France 11, Sep 16, Soulor and d'Obisque

This was our last day of cycling in the Pyrenees and it was going to be a doozy. Over two Cols and 82 miles of riding. We started west from Lourdes along a nice valley road toward Pau our eventual termination of the ride. BUT, we then abruptly turned left towards the mountains.

Here in the foothills of the Pyenees are some beaudiful farms in some areas. Other area look quite poor and the villages are definitely more primitive than in some other parts of France.

This is a typical view as you leave the foothills and head into the real canyons of the Pyrenees. We are going to really climb today.

The SIGN. You know its famous when you see this kind of sign. We are going up 2,800 feet in 7.5 miles. Parts of it are really going to be steep. Keep in mind we have been gently climbing for several miles (about 12) before coming to this sign.

A Look back as we climbed to the top of Col du Soulor. If you look closely you can see the road we came up. (left click on the picture for an enlarged view)

The top of Col du Soulor was crowded with tourists and sheep. Sheep were bedding down in the parking lot with the cars. We were told it was because the cars were warm. Then its down towards the west for abou 3 miles and onto a spectacular road.

To travel from the Soulor to the Col d'Obisque we travel the road on the side of the mountain. I actually took this picture as I climbed up the Col du Soulor. Most of the time I was hoping it didn't come down while I was on it.

Actually being on the road was ok. It turned out that the main problem were the tunnels. There was one curved tunnel with absolutely no lighting and water dripping down everywhere. You just had to ride and hope for the best.

Now in the high country with the sheep again. Susan and Jim had to do some herding . The sheep really pay little attention to the cars and riders.

Another trophy. This one was very satisfying after the long climb. I think I am losing weight.

Some nice art work at the top of Col d'Obisque. Not so crowded so I was able to get a picture without tourists in it.

Now the descent. This is the view to the west. As we head down we will turn to the right and out of the mountains.

Down into the villages and along the valley into our final stop, Pau. We started from Pau 6 days earlier and had some great climbing rides. I am ready to stop, though, as I am getting weary of slogging up climbs or screaming down descents. I must admit that the descents are really exilerating. There was very little gravel or other debris on the road which made it much safer.