The backpackers. Cycling in the ‘montañas vacias’ in Spain with Jeanne Lepoix

A loop of 680 km and 13,000 meters of elevation gain in “Spanish Lapland”. This is what the cyclist rode during the rally. The route was designed by Ernesto Pastor.

“The Javalambre mountain is definitely part of one of the most beautiful cycling days of my life, says Jeanne Lepoix. In this karstic setting punctuated by multitudes of strangely rounded vegetation zones, it becomes unreal. It’s so beautiful that emotion overwhelms me and a tear runs down my cheek. As you approach the summit speckled with a few patches of snow, the mist gives the place a mystical feel. 2020 meters above sea level: the cold and the rain intensify. The descent is fast and epic.”

The geology is amazing “with huge red rocks that come out of the ground to take breathtaking shapes. Temperatures are rising. Some cyclists cool off by swimming in the turquoise water of the Rio Tajo, others dry their tents in the sun. Not to mention those who quench their thirst at the fountain of Beteta.”

As Jeanne begins the last 15 kilometers to reach Huerta del Marquesado, she experiences a storm.

“The lightning seems close and the hail makes a deafening noise as it bursts on our helmets, she details. While we were thinking of stopping in front of a restaurant, Adélaïde, with whom I am riding, opens the door and a little granny appears just behind. After inviting us to change in the bathroom, Julia – that’s her first name – doesn’t hesitate long before offering us to stay overnight. A glass of hot milk, peanut butter sandwiches, laughter, smiles, family stories, it feels like home. It is with heavy hearts that we bid farewell the next day.”

TO FOLLOW THE BIKE ADVENTURES OF JEANNE LEPOIX VISIT HER WEBSITE JEANNE-LEPOIX.COM