I decided to do a big push today to get some miles under my belt after the detour to Malaga. So I went from Pampaneira to Cadiar in one go – it was over 30 miles with 3,500 ft of climb. Much of it was on road which was disappointing, but it did make the climbs easier. Along the tops though I was off road an in a forest where spring was only just arriving – the leaves were starting to appear on the trees. It was quite a slow ride as I met a few people and stopped to chat. Apparently this area is more popular with walkers and bikers than the Sierra de Tejeda, so there were more people about. I had some adventures, especially where a bridge was washed away in the recent rain and snow-melt (see the video diary).
I am now staying in a lovely B&B where they organise road bike holidays called Vamos Cycling. Am having a day off to do my blog and book, and will carry on east tomorrow.
Cadiar is a nice little place – not as picturesque as Pampaneira but also not as touristy. It has loads of shops for real people – including some great tool shops. But no bike shop. On the TransAndalus road book it says there is a bike shop, but this is actually referring to Vamos Cycling who do tours not repairs The strange think about Cadiar is that it seems to have no centre – except maybe the church. Instead, and despite its small size, it has many small plazas, and shops spread all over town. So if you want something, just keep walking around (or ask) and they’ll probably have a shop for it. Just don’t expect the shops to be all in the same place. There is also a music bar tucked away in a side street NE of the main church. But despite the fact it’s a Friday night, there was no information on what would be on (if anything) this evening.
My Epic Journey 