Wednesday, April 2, 2025

The Adriatic Coast

Sorry readers for the delay in updates, but those Adriatic coast rides were grueling! After long cycling days, planning the next leg, and sorting dinner—whether cooking in or dining out—I was wiped. But the days ahead are set to be shorter and more enjoyable, so more frequent updates to come. 

981 km down, 4292 to go

Since the last blog post I started my cycling along the Adriatic coast, I faced four grueling days, averaging 100 kilometers each. Through rain, wind, and monotonous highways, I just wanted to get through this long section. Little did I know, my real issues would be the discomforts becoming my daily companions. The worst was my bum; daily rides with no rest left it painful as hell to sit on my saddle. I figured out that dropping down into the bars, Tour de France style, shifted my weight forward and offered some relief. But then, the pain migrated to my hands, wrists, and shoulders. Frequent breaks became a necessity. Add to the mix the cold enough weather to numb my toes, leaving me regretting not packing my toe warmers. A dumb mistake.

On the one rain-free day, I faced relentless 15-mile-per-hour head winds for the 100 kilometer day. A flag caught my eye, waving in the wind, and I stopped to capture the moment. It read 'Fanatic'—perhaps a nod to my own relentless drive. 

Sandwiched in between the grueling weather were some truly nice, sunny moments. Here's one: a lunch in front of the fountain statue by the church. 

Lunch on one of the few moments of sun on the Adriatic.

Here are two short videos: one of the paved cycling routes I encountered and another of the coastal paths. Those paved coastal routes? Just not my thing—felt endless and dull. The trail would've been awesome if not for the mud from all the rain, though I still enjoyed it.






Monstrosity by the Sea: Even the coast can't make this one pretty!

Octopus Sandwich 
Watched the movie, made a vow, broke it with a bite. 
Sorry, little buddy!

Rotunda on the Sea
It is used as an Arts Center


Despite enduring harsh winds, rain, and monotony along the Adriatic coast, today's 20km ride was a gem. With a forecast of sun and warmth, the stunning pastoral Italian scenery made for a perfect cycling moment. And there it was—a big sign saying "Ciao Leo," my father's nickname for me, a warm welcome to what lies ahead. Moments like these make cycling truly special.


Future blogs will dive into my bike specs, my planning process, and a day-in-the-life from start to finish.

Thanks for tuning in.

Leo