Following an incredibly tough ride on Christmas Eve I took a day off the bike to enjoy the most peaceful and restful Christmas Day imaginable. Being fed delicious food and having the time to sit back and read was the perfect tonic for my aching limbs. Many thanks to Erica in Coban for hosting me so generously.
Boxing Day cane and I was back on the road. More mountains came between me and my next stop.
The road reverted to gravel for a stretch but mercifully, unlike the horrific surface I encountered on Christmas Eve, this was fairly smooth and rideable. And downhill. 
Nevertheless, this was challenging terrain, either dropping like a stone into a valley or fighting hard to climb out of one. Little respite of level ground.
Cloudy Uspantan doesn't have a huge amount to offer the passing tourist but I did enjoy the warming drinks in the markets - arroz con leche, rice pudding in drink form and chocolate - hot chocolate also served with rice.
Heavy rain slowed my start the next day, little did I know what was ahead of me!
This was another hugely challenging day with the slopes getting steeper and steeper. In the end, the ride between Uspantan and Huehuetenango was 66 miles...
... and a mighty 10,000 ft + of climbing. Tough, tough ride but I was elated to make it to Huehuetenango. Once in a while it's good to do a really tough ride but two in a week is pushing it! This is one personal record I don't care to beat.
Rest day in Huehuetenango; lots of food and a ride out to the local ruins.
Next stop Quetzaltenango and, I'm afraid I've run out of energy to continue writing today. I will finish this entry soon, I've had an amazing week here but am exhausted and can't carry on!
Nearly two miles of height gain! Makes me want to lie down just thinking about it.....
ReplyDelete