Thursday, August 9th
I rode to Spain today. With an open day I decided to ride the HC climb of Port de Bales simply because this was the last major Pyrenean climb that the Tour went over this year that I had not done, and I choose the Category 1 Col de Portillon because it started where the Port de Bales ride ended and so I could say, "I rode to Spain today.". I had not planned these rides before arriving here so was riding a bit blind but both climbs were very good.
The Port de Bales was a complete contrast to the Tourmalet ride earlier this week. There were no "wow factor" views as most of the climb was through steep valleys with forest that blocked out any view. It was very quiet with few cars so I was able to enjoy the ride and the tranquil atmosphere, and the shade offered by the trees as today was a hot one. The last 8km of this 19km climb gets steep and I quickly learnt why this climb has a HC rating. At the top I reached the more popular and more open side for the descent into the town of Bagneres-de-Luchon. With less tree cover the views into the valley below were more impressive and the descent was long and fun.
After becoming geographically challenged through Luchon, I eventually found the road I needed for the Col de Portillon, a category 1 10km climb up to the Spanish border. The climb itself was steep in places but doable, however by the time I got there today it was well over 35C in the middle of a scorcher of a Pyrenean day. Back home I would never dream of riding when it is this hot but perhaps foolishly I persisted today. No views to speak off and I can't truthfully describe the climb as enjoyable, but it was another col ticked off, and I did get to visit Spain (looked identical to France from where I was standing).
It was great to squeeze in two extra cols today and make the most of the time here in the Pyrenees. Tomorrow I need to return to Bagneres-de-Luchon to give the bike back, but not before doing my ride of this leg of the trip up to the ski station of Superbagneres. Nicola and the kids have already been up there in the gondola. For me however it will be an early morning 19km HC climb before I can see the stunning views they enjoyed. Looking forward to it.
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