Los Motos Locos – Run to the Canaries | FEATURE

There’s a good-sized, vibrant scooter scene among ex-pats living in Spain. With regular events, ride outs and gatherings they can ride year-round in relative warmth.

Los Motos Locos are one such group and recently they went island hopping from the mainland to the Canaries for a long weekend—15 lads, mostly on classic scooters.

Here’s a feature written by two of them with galleries of images for most of the trip…

Fuengirola to Cadiz

As the morning sun peeked over the rooftops of Fuengirola, its golden fingers stretched out to greet the new day. But for me, a 48-year-old bloke, this wasn’t just any ordinary morning. It was the start of something special, something I’d been looking forward to for weeks.

With a group of fifteen lads, aged from 47 to 67, we were embarking on what we dubbed the “Run to the Canaries” – a road trip adventure that promised to be epic. There we were, gathered at the starting point, our trusty scooters lined up and ready to roll. The air buzzed with anticipation as we exchanged nods and grins, all sharing that same thrill of the open road ahead.

The scent of adventure

Engines roared to life, helmets securely fastened, and with a collective sense of determination, we set off. Our first destination: Estepona. The town, bathed in the soft glow of the morning sun, seemed to blush in its warmth. But we didn’t linger too long, eager to push forward, eager for the miles ahead.

Tarifa was next on our list, a coastal haven where the salty breeze mingled with the scent of adventure. We stopped for a quick coffee, soaking in the freedom of the open road and the camaraderie of our fellow adventurers. It was moments like these that made the journey all the more special.

Then came Conil de la Frontera, its ancient streets whispering tales of centuries past. The rumble of our scooters echoed through the cobblestone alleys, a symphony of determination and wanderlust that seemed to reverberate with each twist and turn.

As the sun began its descent, casting hues of amber and gold across the sky, our spirits soared. Though we’d covered a good chunk of distance already, we knew the real challenges lay ahead. But we were ready. With hearts ablaze and dreams as vast as the open road, we journeyed forth, eager to embrace whatever adventures awaited us on the path to Cadiz and beyond.

Tonight was one of those electric evenings, where anticipation crackled through the air and the promise of adventure hung thick over the streets of Cadiz. Moments like these make me appreciate the luck of having such fantastic companions on this journey.

Cadiz to Lanzarote

Our day started with a buzz, knowing we were about to set off from the captivating alleys of Cadiz to the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote. Boarding the ferry felt like turning a new page in our adventure book, with the salty breeze and the gentle sway of the boat becoming our companions as we crossed the Atlantic.

As night fell and we sailed on, laughter filled the air, mingling with the sound of waves crashing against the hull. It was a time for sharing tales, making connections, and just soaking in the joy of living.

Of course, no adventure is complete without a bit of mischief, and we had our fair share of that! From playful antics to spontaneous challenges, each moment added to the tapestry of memories we were crafting together.

Then, as we bathed in the afternoon sun, Lanzarote appeared on the horizon, a breathtaking sight reminding us of the wonders awaiting us on this rugged island.

Costa Teguise

Our arrival in Costa Teguise was met with warm embraces from our friends at The Lanzarote Scooter Club – Fer, Brian, and Jimmy. Their hospitality made us feel right at home, and we wasted no time exploring the island on our trusty scooters.

The short ride to Costa Teguise confirmed we had finally arrived, with Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes casting their spell over us, leaving us in awe of the forces that shaped this island.

As night descended, we found ourselves caught up in the lively energy of Costa Teguise. From bustling bars to lively taverns, the streets throbbed with life, beckoning us to lose ourselves in the rhythm of the night.

Now, as I jot this down amidst the laughter of friends and the echoes of yet another unforgettable night, I can’t help but feel grateful for the experiences that led us here. From the streets of Cadiz to the shores of Lanzarote, this journey has been truly extraordinary – and I eagerly await the adventures tomorrow holds.

Coste Teguise to Corralejo

Today marked the start of what’s shaping up to be quite the adventure. With excitement bubbling and just a hint of nerves, our gang of 19 scooter buffs gathered in Costa Teguise, geared up for a journey from Lanzarote’s stunning scenery to Fuerteventura’s captivating shores.

