They-they crossed the Alps and they-they tell...
Cyrille, can you introduce yourself?
Cyrille Papon, lucky dad of three and happy companion to Julie, who supports me in all my endeavors. I've had a fantastic job: a state-registered sailor for 28 years, which gave me a taste for adventure, contact with nature and people.
My grandfather gave me my first bike and passed on to me his love for beautiful and simple things: thank you grandpa. I've been traveling by bike since I was 14, and it was with my father that I started traveling by bike. When I was 14, we both travelled 600 km to see the North Sea: magical, and I thank him for this beautiful heritage. I've passed on this taste for adventure to my children, who themselves I hope will continue to perpetuate this family tradition.
I had the privilege of realizing my childhood dream in the summer of 2021: I crossed the Route des Grandes Alpes® from Toulon to Brest by touring bike. This crossing of the RGA® was a revelation, it made sense to me and gave me the path to follow. Today, I want to pass on the joy of bicycle travel to as many people as possible through our joint associative project with Julie: "Souriez Vous Pédalez!". A call to cycling happiness!
Why an Alpine tour?
I've always wanted to cross the Alpine passes by bike, see the mountains pass before my eyes, smell the smells, listen to the sound of cowbells, touch the green grass, the snow drifts at the top of the passes, feel the wind blowing on my face, ride through the forests, touch the fresh water in the streams.... A childhood dream!
The opportunity presented itself at the end of June 2021 and I didn't hesitate for a second. I set off on my mother's old mountain bike (GIANT TRACK model 1991 - a bit small for me) equipped with 4 panniers, from Toulon towards the Alps. I think of my mother every day, she left far too early and it was very important for me to set off on this bike.
Which route did you take and why?
I travelled north along the Route des Grandes Alpes® from Toulon, then on to Saint-Pol-de-Léon to join Julie at the place where we first met... A beautiful tribute to a singular encounter that changed both our lives.
How did you organize your trip?
As simple as possible: bike panniers, comforter, sleeping bag, tarpaulin, bivouac and camping. Habits picked up on bike trips and from my experience in the armed forces. Rusticity and simplicity.
Your best and worst memories?
My best memory: the climb up Le Cormet de Roselend from Bourg St Maurice to Beaufort. A magical climb through the forest, a sublime plateau, a second part of the pass shared with other cyclists and a superb descent.
My worst memory: The le Grand-Bornand / Beaufort-sur-Doron stage in pouring rain, with the stress of the Tour de France's arrival on the Route des Alpes. A difficult stage both physically and mentally.
Your trifecta of passes?
My trifecta in terms of beauty: the sequence Col du Lautaret and Col du Galibier for the scenery and the difficulty of the climb (I loved it). The Col de l'Iseran for its mineral beauty and the view from its summit. The Cormet de Roselend for the beauty of the route and the moments of sharing with cyclists.
A story to share?
It has so many! In fact, that's what motivates people to travel by bike. The most touching: a 79-year-old racing cyclist who accompanied me up the Col de l'Iseran. I was impressed, admiring and touched by his attention. I loved this moment of sharing.
The most beautiful: a group of cyclists who accompanied me on the last few kilometers of the Col de Cormet de Roselend and took a photo of me at the top of the pass after intense effort and joy. Another great moment of sharing.