The ferry docked right on time at 12:15 after a very smooth crossing on Brittany Ferries newest boat the Pont Avon, very enjoyable. Had a lovely meal on board with friends Paul and Carole who were driving down to the Coast. After clearing Customs about 12:45 the tour was underway and not long before the climbing began. The roads were quiet as most of the traffic takes the A8 motorway. First sight of the mountains came leaving Laredo. I have a photo which I'll post here. After the first long climb into the mountains I was pleased for the cool breezes off the Bay of Biscay despite them being headwinds at time and slowing my progress a little. Arriving at the seaside town of Urdiales, For 4pm would have been an idea to stop over as it was very pleasant. More lung busting climbs followed, the equivalent of 4 Hartside passes in one afternoon! I arrived at my hotel in North Bilbao late. Ill sleep well I hope and eat something tomorrow. Only fruit and water today. Theres nothing that looks inviting nearby. Tomorrow again following the coastal route from here to just short of San Sebastian. Quiz question.... By the time I reach tomorrows destination, I will have passed the home towns of which 3 Spanish premiership clubs? Cadburys cream egg for the winner which I'll carry all the way through Spain and France in my cycling shorts! Should be a little soft. Anyone using google for this should disqualify themselves!


Tony,
ReplyDeletegood blog,
myself and 2 friends have just finished a Santander to Amsterdam cycle ride in 11 days.
Didn't realise how hilly Northern Spain was, the climb up to the Bielsa-D'Aragnouet Tunnel was a nightmare, Climbed Col du Aspin and Col Du Tourmalet before heading through France, Belgium to the ferry to North Shields from Amsterdam.
Had some minor problems but not one puncture.
We also did Lejog last year-went via Arran, then up alongside Loch Ness.
Clive
chardman@lanegroup.co.uk