"Pro people" he forgot to add....![]() If Andalusia gravel was the kind warm Uncle that always brought you treats, Valencia or more specifically, Denia road riding - was the Aunt that pinched your cheeks...juuuuust a little too hard! (in a good way...) Climbs that have you thanking the Gods of carbon fiber and winding descents that leave you praising the advent of disc brake systems were a nice little punctuation to our riding in Spain! Needing a decent whip - we were led by well vetted sources to local legendary bike shop and coffee spot "Cafe Cyclista" where we were lucky enough to chat in person with the owner John. Looking more like a "Pro Rider Hall of Fame" the shop he and his wife run is a top notch all round starting point for anyone looking to set up for a few days in the training grounds of the pro teams. The jet fuel was on point, the bikes were excellent and the walls were adorned with the jerseys, pictures and general memorabilia of the cycling elite making this stop more of a living museum than any average bike shop. Although they didn't have a bike in my exact size, a little seat post raising and adjusting and we were pretty darn close. John set me up with the coffee and the bike but stopped short of renting me the "pro legs" I was hoping for. For that part, I was on my own. A quick inquiry as to how much and where I wanted to ride led John to promptly point me in the direction (on Strava) of a local Guru for routes. I rode for three days on the road and it was spectacular! The climbs were epic - but doable, the scenery was incredible and the people were fantastic. The drivers in this area were courteous and patient - those that I actually encountered that is (it is pretty quiet and remote) and the pro teams buzzing past were a sight to see. If you are in this area looking to rent a road bike you have to see John at www.cafeciclista.com at the very least - stop in to swill java and have a look around and appreciate the collection of cycling swag. It really is a "one stop" solution to setting up for a good riding experience! Tailwinds John! next up.... my two fave rides.....
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