Inecik to Tekirdag – 26th August
Distance: 22.0 km – Elevation +230 m -400 m
Weather: Sunny. Temperature: High 31 degrees
My bed last night was part of a super-efficient service area providing a 24 hour restaurant to passing motorists and coaches, so no shortage of food and drinks. The room itself was way at the back away from the hustle and bustle and very quiet so I enjoyed a good night’s sleep. I was in no rush to get away this morning and for once I was able to enjoy a leisurely breakfast that came with the price of the room. Eventually leaving the hotel at 8.30 am.
Nothing like a long 5 kilometre climb to start the day! it seemed to go on forever with panoramic views on both sides of the road. The road had very little traffic and there were several places to stop for rest and refreshment. At the summit of the final climb about 8 kilometres from my destination, I saw for the first time, the beautiful blue waters of the Sea of Marmara.
After entering the outskirts of Tekirdag I stopped at a small cafe and ordered a coffee or what I thought was coffee – instead, a delicious plate of food arrived! ( see photo) – well at least I know what kofta is now! ( Tekirdag is noted for its tasty Kofta a local speciality) Later I met another walķer from Turkmenistan sitting by the side of the road, he told me he was a writer on an 11000-kilometre journey, travelling without money, relying on the generosity of people he meets to provide his food and water, he sleeps in a tent. An interesting man and we exchanged contact details.
I am staying tonight in another high-quality low price hotel yards from the sea. From here the route, as did the Via Egnatia, follows the coast to Istanbul now just 6 days walking away.
After resting and showering I decided to visit the hotel rooftop bar to see if I could get a glass of beer. The rooftop was furnished with very comfortable armchairs and sofas and when I asked for a beer the young waiter looked at me in puzzlement and pointed to the array of smoking contraptions that lined the bar top – it was a Turkish hubble bubble bar! – so I ordered a coffee and sat watching others relaxing in the plush armchairs enjoying the various flavours of Turkish tobacco that were available from the bar.
In the evening I joined the locals promenading along the seafront and sat watching a glorious sunset over the harbour and the Sea of Marmara as the sun slowly sank beneath the distant horizon. The end of another eventful day in Turkey.
