At 14 degrees C at 9am, off we went plunging into the Vallee de l'Arvan in search of 'Gevoudaz' .. the town that the first Opinel knifes came from!
The air was pretty cool with no sun but it was quite refreshing as we hit the switchbacks taking us to Col de Mollard just past the ski village. We took a long break here before descending down to the valley floor to begin the ascent of Col de la Croix de Fer.
We took the St Jean d'Arves route which was very quiet due to a road closure. Great views and a nice descent to join the main route up Col de la Croix de Fer.
Our final ascent of the day started very steep but slowly became more forgiving as we entered the switchbacks.
At the top of Croix de Fer, we found a 'zoo'. The place was full of people, cyclists, motorcycles and even a few dogs.
We had some great views especially of Col du Glandon (looking down) with the southern route meandering around the lake down to the next valley and Bourg d'Oisans .. a route the Tour de France often takes.
We turned right at the col and had a long descent to our valley taking us home to St Jean de Maurienne! It was a pretty windy road but lots of views and fun!
At 2200m of ascent it was not an easy day .. but somewhat easier than last Friday's ride up Madeleine from Albertville!
We have decided tomorrow really shall be an easier day!
