Day 3 - Sauveterre de Comminges to Arreau

When we awoke today it was cloudy. A real shocker this was, as it was the first cloudy day I have ever experienced in the Pyrenees. But even cloudy days on vacation can be great, and we figured that not having to ride all day in the sun might have its advantages.

Our departure from the Hostellrie des 7 Molles took us over some short climbs through small villages on our way to the first real climb of the day - the Port de Bales. This climb has been relatively recently added to the Tour de France. Two years ago they paved the back side so that it could be used as a col on one of the stages in the Tour. It is a 19 km climb, although it really only starts to get steep at the 12 km mark. It did not disappoint. Coming up through the forest, it was a bit reminiscent of Mont Ventoux (although not as steep). In the latter part of the ride, the grades were 8.5% and more, up to about 10%. But we rode up, slow and steady, and reached the top in fine form. It was cold at the top - and the cloudy skies had turned into a little bit of rain.

The descent was taken very slowly as the rain and wind suggested caution. It was also slowed by a herd of several dozen sheep, which was headed down the road. They didn't immediately make way for cyclists, although as we got up behind them they scooted off down the side of the mountain (probably to the sheep herders chagrin). We had a picnic lunch at the bottom and the rain subsided.

After lunch we headed down the valley to take on the Col de Peyresourde. From the spot that we picked up the ride it was only a 10km climb. The steepest part was at the beginning, and steep it was. It was reminiscent of L'Alpe d'Huez, but again not that steep. Up near the end, although the switchbacks seemed to be way difficult, it was actually a very manageable ride. We finished in fine fashion, and the ride down to Arreau was spectacular.

Arreau is the town where we ended one of last year's rides, and we have a particular fondness for it. It is a small town, at the bottom of a number of mountains, with a clear, swift river running through it. Our hotel, the Hotel D'Angleterre, is quite adequate, right on the main street in town. It must be popular for cyclists, as there is a group of 8 riders from Asheville, NC who have come to ride in the Pyrenees staying here as well.

Dinner was terrific. The main course was confit de canard. Good wine, cheese and dessert as well. We earned it.

Tomorrow, two or three climbs planned with Arreau as the home base.