I just returned from a short but sweet 3-day bike trip in California. I'm a big proponent of inaugurating your "season" with a big event of some kind. Each year I plan a spring bike trip with my brother, Jeremy, who lives in Mountain View. It's one of the few times each year I get to see him, and it provides much time on the bike (and at cheap hotels) to catch up.[Photo: A break along the Big Sur Coast before our big climb. From left: Don, Paul, Fred (me), and Jeremy]
Several years ago, when cycling began to take over my life, I convinced Jeremy to buy a road bike. Fortunately I had some help on the campaign from Jeremy's co-worker and eventual cycling partner, Don. Since then, Jeremy, Don and I (accompanied at times by others) have taken a mini-tour each spring. Each tour is structured essentially the same way. I fly in around noon on day one and we do a short 30-40 mile tune-up ride that afternoon. Days 2 and 3 are harder, with 60-75 miles and more climbing. It's been a great way to start the biking season. To date we've toured Sonoma (CA), Scottsdate/Sedona/Flagstaff (AZ) and now Monterey/Carmel/Big Sur/King City (CA).
This year we were joined by Don's friend Paul, who served as our lead tour guide. Paul rides the route we took a few times each year with his son. In addition to his expert guiding skills Paul is a great conversationalist. I know all three of us would agree we hope Paul can join us for any and all future tours.
Here are a few photos Paul took during the trip (thanks Paul!). I'll update this post soon with a map and additional information about our route.
The Big Sur Coast looking north, toward the Bixby Bridge. The Tour of California crossed this bridge a few weeks earlier.
Enjoying a delicious breakfast at Deetjen's. Try the oatmeal!
A view of one of California's famous 21 missions, San Antonio de Padua, near Jolon, CA.
Another nice coastal view, compliments of Paul (a fine photographer).
2 comments:
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The mission pictured is Mission San Antonio de Padua. It was one of the earliest missions built by Father Junipero Serra, and, unlike many other California Missions is located in a rural area. The gardens have been very nicely restored.
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