London 2 Cannes 2015: Day 8 Firminy to Aubenas 85.9miles (7660ft)

WOW! Just WOW...

After the rain and cold of yesterday we were happy wake to clearer skies and warmer temperatures but it still required a long sleeve jersey for most of the morning. We left Firminy and headed up on a climb that persisted for the first 7 miles of the day. The gradient was gentle though and the scenery took our minds off the perpetual up curve as we meandered through pine forests and lush meadows full of cows. The scenery and architecture is looking a lot more Mediterranean now with many stone buildings and terracotta roof tiles.

After the first large hill of the day was conquered and spirits were high, everyone happy to still be here and fit enough to continue we stopped at a small hill top village for coffee or chocolate. I think our arrival in town doubled the population briefly. Andy kept us all laughing with his talk of radishes and other random comments.

The road then ran along the top of a ridge which was still climbing gently until we got to 38 miles. With more than 5000ft of climbing before lunch the team are demonstrating their increased fitness and ability since our London departure. Some are noticing their body shaped altering from the constant energy requirements needed to fuel themselves on a ride this long. Needing about 5000 calories a day means eating what you like and still losing a little weight or converting fat to muscles.

Imagine the jubilation at lunch then when after a starting to descend at mile 38 we found the lunch crew at mile 47 barely having pedalled for anything in between.

We had crossed into the Ardeche region and descended into one of the valleys on one of the most beautiful and fun descents I have ever done and I think most of the others would agree. The gradient was just enough to enjoy without building uncontrollable speed or needing to brake and the bends curved to perfection.

I am afraid I was going too fast and enjoying it too much to stop for photos. However the support crew has again excelled themselves with a fine selection of French cheeses.

The lunch stop was next to a little lake the sun was out and the euphoria from all was palpable.

Even the prospect of the next climb wasn't enough to dampen spirits. So we set off in the sunshine up the next 12 mile climb.

The last 11km was signed at each kilometre with the average gradient ahead. Simon and I rode together to the top in the glorious sunshine and as the elevation was above 1000m we were greeted by a sign for the col summit.