Loading up our scooters, each one a trusted ride for the road ahead, I couldn’t help but notice the variety among us. Some looked solid and dependable, others more sleek, but all shared a determination to tackle the miles ahead.

Killer views

Our first stop was Mirador del Rio, known for its killer views of La Graciosa Island. The buzz of engines mixed with the breeze as we set off, taking in Lanzarote’s rugged beauty along the way. Vineyards woven into volcanic landscapes showed nature’s resilience in this harsh yet captivating terrain.

At Mirador del Rio, the view left us breathless – though I couldn’t tell if it was the scenery or the wind! The ocean stretched endlessly, dotted with islands kissed by sunlight. We soaked it in, snapping photos to capture the moment.

Reluctantly leaving Mirador del Rio behind, we headed south toward Playa Blanca. The winding roads were a thrill, each twist and turn a rush as we navigated the rugged landscape.

Hungry from the ride, we stopped at a cosy local bar for some Canary Islands delicacies. The scent of tapas filled the air as we shared laughs and tales, fuelling up for the next leg of our journey.

Finally reaching Playa Blanca’s port, a ferry awaited to whisk us to Corralejo in Fuerteventura. As we set sail, a mix of pride and anticipation filled me for the adventures ahead on Fuerteventura’s shores.

Coralejo to Caleta de Fuste

Today marked the start of our trip from Corralejo to Caleta de Fuste, and it kicked off with a bang.

As soon as we landed in Corralejo, the island’s vibe hit us. Despite being tired from the journey, we couldn’t resist checking out the lively nightlife. Our first stop was The Sports Bar, where Chris had promised us a night of Ska and Soul music. It was a great way to relax after a day of travelling.

Scooterventura

The next morning, we were ready for our adventure with Mark Hayward and the Scooterventura crew. Twenty-three of us hopped on scooters and hit the road towards Caleta de Fuste. The scenic routes and pitstops, like Betancuria and the Mirador de Morro Velosa, gave us a chance to take in the island’s beauty.

When we finally reached Caleta de Fuste, we were looking forward to some rest. But Mark had other plans, arranging an afternoon at The Flower of Scotland. Surrounded by music and good company, we felt recharged and ready for more.

The Banneds (yes that was their name) performance at The Flower of Scotland set the tone for an afternoon of fun. Later, we headed to the Lord Nelson for football and Northern Soul, hosted by Katrina and Greg. It was a night of laughter, dancing, and strengthening the bonds of friendship formed on this whirlwind trip.

From the lively nightlife of Corralejo to the scenic scooter ride and vibrant music scene, every moment brought us closer together, leaving us with memories to treasure from our time on this captivating island.

Caleta de Fuste to Arrecife

Today was the end of our trip, and we reluctantly started heading back home. Leaving Caleta de Fuste behind, we followed Mark’s lead, retracing our steps through Puerto del Rosario and the sandy dunes of Corralejo. Each familiar spot reminded us of the adventures we had, stirring up mixed feelings as we said goodbye.

Back to Lanzarote

Boarding the ferry to Playa Blanca brought a mix of excitement and hesitation. The swaying of the boat matched the conflicting emotions churning inside us, signalling the end of one chapter and the start of another.

Back in Lanzarote, Fer and the crew from the Lanzarote Scooter Club welcomed us warmly, lifting our spirits. Their planned itinerary promised more thrills, adding to our journey’s tapestry.

From the stunning views at Mirador el Golfo to the surreal landscapes of Timanfaya National Park, each stop showcased the Canary Islands’ natural beauty.

Our final group meal at Los Halechos allowed us to savour local flavours while cherishing the bonds we’d formed. Reluctantly, we returned to the Black Bull in Costa Teguise, gearing up for the journey ahead.

The prospect of the ferry ride back to Cadiz brought some nervousness, especially when we found out there were no cabins available. Undeterred, we made do with makeshift beds using lilos, a testament to our resilience.

