My First Long Ride (Grotto of  Our Laday of Lourdes)

Sometimes, it is all you need: Long Bike Ride – Anonymous

Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes

If you are living somewhere in the metro, finding a biking destination is very easy. You can go to MOA or Luneta Park or visit Bulacan (Bustos Dam and Barasoian Church) or experience Antipolo and San Mateo Rizal (Timberland). If you are up for a more adventurous ride, ride to San Jose Del Monte or Norzagaray (Ipo Dam or Adventure Resort).

With the pandemic on, finding a ride buddy is a bit difficult for me. Most of them are in the province (working from home) while some who remained in the city are afraid to go out. Eventually, I started enjoying solo rides and for my first long ride, I decided to check out the Grotto of Lourdes in San Jose Del Monte Bulacan.

What to Expect

1.       You have to pass by Commonwealth and from my area in Quezon City, it a 16-kilometer stretch of traffic with few climbs

2.       Expect to deal with buses and fast private cars

3.       Once you reach SM Fairview, you will have to turn right going to Tungko

4.       Expect heavy traffic in In San Jose Del Monte and fast buses too

5.       It is a long stretch of up to 9 kilometers with few uphill

6.       Bring a face shield, it is required when entering the Grotto of Lourdes

I asked the guard if I can take a pic without Faceshield :)

The Experience

Since it was my first long ride, I almost backed out after reaching SM Fairview. However, the thought of doing something for the day pushed me through. Besides, how can you reach your goals if you will retreat at the first sign of unfamiliar roads?

From my location, the Grotto is 26 kilometers away. Reaching it was such a sweet victory that I decided to treat myself to dinner afterward 😊

@ the Pancake House UP Techno Hub

My Takeaway

Don’t be afraid to try new routes, new destinations, new roads. However, make sure that you are mentally and physically prepare for any possible challenge that might come your way. If you are alone, being extra cash (like too much extra cash in case you need it). Also, always do a bike check before leaving your door!

Note: make sure that your Spotify playlist is ready. Either bring a speaker on put one headset on. Sing along as you enjoy the sceneries along the way.

To check out a short video of my Grotto of Lourdes ride, click here.


 

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