What a fantastic way to see 3 fantastic countries. This trip however is not for the faint hearted - expect to be on the go 24/7 from the moment you land in Nicaragua. Despite this trip being focused around cycling it was so much more than that with plenty of activities off the bike. If you are looking for a real adventure with lots of laughs along the way then this is the trip for you.
Cycling - There was a real mix of cycling from tarmac roads to gravel tracks. There were some challenging hills that required a decent level of cycling fitness to complete especially in the heat that reached over 100 on some days. The views were spectacular and wildlife was spotted along the way. We averaged around 30 miles a day and our group was fairly fast so this was usually completed within 3-4 hours. The approach to the cycling was pretty relaxed so if you wanted to stop at any point for a rest or to take photos you were free to do so. The cycling catered for everyone and it was up to you if you wanted to race or just relax at the back! We had our guide along with 2 support cyclists (mechanics) in Nicaragua - Roberto Aguilar (aka Chino), Albaro and Paul and then for Costa Rica and Panama there was just Chino and Paul. The support vehicle, driven by the very safe driver Ronal, was always on hand to assist anyone who may have been struggling, to provide water, rest-bite or even extra fuel (fruit & biscuits).
Other Activities - One of the trip highlights for me was going up to the top of the Masaya Volcano in Nicaragua at night and actually looking into the top of it - looking into the top of a live volcano was something that I never thought I would have the opportunity to do - breath-taking!
Volcanic Spa at La Fortuna (Costa Rica) - a great way to relax in the evening after a days cycling. It was like being in heaven with Cocktails on hand! River Rafting (Nicaragua) - our guide spotted all kinds of wildlife that unless you have the eye for you would have never seen. Crocodiles, Toucans, Iguanas and much more. Nature trail on Ometepe, natural Spa........ There is just too many things to mention.
A special mention has to go out to our tour guide Chino and his support staff who were exceptional.
If you are considering this trip - DO IT!!!
Walking The Picos De Europa - INCREDIBLE! A definitely must- see/do trip! Each day you see the most incredible and breath taking views!
Overall it is one of my favourite holidays, thanks to the wonderful tour leader we had, Nacho, and also to the Hotel staff, Jim and Pilar, for giving such a comfortable welcoming experience whilst staying in the hotel......they are extremely kind and warm-hearted people who went the extra mile always to cater for vegetarian meals and providing a comforting atmosphere.
Nacho would look after us so exceptionally well that everyday went as nicely as it possibly could and on the days I wasn't as prepared as much as I could be, he always accommodated everything I would have needed and more.....I could not have asked for a better person to lead our group on this trip or a better hotel, as for me it was all perfect!
My partner and I did a ~130km section of the Camino Norte - San Sebastian to Bilbao. This section was absolutely stunning, walking through the lush green and coastal scenery of the basque region. It was definitely hillier than we expected, with lots of tough efforts up and down steep inclines. It was listed as moderate, but the local guides listed this section as difficult/hard. That being said, it was well worth the effort and made the finish feel earned. Our luggage transfers worked perfectly and the accommodation was better than expected. I’d recommend them. Cheers.
