Isabel Vázquez and Pablo García, the couple behind Bici Salvaje, have just returned from the greatest expedition of their lives: a bicycle journey from Mexico to the southernmost tip of the American continent. For two years, they braved all kinds of climates and terrains while documenting the importance of preserving the natural spaces they pedaled through.
Back home, they had no doubt—they also wanted to explore their own country by bike. They returned with countless stories to tell, but also with an insatiable hunger for more adventure. So, they set out on a two-week bikepacking journey across the incredible Cantabrian Mountains in northern Spain.
A wild route
During our cycling journey through Latin America, crossing the Andes at different borders was the most challenging feat, but it also made us fall in love with the mountains and the lifestyle they offer. Northern Spain, with its deep valleys, rugged peaks, and breathtaking landscapes, was an obvious choice for our next adventure.
The Cantabrian Mountains present a formidable challenge for any adventure cyclist looking to test themselves against nature in its purest and wildest form. Every pedal stroke matters, and every twist in the road holds a new surprise. Riding through these mountains is not just a physical test—it’s an exploration into the unknown, a deep connection with the natural world. These towering peaks, with their mystical corners and steep ascents, would become our ultimate proving ground. Only perseverance, determination, and the right gear would help us reach our goals.
Pedaling to the summit
Each day brought new challenges. The mountain gradients were so extreme that every morning began the same way—pushing our fully loaded bikes for kilometers on end. Sweat mixed with the satisfaction of making progress, and every climb tested our endurance and determination. The trail, sometimes narrow and rocky, other times winding through lush forests, led us through landscapes that felt straight out of a dream.
We felt small in the face of such overwhelming nature, yet with every pedal stroke, we became part of it. The journey was demanding—when it wasn’t the rough terrain, it was the unpredictable weather. Torrential rain and scorching heat often made us question our will to reach the top. But the reward of arriving at a breathtaking viewpoint made every struggle worth it. A sense of accomplishment washed over us—one that is impossible to put into words.
Mind over matter
One particular day, we spent far more time pushing than we had anticipated. No matter how much we wanted to pedal, the steep incline and the sheer weight of our bikes made it impossible. To make matters worse, the rocks, slick with moss from constant rain, caused us to slip repeatedly, turning forward progress into a frustrating challenge.
It had been miles since we’d seen another soul. Our only option was to camp in the middle of nowhere and continue the next day—without water. In moments like these, when exhaustion sets in, the mind becomes everything. Refusing to give up and pushing forward ultimately led us to a reward. There it was—the long-awaited water source. And beside it, an indescribably beautiful landscape where we spent the night.
The importance of self-sufficiency
Self-sufficiency is crucial in this kind of adventure. The mountain trails lead to remote places far from civilization, meaning you have to carry everything necessary to overcome any obstacles. Of course, food is the foundation of self-sufficiency, but having the right gear can make the journey far more manageable.
We relied on a solar panel from Xtorm, which proved essential for keeping our devices powered during long stretches without access to electricity. The power bank, with its fast-charging capabilities, was a game-changer—especially given how quickly it recharged. However, we often faced a common problem: too many devices to charge—batteries, phones, cameras, laptops... More often than not, we didn’t have enough time at power sources to charge everything fully. In the end, the weight of the power bank was justified by its durability on the trail and its rapid charging speed, both for itself and for the rest of our electronic gear.
