Sunday, July 22, 2007

DATE: Sunday July 22, 2007
ROUTE: Koprivshtitsa, Bulgaria to Plovdiv, Bulgaria
DISTANCE: 63 miles
TIME: 4h 25m
CEG: 1101’
WEATHER: HOT! low 100s

This was a fairly easy day and welcomed by all. Everyone rode the whole
way – the first time in a long time! A pothole almost put Dan in the van
but Michele swapped wheels and he was back on route in short order.

We set out from Koprivshtitsa at 8am in clean, cool (67 degrees) mountain
air. We ascended 4 miles then descended 8 miles. I like those
proportions! The smooth road was interspersed with potholes, broken
pavement, and sand. I kept my speed in check --- which took some
discipline. Dan hit a pothole and damaged both wheels. Michele swapped
wheels and sent Dan on his way.

After we reached the valley floor, the route was flat and hot. I took
every opportunity to cool off in village fountains. Plovdiv is the
oldest town in Bulgaria and one of the oldest cities in the world. It was
built by the Romans in the 5th century BC. The ruins of the Roman
Amphitheater and Stadium are not far from our hotel.

Alec selected a lovely garden restaurant for our group dinner and arranged
for a folk group to entertain us. It was a wonderful way to end a treat
day of cycling.

more pictures