We were very sad to say our goodbyes to all at Camping Sierra Espuna and El Berro.  We had a really amazing stay there and will certainly miss it.  Highlights from the past week include some amazing rides, particularly a day spent with Jan and Chantal exploring a new route through wonderful scenery and taking in some spectacular climbs as well as a (rather sweltering) trip out to the moonscape and jade lake of Barrancos de Gebas; having lunch with friends from the campsite in nearby Alhama de Murcia at a restaurant owned by a friend of Joel’s, who prepared a meal especially for us – each of the 5 courses more wonderful than the last; a day out at the coast, walking on the beach and driving windy roads to remote castles; disturbing more of the shy barbary sheep in the Sierra Espuna regional park; great trail running through the pine forests.

We’ve now headed back to the coast once more and have just set up camp in another park, the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park.

The party was a great success and went on into the wee hours – just as well we were joined by all of our camp neighbours!  There were about 16 of us to celebrate the momentous occasion and the cava and beer flowed.  A big thanks to all, especially to our neighbours Jan and Chantal and the special staff from the Sierra Espuna campsite, Joel and Isidore – it wouldn’t have been the same without you!