Cycling with the Basso Palta in the high altitude of the Andes
The Andes is the longest mountain range in the world, stretching more than 7,000 km across South America, from Venezuela to Argentina and Chile, with peaks exceeding 6,900 metres in altitude.
Riding the Basso Palta through these remote highlands near the Termas del Colina is more than just an outing, it is an adventure that challenges the body and mind to their limits, being a climb of approximately 80km from the outskirts of Santiago to the Termas de Colina.
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The Basso Palta proves its worth on the climbs, effortlessly absorbing the rough terrain without losing responsiveness. The bike’s geometry favours an aggressive but comfortable position, perfect for long hours of climbing.
Every turn reveals a new and breathtaking panorama, a mix of rugged peaks and rolling valleys untouched by time, making this landscape a landscape like no other, which seems to be not of this planet, mountains full of minerals and incredible colours.
Through the highlands
The higher we climb, the more the landscape changes. The vegetation becomes sparse, the air cool and dry, and the silence profound. The only sounds are the crunching of tyres on gravel and the forced breathing due to the steep inclines and little oxygen found in this sector. This is where the true essence of gravel riding is felt: raw, remote and deeply personal.
Occasionally, a herd of goats appears on a distant ridge, curiously watching our passing. The solitude is both humbling and invigorating, a reminder of the vastness of the Andes and the privilege of exploring it on two wheels.
Reflections on the journey
Cycling at high altitude in the Andes is more than a test of endurance: it is an experience that connects you with the beauty of nature. The Basso Palta, with its versatility and endurance, is the perfect companion for this kind of trip, as it withstands extremes with ease.
As the sun sets behind the mountains, casting long shadows over the valley, there is a deep sense of accomplishment. This trip was not just about the distance travelled, but about the journey itself: the effort, the solitude and the breathtaking beauty of the Andes.
