My first time cycling in the Chartreuse region of the Alps (surrounding Grenoble).

Grenoble may be at the bottom of more major climbs than any other city.  Today’s route passed 4 mountain cols and THEN the hard part started. 

The first 10 Kilometres were pretty hard along beautiful quiet roads.  I passed 4 riders at the Col de Clemenciere which helped my spirits.  At the Col de Vence I rejoined a slightly busier road - I later learned there was a quieter option … but no big deal. 

It was super hot and I was out of drinks so I bought two Iced Teas at a little restaurant, caught my breath and kept going.  At the Col de Palaquit I knew I was close.

My Goal for the day was the Col de Porte but I felt OK and knew there was a little road at the top that went even higher for 6 kilometres to the Chalet of Charmant Som. 

This route was absoultely beautiful but was super steep for 3 or so kilometres.  At one point I stopped for a drink and had trouble restarting (ok I was pretty tired too!).  I passed a guy and his wife and said "courage" (standard french biking encouragment) and the woman answered in English with a high pitched "Help."

Up top was beautiful and full of hikers.  A big day - starting at 200 metres and ending at 1,700 metres with a little bit of downhill.  Happy but Knackered?

 CHALLENGE UPDATE: My 8th +1,000 Metre climb of 2006