Except that I could not resist the impulse to ride up something big and steep! So by 9.30 I was on the lower slopes of the Col de l’Izoard – brain complaining that this is a stupid use of a rest day and suggesting giving it up, but legs soon settling into a rhythm whose upwards momentum proved unstoppable. The final 6 km are the business end, with steep ramps of over 10% and rocky terrain above the tree line. Fantastic! And a piece of cake without camping gear and wash-bag. Over 1000m of ascent; summit at 2360m, my highest ever on a bike.

I was back by noon, after a very fast descent, to meet Helen for lunch and a lazy afternoon.