Nine days of cycling and it was our longest day so far, with 152 kms done in 6 hours and 47 minutes. We went thru 11 climbs mostly around 2 or 3 kms and 3 major ones with steeper gradients: The San Miguel de Aralar with 7 kms, the Alto de Hachueta with 15 kms and the Puerto de Lizagarra with 11 kms. All of the climbs were medium difficulty with some ramps above 10% but beautiful, with very little car traffic and full of shade.
Today the remarkable thing was the presence of vultures. We have seen them yesterday but today they were at the top of all 3 climbs, just circling around above us. Twice they came very close, passing us within 2 meters. Big and beautiful birds.
I didnt feel good today with tired legs and body. So, decided to take a “rest” day and not try to push hard. Half way I even had to take painkillers to help with a headache. I enjoyed the day but after so much climbing, I finished totally empty.
The good thing of the day today were the descents. I managed to let go my fear and went downhill as fast as I could, trusting more my bike and barely touching the breaks. Happy about that.
Tomorrow we ride to Vitoria/Gasteiz. 130 kms and 6 major climbs. And the profile looks like a constant uphill battle.
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| We have the company of vultures in the top of all 3 climbs. |
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| Beautiful views that the iPhone photos dont make justice |
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| At the distance we could see many mountains waiting for us. |
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