First ride on a planned 14 day tour to Bilbao and after warming up for 10 miles towards Vilamoura I turned left and up through Vale de Judeu to Loule which involved a near 1000 ft climb. This would tell a lot, whether today would be a struggle and whetehr my sore right knee would hold out.
Well I reached Loule with no issues powering up the 10% gradients - next followed some great descents through Moncarapachio and onwards to Tavira for lunch. I managed to find a small outside cafe in a park and lots of people where playing Boules.
I was 1 hour ahead of schedule and as I pressed on the N125 was quite busy, I was glad to turn off it onto the backroads towards Castro Marim. The coutryside also opened up giving some lovely views.
After a very short 3 miles ride on the IC27 I was glad to turn off and after a small village of Junquera there was the last big climb of the day of about 500 ft with gradients over 10% in places after Azinhal affording some gorgeous views down towards the reservoir at Odelite. Once over the top I dropped straight into the Guardiana Valley meeting it where the Odeleite River joins. I then followed the river surviving 4 dogs aggresively chasing and barking at me whilst the owner just seemed to laugh !
then just for a bit fun with 5 miles to go the road turned away from the river to make a 200ft climb with a punishing 12% gradient - a fast downhill into town followed and after freshening up in my Hotel there was only 30 -40 minutes to walk round town taking pics.
Alcoutim faces Sanlucar on the Spanish side and a little passenger ferry still runs across, both towns have white buildings running up the hill on each side, both with castles and alll along the river were boats and yachts making a very beautiful scene.
As a post note I am once again taking pictures of town Signs I pass through to see if I can get a full alphabet before I finish the Tour and I will be posting a composite picture of them as I progress.
Great days cycling today but tomorrow looks tougher and wetter !