Cavadonga

Despite another night disturbed by indigestion & broken sleep (I need to eat earlier & drink less 🍷), I was quite looking forward to the Cavadonga climb, despite several steep sections over 15%. An iconic route apparently, that winds its way up to the Mirador del Reina over about 10 miles or so out of Soto de Cangas. 

We had a light breakfast & broke camp before setting off, leaving all our gear in the campsite office. 

It was overcast & more than a little humid as we rode the gentle climb to the village of Cavadonga & the start of the climb proper. It was apparent pretty quickly that I wasn’t feeling great, as my stomach wouldn’t settle & I lacked energy. Oh well, no problem. I’ll do it at my own pace. The boys rode on steadily & within 15 minutes or do, I’d lost sight of them. 

The climbing was tough! I was in my lowest gear & struggling a bit. I stopped briefly after a couple of miles, had a good drink, and set off again feeling a bit better. Then I hit the cloud line, got cold & thought; ‘sod this, it’s meant to be enjoyable’. I bailed out & descended to Cavadonga for a coffee & a bun to await my heroes. 

They come down dithering, but had done it! Bravo. 

We were soon heading back to The campsite at Soto to have a spot of lunch & load up our gear for the next phase. The food was basic, but met our needs & we headed off to Cangas sated. A nice looking little town. 

We then hit the road towards Riano. A stunning 25 mile climb through a river gorge followed as we meandered ever upward (very gently at first - the sting was in the tail) to our overnight hostel Los Bedules in Oseja de Sajambre. The sun came out, it warmed up considerably & we loved it. Some fab scenery & views along the way too:

No tents tonight 😁. Our rooms are great; small but very clean. All in all a tough day, but memorable. 

Time for food n drink & a decision on tomorrow’s route. Thinking we’ll make Leon.