Madrid

Unusually I look for a campsite before getting to my destination and find a number 10-15km from the centre and within walking distance of the Metro. I select one to the north of the city but forget to switch on 'motorways and tolls' within Google Maps, so google takes me across the north of the city and in via the airport. I must learn to switch to motorways/tolls to get in and out of cities, so much faster. The alternative is long detours and back door r0utes that take for ever.

Arriving on Saturday afternoon at Camping Osuna I find an enthusiastic band playing - a great atmosphere, the staff say 'just find a pitch that suits, we'll sort the details later.' That's nice.

On Sunday I set off on my bike to ride into Madrid. I didn't get far. Not sure if it was a lack of energy or the traffic. I was directed onto a dual c/w and just didn't fancy the ride. Never mind, I found the Metro, locked up my bike and got into town the easy way.

A lovely day, not too hot, so I thought I'd start with the Parque de El Retiro and got off at Retiro Metro Stn. The crowds were heading for Puerta de Alcala, some sort of political rally, lots of Spanish flags and music. I walked into the park making for the big Pond and Monumento Alfonso XII. Passed a few stalls and a jazz band, lots out for the morning stroll. Very similar to Regents Park.

Next Palacio Velazquez for at exhibition by James Lee Byars

A great exhibition using simple shapes in open space. One being a sphere made entirely of red roses. I living creation changing colour as the red roses fade to brown.

Palacio de Cristal

Time for lunch

I find a restaurant in one of the broad streets leading off Calle Alfonso XII. Oddly the camarero didn't understand my request for Rioja Blanco insisting tinto, tinto. 'no no Blanco', so that's what I got, but it wasn't Rioja.

After a bit more wandering I caught the Metro at Goya, just two stops from where I got off. I'd seen a fraction of the sites in Madrid but it was enough on this visit.