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The Story of Pushing Through in Badlands: An MTB Journey Full of Challenges and Beauty
We took on one of the most challenging and exciting routes any cyclist can face: the Badlands course in Spain. Together with a friend, Robert, aka "el Blandengue" (the Softie), we set off on this adventure, capturing every moment in a video I'm now sharing on YouTube. This article tells my story, from the prep all the way to the finish line.
Picture throwing yourself into a journey where every pedal stroke is a brushstroke in the painting of your own epic: a bikepacking trip of around 730 km through landscapes that steal your breath. That's exactly what I did, heading into the vastness of Granada and Almería, conquering the Sierra Nevada and being brushed by the winds of Cabo de Gata.
Each day, an average of 70 km unfolded in front of me, adding up to a total of 18,000 metres of positive climbing over 10 days. Not everything went to plan; on the first day we barely managed 40 km. But every challenge, every hardship, only added more value to this story of pushing through.
Nature became my teacher, giving me lessons in humility and endurance. I saw myself reflected in the immensity of the deserts, in the stillness of those wild landscapes, learning that the real limits are the ones our own mind sets.
This trip was a constant dialogue with myself, a string of reflections on what we're really capable of. And now I'm sharing this account with you, not just as the chronicle of a journey, but as an invitation to question your own limits.
Are you up for finding out how far you can go?
Through ever-changing landscapes
The route took us through landscapes that looked straight out of a dream. From the heights of the Sierra Nevada to the deserts of Gorafe and Tabernas, every kilometre served up a new natural wonder and a new challenge. The variety of terrain tested our riding skills and our ability to adapt.
Overcoming obstacles
Every day brought its own obstacles. The long climbs were a constant challenge, and the technical descents demanded total concentration. But beyond the physical side, staying motivated and focused was a mental battle, especially in the lonely stretches across that vast landscape.
The satisfaction of the finish
Reaching the finish in Capileira, the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming. Every kilometre ridden, every climb beaten, every moment of doubt overcome turned into a deep satisfaction and a sense of achievement that goes far beyond the simple act of pedalling.
Badlands isn't just a race or a route; it's a test of character, an adventure that changes you. Through this journey I learned about my own limits, the beauty of our country and the power of friendship and mutual support. This trip will stay etched in my memory, and in the video I'm sharing, as proof of what we're capable of achieving.
I invite you to watch the video on YouTube
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