We heard Tourmalet was a fiercely challenging climb and that many a Tour de France has been decided on it. Well, climbing is believing, apparently. We saved this monster pass for last on accident, and it lived up to its reputation yesterday. I didn't take many photos since my energy was going towards getting myself and my heavy but trusty touring bike up the hill. Here are a few images: Pedaling backwards in time, the day before Tourmalet, we tackled the Col d'Aspin,another Tour mainstay, but a much gentler climb. Watch video clip … [Read more...]
Photo moments from the Pyrenees
Pyrenees Act 1 Scene 1
What could be better than riding in France? Riding in France with friends! Friends Bill Stewart and Kalima Rose arrived in Toulouse on Sept 14. On the 15th, we loaded up the bikes in Toulouse on the very narrow street outside our hotel. A tourist train snaked by, and several cars that I never thought would have fit without taking off a mirror, or a handlebar. We arrived in Argeles-Gazost, a great place to base ourselves for rides over many well known Tour de France peaks. Unfortunately, John had developed a nasty cough by then which is still lingering despite … [Read more...]
Looking forward and back
I could list many favorite things about La France. The graceful language, fun to speak and even more fun to listen to, the relentlessly edible food and drinkable wine, the long history and beauty of the country. The joie de vivre par-tout. Every day we pass through many small towns, and I'm always struck by how well cared for the homes are--even a crumbly hundred year old stone farmhouse will be dotted with flower beds and decked out with colorful shutters, blue and orange and red. It warms my heart as I pedal past. Arriving in and exiting towns, however, is decidedly not … [Read more...]
Quick hit
Day 7 of a 9-day ride. Too wiped to write much, but here is some footage captured of our climb out of a lovely medieval town called Rocamadour. … [Read more...]