Today I redid the TDF/2 Stage 2 route, only the other direction. It’s about the hilliest route I can manage starting from my house; as you can see from the elevation profile, it does have some ups and downs. Not the Pyrenees, I realize.
As the Tour/2 nears its end, the crowds are coming out in force. They’re posting signs with encouraging messages along the route, for instance.
The scenery up here in the Cape-e-nees is breathtaking. It’s an area that is steeped in history. Here’s one of the many cathedrals that dot the landscape, again with a sign erected by the fans:
Soon the peloton is approaching the final, difficult climb up to the highest point in south Cape County, the Col de Crump. None of those sissy switchbacks that you see in France: the road just goes straight up the slope.
The fans have camped for days at the coveted spots right at the peak of the Col de Crump, where you can see their caravans and cars lining the road.
After a thrilling descent (I hit 42.9 mph), the TdF/2 goes through scenic Burfordville, site of Bollinger mill, 
and there we see one of the fans decked out in colorful native costume.
Tomorrow’s a rest day. Yay!
I think the heat is getting to you.