Cycling Through The Mountains Of China

The mountainous roads of southern China are proving a bit of a challenge. We only have to cycle an average of 40 miles a day to allow ourselves 3 days off between here and Vietnam. On a couple of days even that’s been too much.⁣

Our original route turned out to be a mud bath, whilst it was very beautiful and quiet we’ve had to take alternate routes. Luckily the other road is pretty scenic and not too busy. Not quite the tranquil mountain road we expected though. ⁣

Before we gave up on our original route we pushed our bikes for miles through mud.⁣

Last night we had to climb about 6000ft (1800metres) and cycle 60 miles (100kms). We managed it in the day, but the sun went down before we reached the top of the mountain. It was pitch black and the mist was thick. Visibility was not good.⁣

We finally made it to a tunnel and descended the mountain top. We were just 2 miles away from our hotel when we pulled into a garage for a hot cup of tea. We were freezing cold, shivering and we simply had to stop.⁣ The garage staff sat us on a heated table which was delightful!

Our hotel was disgusting. We slept fully clothed so the bedding wouldn’t touch our skin, avoided the shower and we didn’t dare walk around without our shoes on. The roof leaked and water was covering the desk and the electrics! We didn’t touch a thing. We fell asleep in beanie hats and fleeces it was so cold, woke up and we got the hell out of there. I haven’t taken a picture of it. Trust me you don’t want to see it and I don’t want to be reminded of it.⁣

We’re eating a huge bowl of egg fried rice now and we have a short distance to ride – just 20 miles. Hopefully we will find a nice hotel to rest in.⁣

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