Post 6

It’s a beautiful day in France. It’s warmer than the last few days with a crystal blue sky and just a touch of white, lace thin clouds. It was the perfect day for a gentle ride through the French country side. The only real climb was the Col du Marais. Some folks decided to add a few extra thousand feet of climbing, (guess who), but most of us were happy to return to the hotel for a relaxing afternoon. 

 

The decision to ride easier was not because of the the Col de I’Arpettaz yesterday, but rather because our itinerary has changed and tomorrow we climb Alpe d’Huez.  Originally, this legionary and storied mountain was scheduled for Saturday, but because the weather is predicted to be about the same tomorrow, as today, we have made the switch. The weather for the weekend is not looking so nice.

Alpe d’Huez was first added to the Tour de France since 1952. In fact, it was the second to the last stage in this year’s tour. Sportscasters had predicted that the climb up Alpe d’Huez would crown this year’s winner, but as it turned out, it didn’t.  Known for its 21 switchbacks and over 6,000 feet of climbing, Alpe d’Huez holds a special place in the hearts of cyclists. We may not know the capitol of Montana, but we do know Alpe d’Huez. And tomorrow, it’s our turn to conquer one of the most fabled climbs in all of cycling. 

There are a couple more pictures from yesterday’s climb up the Col de I’Arpettaz. Pictures from the climb of Alpe d’Huez will be posted tomorrow. That’s if anyone has the energy to take any and I have the strength to actually post them. Stay tuned. This is going to be great!