June 20, 2026, Day 11 – Forges to Amiens – 50 miles, 1700’ gain and June 21, a rest day.
Today’s ride was ordinary by recent standards—it was characterized by quiet, narrow roads with little traffic, small villages with churches with rooster weathervanes, statues honoring soldiers who died in war, and crucifixes on corners. All in all, it was another pleasant ride except for getting into the big city of Amiens where we are staying for two nights, since tomorrow is a rest day.
Amiens is quite an impressive city. Among its most notable attractions is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens, France’s largest Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It has an immense nave volume (larger than Notre-Dame de Paris) a sculpted west façade known as the “Bible in stone” and a filled choir and carved stalls.
Early in the tour, I took a picture of Jule Verne’s birthplace. But he actually spent most of his adult life in Amiens for 34 years (1871-1905). His house was small but opulent. Had I not had a day to spend in Amiens, I would not have gone out of my way to see it. But I had time of my hands, so I did.
The real jewel of Amiens though is the Notre Dame cathedral. It is amazingly huge and ornate. My pictures don’t do it justice. If you want to see some incredible pictures of it and read about its history, go to www.cathedrale-amiens.fr
