January 29 - A taste of France along the Oregon Coast

Wow! It isn’t every day I get to eat at a French Creperie, ride along the coastline for 100 miles, and bask in the sun as I follow the Salmon River. On today’s outing with Grant Myers, I had originally suggested we go to Seaside. But last night I developed a craving for crepes and remembered C’est La Vie, a French inspired café in Depot Bay. So, at the last minute we switched plans and headed further south.

Riding conditions were perfect for January today – although it was 41 degrees when we left, the air was refreshing, the skies were blue, the sun was shining, and the forecasts predicted warmer weather later in the day, especially on the coast. I led us south on I-5 to Ehlen Road and then west on Highway 18. It was so invigorating swooping up and down hills and around curves as we passed vineyards, orchards, and farmlands and then followed the Salmon River before hitting highway 101 south near Lincoln City.

It’s always fun to drive through little beach towns, especially when you know you’re going to be eating somewhere special. C’est La Vie is located a little north of Depot Bay just off of highway 101. The café is cozy and welcoming and makes everything from scratch. My baked eggs with prosciutto, cream, and aged cheddar were excellent and the Le Citron crepe with fresh house made lemon curd topped with sauteed blueberries was phenomenal.

After lunch we followed Otter Crest Loop along the cliffs hugging the Pacific Ocean and drank in the views of the cliffs, rocks, and surf. Turning north again we headed up to Tillamook to take highway 6 East through the Tillamook State Forest. There was a little frost on the road and snow on the sides of the road, so I adjusted my speed accordingly. Overall, the roads were in good condition with no noticeable gravel. What an amazing day on the bike!