April 27, 2019
A variety of rail trail surfaces
Near Guadalcazar to Marchena
Continuing on the Campina Vias Verdes (rail trail) this morning. When we cross out of the Córdoba region the trail surface becomes more varied, with some sections in need of a mow, while others sections share path with a gravel road. On this Saturday morning there are plenty of day cyclist on mountain bikes as we get closer to Ecija. It becomes extra scenic as we descend to the town of Ecija. Like most towns the railway line goes around the town as unlike in Australia towns exist millenniums before railways existed. So far getting into town centres has been a challenge as street are often narrow one way roads that take many doglegs before arriving into a town square. Getting lost is common, with buildings being double story or higher hard to tell direction. I believe I nearly ended up in a wedding, as many people were dressed up.
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Ecija has a small museum next to the tourist information centre focusing on pre-Roman and Roman history. Have noticed that in Spain so far historical information doesn’t talk about the last 300 years unlike in Russia and Eastern Europe where 20th century is a main focus.
Have also noticed that most supermarket are usually on the edge of town, some take the siesta break but open until 9pm and are closed on Sundays. As well often a cycle path will loop around the city centre outside the old towns walls.
Was a little warm in the afternoon as the rail trail is not as well looked after in particular between Ecija and La Luisiana when it a a goat track next to freeway. Past La Lauisiana on the way to Marchena the surface is improved but in places thistles have overgrown the right of way but thankfully a gravel road follows it all the way, becoming one path when crossing creeks.
Marchena has a still active railway line between Seville and Malaga/Granada and the actual town is located on a hill. I couldn’t find anywhere to stealth camp around town so collected some groceries for tonight and tomorrow. Then left town on a gravel road heading south hoping to find somewhere to camp but with not many options next to olive groves, eventually I found a small space beside a fence to camp. Not my best camping spot but it will do.
Today's ride: 100 km (62 miles)
Total: 383 km (238 miles)
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