La Venta

Ooo, such a lovely day, where to start?

Heading downhill into a cool breeze this morning, had us donning an extra layer fairly swiftly. It wasn't long though before an uphill gradient had us stripping off.

We braced ourselves first, for our cafe not being there at all and second, once it materialised on the last possible bend, for it being closed. The bars on the windows were not promising!  As we approached, however, right on cue, a man walked out with coffee in hand. In luck!

We enjoyed a short pit stop before trundling off on a steady climb to a lovely high point with a fort and small chateau.

The overgrown ruin was charming but it was the wild flowers around the fort that were incredible.  We had a little wander off the road to admire them as well as a friendly butterfly, which settled on my leg, before setting off for a couple more pleasant ups and downs. 

Cafe Venescia in Pinos de Venta was a balcony haven (apart from the caged birds) - splendid views, bright geraniums and the best tortilla!

More fun descending took us past a new dramatic reservoir and on our way down the same meandering empty main road as a couple of days ago that leads us back to Velez. 

A fine, fine outing. 

Showers, cafe, meander, food. Not necessarily in that order.