As we passed the golf course again, we pulled off to the side. We rode north along the coastline, taking full advantage of our bikes’ throttle feature, waving to fellow cyclists heading south. A wrong turn took us up into the forested hillsides before we realized our mistake - though, are there any wrong turns on a scenic ride? Then it’s time to take the route back to the bike rental shop in Pacific Grove. We briefly meandered through affluent neighborhoods of Carmel-by-the-Sea, passing multi-million-dollar homes as I remember that Clint Eastwood served a term as mayor here. Look around long enough and you might slip out of your modern existence for a moment or two - until a luxury sports car revs past.Īfter about 9.5 miles, we reached Carmel Beach and took a beat in the sand to sip water and munch on granola bars. And above the trees, the unmistakable wingspan of a California condor, vigilant for a meal. Near Pescadero Point I looked up to see the rich green canopies of Monterey cypresses overhead - a view that might have been obscured in a motorized metal box. We also found ourselves observing all sorts of sightseers: the family eagerly asking if we’ve seen any seals the guy ignoring signs and hand-feeding potato chips to squirrels the man quizzing his kids on why Bird Rock is so white (“Poop!” they yell, correctly) the carload of older folks too underwhelmed by the Lone Cypress to get out of their parked vehicle. Squadrons of pelicans soared overhead as seals snoozed on rocks that didn’t look comfortable (I’m guessing their built-in blubber helps). We caught a glimpse of sea otters, their furry heads popping above the surface from their haven of the kelp forest. Biking past them, I stop myself from lingering too long on the opposite of what beckoned us here.Īlong the way, drivers and cyclists alike stopped to admire the rugged shoreline, mesmerizing blue water and the wildlife it sustains. Nor are the multi-million-dollar homes that peek out from the tree line along the route. Well-manicured, professional-grade golf courses aren’t found in the wild. I don’t fool myself into thinking of Pebble Beach as “untouched” natural beauty. But there are also rich details you might miss behind the wheel - the wildflowers blooming along the road, the sea breeze on your face, the symphony of waves crashing, birds singing and sea lions barking in the distance. You’re more aware of your surroundings in practical ways - the bumps and cracks in the asphalt, the curves in the road and the cars that zip along next to you. The experience is a mix of freedom and exposure, blending to ensure you stay in the moment. That’s easier to see from the seat of a bicycle.
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