Stage 16 - Cuneo to Jausiers 97 miles
Following our initial difficulties navigating through Cuneo this morning guided by our Italian map with a hit and miss approach to detail I set off on todays stage. Second day in the Alps with two hulks of mountains on the menu. First came the Col de la Lombarde at 7113 feet which began 31 miles into the ride and was 14 miles to the top. The route was a steep ascent through a forest with fantastic gorges which opened up to provide views for miles as we rose above the tree line.
Strong head winds all the way up gave a high chill factor at the summit. Layers on and off down the other side through the ski resort, Isola 2000 and down into the village for lunch.
Following a hearty feast of meats and cheese I immediately started climbing for 9 miles to the foot of the Cime de la Bonnette-Restefond climb, from where the 17 mile ascent to the summit at 9192 ft was reached. The temperature dropped dramatically as I approached the summit after over 2 hours constantly climbing. The effect of less oxygen in the air took its toll over the last mile or so, not only on me buth on my cycle computer which stopped and the motor home which struggled to keep going. I would say that the final mile of this ride was the hardest of the tour so far.
There was an eagle soaring above me as I cycled on the highest road in europe onto the summit. The surroundings were both bleak yet magnificent with mountain ranges to be seen all around.
The Bonnette is majestic but also lonely due to it’s remoteness. The descent was only impaired by flocks of sheep and goats heading for lower land in preparation for the winter ahead. The brakes of the motor home were tested to their limits with a few hairy hair pins.. Spent the night on a camp site outside Jausier, rest day tomorrow followed by the biggest stage of the tour on Mondqy.
September 8th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
Jonno keep up the good work!!!!
Now the one you kept talking about, I wish I could see the views on L’Alpe-d’Huez, you lucky man you’ve earned it.
Is Mark and his streamlined legs videoing the descent from the Col du Galibier?
PS Happy Birthday to one of the team!!!!!!