Today was spectacular. We spent more time with all riders on the road than any other day for two main reasons:

1) We hit our highest peak at 10500 ft and all of us were keen to make the trip to the top; and

2) We had a civic reception in Taos, New Mexico and had a police escort in to town, along with some members of the local cycling club.

First to the riding - the altitude was a factor and we paced ourselves up the mountain, stopping at the top for some photos and to look at bear and cougar tracks in the snow.

On our descent in to Taos I struggled to match the pace set by Andy and Phil. A problem with my gearing meant that I couldn't manage top gear - that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it.

We stopped on the outskirts of town and had a police escort in to the town plaza along with a number of members of the local cycling club.

We did a few laps of the plaza, following Zorro on his horse while being played to by a Mariachi Band. Further entertainment followed by local artists Billy Archuletta and then Paul and Grace playing the pueblo flute. Paul is originally from London and now lives in Taos with his wife Grace and not only plays but makes traditional flutes.

We are being hosted this evening by Jan and Phylis in their ranch - an amazing building with 5 star luxury. We have enjoyed a BBQ in the barn with more music from Paul and Grace, before we all got in on the act. I managed to mime along initially but then the guys did some songs in Welsh and I tried my hardest not to look like John Redwood attempting Land of my Fathers, but just managed to giggle my way through.

We were then treated to Phil and his guitar with Merv on the spoons. A great evening was had by all.

The hospitality we have encountered has been out of this world and Taos will live long in the memory.