Fargo and Away

Today the plan was for the cycling crew to meet up at Marco Polo International Airport in Venice where our guides, Henry and Luc of Velorizons would meet us and drive us to our home base for the first few days in Alleghe. Several riders arrived a day early for some touring in Venice, one had been in Rome, while the rest flew various routes to Venice. I had flown into Barcelona the day before and took an early flight to Italy.

Despite the varying itineraries, everyone’s travel plans went smoothly and we met up on schedule.

The ride up to Alleghe was a few hours but went quickly, especially for those of us who took a nap. The view from the parking lot was already stunning.

After checking in we were eager to set up the bikes and get a first ride in.

Jeff planned a 15 mile loop with 2200 ft of climbing to help us shake off the cobwebs. Unfortunately, about a third the way up the climb the road was closed, so we had to turn back.

Back at the hotel, we cleaned up for dinner and had a toast to more riding to come.