Day 88: Villanueva de Ávila (Cyclo)

About five kilometres into today's ride I became aware that I was helmetless! If I recall correctly this is first time I've forgotten to wear a helmet this year. Although not intentional, it did feel good not to be wearing one!

Although today's ride had four official climbs, the reason for this ride was the climb up, and descent of, the Puerto de Navalmoral:

• Length: 15 kilometres
• Average gradient: 4.5%
• Elevation change: 675 metres
• Altitude: 1514 metres

I enjoyed both the ascent and descent. It is an easier climb without steep gradients, and an open route with panoramic views. The road isn't heavily trafficked, but it does connect with Ávila (the capital city of the province), so the traffic was more noticeably than on other roads I've cycled recently. But don't let put you off, it is definitely shouldn't be considered a busy road!

There aren't any masts at the puerto, but there is a church ...

... However, I did see that in the distance there were some masts. Obviously, I accepted the challenge and went off piste. The challenge was wasn't too onerous: the distance was only 1.5 kilometres and the elevation gain was only about 35 metres! Yet, it was the highpoint of the day!

Returning from the masts:

And on the descent I stopped to take this photo:

The section of road between the "main roads" AV-903 and AV-913 is designated an agricultural road. It is single track with some steep concreted sections. So if you don't like that kind of stuff, the alternative would be to continue on the AV-903 to Burgohondo and then leave using the AV-913.

• Distance driven: 0 miles
• Distance cycled: 69 kilometres
• Weather:-
  • General conditions: Sunny with some high clouds
  • Temperature: About 12°C when I set off, and about 22°C when I returned. The air was cold, so wind chill was a cold factor.
  • Wind (Beaufort): Light airs at base camp. Light breeze at the puerto.

Today's route: