So we’ve made it to the end of our first day. What a day.

After 8 hours of travelling, it was nice to finally get on our bikes. As we arrived at Plymouth station we had to cut across the middle of town to arrive at The Hoe where the ride started for real. If you want to find out where the idea for this ride started from head over to Background to see.

We set off following our route which cut around some old fishing docks, taking the scenic route out of Plymouth towards Cycle Route 27, which met up with the Plym Valley Railway. This route then took a steady climb along the old railway route. Passing through tunnels, under bridges and past platforms. It was a lovely route, but a very log route.

We then had a very quick drop, losing most the height we’d gained (I have a funny feeling that’ll be a common occurrence) before climbing again. This time without the shade of the trees. And much, much steeper. This took a lot, and by the time we reached the top we all needed a sit down to recover. It was about this time I was glad we’d been training, take a look at Fully Loaded for some of what we’d been doing.

The next few miles settled into climbing and descending before we found a shaded spot for a break and snack. It amazing how much harder it is with this heat. Planning for water is something we need to be wary of.

We eventually got off the roads and started our first bit of off road cycling. Uphill with lots of loose rocks is always a challenge, but with an extra 10-15 kgs of bags it was very hard work. A few times we resorted to walking, but we did it. We conquered the hill, only to find another peak, and another peak.

It was about the time for our first night camp, but didn’t fancy sleeping right next to the cows and sheep, so we pushed on. Finding a large rock formation not far from Princetown seems like an idea spot for our first night.

Our camp was quickly formed. When you’ve got a single one man tent and 2 bivvy bags, it’s never going to long. With a warm meal inside us it was time to call it a night and see what the next day will bring. Head on over to Day Two-The Longest Day to see how the next day goes.

Or if you want to start your own adventure head on over to https://bikepacking.com for some great tips and routes