A lucky detour.

Out & about sharpish. Along the seafront promenade - a world away from last night - less noise, people and sun. Then uphill, except each & every option ended up being a dirt track. Ended up on what looked like a motorway (but no keep out cyclists signs) Assumed that satnav had rejected this route on the basis of the motorway but the absence of signage & the reduced distance meant it was worth a shout. What was the worst that could happen? Another traffic offence in Spain - surely not. After a couple of minutes I was a little more relaxed - no horns so prob ok. Use the term loosely since it was a fairly incessant climb & then a puncture. Where all the flies appear from god only knows. Down to 1 inner tube - got to be careful. Hopeful that this was the only climb of the day so enjoyed the view - sort of. Down onto the plains & while it was clearly farming territory not a lot was being done. Equally few places to pass through - lots of on hoof navigation to protect the tyres - for all that the total distance was still 5 miles than planned. Relied on petrol stations for cold drinks & food - classy. Some way out, it became clear that tomorrows cycle may well be a bit too much. 80 miles in an area where the government are urging caution. E out of 4 days of low 40s and some evidence of dehydration. Unfortunately the weather has beaten me. Never thought it would be too sunny. Anyway, hire car sorted and a slightly more relaxed weekend in prospect. That said, getting to Murcia airport may prove hard work with it being 30km away without public transport...Read more