The trip started early on the 3rd of January at 3:30am, when I packed up the car and travelled to Manchester airport for a 6:30am flight. The flight was pretty rough to say the least, a nervous flyer next to me and a fair bit of turbulence didn't help the situation, But morale was high because I was dodging the horrendous weather in the UK for a month, so I couldn't complain.
We landed, got the bikes, then travelled to our home for the next month. We were staying in the Blanca Bikes townhouse in Xabia. Situated just seconds from the charming streets and the San Bartolomé Church in the centre of Old Town. The luxury accommodation is specific to the cyclist with the aim to maximise the cycling experience. The Boutique accommodation hotel is run personally by the Blanca Bikes team. Whether you’re here for training or a more relaxed cycling holiday the boutique cycling accommodation won’t leave you disappointed. I would recommend it to anyone wanting to escape the UK for some much needed sun in the winter.
Before I knew it, the first week of training had flown by. Many oranges were consumed, and many KM's were pedalled. I even managed to get a slight tan :) Even in this first week it really opens your eyes, and answers the question why does everyone come to Calpe in January.
The second week didn't go 100% to plan. A mixture of illness and bad weather resulted in a bit less training than I wanted. However, I got over the chill quickly so it hasn't affected my training much. Also, the plethora of Pro's I have seen during these first 2 weeks is mind blowing. Every team you can think of, from women's world tour to men's conti were here.
The third week followed suit of the second. A really good start to the week getting in a lot of decent training and hitting all my efforts to perfection. I then had testing on the weekend which was what it was. Just Full Gas! I managed to pick up a stomach virus and that knocked me out for the next 3 days, which most certainly was not ideal at all.
The forth and final week was upon us. The weather was amazing. Sunshine and blue skies with 26-28 degrees everyday to match. It was really good and it made training that ever bit easier. But, it did mean an end to our time here in Calpe. It had its ups and downs, but so does any block of training. A really big shout out to the guys at Blanca Bikes for their hospitality this month and to Cycle Service Course, Pedal Potential, Built Developments LTD and finally Withington Physiotherapy for their continued support for the 2024 season.
Race Season is around the corner, I will be back with a round-up on my first race the CV Spring Classic at the end of February.