We were all up early and eager to get going although I must admit I was a little concerned about the climb as its been a while since I've climbed anything as big as today's challenge.
We headed off in beautiful sunshine and soon got to the bottom of the climb.
About an hour and a half later I got to the top having had a relatively pleasant ride. I was really pleased with my fitness and the scenery was spectacular
After a coffee we headed off down a little bit before starting to climb again up the Col de Sarenne which unbeknown to us at the time was steeper than Huez and sadly into a strong headwind which made it a tough climb even in my lowest gear.
After summiting we plunged down the other side and when I say plunged I do mean it. The descent was very difficult with hairpin bends, gravel and rough tarmac that if you weren't careful bounced you all over the place. Add into that the steepness and a nasty gusting wind and it added up to a real challenge.
We regrouped about half way down and my neck was spaziming from all the tension in my arms and shoulders as I had fought the elements down the descent and been using the brakes a great deal.
The second half of the descent was much less demanding and we whipped along at 35/40 miles an hour sweeping through tunnels and back into town for lunch
Lunch was very welcome after which we had a relatively gentle ride back to the campsite where we've been busy getting food shopping and housework done.
Tonight it's vegetarian chillie and then the football to watch.
Tomorrow we are heading up the Crois de Fer which is another famous climb.
Today's stats
Mileage. 44
Climbing 5900ft
Top speed 43mph.
Onwards and Upwards
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