Condor Moment

Road Trip Day Twenty One

"Highway closed twenty miles ahead. Did it say open from 16.00 hr?" We were driving south along Highway One which clings to and twists around the cliffs of the Pacific coast. Condors were an aim of the day. I had been told of a point where they roosted and great views of these huge birds could be obtained. We were going south anyway, so stopping for a while to see these magnificent creatures did not even give rise to a diversion.

We found the required landmarks but could not see Condors along the cliff, in the trees or at wing. Seeking local knowledge at the Coast Gallery and Cafe the news came the Condors could be seen at many points and at various times but there was no specific place or time - you just had to keep your eyes open. We enjoyed the coffee and sought clarification of the road closure also. 

There had been a rock slide and the highway was only open for a few hours from 16.00 hrs each day. There was no way round without retracing our steps back to Monterey and going inland. We were in no rush and decided to enjoy the views and overlooks en route. I got a few pics which do show a little of the great scenery but don't do it justice at all - the light being too high and harsh for landscape photos.

Private? Criminal!

Beach Waterfall

We obtained a reasonable position in the throng of vehicles halted by the road closure and within less than an hour of waiting we on our way. Just before Cambria - our turn point inland to the east - we stopped for the night at San Simeon Campground. We have been trying to cut down on the long driving days and hoped to make the most of the coast tomorrow before leaving the ocean behind us. 

We never did see any Condors but it was a small negative to an otherwise lovely travelling day. Wifey thought the drive was beautiful. GC didn't care for it although can't give any reasons why. Troubled child!