Previously, receptionist, Tetiana, had checked me in for my two night stay & was now back on duty following a day off. She’d been a little surprised at me staying so long & was curious as to how I’d filled my time. Explaining my journey, she told me her story. She is Ukrainian, from Odesa & came here in 2022, with her mum. Now here on her own, Tetiana put herself through language school & speaks English, Slovakian, Ukranian, & probably others. Almost as impressive as Mariia!!
Interested in my route to Kosmach, she approved of my entry into Ukraine at Zakarpattia, but was less convinced on the route I’d planned to Mukachevo – I will need to reassess.
Today I kept to the route I’d set out in UK (gravel, cycleways & quiet lanes). A 13ml climb, then 40ml downhill.
My Garmin & low gears told me I was climbing but my eyes told me it was flat! There was no mistaking the 8 to 12% near the top of the pass.
Below are pictures of the descent :
I reached Prešov around 16:00, found a nice bar & treated myself to a zero beer while selecting a not too expensive hotel. This city has a stunningly beautiful centre – very cosmopolitan! Shamefully, I took no pictures.
Tomorrow, I have one last climb to take me to the southern edge of the Carpathian Mountains. Thereafter I get one day of flat trails before re entering the mountains again.
John's Epic Cycle Adventures 