Stage 90: From Nodoushan to Yazd

After a restful night in the 'castle' of Nodoushan, I embarked on my final stage in Iran. Flo, Gisi, and Gabriel were eagerly waiting for me in Yazd. The approximately 90 kilometers to get there were mostly downhill, but with strong headwinds. There was also a significant amount of heavy industry located about 20 kilometers before the city, which made the journey less pleasant. Nevertheless, I arrived early enough in Yazd to do some sightseeing in the city before heading to the cozy hostel. Yazd is primarily known as the center of Zoroastrianism. Alongside Kerman, it is the city in Iran with the most Zoroastrians living there today. The holy fire at their fire temple is said to have been burning continuously for 1500 years.

Upon arriving at the hostel, there was great joy, and the others even saved some lunch for me. Gregory, another fellow cyclist whom we had already met at the hostel in Tehran, was also joining us. Later, we walked together through the charming old town of Yazd with its many mud-brick houses and winding alleys.

For dinner, we gathered with a large group above the rooftops of the city. Two Swiss people joined the five of us; they were on their honeymoon and planning to travel by bike for a total of three years. That's definitely a long honeymoon! Additionally, the two Italians who I had met in the van at the salt lake the day before also joined us. Everyone who travels to this region wants to visit Yazd sooner or later. The dinner was okay, but the company was even better.

The next morning, the four of us visited the aforementioned fire temple, which is a must-see when in Yazd. Later, we cooked together again and played a round of footbag in the hostel, before I unfortunately had to say goodbye to the others. I had a flight to catch from Tehran in a few days and really wanted to see Shiraz before that. Although I would have loved to continue cycling, I simply didn't have enough time. As a farewell gesture, Gisi, Flo, and Gabriel had the honor of sticking the Iranian flag on my bike. And who knows, maybe we'll see each other again in India or another part of the world!