Zarzalejo

Morning trip with a friend Miguel. Up to the Silla Filipe II, a road in a park called the Herreria where he watched the building of the Monastery. Then along to the old Roman road, which is not as smooth as it once was.

(The only smooth part of the Calzada Romana)

Miguel descends very fast on his dual sus Stumpjumper, but climbs slowly. Puncture in Zarzlejo.

View back to Zarzalego and Las Machotas.

Climb up through the woods to the ridge near La Puera de la Cruz Verde, and descend a great path, with lovely views. Lots of loose stones and sand which makes the back wheel skid all over the place. Return to Escorial. Miguel shows me a tehncail descnet from la Silla that I have never seen, even after looking frequently. This place has so many great hidden trials. 30k, 3 hrs.