Jun 04, 2015

We headed off early because we had around 5 hours actual traveling to do and wanted a bit of time to stop and explore and the day became a collection of great visual sights and experiences .... and it was nice to finish off the day with a 121kmh speed limit to knock over the last 80km in spite of the strong wind gusts. We had strong wind from Alamosa including getting tangled up in a willy willy (well that's what we Aussies call them) complete with tumbleweed on our way to the Great Sand Dunes National Park, thankfully I kept the bike straight and was soon out of it, and saw many more in the distance as we approached the park.



Not long on the road we came across the Rio Grande and this shot is just south of the Visitor centre.



And further north we had climbed up onto the rim of the canyon and this is a shot as we did.The plain reached for miles and was covered in prolific grass growth.



Coffee at Taos and this is a shot across part of the square which was very nice. Snow capped peaks in the distance.



And just out of Taos on Route 64 we found the Rio Grande Grande Bridge built across the canyon in 1965. Impressive to say the least!



And as we climbed this poodle cloud popped up over the hill.

Lunch in Saint Luis. A tired little town but quirky in it's own way.



And a shot of the Blanca Peaks (14,345 feet) and still under snow as you can see.



And we arrive at the Great Sand Dunes National Park.



Doesn't look all that impressive but people 1.5 miles away climbing the dunes looked like ants.



Coffee at a quirky little spot in Fort Garland.



Heading back to the freeway we climbed up over some spectacular country, away from the dessert lands to pine and grass covered hills and lush growth. There were signs up to beware of Elk, not surprising, the growth was long and green and lush and water galloping down beside the road in marshy ground. Beautiful.



And just cresting the top of the pass (2,856m).

Bits and Bobs:



Thought I'd found my own coffee cafe this morning in Taos (pronounced Touse) but spelt wrong, ah well, the coffee was welcome anyway.



And on our way into Pueblo came across this, looks like everything but the kitchen sink was on board.

Last Two Night's Accommodation:



Inn on the Alameda, 303 East Alameda, Santa Fe, NM 87505
Well what a treat to find this hotel. We looked at many when we were selecting them many months ago and it looked good but it is way beyond that. In a star rating of 5 it would be around 8! The buildings themselves are unique (adobe walls with timber and terracotta finishes in keeping) and rooms either have a terrace or balcony to relax on as well as many other places to relax ( including a hot tub) and just enjoy the lovely outdoors which really is lovely. Not as humid at this altitude but comfortable. Lavish breakfast included, free parking and wifi and cheese and drinks in the  and dinner in the restaurant was just delicious. The staff are really hospitable, helpful and warmly welcoming, we could just melt into the place and stay on. Felt like we were being welcomed into their family home without them being pushy or in our face. A treasure!