055 Cycle Touring Mexico

(Leana) #1

(^134) Vicam – San Carlos – 100km

An uneventful ride led to San Carlos and we sneaked into town
shortly before sunset. The town turned out quite a magical place
along the Gulf of California (or Sea of Cortez). Finding a place to pitch
the tents was super easy.

The town was popular amongst American and Canadian Snowbirds
who overwintered in San Carlos. By evening, the harsh desert
landscape transformed into a riot of colours. I understood San Carlos
was the location site of many movies, including the classic films
Catch-22, The Mask of Zorro and Lucky Lady - starring Liza Minnelli.
The northern region of Mexico is dry and semi-arid, with a typical
desert-like climate. Although winter, daytime temperatures hovered
around 25°C. However, the mercury dropped to freezing levels at
night.
The area was incredibly picturesque, with a bright blue sky in stark
contrast to the desert-like mountains, especially impressive at
sunrise.

From camp, a short cycle took us to the Mirador Esceìnico, a scenic
lookout a few kilometres from San Carlos; a stunning spot with a
view over the Gulf of California, dramatic Tetakawi (a hill jutting out
of the sea) and the secluded coves of Playa Piedras Pintas.

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