July 20th Col de Granon

This was one of the most enjoyable rides/climbs of my time in France. In the high alps the views were spectacular. While the views riding out of Nice are incredible also, I am more into seeing nature than the landscapes around Nice where the architecture of small towns and cities is combined with rugged landscape to make great viewing.

This is a shot looking back toward Briancon in the distance from probably midway up the climb.




The summit was cool & windy. Thank God for the sun. A mountain biker who arrived shortly after I did took this pic.
On the way back down looking in the opposite direction of Briancon to what looks like a ski village to the southwest.
The descent and the gorgeous vistas
Briancon again, this time from higher up.

Time for an espresso back in Briancon.
Depressing....My riding is done, now time to take the bike apart and pack it for home.

Stats: A Hors catégorie climb of 11km @8.8% topping out at 2413m
This one was a bloody hard climb, the wind was whipping me as I went up - the views again making up for everything.