Adrien Liechti: Beyond the Mountain Swiss long-distance racer Adrien Liechti seems to be in his absolute element whenever he’s outside on a bike. A whirling phenomenon of endurance and speed, we spent two days with him near Geneva, where he lives in-between racing around the world.                                       Hello, can you introduce yourself please. I'm Adrien Liechti, 37 years, from Switzerland. I worked in Geneva as a Bike Messenger for a few years and now I'm a full-time bike-packer. I've been racing long distance mountain bikes and on the road for about four or five years. It's not a job, it's a passion, I don't earn money doing this, but it takes me a lot of time, so I can say that it's my main activity. What pleasure is there in doing races like the ones you do, where you ride for days on end and get very little sleep? I really enjoy travelling by bike and meeting other people. I like to push my limits always looking to see what's beyond the next mountain. It's about connecting with nature. On these long races, over two or three days, we only ride, eat and sleep. It’s a simple existence; we are truly connected to nature and sleeping outside is part of that (laughs). What is your best racing memory? Probably what happened this year on the Tour Divide when my bike was lost by the airline a week before the race. I asked for help on social networks and dozens of people offered me their help including Manu. He offered to lend me one of his bikes. We struggled throughout the race, he finished second and I third on a bike he loaned me. Fabulous memory. And the hardest race? The Silk Road in Kyrgyzstan. It is not the longest but since we are at altitude far from the cities, far from any civilization, that complicates everything. This is 1800 km of mountain biking and around 40,000m of elevation gain, it took me eight days. It is a solo race without assistance. You don't have the right to get help from the locals. You can go to all places open to the public and in shops, but you are not allowed to knock on the doors of the local residents. These rules are very much respected by those who race. You have to know that most people don't race, they just want to finish which is already an achievement but for the first 10 or 15 it's very respected. We all know each other, we are a small family and we see each other around the world at each event, there is a strong ethical pact between us. How do you prepare for a race like the Silk Rd? The preparation of the route card is very important. I download the map as soon as we have it on several applications. I am looking for shops and their opening hours in general, on the Silk Road in Kyrgyzstan it was more difficult to find. I prepare the menu in its entirety and then I improvise. Either way, it's never going to go as planned. I only book places to stay a few hours before arriving, you can't predict how a race will go, nor project yourself by evaluating an average pace. How long can you ride without sleeping in a race? I have managed to stay awake for 55 to 60 hours. It's possible to do it but I didn't feel good. So, for some time, I prefer to sleep a few hours to be able to ride faster and enjoy the race. On the French Divide, I took a short nap but only went to the hotel after 800 km of racing. I saw a city on the map, I can't remember the name of the city, I booked the hotel two hours before arriving. Once in town, I went to buy food, drink, checked into my hotel, showered, ate and slept for three hours. In this type of racing, it is not on the bike that we make the difference but rather in the management of breaks, fuelling and sleep. What qualities do you need to win a race of 2,200 km like the French Divide? It's being a good mechanic on the bike, being able to eat anything on the course, making decisions in a state of advanced fatigue. And then on the French Divide in particular it's about being a good bike handler because it's quite technical. There were a lot of rocks, descents, technical climbs. If you are not technically good, you do almost everything on foot. For my part, I don't necessarily ride fast but I stop very little. I manage to just keep going, that's my strong point. How many kilometres do you ride per year? How do you train? It depends, I think 25,000 to 30,000 km per year including the races. When I was a bike courier I didn't train because I did 500km a week at work. Now I do intervals but nothing very well calculated, I do full climbs here near Geneva and then it reassures me. I don't really need to do long distances to feel good. Do you think you have specific physiological qualities? I think I have a lot of experience in racing especially. Sleep management is something that is learned and worked on. You train the body and brain to sleep one hour, to two hours… and take turbo naps too. It works a bit like sailors do managing sleep where every second counts. When racing, I stop at the end of the road, I lie down I put on an alarm clock and then usually I wake up 2 minutes before the bell and then I leave. It’s fun to do that! Does each race require a specific bike? My specialty is off-road racing, but every race can be different. You need different tyre sizes, you will often need a suspension, a flat handlebar or a drop handlebar, you will need different bags depending on what you are carrying with you. At the French Divide for example, in the middle of summer, I had almost nothing with me, because it was 35°C. On a race like the Silk Road, my bike weighed 25 kilos because you have to take food, and sleep in minus 15°C, so lots of clothes... What’s next? This year the Rhino Road, riding as a duo with my partner Sophie, we are not allowed to leave each other. You have to communicate and know that when you're tired sometimes we say things that shouldn't be said. It's going to be interesting… FURTHER RIDING The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. View more Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. View more 1% – a point of difference Rome wasn’t built in a day, they say, and the Planet certainly wasn’t either. 1% seems like a minor figure, but we’d like to argue just 1% can make a major difference to the outcome, from here to eternity. View more 1% for the Planet We spoke to our Caravan ambassador and professional sailor Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. View more

