Las Torres

The_wonders_of the world are only made more magnificent when you approach them from the humble perch of a bicycle. We woke that cold, blustery morning in the horse stable we camped in for the night. We were surprisingly feted with free breakfast by an amazing luxury hotel with giant portions of succulent lamb, eggs, and bread. Riding west to Parque Nacional Torres del Paine we encountered the best weather we’ve seen yet in Patagonia. We did not deserve it and will never forget it.

Nathan, Joe, and Isaiah rolling fast towards the park. That night we camped in a horse barn to escape the rain and cold. No mice this time.

The next day revealed stellar views of Torres del Paine.

And a chance encounter with the staff of the luxury hotel, Tierra Patagonia, and their chef, David. He hooked us up.

Coffee and tea, scrambled eggs, toast, and these slabs of lamb were his gift to us. We had just had oatmeal, but we couldn’t say no. Our rationale: something we call preventative eating. It was outrageous.

Javier, local rancher and owner of the barn we slept in.

Joe being Joe.

More crisp views of Torres del Paine.

Laguna Amarga

Thanks for the great photo, Joe.

We came across a group of eagles and an Andean condor feeding on this guanaco.

Sweeping descents and steep climbs matched the sheer nature of the landscape.

It was otherworldly.

And painful at times for Joe, shown here massaging his legs.

An unforgettable day.
Okay, that picture of the three of you biking with the mountains in the background – incredible! Nate, Can’t wait to hug you soon. 🙂
Hi you four -first time I have used 4 instead of 3. It’s so great that Joe has joined you to finish the journey. You will be in great demand when you get back to ND. I have a proposition for you to consider – doing a presentation, a travelogue if you prefer, at the Audi in Cando. Folks here have been really interested in the stories of your incredible journey I have written for the Record Herald. They (which includes me!) are looking forward to meeting you. You Dad and I have touched base about this too. As you travel these last miles together be safe and enjoy the ride.
Shiela
Wonderful photos! What a beautiful place and an experience of a lifetime.
Torres del Paine is perhaps one of my most favorite places in the world! I love your photos as they truly have captured the magic and beauty of the place. My husband and I went in 2003 and there were no luxury hotels (there may have been one, the Explorer). I feel sad that these “over the top/luxurious” places have been built in this untouched land. It bothers me immensely. The one thing I loved so much about this part of the world is how untouched it is. How nature is the only force of power. I sincerely hope it is not destroyed by wealthy day trippers who don’t want to do the real thing. Hike, bike and camp. Oh well. That is my feeling. I have thoroughly enjoyed your journey and will be sad when it is over. What an amazing opportunity you guys have had! I hope you continue your blog somehow! There are many other parts of the world to explore….
Good to hear from you boys again! We want to hear all about sleeping four young men in a 3-4 man tent in 20 degree weather! Any more unexpected blessings?? Food, homestay??
Snoring?
Farming is proceeding ever so well and we should be totally seeded in by the time you arrive in Fargo…perhaps we can go fishing in Northern Minnesota when you get back?? Looks like you boys get out of all rockpicking for the 2012 farm season.
Pray, pedal and post…skype when you arrive in Ushuaia!
Dad
Hello to all four of you! Amazing photos of such an incredible landscape! Thank you so much for sharing your amazing journey with us back home. Lots of love – (Joe’s)Auntie Barbo
Hey, it was fun to meet you guys at Cueva del Milodon when you were on your way from Torres to Puerto Natales. Just wanted you to know that we were impressed with your journey and made a donation to support your efforts. Love the blog! Safe journeys.