The aforementioned meeting finished around 12 noon. We left the Westin at around 12.30 and went in the direction of Madrid. It was warm in the city but overcast. We drove along the course of the old riverbed so had a good view of the gardens. After 2 hours we arrived at Vale de Moro it was raining and spirits were some what down. After a Spanish 20 mins (1 hour later) we arrived at the river Cabriel. I must however comment on the journey from Vale de Moro, it was a complete nightmare and on several occasions thought that we were all going to die. You hear about coaches crashing in these places well this was a recipe for disaster. Hairpin bends on a single track road on a 30 seater coach, driver going as fast as he can. (he is Spanish so that is FAST) There is some screaming and that is only the men, but you know when things got really scary as it went very quiet. We all felt quite queasy upon arrival. Some of the "team" did the rafting and some "me included" did not. We were told that we would be able to go down to the river & sunbathe ( UHH its raining & 16 degrees). We however had to sit in the coach for 2 hours & wait for the others to come back. Great. We were not allowed to go for a walk in case we got lost but I did have a wander down the track but came back rather quickly when I found the shedded skin of what I later identified as a Ladder Snake. We also saw some wild boar but that was from the safety of the coach. I am glad that I went with them as we got some good photos and I also got to see some great scenery. Lots of vines and olives but strangely no Oranges.
Some very wet and sorry looking people got back on the coach and endured the 2 hour journey back. They had a great time but not sure if the traveling time was worth it.
Straight in to the hotel, shower & back out for dinner at 9.30, unless you were smart & found the boys in the bar who just happened to buy you a glass of Verve Clique. We had a great meal in a lovely place, not Spanish but great for the occasion & suited all tastes. I made my escape & got back to the hotel around midnight. Some people got back "early" at 4am some got back at 4.45.
The meeting started the next day at 8.30 there were some late comers and some very green faces. All of these people had a flight home at 14.00hours I did not envy them one bit. But have been there done that and probably have some scars to prove it, or know someone that has! Yes I am glad that I am older & a bit wiser on these occasions.
Ian had a nice day to himself although it was not sunny but was nice & hot.
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