Sunday September 2, Arija, On the Ebro Reservoir

The Ebro Reservoir, the largest in Spain.

There was no breeze this morning and the sun was hot as we packed up and left Cobreces.  Had read about the Ebro Reservoir inland from where we were, evidently able to ride around the lake and some good spots to camp, and we can continue on tomorrow to the Picos Mountains, evidently a must see.
It was a great drive and a very good road, that climbed up to 1000 metres through many small villages then into very open country. There were snow poles set up so obviously quite cold in the winter. Quite different country than what we have so far experienced in Spain.
The Reservoir was completed in 1945 to provide better water supply to areas downriver and is a popular summer sports area. Arrived firstly at the village of Corconte where there was a designated camper parking area. Parked and walked down to the lake where a couple of Spanish guys were inflating their stand-up paddle boards. One of the chaps was really friendly and started talking to us when he realised we spoke English. He had spent a month in NZ 10 years ago, and just loved it. Evidently this end of the reservoir is extremely popular for kite surfing but there was no breeze today so no action. They were heading across the lake on their boards. This end of the lake is much shallower with reeds on the edge. He then told us about this spot on the other side of the lake with a beach ad where it was much nicer to camp so after a late lunch we continued on and what a great spot. There were quite a number of family groups enjoying the warm Sunday afternoon, picnicking, swimming and fishing. Found a good spot and settled in for a relaxed afternoon.  But no cycle track, evidently just the road!

Different style of house

Snow poles as we neared the summit.....

...and made it.

The paddle boarders

Interesting fence battens, and stone walls which are
very common in the area.

Tonight's view