They-they crossed the Alps and they-they tell...
Dominique, can you introduce yourself?
Dominique 70 years old ultra trail runner and cyclist in my youth.
What motivated you to embark on a bike trip in the Alps?
A challenge on my birthday, and also the dream of climbing the Galibier by bike.
What route did you take and why?
The classic route, from Thonon to Nice.
How did you organize your trip?
I was dropped off in Thonon and then travelled solo, with a saddlebag and handlebar bag as my only luggage. In the evening, I stayed at a hotel. Sandwiches at lunchtime and a restaurant in the evening. I cycled back from Antibes to Pernes-les-Fontaines in 2 days, 260 km and 2300 D+!
Your best memory? And the worst?
Arriving at the summit of the Galibier, a very satisfying feeling.
The worst was the start of the Col de Saint-Martin up to La Bolline, in full sunshine!
Your trifecta of passes?
Le Galibier for its mythical side,
L'Iseran, the highest and also the longest: nature in its raw state.
And finally theCol de Turini and its endless switchbacks, the last great pass!"
I'd add the Colombière, the first where I wondered if I'd make it to the end of the adventure...
Ane anecdote to share?
The encouragement from the youngsters on the Galibier climb: "Bonjour Monsieur!" "Bravo Monsieur!" and the "Ça va Monsieur? when lying in the grass 2km from the summit, I regain my composure!