Another day described as “moderate” in the guide, which turned out to be anything but… the numbers are similar to other days (52km, 1216m ascent), but we encountered some of the steepest sections yet, up to 10% percent gradient, sustained for at least a km at a time. I’m under strict orders from my physio not to stand on the pedals, so am puffing away in the lowest gear, seated on the saddle. No wonder my thighs ache at the end of the day!
Descending from the Col des Vars, we feel we are entering a more Mediterranean climate. It is certainly warm, no need for fleeces or jackets on the descent, and the architecture as we enter Barcelonette is almost Mexican.
After a round of teasing on WhatsApp about our bikes (no, they are not electric…), I thought I’d put in a little bit of info about them.
We both have standard, fairly basic, road bikes, bought through a “cycle to work” scheme about 15 years ago. They are Cannondale 600s, all steel with flatbar handles. So, nothing like as light or flash as the all-carbon racing bikes that regularly pass us both up and down the cols, but also not nearly as heavy as proper touring bikes (although people on those also regularly pass us).
We have a couple of paniers each, but try and keep weight to a minimum: a single set of cycling clothes and a bar of washing soap to wash them daily in the hotel room sink. A few evening clothes, suncream, puncture repair kit, water bottle, and not much more… unless you count my camera (SLR and video) and Cate’s assorted ‘products’.