Today's ride is based on the historic and charming Cinque Port of Sandwich.From the Harbour, we set off on the cycle path with the River Stour to our left, then south east towards the sea.As we reach Deal, via the single track Toll Road through theNature Reserve and Golf Club,the showers give way to blue skies.

Westward now, and inland throughthe picturesque Kentish villages of Great Mongeham and Northbourne.The terrain here becomes more challenging after the initial flatness of the coast, but the effort is more than rewarded with spectacular views at the top of every hill across the peaceful Thanet pastures, and 'Marple-esque' villages through which we pass.The gardens and hedgerows are ablaze withthe colours and scents of spring flowers and blossom.

It is on cloudless days like this, and among such glorious countryside, that the rewards of cyclingare supreme.To be able to explore the sights and delights of our landscape, to pass through it and yet be part of it, to pause and talk to passers-by, or just to stop and take in the stupendous scenery,is an incomparable experience.

Our route now takes us 'off road' and along a secluded bridal path through woodland and up into open fields with more panoramic views.

Nearby are the hamlets of Betteshanger and Tilmanstone, which once formed part of Kent's extensive coal field.Both were operational and productive until the late 1980's.

Although now deserted and derelict, the sites provide a good haven for wildlife.Who knows; we may need to open them again one day.

On and up to Chillenden, another peaceful and pretty village; sadly destined to be forever associated with a terrible crime committed here thirteen years ago.

Passing a beautifully preserved Windmill, the spire of Goodnestone Church comes into view, with the village nestling in the valley alongside it.The hills have been thirsty work, so landlady Claire's friendly smile behind the bar of the Fitzwalter Arms is indeed a welcome sight.The "Fitz" has been a pub here since 1702, and its heritage is safe in the hands of Claire and her partner (and Chef) David.The freezer here is for ice-cream only!All the ingredients are locally sourced and David uses them well.

Authentic rabbit terrine; fresh crisp superb home-made bread; medley of smoked fish; and a rhubarb crumble which is delicious beyond words, are helped down with a cool fruity and very reasonably priced Chilean Sauvignon Blanc.

One member of the group dreams of passing a languorous afternoon on a hammock strung between two of the trees in the fragrant orchard outside, but is rudely roused from his reverie by the leader, and we are once again in the saddle for the final stretch of our ride back to Sandwich.

Thanks to a four-pronged signpost which has been placed by the roadside by someone who knows, we are 6000 miles from Capetown and 5500 miles from Los Angeles.Tokyo and Hawaii also feature.We are happy to be where we are.

Through the quaintly named 'Cop Street' we glide down to Richborough Roman Fort.Originally named Rutupiae, this was the gateway to Britain long before Dover.Here in 43AD during the Claudian invasion of Britain,four legions were assembled under the leadership of Aulus Plautius.

From the West Gate of the Fort, Watling Street leads straight to Canterbury, London and thence North west to Chester.

A sign near the Fort offers a river trip back to Sandwich.We decide to take it up, and a phone call summons HMS Heron to a landing stage beside the railway line.The extremities of the pontoon are precarious and only loosely attached to the main structure; the two male members of the group can naturally not resist the temptation to stand at each end to see how far the platform can be rocked without causing either of them to fall in!

After a few moments, the boat arrives with the magnificently bearded Harbour Master himselfat the helm.Bikes safely stowed, we cast off for the half hour voyage up the Great Stour to Sandwich.

Longer trips can be arranged in the summer, including cruises down to the sea to watch the seals.

Back on dry land, bikes secure on our leader's vehicle, we head for home - tired but content after a spectacular day's cycling.