Stage 29 Uspallata to Mendoza 111k 1272m climb 62% paved

Cold at night and at breakfast as the sun behind the mountains. We are at 2000m and have to climb to just over 3000m then down to 600 m into Mendoza.
First the 28k uphill sealed and dirt. Don’t stop. Pass Anna who stops to take off her wind jacket. Pas the luggage truck and get covered with confetti. Find out later made from a hole punch! Recognition of our last day. Same for Anna.
Going well then Anna passes me. Didnt know she was close behind. Work very hard over the last 8 k which seems to go on forever. Last steep 15% pinch to the top and Anna a bike length ahead. Well done. Collapse into a chair at the lunch truck. Fantastic to be able to achieve with Anna.
Back up the road to see anconagua glistening. Lots of photos and a few tears from Anna.
Then down. A bit of rolling across the top at first. Then see the road winding down into the clouds turn after turn down down down. The most amazing sight. Never ridden anything like it before. Photos can’t do it justice as too grand . But stop for lots anyway. Hairpin bends longer ones and only the occasional barrier.
Anna Fred and I ride it together Anna in front. I take it slower than usual as cars coming up and tired.
Most fitting way to finish the trip. Reach the winding bottom and a long straight road to Mendoza into the wind and a dust storm and lots of trucks.
A new camp site up in the hills. Takes for ever to get there. On arrival find the two youths tried to steal ghillis bike by pushing her over. Very determined.60 year old hung on and screamed and hung on. She saved it but of course shaken.
Off to the hotel picked up bike box. Too big for taxi so held on to it through the window.
Back for a final hat party. Nellie and her husband leaving as well so we jointly by wine and beer. Lots of dancing and red wine and a great BBQ. Speeches of thenks and Anna and I are presented with photos of the confetti throwing. Very kind.
A great and fitting end to the trip.