Annecy and On to the Alps

We have moved on from the sunny and green Jura to the Alps. First transitionary stop along the way would be Annecy, or better known as the Banff of France...

Beautiful place with a crystal clear lake wedged between the mountains. after our quiet whistle stops in the Jura region, it was contrast to walk the packed and commercial streets in the pedestrian center, full of people plucked from the big cities for a beach vacation from the city.

We rode around the lake and up the big Col du Forclaz climb in the backside. It seems like a big climb (Cat 2, 9km, 35 minutes) but that may be the week of bread and cheese, or that it is very big relative to Alberta road standards. An 11 to 13% sustained grade is enough to remind you even in moderate fitness that compact cranskets and big cassettes were invented for good reason. I looked up the Strava KOM later.... Thibault Pinot. Hmmm.... That part is a little different out here too. Incredible view at the top explained the efforts of many others that were on the climb as well.

Then it was off the le Bourg de Oisans, AKA the base of Alpe D' Huez. Another total culture clash from Annecy and more to my type - at least 50% of people on streets are easily identifiable as like minded cycle-tourists by their shaved legs, branded clothing, or indicative BMI. In this place if you buy "rubbers" from a street-side vending machine it is literal. There is  also a shop where you can purchase photos taken while you climb, I was surprised to recognize Bill Quinney of Calgary on the promotional poster!

So a total contrast in two great places. But now feeling quite happy and at home in the Later. Tomorrow we climb Alpe D' Huez. Being in the area and seeing cues and references only known through media all my life helps stoke the anticipation - so did driving the lower switchbacks last night, with a bit of respect and fear added to the equation.