Heat and steep

May 26, 2022 to May 27, 2022

Day 96 - Dhërmi to Qeparo

Day 97 - Qeparo to Sarandë

The heat was rising, like the hills of southern Albania. Straight up. I like to think I don't mind climbing - certainly there are climbs I've enjoyed, and I suppose no matter how you feel they always have a nugget of type two, I hated it but now I can look back with a certain amount of satisfaction, fun.

But when they are so steep you wish you had an even lower gear (I thought 22-36 was pretty darn low), as you grind up cliff sides in the baking sun, and fly back down in a brief flurry of cooling breeze, they do grate a bit.

Still, the Ionian coast is difficult to beat for views, and locals and tourists alike continue to be friendly and supportive!

As well as great views, there are great smells! Every so often you get a blast of incredible blossom, or rosemary or oregano or fennel. Delicious.

Today's ride: 71 km (44 miles)
Total: 3,690 km (2,291 miles)

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Gregory GarceauAlbania is getting more and more beautiful by the day. And those smells . . . rosemary and oregano and fennel. Add a little garlic & onion and I'd be in pure heaven.
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2 years ago

Ali JaryThe views are heavenly when you’re so high up - it must be wonderful to even like cycling up hills nevermind enjoy it ! It is looking very Greece in places - or is that my anticipation of the next chapter ! Sending blissful rest and recuperation ! XM
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2 years ago

Lorenzo JarreTo Gregory GarceauThanks Greg - it is pretty heavenly! Hot, sunny, beautiful, smells great... I still manage to complain a little 😅
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2 years ago