June 2009 – Cycle Tour – I can honestly say that was a trip of a lifetime…one that I will be doing again and the sooner the better. In my 3 days with Helen and Phil I covered all of my must do Col’s. First up was Alpe d’Huez and with Phil’s patient encouragement “Pantani has just finished” followed a couple of minutes later “Lance has just crossed the line!” all when I was about halfway up finished very hot and satisfied in 1h21… In the afternoon Phil took me up a local and very pretty climb the Col d’Ornon. This rounded day one of nicely as did Helen’s post ride pasta! The next day was the Croix de Fer, WOW 30k’s all uphill what is there anywhere that can prepare you for that. It was stunning. It is rude not to quickly bag the Glandon (50yds away) on the way up. The descent goes on forever and it is not until you descend that you realise how far you have climbed. Day 3 saw us take in the Lautaret on the way up to the mighty 2645m Galibier. Still snow in June! Phil took the van part way so that we could start from 8km down the Lautaret. He took photos and then at the base of the Galibier hopped on his bike and supported all of us (as we were now a group of four riders) up and back down the slopes of the mighty Galibier. Having a rider who knows the slopes as well as Phil means you can really enjoy the riding. To round off then, great cycling country, classic climbs but this is cemented in to a great holiday by Helen and Phil’s desire to make your holiday special…little details like post ride pasta, a card when I had finished with my stats on, photos emailed to me, supported and guided rides together with very nice accommodation and hospitality makes for a great trip…I will be back at More Than 21 Bends!!