Monday we ambitiously tackled the Col du Tourmalet, the Col d'Aspin, and the Route de Lacs up to the Lac de Cap-de-Long deep in the Pyrenean National Park. In only 60 miles we climbed nearly 11,750 feet before descending the spectacular Route des Lacs back to the base where Val was waiting for Tim, Matt and me.

At nearly 7,000 feet, the Col du Tourmalet is the highest paved pass in the Pyrenees - what makes this climb so difficult is nearly 5,000 feet of elevation gain in just under 12 miles, or an average grade of 8%! It is incredibly beautiful, however, so that helps distract you from the task at hand,

Today was a beautiful sunny day and the pictures at the summit were spectacular! (The slow internet is still preventing me from posting photos.)

After we descended the other side of the Col du Tourmalet we immediately started climbing the Col d'Aspin, which is relatively easy in comparison, In 8 miles we climbed 2100 feet, or an average of 5%.

After descending that col we rode up the valley to Saint Lary-Soulon, where we stopped for lunch (tapas) before tackling the Route des Lacs up to the Lac de Cap de Long. The Route des Lacs is a narrow road that climbs the side of steep canyon walls in a narrow gorge. Near the top there are a series of tight switchbacks literally built into the side of the canyon wall - an engineering marvel. It is one of the most spectacular roads I've ever driven or ridden.

Here's my Strava data for this ride: https://www.strava.com/activities/1722898173

Au revoir for now.