So here’s how my day started. Happy February friends! 😂
I feel like a friggin’ princeling in this place. If you ever come to Jardin, which I highly recommend (see below), it would be tragic to not stay in one of the two cabins here at Cabaña Blue Sky. Besides it being an amazing space as described yesterday, William (Guillermo) is a lovely guy. And then there are these critters.
I had the laziest day I’ve ever had on a bike trip. I sat on my patio for a few hours contemplating my next move, walked around town several times and looked up things to do in Jardin. The problem with all the recommended activities is that they took effort and I didn’t want to give any of that. My big achievement was getting my laundry done (by someone else).
Jardin is truly beautiful. It’s a little touristy for sure, but it feels far less so than Salento. Could be that it’s mid week, or simply my headspace, but I’m pretty sure this place is just more my speed. I’m no photographer, but you don’t have to be when you are somewhere like this.
Windows and doors
Buildings
Murals
Feedings
After much indecision and humming and hawing, I have a plan. I’m going to ride a bike from here to Medellín. See, I nearly called Jardin the end of the road and even went to the bus depot today to inquire about getting my bike on a bus (the answer was yes, the question now is do I believe it!). But I think the ride will be amazing. The 40 km I saw from the passenger seat of Jaime’s car was stunning. Plus, in the future saying I rode from Bogotá to Riosucio then took cabs and buses yada yada yada just doesn’t have the same ring as I rode from Bogotá to Medellin (mostly 😝).
The ride is 130 km and 2000 vertical meters of paved road away and I will do it in 2 days. 60 continuous km downhill (!), then 40 km uphill (!), then 30 down into the city. I hope to do 90 km tomorrow. The forecast calls for some sprinkles like today, so I’m not super concerned about it.
Barring issues, this puts me in Medellín Saturday early afternoon. I have two bike shops near the hotel I’ve booked with boxes for me so I can pack the Surly for the flight. I fly Medellín to Bogotá Sunday lunchtime then home later that same afternoon. I’m really excited to go home and see Karen.
Final stretch…
Amazing photos. Sounds as if you had a wonderful day. Continuing the bike ride……why am I not surprised?? Wishing you good highways, no rain and cooler weather. Downhill, as long as it isn’t steep sounds good, uphill part sounds too far. 🤪 Ride safe.
The length of the uphill translates into a more gentle rise. That’s the hope anyway!
Sounds like a great day. Good luck on your final 130.
So great. Hoping tomorrows ride is safe, smooth, and fun.
Hi Chad,
All of us here in Samara have been following your blog. We’ve just been too mellow to write anything.
I’ve enjoyed reading about your adventures, even when some days haven’t go as planned.
Your photos make me want to go, but not on a bike. It’s a relief to know that you’re getting enough food. I want some of that too.
We’re hoping you’re still coming to Samara after deciding to do this last minute trip to Columbia.
See you all in two weeks!
I love the doors. Also, if you see any more cats like Tango who would like a home here, feel free to bring ’em home for us.
No so many cats, but if you are in the market for a pup they are EVERYWHERE