Today was one of those days on the bike that perfectly captured what I love about riding a bike.

The ride started in a light drizzle and fog. Temperatures stayed cool even after the sun chased the fog and dampness away. We rode from Santa Maria thru the cycling town of Solvang before taking us to Santa Ynez, our home for the next two nights.

Typing on my android tablet is too tedious to write much but a few thoughts and memories:

Riding alongside field after field of beautiful crops of lettuce, cauliflower and bright red strawberries.

The speed of the farm workers working in the fields, literally running to pick.

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The strong scents of strawberries, cilantro, and the licorice scent of fennel.

The remoteness and quiet beauty of Foxen Canyon road.

Lunch at Zaca Mesa winery

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The steep little climb right after lunch/wine tasting

Climbing “the wall”, a very steep little climb and recognizing I can climb even when the grade is steep.

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The thrill of the twisty descent into Ballard Canyon.

Great conversation and coffee with my fellow tour riders and guide at the infamous Bulldog Cafe

And finally the luxurious Santa Ynez Inn

Stats: 48 miles, 2398 ft. of ascent, 1985 ft. descent

CA Central Coast Day 4 Santa Maria to Santa Ynez – Details

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