Xtorm gear
Bestseller
XR202
Xtreme Power Bank Rugged 35W - 20.000 mAh - Outdoor - Waterproof with Flashlight - Quick Charge 3.0
35W / 20.000 mAh
€99,95
The Rugged Power Bank 20.000 is the ultimate survival gadget to keep you going during your outdoor adventures. It allows you to quickly fast charge your mobile devices, wherever you are.IP65 Water ResistantThis power bank has been designed and tested to be IP65 water resistant, meaning you don’t have to worry about unpredictable weather or accidentally dropping the power bank in shallow water. Perfect for any situation when exploring the outdoors!Recharge your phone 4xDon’t let the compact design fool you, this power bank packs a powerful 20.000mAh battery that’s large enough to recharge your phone at least 4 times. You can also easily charge other small electronic devices such as a digital camera, GPS or drone.Fast charge any deviceThe power bank features a USB-C Power Delivery port capable of 15W and a 35W in-/output, as well as two regular USB ports with Quick Charge 3.0. So the power bank has 4 USB outputs. This means you’re able to fast charge almost any smartphone – Android devices, as well as Apple iPhones. Even the power bank itself can be fully recharged in just 3.5 hours!Powerful integrated flashlightHaving a powerful flashlight integrated into the power bank means you always have an emergency flashlight at hand when you need one.
XR2S14
SolarBooster 14W - Gen24
Portable solar panel. Compact and efficient
€69,95
Travel light & ultra-compactEasily charge your devices when there is no power outlet nearby? You can now do so with this Xtorm SolarBooster! The compact and foldable solar panel fits in your backpack or handbag and easily connects to, for example, your phone or power bank and charges it. Enjoy green solar energy in an easy way, wherever you are. Simultaneous charging in a bright wayWith the two connectors, USB-A and USB-C, it is easy to charge your mobile devices. It is even possible to charge two devices at the same time. However, charging then naturally takes a little longer because the output is split between two ports. The advantage is that you can simultaneously charge your smartphone and earbuds, so you can enjoy your favourite music without a hitch. Powerful outputsBoth USB ports give an output of 10.5W FastCharge and can thus charge several small mobile devices via solar power. With 5V/2.1A, you have enough power to charge a drone, GoPro, phone or tablet, for example, without any problems. Realtime brightnessThe LCD screen has two functions. First, it gives an accurate number of the output the SolarBooster provides to your connected devices. Second, it indicates the optimal angle at which to place the SolarBooster. When you rotate the SolarBooster, the number on the screen gets lower or higher, depending on how much sunlight it captures. Giving you the reliable info you need to get the most power from the sun!A 24% high returnThe two panels on the SolarBooster are made of monocrystalline solar cells. These more expensive, but better quality solar panels, are made of a single piece. As a result, the yield per surface area is maximum 24%, much higher than for polycrystalline panels. A monocrystalline panel also works well in lower sunlight and at both extremely high and lower temperatures. As a result, the 14W SolarBooster panels produce #MoreEnergy than cheaper solar panels. More solar energy to charge your devices! Taking it to sunny placesWherever you are; this Xtorm 14W Foldable SolarBooster always comes in handy. For example, charge your phone or earbuds with green solar power in the backyard, on your balcony or during a relaxing day at the waterfront. The compact and foldable solar panel is easy to carry in your bag or backpack. Resistant to splashesThe SolarBooster is rated IPX4 and has a splash-proof coating. So a little drizzle during a festival or camping weekend is no problem at all. The panel can easily withstand 5 minutes of rain splashes from all directions. Place it on the bright side With the integrated stand, the SolarBooster is easy to put down and ready for use in no time! It is important to use the SolarBooster outside and not inside behind glass, much less sunlight will be absorbed. Of course, the SolarBooster works best when the sun shines profusely and there is not a cloud in the sky. When it is a cloudy day, there is less solar energy to give to your appliances. On a perfectly sunny day, you get the most out of it. Pure energy boost from the sunUsing green solar power is a sustainable way to power your mobile devices. With this 14W Foldable SolarBooster, you can easily give #MoreEnergy to your smartphone for example, without using mains power. Via the LCD screen, you can easily see how much output the SolarBooster is currently giving to your connected devices. Give your devices a pure energy boost with the power of the sun!No sunburnThis 14W Foldable SolarBooster is safe to use thanks to Xtorm's comprehensive safety check. Both the SolarBooster and the connected devices are protected against short-circuiting, overheating and overcharging. The SolarBooster contains no batteries, so there is no risk of overheating or burning the panels, not even at high temperatures. Make full use of the sun, as soon as it shines! Carefree charging, in a sustainable way.
