TODAY would be a day completely without cycling, though with still enough exercise and activity to keep us busy and make us tired. Having only a wee bit of food and wanting a latte, we headed out to Calle Cruz to the cafe I usually go to to find that it was too early - and it was closed!
A number of the cafes do not open until 10 am so we had to search for an open one, which we did, then happily settled in for lattes and croissants with chocolate. Here we would plan our day. We had already bought tickets for the Prado, so once done eating, we returned to our room where I packed a few more things for our return home tomorrow.
Wanting to be on time for our 1130 am museum time, we headed out and toward that area, but took a smaller street rather than Calle Atocha. This brought us along shops and cafes and a few pretty squares before being right in front of the Prado. With some time to spare, we went to the adjacent gardens where specimens of trees from around the world were on display in a beauty of lush green. Also there was a glass building of jungle plants and cacti. We both loved it.
We wanted to be on time so headed back to the museum about a half hour before our time. It's a good thing we did, for the entrance was on the opposite side from where we were and had to go all the way around. There was a lineup but it moved fairly quickly and we were in earlier than our actual specified time. I had to check my backpack and then we were away.
The museum was quite busy but not too bad, so we were able to explore the ground floor wonders including some of their most famous Goya and Velazquez paintings. Next we headed up to the first floor which was even more impressive, but we were both starting to tire out. I love museums but after a coupe of hours find that I get weary and would have to return another day to see more.
Since we were not that far from the Parque del Buen Retiro, we headed in that direction rather than hope to want to do it later. The later in the day we got, the more I felt we would not want to return. The park was only about another ten minutes away so we went over to marvel in its lush, green beauty. After a bit of wandering and APs we started back for the gate to leave. Interestingly, there were a number of people speaking into cameras and posing like influencers. I think maybe people were recording various youtube videos.
On our way back to the hostal, we stopped at a Dia supermarket to pick up food for lunch and supper. The bag was fairly heavy so now walking was even more tiring. The walk took us right back to the hostal where we ate our lunch then rested and maybe even dozed a bit. Initially, Alex wanted to stay in bed and rest, but after the snooze he, too, was ready to head out to explore on our last evening in town.
We first headed back to Puerta del Sol then toward Cibelis all the while checking out the fancy buildings as the sun went down and the lights came on bathing the beautiful buildings in a warm glow. People from around the world were on both sides of the street walking in both directions. When we turned back we went along Gran Via so Alex could experience it again - including past the sore selling Rolex watches as tens of thousands of dollars. Wowzers.
It was very enjoyable, and though I look forward to seeing family back home, I am also sad that this great adventure is about to conclude. There will be the memories, but the journbey itself is coming to its conclusion.
We worked our way back to Sol where we took a last few photos, then decided to return to Calle de la Cruz, hoping that the Abuela cafe would be open so we could enjoy one last latte. Sadly, the security barricades were down, so I am wondering if the place might actually be permanently closed. Oh, sad.
Once back to Plaza de Santa Cruz we went up to our room where I finished packing up the bikes and strapped and clipped them closed. Our carry-on bags were packed other than the items we would need tonight and in the morning.
Then we settled down to watch coverage online of the Nazi-esque election unfolding in the Banana Republic of America. We watched late into the night as it became clearer and clearer... the Bananas were asked if they liked someone who is a liar, grifter, sexual assaulter, racist, mysoginist and fascist... and they decided, "Yes, please, I want that."
Alex and Pookie enjoying a latte and a chocolate croissant. -- Madrid, Spain
Today's ride: 12 km (7 miles) Total: 433 km (269 miles)
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Steve Miller/GrampiesMadrid looks really interesting. We may have to build it into our spring trip. Glad your latest journey with Alex went so well. It will be intriguing to see where the two of you go next. Reply to this comment 1 week ago
Brent IrvineTo Steve Miller/GrampiesYes, a nice city. Not as old as some, but still quite enjotyable.
I chatted to Alex about 'where next' -- possibilities are Japan, France (Loire or Canal du Midi) or Danube. He does not want hilly, though! Reply to this comment 1 week ago
Steve Miller/GrampiesTo Brent IrvineAny of the river routes would be great, except the Canal du Midi which is rutted, dirt in many spots and quite a bumpy (tree roots) ride. We loved the Loire with the grandkids this year and have also enjoyed the Danube, Moselle, Rhine, Main, Elbe and others. It will be entertaining to see what you guys end up choosing. Reply to this comment 1 week ago
Brent IrvineHow busy was everything along the Loire? Spain, though not devoid of tourists, was pleasantly manageable. Reply to this comment 1 week ago
