For my first ride from the Rhône valley in Switzerland I took on the climb to Col du Sanetsch, “the most demanding climb in Valais”
Montchardon
I finally got to do this ride to visit the intriguing Buddhist temple of Montchardon, in the Vercors region of France
Refuge Laval
I revisited the scene of yesterday’s wet descent from Col de l’Échelle to see what it looked like in the sunshine, and I ventured further up the valley to find a virtual paradise on my way to Refuge Laval
Col de Montgenèvre
Another ride from Briançon, this time over the Col de Montgenèvre into Italy, then back into France via the Col de l’Echelle.
Col d’Izoard
I rode from Briançon and around La Boucle d’Izoard via Guillestres, to climb the southern ascent of the legendary Col d’Izoard. A lunar landscape awaited me…
Col du Granon
Another high Alpine pass ticked off my list today, I rode the tough climb from Briançon to Col du Granon on a sunny day, enjoying views over Serre Chevalier and the Guisane valley
Col du Sabot – Success!
I re-attempted the steep climb to the wild and desolate Col du Sabot and this time I managed to do the whole thing in one go, before the rain came again.
Col du Sabot (aborted)
Ride to Col du Sabot ended abruptly and prematurely due to thunderstorms, culminating in another very wet descent
Col de Sarenne
The hills were alive with the sound of music – but not in a good way! I rode to the beautiful Col de Sarenne via Pas de la Confession and Alpe d’Huez, returning via Route des Travers
Villard-Notre-Dame
Another long-standing goal of mine was achieved on this amazing ride from Le Bourg d’Oisans along the spectacular D219 balcony road to Villard notre Dame, then via Col du Solude to Col d’Ornon