1 May 2009
Today was planned to be a light riding day from the start, with only 20 km along the short route from Port de Pollença to our next destination, Hotel Monnaber Nou, near Campanet. There was a 45 km alternative route with 2500 vertical feet (up and down). The morning was wet and no one was enthused about testing the friction coefficient of a skinny bike tire on steeply sloped wet and sometimes sandy pavement. So, we departed mid-morning, rode along a lovely route through the rain, and arrived at our hotel by noon.
We spent a good part of the rest of the day eating: a long leisurely lunch and then -- after a walk and tour of nearby caverns -- hors d'ouvres and a wonderful three-course dinner. Some of the food has been exquisite; all has been well presented in a beautiful dining room. The photo at the right shows one of my lunch courses: an avocado canneloni stuffed with monkfish, salmon, and hazelnuts. The hotel is set in a remote rural area of Mallorca. The grounds are superbly maintained, with many ancient olive trees (see photo below). Our room is lovely, stone-walled and wood paneled with a full sitting area and a large bath room in addition to the bedroom space.
The weather broke by early afternoon and we enjoyed a beautifully sunny and fresh latter part of the day. Tomorrow, we are planning to follow a 75 km loop (lollipop) ride out to the west, passing through Bunyola and Orient. With a longer riding day, we probably won't have time to eat so much!
1 comment:
your food looks incredible!!
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