Saturday 8am, Pismo Beach

We began peddling as the morning dew lifted and the wind was still silent. Our first quick steep hill of the day, the 100 yard climb from Oceano to Nipomo, always a panic for me. I quickly downshifted into granny gear and miraculously reached the top of the hill before going anaerobic.

Guadalupe, Mile 15

La Simpatia… ah, heaven. Large bowl of chips, salsa, guacamole, and two chicken enchiladas. Guadalupe is an authentic little Mexican village, less than 2 miles long, in the heart of the Central Coast.

Lompoc Mile 45

Lunch Time! Jalama Beach Café; Warm turkey sandwich, french fries and large lemonade (sugar and salt are an important part of touring). Lots of small hill climbs to the freeway. The key to freeway riding is speed. We flew down the highway, challenging the semi-trucks, sports cars and motor homes that zipped along as the setting sun glittered over the waters of the pacific.

Goleta, Mile 90

“Snickers Break” Patty exclaimed as we pulled into a liquor store. I stumbled off the bike, my back crackling, my legs shaking and my butt numb. We cruised through Santa Barbara on State Street, watching the nightlife come alive, infecting us with a second wind. We rode to the beach and caught the coastal trail to Montecito, a welcomed car free finish to a long days ride.

Montecito 108.3 miles

We Did It. 11 hours and 5000 calories burned. Time to celebrate. Dinner at Trattoria Mollie, arguably one of the best Italian restaurants in California, not to mention Oprah’s favorite. Martinis, wine and a five course feast was an indulgent reward to a long day’s ride.

Sunday

“All Aboard”

Deep tissue massage for breakfast, a painful but leisurely afternoon stroll down State Street, and a visit to my favorite Paso Nuevo store.. “The Cheese Shop” for an ice cold bottle of Chardonnay, and an assortment of cheese, Patty and I boarded the train heading home. The 2 hour coastal train ride flew by as we relaxed our aching bodies and toasted to a truly indulgent adventure.