Thursday, July 15, 2010

The Alps


It is hard to explain just how beautiful the Alps in southern France are - and the pictures do not do them justice at all.


These shots were taken en route to "Le Depart" (the start) of the Tour de France on the morning of Stage 11, driving from Velleron to Sisteron. A bit of history of Sisteron as the site of the cyclists departure site (and history is something I never would have guessed I would be interested in....).


Sisteron has been inhabited for 4,000 years - imagine that. America wasn't even a thought in anyone's mind then or even a couple thousand years later - it's so hard to compare our history with other countries' histories. The city of Sisteron was used by the Romans for trade routes, was the site of skirmishes between the Catholics and Protestants for most of the 1500's and also was also part of Napolean's route home after his escape from Elba.


Now, the town is a tourist destination because it has over 300 days of sunshine a year - and is simply beautiful and quaint. What a great place to start the Tour for the riders - but it was so darn hot for them today - I feel bad as the climb those hills!

2 comments:

  1. What stunning photographs. Cannot wait to see more. I sent you a text about meeting up with a friend. Gave him your number. Hope you guys continue to have fun.

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  2. I didn't get your text! Use my new mobile number - 512.914.8179

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