1% for the planet: Cyclotrope, cycling in all its forms Café du Cycliste devotes 1% of its turnover to supporting organisations committed to preserving the planet. A steady contribution to a cause that has become an absolute necessity in the sportswear industry, Café du Cycliste made a commitment at the start of the year to work alongside homegrown organisations. Our first association was with the sailor and Caravan ambassador Alexia Barrier’s 4 My Planet project, working with schools and young sailing enthusiasts to educate and collect data in order to sustain and hopefully clean up the oceans. And in September 2022, Café du Cycliste is also now supporting Cyclotrope. Based in Nice, Cyclotrope is first and foremost a Bike-School. It teaches children and adults through collaborative workshops to get back in the saddle, educate how to safely ride in traffic and carry out mechanical repairs, in a friendly and fun environment. They carry out amazing work to help democratise the practice of cycling, increase its use and make it a real tool of autonomy and freedom. Cyclotrope also offers learning sessions in the professional environment: promoting cycling in companies because it has its place in daily transport and represents an economic, ecological and easily accessible alternative for the future for the wider public. Opting for a bicycle for your daily professional journeys means escaping traffic jams while reducing the number of cars on the roads and therefore pollution, it's easier parking (eight bicycles o every single car parking space), it ensures regular exercise and boosts mental wellbeing. Cyclotrope is growing a community and each year brings along more people into the cycling universe. The work of Cyclotrope in less privileged neighbourhoods also caught our full attention. At its core cycling is more than a means of transport: it encourages self-improvement, community-building and empowerment to explore and discover the wider world. Guillaume, founder of Cyclotrope, explains how teaching a mother or a child to inflate their tyres themselves is a simple but important tool for self-sufficiency and great personal satisfaction. The deflated wheel is remarkably the most common immobilisation of bicycles. Cyclotrope tackles the problem of mobility at its base thanks to their painstaking work. For any community to thrive, the dissemination of knowledge and basic learning are paramount. The bike is a tool of freedom that allows you to go beyond the borders of a territory, to explore the world. The bicycle breaks down many barriers and benefits the environment. It is a magical machine. Café du Cycliste supports Cyclotrope in the pursuit of its activities with high added social and environmental value. FURTHER RIDING 1% for the Planet - Alexia Barrier. We spoke to our Caravan ambassador and professional sailor Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. View more The Life Cycle. Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. View more Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. View more 1% – a point of difference Rome wasn’t built in a day, they say, and the Planet certainly wasn’t either. 1% seems like a minor figure, but we’d like to argue just 1% can make a major difference to the outcome, from here to eternity. View more

Shorts Stories : Marinette Since their inception over five years ago, Marinette haven’t stopped riding. Built to perform day in day out, they are designed to ride and ride. And ride and ride. And then ride some more. Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. And then they’ve ridden some more. Marinette haven’t stopped riding. They’ve been close to home and far, far away. They’ve seen the world and more than lived to tell the tale. These shorts have found back-roads and byways, lost tracks and ridgeways. They’ve been raced across multiple maps and disappeared into the distance. Marinette haven’t stopped riding. They’ve explored some of the most beautiful villages in France in the heat of the summer and climbed the Giant of Provence far too many times to mention. (Why do they always want more?) They’ve conquered cols, traversed the territories of Texas and gone searching for the best croissant(s) in London. They’ve punched out one hour when that was all that that was permitted, been pushed inside, outside and unfortunately upside down. And they’ve even been shown on the silver screen at Cannes film festival in an award-winning feature. MARINETTE TWO With version two, then, comes a whole new chapter (or ten). Not just from best to even better, with a premium chamois and new integrated gripper design. But from a quiet determination to make more from even less. Less water in the process due to reuse, less greenhouse gas emission due to prior treatment. More comfort, more performance, more durability. More planet. Constructed using a mix of recycled and recyclable fabrics and unique enhanced biodegradation yarns, the new Marinette were conceived to ensure that maximum impact is made out on the road. Built to perform day in day out, they are designed to ride and ride. And ride and ride. And then ride some more. Marinette won’t stop riding. Further Riding Shorts Stories : Renée You know which country you are in if you know on which side of the ridge you are. Discovering a forgotten frontier in the Pyrénées with no little historical significance. No Gas Full Gas Sometimes it is all about fast. Clock ticking, legs screaming, heart pumping, tank emptying fast. Against a pack jostling for position or in search of a personal best. VIEW MORE The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE

