So here we are, perfect weather and in rural Spain where its a rough road to start the day! After 5 KM, its a better road but the energy situation is not so good. Its a98KM ride ahead with over 1,000m climbing planned. I have a hotel booked for the end.
As I start off, I am thinking that I may just cut the ride short at El Barco de Avila and just check into a hotel and rest up. When I reached El Barco, I managed to grab some grub and decided to keep riding.
This is one of my most favorite places in Spain. (except the restaurant regime!). On previous trips, I have gone down the Jerte Valley. This time I have circled back on my route to take in Gredos national park.
As you will see from the pictures below, its amazing. Loads of climbing but you have to climb to see the views. I did not like the final hill at the end which took me to my hotel.
Rough road starting out from Casa Rural.
Apparently, I am not properly equipped for this area. But at 30 degrees Celsius, I think I will be fine.
A view along the road in Gredos region
Random flag.
One very welcome watering point with cool spring water.
Mountain (or Cycle) rescue on standby.
After all the climbing it will be a massive drop of 800m down the valley.
This is the start of the drop. But earlier on, the maximum elevation was 1568m above see level.
And down in the valley yet another Castillo. Shortly after this I encountered the sting in the tail for the ride. It was a steep 170m climb when I was completely out of energy. Good news. I found a place serving Tapas and scoffed a main meal at 2045!
