Mad March ride

The March route had been planned and the route was up on the event for a week, I had done a reccy ride last Sunday so was all set for today. I was pleased to see that 3 brave souls had signed up but over the course of the week, Fasnacht exhaustion and a less than exciting weather report left only 2 of us.  I was expecting my last companion to cancel but as she hadn't, I got all set and went to the station at 9:55.

The trains arrived and left but no-one with a bike got off. I checked the front of the station too but didnt manage to find anyone. At about 10:10 I decided it was just me then. As I had done the planned route just last week, and not wanting to do too much descending in the wet, I set off towards Liestal. With no route to follow, it was a bit old school.

I arrived in Liestal, having successfully avoided most of the roads and only met one bus coming towards me in the middle of the road. I decided that I would climb the hill towards Arisdorf and instead of just going over the top, I could try to get to the Aussichtsturm. 

https://aussichtsturm-liestal.ch/aussichtsturm/

I have checked the Strava segment before and avoided it as it claims there is a 500m section with a gradient of 18%. I took the plunge today to discover that it was much easier than I had expected. I am pretty certain the climb is no where near 18% - dont worry, just go! I got to the top and discovered new toilets - always an exciting time when I can expand my database. After using the lovely facilities, I came round the corner to see 2 men with Alphorns, tuning up. 

What about the view? Well, not brilliant :). I think I need to come back when there is less cloud.

I was using mudguards to try to keep the water away and they worked really well. That and my waterproof shorts, I stayed fairly warm all the time. More of that later.

Once the view had been admired, I set off again through Arisdorf and then over to the small farm roads next to the motorway towards Rheinfelden. Through Feldschlossen where I photo bombed some person taking a photo of the building.... It was raining, I didnt want to slow down too much. Now on towards Möhlin to get home via Zeiningen. It was here I stopped again for more hot tea sheltering under the road bridge.

The tiny insulated espresso cup I got for Christmas has been very well used. Its great. I can have really hot tea in my flask and not burn myself when drinking it... as I have done in the past, genius! Once refreshed again, I started the last part of my journey and decided to go up the steep road turning right in Hellikon following Veloroute 97 to the top of the hill. I dont come here very often.

I passed an Alpaca trekking farm - the things you find..

I drank my last tea and snack at the top with the busstop and the tables before the last fast roll down to Gelterkinden. I felt warm and comfortable all day. I highly recommend my rain shorts.

Back in Gelterkinden I made the mistake of ignoring the "no entry" signs and landed in the middle of the Fasnacht clean up - oops, but a quick getaway and I was home.

Fun ride, glad I still went out. Pity it was on my own.

Distance: 54km

Climbing: 805m

Avg Speed: 18km/h - not a fast day :)

Next months planned ride day us Easter Sunday so I might change it to be the Friday or Monday to see if it would be more convenient. The weather is getting warmer, and days are longer and I look forward to my first day in the mountains. Watch this space!