Reflecting on the past 36 hours, I’m grateful for the adventures, friendships, and memories we’ve made. Though the journey home may be tough, I find comfort in knowing it’s just a pause in our ongoing quest for discovery and adventure.

Cadiz to Home

Today marks the end of what feels like an eternity on the road. After enduring what I can only describe as the most exhausting 36 hours of my life, we finally arrived in Cadiz. However, our welcome was far from warm – high winds and rain greeted us as we disembarked onto the soggy ground.

The prospect of a gruelling 250-kilometre ride back home in such dismal conditions loomed over us like a dark cloud. Yet, it was time to summon our last ounces of determination and embark on the final leg of our journey. The relentless spirit of adventure urged us forward, despite the odds stacked against us.

Our departure from Cadiz was met with an immediate setback as Kev’s Lambretta suffered a malfunction with one of its gear cables. But, as always, the lads rallied together, demonstrating an impressive display of teamwork and resourcefulness. In just 20 minutes, they managed to troubleshoot and fix the issue, a testament to their unwavering determination and mechanical prowess.

The Scooter Garden

With the repairs completed, we pushed forward, covering a significant distance before making a much-needed pit stop in Los Barrios. A well-deserved coffee break served as a brief respite from the relentless journey, providing a moment to reflect on our arduous adventure thus far.

From Los Barrios, our journey continued, leading us to The Scooter Garden in Estepona – our final destination. As we gathered for a group photo amidst the backdrop of our beloved scooters, a wave of exhilaration washed over us. Despite the fatigue weighing heavily on our bodies, the sense of accomplishment was palpable.

With the journey now behind us, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of satisfaction and gratitude. We faced countless challenges along the way, but through perseverance and camaraderie, we conquered each one.

Reflection

Having now been home for a few days I can reflect on the whirlwind of the past week, I’m reminded of the timeless truth – that it’s not just the destination, but the journey itself, that holds the greatest treasures. And in the company of good friends and shared adventures, every moment becomes a cherished memory etched into the fabric of our lives.

I look back on the incredible adventure I had on the Costa del Sol and the Canary Islands. The scootering scene there is still very much alive and kicking, and I feel grateful to have been a part of it.

The people I met on this journey were truly remarkable – a diverse and eclectic bunch of reprobates, as I affectionately like to call them. From the members of the Lanzarote Scooter Club to the folks at Scooterventura, everyone was welcoming, friendly, and full of passion for scootering.

I owe a massive thanks to all the lads who made this trip unforgettable. Their hospitality, camaraderie, and shared love for scootering made every moment memorable. From cruising along scenic coastal roads to exploring hidden gems off the beaten path, we shared countless adventures and created memories that will last a lifetime.

As I settle back into everyday life, I find myself already looking forward to the next opportunity to hit the road with this awesome bunch. Until then, I’ll keep the faith, ride safe, and continue embracing the spirit of scootering that binds us together.

Here’s to many more adventures on two wheels!

Andy Welland and Terry Deighton- Los Motos Locos

Run to the Canaries – the cast

This trip was taken by a group of 13 guys (11 English and two Spanish) all living on the Costa del Sol, based from Benalmadena to Estepona. We also had two lads joining us from the UK. We’re all aged between 47 and 67.

Running a mixture of six vintage Lambrettas and three Vespas, as well as a pair of modern Vespa GTS 300s, two 300 cc Royal Alloys, a 125cc Royal Alloy and a 125cc Scomadi.

You can see the riders in the gallery above, they’re Andy Welland,Terry Deighton, Kevin Nelmes, Steve Lewis, Jose Gill, Roberto Parada, Michael Holmes, Dennis Lathrope, Paul Hodgeson, Dean Morris, Ian Bellwood, Colin Rae, Darren Hamer, Robert Hindle, Stuart Bloomfield.

The trip was organised by Andy Welland, Jose Gill & Terry Deighton from Los Motos Locos (Costa del Sol) with the help of Mark Hayward (Scooterventura/Fuerteventura) and Fer Alverez Gonzalez & Brian Love (Lanzarote Scooter Club).

Words and photos: Terry Deighton and Andy Welland