Hautacam

I’m writing this after a few celebratory glasses of red as Mark, Alex and I topped Hautacan today. Actually we went past the end of the Etape and rode to the top of the Col. This markes the completeion of the Tour du Etape, as I’ve named it. Basically we’ve done the milage and the big climbs.

Pictured: Us at the top of Hautacam

Hautacam itself was simply superb. The lower slopers were hot and hard but suited my style of climbing. The gradients are short and sharp but offer some rest bite; more akin to the sportives we’ve done at home. After 6k it eased off and got a bit cooler. Climbing into the clouds I was really enjoying it; I thought it would be harder on tired legs but I still had something there. Unfortunately I had a stat fail as my Garmin failed but I wored it out that the climb took me about and hour. The Tourmalet is deffinately the harder of the two.

Descending from the top of Hautacam was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. The roads were clear, the views magnificent and the speed fast – really fast! There’s nothing like ripping round a hairpin at close to 40mph whilst looking out at the Midi Pyrenees. I ended the ride with a huge grin and we all felt like we’d really achieved something. The Etape feels a little more realistic now.

Pictured: View from Hautacam

After our ride we headed to Lourdes. Before heading into town we took the fenicular to the top of Pic de Jer. From there were stunning views of Lourdes and the surrounding mountains. I wouldn’t advise everyone doing this after Hautacam though as the climb to the summit was hard on the legs.

Not totally sure what to make of the religious factor but glad to have been there. I get the whole religious thing but the juxtaposition of tatty gift shops taints what I imagine is a deeply religious experience for many people. I found it particuallary interesting that people were happy to peruse efigys of Mary next to flick knives. personally I found it to be quite relaxing and peaceful down at the river by the Grotto.

Looking forward to a rest day tomorrow and hopefully a swim and a massage.