Riding in Asturias

[maxn]

Just got back last week from a week in Asturias. Mostly climbing, but managed a few short rides, including one up to Sotres. We were staying in the hilariously named (for the kids :) ) Poo de Cabrales, pretty much right at the base of the climb that was featured in Stage 15 of last years Vuelta (http://www.lavuelta.com/la-vuelta/2015/es/etapa-15.html). It turned out to be one beautiful view after another. Pretty mild grades for most of it until the last ramps before the village. My only regret is not having enough time to go up to the col and then loop around back to the village.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nHihnzu5SJA
https://www.strava.com/activities/755536909


Also, tons of wide gravel tracks switchbacking up slopes and valleys for next time.

[weisan]

Sweet!

max pal, you are a good descender. The roads seemed nice and smooth.

[velotel]

What a cool looking road! They weren't shy about tunnelling through the rock. Are those peaks granite of some sort? Looks like it was one very fun downhill. Unfortunately I doubt I'll ever get over there, but sure looks good

[maxn]

Yes, lots of (short!) tunnels. Very, very fun downhill, and uphill on buttery smooth roads. The peaks are all limestone. Actually, Sotres is near the hike in to a famous limestone formation called the Naranjo de Bulnes (the Mont Aiguille of Asturias :) ) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naranjo_de_Bulnes

p.s. thanks weisan!