There was an intentional gravel segment to my ride today. I was on slicks, so chose to dismount for a few of the many cross the road puddles with slippery sides. Next time I'll use cross tires. It appears I will be doing more gravel, as time goes on. I really enjoy the shade. And there are lots of available routes. I find I'm quite comfortable on the 60 cm 414 in those conditions. No need to go hybrid or mtb.
Eight or nine years ago I was riding a road not yet open to traffic. This road I rode today(for the second time) starts out as a village street, turns unpaved, and finishes as a brand new, under construction 4 lane. Hard pack and ready for paving. Always a treat to find these treasures.
At the moment, it goes from nowhere to nowhere.