It was restless night as it was so humid but I’d managed to get some sleep. The rain I’d been hoping for never came, and the sky outside was blue. Just as well I’d left early so I managed to catch the cool of the morning.
Ride started well. I hadn’t descended from yesterday’s climb and made my way across the top of the mountain passing a few small villages. I then joined a road that did descend. It was amazing, sweeping roundd the corners as fast as the cars, lovely cool breeze. It made yesterday’s ride seem all worthwhile. On reflection, maybe not.
I swept down the mountain to Mesao Frio where I took this picture. Absolutely stunning I’m sure you’ll agree. I followed this river up through the tourist town of Peso De Rugua. I then crossed the river and continued along it for some time before heading back into the mountains.
I’d settled into a rhythm at this point so climbing the mountains seemed quite easy. I climbed for a good hour and a half. A waiter at a café called me Loco, I’d have to agree with him, but round here it’s the Portuguese wine making region, grapevines as far as the eye can see, and it is beautiful. Definitely worth all the climbing.
Today was 38 degrees Celsius, much hotter than the day before. Without the humidity and a slight breeze it made the ride quite bearable. Clouds built up in the afternoon so the sun disappeared completely. About time.
The afternoon consisted of yet more climbing. I kept climb
ing even though I couldn’t see anywhere in front of me that looked any higher.
Towards the end of the day I ended up high in the mountains. Scanning a full 360 degree of the horizon I could see no cars, no people and no buildings. Felt a little nervy so late in the day, I was thinking I’d be camping in the mountains. Sounds kinda of exciting but I’d prefer not to with so many thunderstorms about and not much shelter.
Finally reached a town of a good size but no places to stay, so I carried on to Figuera De Castillo Rodrigo. A checked myself into a 4 star hotel. I just couldn’t help it! Most of the day seemed to be going up, and as I’d covered 92 miles I think I deserved it.