Review of the Sierra Nevada circumnavigation

What an impressive journey through the Sierra Nevada! We started our first stage from the picturesque town of Almeria to Laujar de Andarax. 127 kilometers and 2200 meters of altitude were ahead of us. The challenge was great, but the views and Christine's great food motivated us right from the start.

The second stage took us from Laujar de Andarax up to the majestic Puerto de la Ragua at an altitude of 2,000 meters. The 32-kilometre ascent was breathtaking and rewarded us with unforgettable impressions. We then descended into the Moorish villages of the Alpujarras. Our destination: the cosy hotel in Bèrchules at an altitude of 1200 meters. 80 kilometers and 2000 metres in altitude - a day full of successes and experiences!

From Bèrchules, the route took us to Granada, a whole 123 kilometers and 2300 meters of altitude. The picturesque villages of the Alpujarras accompanied us, while the majestic Sierra Nevada towered in the background. The Granada Palace offered us luxurious accommodation with a view of the imposing Veleta, which awaited us the next day.

The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly the ascent to the Veleta. Starting in Monachil, with a bright sky above us, the day promised great things. The steep climbs challenged our stamina, but the views made up for every effort. 65 kilometers and 2980 vertical meters later, we stood together on the summit - an unforgettable moment.

The longest stage took us from Guejar Sierra to Laujar de Andarax, a full 134 kilometers and 2480 meters in altitude. An earlier start was necessary in order to have enough time. The route took us through impressive landscapes, accompanied by a strong tailwind that literally pushed us forward. The ascent to Puerto de la Ragua was another challenge, but the subsequent descent to Laujar was like a reward.

The last stage with 114 kilometers and 1300 meters of altitude was a special finale. An earlier start due to a cycling marathon added to the excitement. The rapid descent at the beginning was accompanied by an ungracious headwind, but we fought our way through bravely. Christine's refreshment station at the 53rd kilometer made us wistful, as we had become accustomed to her care. The last kilometers to Almeria were characterized by a strong headwind, but the joy of what we had achieved outshone everything.

8 days of glorious weather, 700 kilometers and 14,000 meters of altitude, all with great people - these experiences will stay with us for a long time.

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