Jabal Shams

There is something a little self satisfying (read smug) riding into a town early in the morning as the town is awakening, having packed your tent up and got on the road. I rode into Al-Hamra this morning early, there is always a coffee shop open to write this.

Yesterday I woke early and was on the road just as the sun rose above the surrounding mountains. Jabal Shams was my target. I had heard rumours it was a tough climb to accomplish. 50km before the base, then a good 20 to the top.

On the way I passed Wadi Ghul a slash through the mountains to explore on another visit. The surrounding area cultivated to perfection

Then there it was, I had heard rumours that it happened but never seen before… a goat in a tree!

Come on you know that is worth seeing. 😂

Steep, again so steep each twisty turny corner cutting back on itself. I felt good the legs strong and each turn a sight to behold rock formations to inspire any geologist.

Canyons cut deep into the rocks. 😲 WOW.

This route is a pleasure to climb, there are cars but so few in comparison to the horrendousness of the Tourmalet, Ventoux or the Stelvio. No busses, no motorbikes, no motorhomes. I was the only cyclist. Come now before they get here.

Just as you think it is over it turns to a gravel road for about 10km. Washboard topped ready to vibrate you apart. Then the top is just perfect.

What a fantastic ride I celebrated,

My pictures do not do it justice.

I wish I had longer but at 2000meters it was cool.

My shirt looked well used

But ready to use the next day

A great day in the saddle and once again despite a good few hours of going up and the effort that involved I am a very happy man. 😎