Saint-Pierre-d’Albigny to Annecy 81km

 Another big day and some beautiful cycling along the V62. Spectacular scenery as we rode between the mountains. The closer we got the Annecy, the more cyclists on the route.

The last 30km were into a block head wind which kept us cool but oh boy, did it hurt. He wind roared through the valley putting small waves on the lake!  We had to pedal downhill! 

Annecy is so busy with traffic, bikes and people. It certainly wasn’t like this when I visited 22 years ago. That’s progress and everyone’s desire to travel after two years of restrictions.

We arrived at the municipal campground close to the city, up a massive climb, only to find out they were full. We had tried to book last week but bookings weren’t accepted less than seven days in advance. Elodie had also been trying to call, but they never answered their telephone. Luckily we were able to find a small apartment in the city that we could afford. Still very expensive which means we are over budget but it’s a small price to pay given we weren’t keen on continuing to ride further in the hope of finding camping. 

We will ride around the lake on our rest day and do a recon to the train station where we will get the train to Lyon on Thursday morning. 

Grenoble to Saint-Pierre-d’Albigny 81km

A big day today as we headed along the valley floor between the mountain ranges toward Annecy. We followed the V63 for most of the route but chose the road for the last 10 or so hair raising kilometres. 

The V63 is not finished and some of the signage is lacking. We did end up misplaced a few times today which added some extra kilometres and lots of additional time. That said, the scenery was beautiful although it is still extremely hot topping 39 degrees today. 

Grenoble

An enjoyable day wandering the city of Grenoble and visiting the Bastille and the Archaeological Museum. Just incredible. The history is so interesting.

For the celiacs, food here is tricky! No suggestions yet but will if I can find something guaranteed to be sans gluten! 

By the way, this photo of the skeleton is believed to be Guy from the Priory. A very tall, healthy man for the time. And most likely wealthy before joining the Priory. 

La Sone to Grenoble 61km

After a stormy night and morning we eventually rolled out of Lac du Marandan. After a couple of ridiculous pinches again, we were rolling comfortably towards Grenoble. The V63 is great but not always easy on a loaded bike. 

We have a hotel for a couple of nights before heading to Lake Annecy for a couple of nights. We are tired so hopefully some air conditioning and a real bed will help.