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The next day was another glorious one, with blue skies and sunshine. This was to be another long climb up the Col du Lauteret and the Galibier. Riding up the Romanche Valley, it was easy to lose perspective of the road ahead. I was wondering why I was struggling on what looked like a flat road. Back at the hotel, I read that I was climbing at around 5%. After the village of La Grave the ascent steepened and finally the Col du Lauteret was reached. |
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After a refreshment stop at the Lautaret, it was time for the final 8km;
a 600m ascent to the Col du Galibier. The combination of altitude,
effort and too much energy drink was having an affect on me; I was a
little light-headed, giddy and felt a little sick. I had to stop a few
times before reaching the summit, but eventually I made it to the top of
the Galibier. No wonder it had been a tiring climb, I didn't pedal for the next 20 miles. The attitude of French drivers to cyclists was highlighted during the descent. There are various tunnels (some unlit) and I had foolishly left my back light behind. Not to matter, a driver tailed me through one tunnel both providing some light and protecting me from other motorists. He then passed me, but waited before the next tunnel to guide me through. Many thanks whoever you are. |
