Unofficial Ride Day: The Gorges

Somehow.. what was planned to be just a lazy day cruising around the Avignon district, once again evolved into monster 85km day in 35oC heat.
Whilst not climbing into the 1000's of metres above sea level in one climb, we did however continue to climb and fall from river level up to cliff edges and down again. In total, the day still managed our average climbing height gain of close 1,200 metres and burning a massive 4000 odd calories.

It was a tough 'rest day' but once again the incredible views (see pics) and the ride culminating with a swim in a perfectly refreshing, crystal clear mountain river, made the effort so worthwhile.

We dined alfresco in the Piazza that fronts our hotel, where a never ending line of restaurants and offerings, makes Melbourne's Lygon St equivalent, look a little junior league.

Tomorrow we tackle the final of the Big 3 Climbs, the sole reason for our travel to Avignon.. Mont Ventoux. Not only our last climbing ride (the flats of the Champs Elysèes await) but Ventoux will also be our highest gain of altitude over a single climb, saving the good stuff til last.

On that note, tonight it's very much a case of "Messieurs au lit. Pour demain, nous roulons!"... "Gentleman to bed, for tomorrow we ride!"