Cycling in Italy - Stage Five, Recovery

By popular demand, two recovery rides were offered today along with a climbing ride. Two people from our Atascadero group chose the climbing ride; an engineer and an attorney. Guess who? The mortals among us chose one of two recovery rides. The ride for my group was planned for about 60 miles. Instead, we convinced our leader that a cafe and pastry ride would be more in line with our physical state. We won.

Nothing unusual about the ride for this part of Italy. We rode through a medieval walled city, along the river, on country roads the same size as the Bob Jones Trail, and again experienced the joy of cobblestones. Our first stop was for espresso and pastries. More country roads, ancient churches and lush green pastures. Back to Bassano, over the 15th century covered bridge and a stop for gelato. A little people watching, and back to the hotel for lunch. A total of about 40 miles. It felt great. Did I mention they serve vino rosso, prosecco, and bier with lunch? Somehow, I just don't think lunch back on campus next week will be the same.

Later this afternoon it's off to a couple of bike shops and then shopping in Bassano so we can help keep the Euro strong.

Here's a few more pictures. Sorry they are not in chronological order. The mountain shot is Mount Grappa in the winter.
Ciao