64km, 849m climb
Today took us over the Gospel Pass, the highest paved road in Wales. Wales is famous for hills and rain and today we sampled both!
We left early and followed some very steeply undulating lanes to Abergavenny, bypassing the town to avoid descending too far.
Then began the main pretty, but tough climb up to the pass. We arrived at Llanthony Priory in need of a rest and enjoyed veggie lasagne and chips before having a look round the huge ruin.
Low cloud was developing as we struggled upwards fortified by our good lunch. By the time we reached the top we were in a Scotch (Welsh!?) mist. The drizzle was quite heavy and the lovely views invisible - all that effort just to get wet before descending the other side!
Ben putting his waterproofs on on the Gospel Pass.
A welcome, but very steep descent took us out of the rain and into Glasbury. We continued for a few kilometres and over the Wye on an interesting little suspension bridge to a very small and sweet campsite at the River Cabin. There are just three pitches, but excellent facilities.
The forecast is better for tomorrow, so hopefully we won't get wet. Unfortunately the hills will still be there to exhaust us!
Is Scotch mist of the alcoholic type?
ReplyDeleteHi Helen and Ben
ReplyDeleteIt was lovely having a few days to really catch up with you.We missed you after you left! I'm glad it didn't rain as forecast but it was certainly very windy.
It is great following your progress on the blog and I'm very impressed indeed with your sheer grit in taking on such a challenging ride. Hats off to you!
Let's zoom again sometime next week and I can hear the finer details.
Love Jean