I first climbed this mountain in 2009 and really suffered thru illness to make it to the summit.
This time I was determined to ride it well and I was not disappointed.I managed to find a rhythm early on and pace myself all the way up.the lower slopes are covered in grapevines and olive trees and are very picturesque.
After 12 ks or so it starts to get a bit steeper on the hairpins sometimes up to 14%
at the chalet Reynard I stopped for a coke then carried on for the final 6km.No ride up the Ventoux is complete without stopping at the memorial to Tom Simpson a brittish cyclist who in 1966 collapsed and died while wearing the yellow jersey. It is tradition to leave a small offering.
This section of road is exposed and barren and windswept.
at the summit we had a quick photo then blasted down the other side,a 23 km downhill
Took us to the amazing village of Malacene for lunch.
The feeling I had after ticking that one off was incredible, I have nothing but respect for the pros the way they ride up these mountains.
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