On to Sisteron

There is a new route on this stage than in prior years we have been here. Easier for sure than yesterday and tomorrow, but not exactly the recovery day my legs were looking for. Strava says we climbed more than a mile up, and covered another 65 miles or so. The start of the day remained the same around a beautiful lake, and we ended in the great little city of Sisteron, with its 13th century forts and buildings still holding firm.

Good morning France. From the start of our ride.

The ride takes us about half way around the Lake, so we get to see it from high and low. This morning, the surface as incredibly smooth and still.

Lavender fields across the Lake.

My body started to feel like a cyclist again, so I was able to go fast like the old days for just a bit. I had some time at one the turns in the road to take a break and wait for the group. On the other side of this road is an old bridge and the new bridge. I feel much safer on the new one!

Back together and off we go, up that hill in the pic above to our first coffee stop of the day.

View from coffee stop

And off we go again to the another col. Caught Susan on this one, as we rolled through the countryside.

Pretty nice place for a lunch break, no?

These photos don't do this next bit justice, I think FCH has a better pic posted on Facebook. But, after a nice long downhill, we slowed way down to navigate through these hairpin switchbacks built right up along the face of a massive rock.

Finishing up the day's ride with one last climb - The Col of Blood! - then downhill all the way to Sisteron.

Almost home, and I can't help but wonder what happens in the town of Nibles? Good or bad?

Our hotel has a ton of character and charm, including the old lady at the front desk who giggles at my French. I think these may be the smallest rooms in the Country, however. Case in point - why have one door for a room, when you can just cut the room in half and put another smaller door there? Good thing this is a sports tour, I'm not sure some of the leisure tour folks could fit!

A little walk through Sisteron to find gifts (no luck, sorry)!

Old defensive ramparts

Lavender ice cream!

On to Ventoux tomorrow, the Giant of Provence! Love to all at home.