I’m near Soria now (110km) had a few nights rest as the next leg will be facing an old nemesis “Agreda”. The first time I went there I really suffered, it was the hardest bike ride of the tour no question. So I’ll be interested to see how it goes in the next few days. I’ve deliberately made sure that I tackle it differently and I’m approaching from the south side. But I know there’s a lot of climb in the way.

Aside from that I’ve started applying for work, honestly only sent one application to a place I’d really like to work but I’m now going to hunt for runner ups . So today is about relaxing and building up strength before heading off. Kind of worried but also pretty relaxed about it all. I will be in France when I planned to be, then in Toulouse I’m hoping to find month intensive French courses.

Wish me luck

This is brief as i only have a little battery, in a nutshell though. I got caught in in storms in Lekunberri (hail the size of peaches), but managed to make some great friends while up there. So regrets for being delayed. had a fantastic time, I then descended from Lekunberri down some amazing scenery finally to Olite. Met two English guys touring in a 4×4 around Spain, Dave and Pete, and after one night ascended to Agreda, which for those not in the know is essentially built on a cliff in the middle of the mountains. Hard.. Yes.. Just a little . Stayed in a hostel there, excellent prices considering how nice the place was. Also an excellent English speaking receptionist Sandra, who was incredibly helpful.

The real killer though is the heat, I don’t mind the sun but biking up mountains in it is pretty hardcore drank 9 litres of water on my way to Agreda. To say my body is cleansed is probably an understatement. It is definitely burned the sun is pretty unforgiving especially when you’re 950+ meters up.

Well got to go. When I have a proper moment I’ll write more. Suffice to say I’m alive and getting better all the time.