April 29, 2013

Today has been the worst cycling weather that we have ever experienced.  Horizontal sleet and snow, with a gusting cross-wind blowing us into the middle of the road. When we set off from the hotel the sky was black, but it was dry so we decided to risk cycling in the wind as we only had a short run to Sabugal of about 30 kilometres. We had crawled about 5 kilometres, battling to keep the bikes on the road when it started to rain, which quickly turned to sleet and snow.  We stopped to decide whether to go back or carry on.  No matter what we decide it is dangerous on the bikes as we’re on a road with a fair amount of traffic, including big lorries.  So we walk onwards pushing the bikes towards Sabugal, hoping things might improve.  If not we’ll be having a long, slow walk.

The road has twists and turns, as well as ups and downs, so here and there we get a bit of shelter and can ride for short spells but it is slow progress.  We are soaked through and frozen – can’t feel our hands or feet.  It is completely unbelievable that only a few days ago we were wearing factor 50 sun-cream (and still getting red bits).  It seems like an eternity before we reach the village and finally drag the bikes and ourselves indoors.  The house is cold and damp.  All in all, it has been a miserable day.  The

WiFi won’t work for some reason and so we have no idea what weather is forecast for the next few days.  Can’t be worse – can it?