We do not often to get to see such an amazing sight. So, I will start with an amazing picture from my mobile phone!
People spend a huge amount on SLR cameras and as a owner myself, I am not sure I could have improved on this shot using my 2016 Cannon. Sure, a modern camera body and a lot of planning would have delivered an amazing result, but on a cycle tour where I need to travel light, a full SLR kit with lenses and tripod was out of the question. 100%!
So let me tell you about the ride to get this picture.
The ride was quite brutal to be honest. It was only 80 KM but with a climb close to 1400m during the 40% heat, it was difficult. I am beginning to wander how I managed this route plus a further 80KM in 2014. But back then I was just 50. I am now 62, so that may have something to do with it. Also it was a bit cooler as the ride was at the end of Aug!
For the rest of this tour, I am taking things a lot easier as fitness levels improve. I have 4 weeks to get to Gib, so the purpose of this tour is to explore at a gentle pace!
Before leaving the boat, I was treated to a nice sunrise. Departure from the ship was dead easy. Santander is well set up regarding EES. As a ship runs here just a few times a week, getting through is easy. So for those who want to avoid what has become a EES horror story on the cross channel routes to Dover, have a think about this route!
Getting out of Santander is fairly urban. Komoot got a few turns wrong, but eventually I was out of the city and on my way.
Stunning scenery on the way South from Santander. Also its the Camino route for the pilgrims. Not seen many so far!
First coffee of the day after about 30KM
And back to where I started. A picture of my bike next to a sun with a hole in the middle. It just looks wrong. Almost dystopian. But its a real thing and not an image created by AI.