Reason beats intention

Day #55

Wednesday, June 24th.

From Thessaloniki to Edessa

Country: Greece

What annoying mosquitoes ... It was so bothersome that I had a restless sleep until three o'clock and itched like crazy.

Although I didn't hear any and wondered if there were other critters around.

It got better after I used the mosquito spray. Maybe I was just so tired that I slept like a log.

Then, after a short night, pack all my things, have a quick breakfast, and there will be a late start.

The traffic is lively, and we head out of the city on expressways.

When I take a short break, a Greek stops shortly after; I think he thinks I'm crazy for my trip.

There is a bit of rain, which had already hinted at itself by the smell, but it is manageable.

I must be skirting the weather boundary.

However, the humidity is very high and somewhat uncomfortable.

There is a historical site on my route, of which there are several around here that I am heading for.

At the indicated point, there may have been an entrance once; the parking sign still exists, but everything here has grown over.

Since I don't feel like looking for another entrance, I just take a break and then continue on.

On the way, I pass a large supermarket earlier than expected and properly load my bike again. This prepares me for the further journey and makes me independent.

The mountains are approaching again, or rather I am getting closer, along with the border to North Macedonia.

A steep incline awaits to be conquered; the thought of Baldwin Street comes to mind after the comparison has been made. The display is slightly above that.

It passes by a huge waterfall that rushes down between the trees over the rocks.

Surprisingly, I manage to reach Edessa, which is situated just above.

It seems to be a popular holiday resort and a pretty little town.

Understandably, it's beautifully located in the mountains, and the rushing water adds to its charm.

From above, there is a magnificent view into the plain and onto the mountain slopes.

And onto dark rain clouds that are approaching.

The wind picks up and it quickly becomes darker.

People become frantic, as one knows when a thunderstorm is coming.

Following the principle of hope, I continue along the route, hoping to find an abandoned building or another well-sheltered place where I can set up camp.

However, it only goes uphill, and it remains mountainous until the next town.

Everything is unsuitable.

An old man in the village indicates to me that it makes no sense to stay on my route.

There is nothing ahead.

To understand that, his body language, the look towards the sky, and his emphatic words are sufficient, and so I first return to the center of the village to think through my options.

In the meantime, heavy rain has started, a storm has arisen, and thunder echoes through the mountains.

Ultimately, I reluctantly decide, due to the uncertainty ahead, to return the way I came.

Just below the waterfall, I saw a kind of dilapidated hut that I am now heading for.

Since it is downhill, the six kilometers go quickly, and I arrive completely soaked.

The branches lying on the road confirm that my decision makes sense.

The space in the shelter, which resembles a garage the most, is a little smaller than I saw while passing by, and rain comes through the wall, causing part of the floor to be wet.

However, it will provide me with sufficient protection, and the tent fits in as well.

Just to be safe, I set it up completely with the outer shell.

When a branch crashes down nearby, I'm glad about my decision.

So, I have a relatively dry and safe place for the night and can go to sleep relaxed after dinner.

Song of the day:

Amigo the Devil - Hungover in Jamestown