Ian and Julie of Pyrenees Multisport couldn't have done more to look after me... with awesome routes, delicious home-cooked meals and general cycling banter!
The week ended with a cold, cloudy climb up the Col du Tourmalet, which had only been open for a few days, as the snow has only just cleared. It was a tough old climb with the last 10km of climbing done in a cloud! I could barely see where the road was going and I was worried the motorbikers zooming up behind me might not be able to see me.
There was applause from a coach-party when I got to the top. Unfortunately the cafe wasn't open, so I put on all the clothes I had (only gilet and arm-warmers) and set off down the mountain. I could barely see more than 2m in front of me. I had the brakes on most of the way for the first 10km or so, as I just could not see where the road was going. I FROZE. I couldn't feel my fingers and I couldn't pedal because I couldn't see where I was going. There were tears! It was probably one of the most unpleasant experiences I have ever had on my bike!!
Below the cloud line, the temperature increased quite substantially and I managed to power down the last few km of the descent. Thankfully the van was at the bottom with some dry clothes waiting for me. Phew. Just enough time for the best chocolat chaud I have ever had, in a cafe in the village, before heading home.
All in all a fantastic week: around 47,630 ft (14,500 m) climbing; 450 miles and 32 hours of riding! Big thanks to Ian and Julie for all their support and encouragement. I will be back...
Sarah
