivers will normally give you plenty of space when overtaking and often wait behind patiently until space to pass is available.