The €40 asked for my hostel seemed steep so managed to get breakfast in with the price. Unfortunately of little benefit since I’m still struggling with food intake – probably due to the heat.
It was going to be a much hotter day, plus no cloud! Added to this, my route was through much wilder, tougher country than I’d travelled (limited bars) but there were a scattering of farms which, I decided, would satisfy my water needs. Food wouldn’t be a problem – I had plenty.
Bikepacker at the pumps – water refuel
My morning’s ride was excellent – the challenging gravel road, Arroyo de Gaena, was very welcome after yesterday afternoon’s metalled roads along the plains.
About 30 km along, I was eventually delivered to Via Verde de la Sierra, an old railway line, repurposed as a recreation route, similar to the High Peak Trail in the UK, but through a much grander landscape. The track is a major tourist draw for cyclists, hikers & birdwatchers – buzzards, birds of prey, migrating birds plus a colony of vultures with cameras to observe nesting – all are here.
The gentle incline, also helped by the 22 tunnels, enabled me to focus on the grand views. However, by the time I’d reached Olvera , 2 hrs before Ronda, I was dehydrated & was definitely in need of a break from the sun. After 2 cans of coke, 1.5 litres of water & 2 hrs sitting in the shade, I decided that the hills to Ronda could wait until tomorrow.
Conclusion of today’s ride – Fantastic!! – the best days ride so far! My thanks to those who suggested Ronda. My apologies for the photos, I have not done the places visited justice. The bright sunlight on my iPhone means I’m as surprised as anyone on what I’ve actually taken!
John's Epic Cycle Adventures 