advice on cycling in december?

[dunc23]

Hi,

I was thinking about cycling from lisbon to malaga over christmas and just wondering if anyone has done a similar trip at this time of year there? I am a little concerned about getting rained on, this will be my first cycle tour, perhaps someone could suggest a better location for 2 weeks cycling at this time of year?

thanks

duncan

[pedaldog]

Hi Duncan.
Can't give any advice but would really be interested in your plans.
How you're getting out to Lisbon, camping or hotel etc.

[gary]

Hi Duncan and welcome I dont think youi need to worry about the rain to much besides its all part of the fun and you will dry however this time of year you can expect some wet weather in the region you are cycling in. You intent to do lots of miles for your first tour north portugal to mid spain across very hilly terain but also very scenic. are you b&B or hotels camping ? all makes a difference. Have a great trip and dont forget to let santa know where you are on the 24th.
Gary

[dunc23]

okay so thanks to gary for giving me a bit to think about. I have put back my trip and will now be leaving on 30th dec. I fly to Almeria and will do 7 days of cycling which will take me though the hills (although not over sierra nevada to granada). Ip lan to stay at the following locations
30th Alhma de almeria
31st Bayarcal
1st pampaniera
2nd alhama de granada (long cycle that day)
3rd antequera
4th Ronda
5th Seville
6th Seville (i fly back in the evening of 7th)

I will not cycle all the way from ronda to seville, i will cycle most of the way then get a train, i can't remeber the name of the station i will get the train from.

flights i booked today (26th) and came out at a reasonable £150 including tax and rather large supplimentary bike charge. I can't see myself spending more than 50 euros a day for food and accomodation and i have a tent (well bivi bag) incase i can't get in anywhere.

This is my first cycle tour so would appeciate any other advice anyone has. My main fear is getting too cold but the guide book i have says january is a good time of year to go. I have a full leg length fleece bib and a couple of pairs of cycle shorts with knee warmers. I'll be buying some boot covers to keep my feet warm but not sure i will need. I have ortlieb classic roller panniers which i'm hoping will keep me watertight. Bike is a Thorn Brevet special edition, i have front and back panniers. Second fear is gears. It is currently set up with a lowest gear ratio of 42 (front) / 27 (rear) i am thing about changing this 42 on the font to a 37 because of the hills but i really don't know if this is necessary...any comments? i will keep this post updated with my progress

Duncan

[gary]

Enjoy stay safe take it all in when you return you wll be hooked best wishies.
Gary

[bikepacker]

As you are going to be cycling through extremes of temperature, ie. Granada in the mountains, Seville on low lying plains. You will need to cover all eventualities. Take lighter cloths you can layer rather than heavy items.

Hills in Spain are well graded and should not present too many problems however I would go with the smaller option on the chainring.

Your equipment is of a good quality and do you proud.

Savor every mile (or kilometer) and enjoy your tour.

[pedaldog]

Hey Dunc'.
How'd it all go. did it all go?
Report welcome!