As expected we again were awake relatively early - but this was good because we had a longer trip planned for today. But first we had an appetizing motel breakfast (ok, really appetizing is something different, but it was alright).
After checking out we headed to Taos, about 70 miles away. The drive led through varying landscapes - some time we were surrounded by high mountains, and then suddenly we had a wide valley as far as the eyes could see.
In Taos we went to Taos plaza, the central place of the small town. There you'll find a lot of Indian arts, shops selling jewelry made by Native Americans, a lot of it done by local artists by handwork. Worthwhile! Even advisable is a look (or multiple ones) at the typical building style of that area, which can also be admired in Santa Fe - the Adobe style.
After a short stopover at a gas station - $3.49 per gallon, what makes about 0,75€ per liter - we went on to Pagosa Springs, 157 miles still to go. Shortly after Taos we made another stop at the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. This steel bridge, spanning the Rio Grande 200 meters below, is the fifth highest bridge of the U.S.A. Breathtaking views are guaranteed from there!
Then we started the long remaining part of that day's tour. The road went through great sceneries, up to about 11.000 feet - and then down to 6.500 feet again. Arrived in Pagosa Springs the joy to see each other again was huge - we already were expected and hearty welcomed.
For the next 3 nights we stay at the Wyndham Resort Pagosa, a nice situated vacation village on about 17.000 acres, containing everything one can imagine.
