From Ávila, a long day westwards put us to within easy reach of the natural park of Las Butecas - Sierra de Francia, with some great cycling and interesting sights. A climb over the Peña de Francia and a long descent, led to the delightful historic town of Ciudad Rodrigo. Heading south then got us to our primary objectives, the Sierra de Gata and Las Hurdes areas of northern Extremadura. The return journey was along the northern boundary of the Sierra de Gredos before returning to Ávila.