Phoenix Car Club

Phoenix Car Club

Costa Blanca (South) & Vega Baja

Autumn Pink Gallop 20-23 Oct 2016

Autumn Pink Gallop 20-23 Oct 2016

 

Autumn – “Season of mist and mellow fruitfulness”
 Well we did encounter some mist along the way, but not enough to detract from the spectacular views on the very scenic route to our destination, the Hotel Galatea on the outskirts of Ossa de Montiel in Albacete Province.
As for the fruitfulness, I am not sure about that, but there was certainly plenty of fruit available on the breakfast and dinner tables! I also think it fair to say that at least some of us were quite mellow by the end of the evening meal!

Day1-On Thursday morning all turned up on time to sign in with our “fearless leader” Johnny. Routes were handed out and before long we were on our way. Not everyone was in a classic car but given the horrible weather forecast for Ossa, that was no big surprise! Fifteen members in 8 cars enjoyed a good drive with a couple of refreshment stops on route. Some of the best scenery was around the town of Ayna, especially during the epic display of thunder and lightning as we neared our second stop at Hotel Felipe 2. However it cleared up quite quickly and then it was onwards and upwards!
Hotel Galatea was warm and welcoming with friendly and efficient staff, excellent food and safe parking for the cars.

Day2- Friday involved a visit to a lavender/spice farm and distillery. Although the lavender was not it bloom, there was still much of interest as we were shown the various extraction and distilling processes.
This was followed by a drive to the nearby lakes (Las Lagunas de Ruidera) a series of seven connected lakes, quiet in the autumn but buzzing with many visitors during the summer season. The small town of Ruidera provided a welcome break as we sat sunning ourselves in the town square, enjoying some refreshment. Then it was each to their own, before reconvening later at the hotel.

Day3- Saturday This was designated as a free day but most decided on another local drive, this time towards the town of Manzaneres. Unfortunately, being a Saturday morning, the town was full of shoppers and parking our little convoy proved impossible. However we did manage a visit to the castle at Penarrayo with great views over the embalse and a beautiful chapel inside.

Day4- Sunday, and all too soon time to head for home. Some went the direct route but 5 cars stayed together for most of the way.

All in all, a very enjoyable break in good company. Thanks must go to Johnny for all his hard work in leading the troops and also to Trish Mansell for her excellent organisation beforehand. Well done to both of you.