Nice Trail Running Guide NICE TRAIL RUNNING GUIDE Some say you never really leave Nice once you’ve visited, because you’ll almost certainly want to keep coming back. Of course there are cafés, restaurants, art galleries and museums to consume like every other city, but there’s so much more to enjoy beyond the immediate limits of the metropolis if you’re feeling adventurous. For the visiting cyclist and/or runner, you can take any number of routes just a few miles beyond the port, and find yourself on terrific terrain with stunning scenery that will make you want to stay forever. CAFÉ DU CYCLISTE is based in Nice and our products are inspired by our every day adventures between the ocean and the mountains of the Riviera. TRAIL ROUTES What leads up the garden path… trail running is to the road runner what gravel riding is to the road cyclist. More exploration, more unbeaten paths, more fun for your money. ÈZE SEASIDE TO NICE A classic route between beautiful Riviera villas to the village of rock of Eze via Nietzsche Road and back into Nice. VIEW MORE SAINT JEAN CAP FERRAT A relatively easy route that winds its way to Paloma Beach for impeccable views and a finish by the sea. VIEW MORE THE DOG'S HEAD Somewhat technical trail with an incredible view of Monaco at its peak and finishing at La Mala beach. VIEW MORE MOUNT BORON Beginning at Café du Cycliste, this is the most accessible route if you’re short of time and need to leave your gear somewhere. VIEW MORE GRAVEL ROUTES And if you prefer to take the velocipede… these routes also allow for some of the best gravel riding on the continent. The Alpes Maritimes is crawling with off road adventures. We can point you in the right direction but the journey will be all yours. MONT FÉRION The gravel equivalent of Mont Ventoux. With three sides to climb and a chapel. VIEW THE RIDE FORT DE LA REVÈRE From the perched village of La Turbie and along the most spectacular stretch of chemin VIEW THE RIDE COL DE BRAUS One of the most iconic climbs anywhere in cycling but with a dark side. VIEW THE RIDE Nice Riding Guide The Alpes Maritime offers up some of the very best riding in world. From famous climbs to unknown tracks and everything in-between. For any type of cyclist, our home town really is a case of #nicecyclingparadise. VIEW THE GUIDE HERE. Nice Gravel Guide Deep within the Arrière-Pays Niçois lies a web of broken roads and hidden tracks. Discover the roads less ridden of the Alpes-Maritimes and plot your next adventure. VIEW THE GUIDE HERE. 1 - THE CAFÉ Located on the Old Port, our café is the perfect pre and post-ride meeting place. With some routes that begin almost outside, excellent coffee and a full range of our clothing collections for men and women. There are weekly rides as well if you’d like to discover riding on the Cote D’Azur with like minded companions. You can find us at: 16 Quai des Docks 06300 Nice 2 - RENT AND RIDE Travel light and book your bike. We offer a range of rental bikes, the R5 Cervelo road bike and the Aspero Cervelo gravel bike along with titanium road bikes from French marque Leon. Each bike is complete with pedals, tool bag and rear light while, if needed, each rental can also include Specialized shoes and helmet. VIEW MORE 3 - THE RIDE OF THE MONTH Each month we choose a ride that particularly beautiful, tough or rewarding (or all three) during a particular month of the year. August. Sharing two almost secret climbs that take you up past the tree lines to provide a window on to the wild high peaks of the Mercantour National Park. VIEW MORE PRACTICAL how to arrive With direct flights from around 30 European countries as well as further afield, Nice is well connected by air. The tram line now goes direct to the old Port, where our café is situated. For more information on flights, see the Aeroport de Nice website. Nice has two train stations. From Paris the journey is around six hours and brings you into the heart of the city. For more information on trains, see the SNCF website. where to stay Despite the exceptional riding on its doorstep , Nice is the fifth biggest city in France. Given its attractions, there are numerous place to stay while you’re here, from hotels through to guest houses and, of course, private appartment rentals. For more information on where to stay, see the Nice Tourist board website.

1% – a point of difference All great achievements come from small beginnings: Rome wasn’t built in a day, they say, and the Planet certainly wasn’t either. 1% seems like a minor figure, a fleck of dust in the largeness of space and time, but we’d like to argue just 1% can make a major difference to the outcome, from here to eternity. Allow us to explain, to a point. –– 1% of the world’s population is roughly 78 million (1% of 7.8 billion); this should be self-explanatory – 1% can make a big difference. FYI, 78 million is the populations of France and Tunisia combined… Imagine if all those people stopped using air travel and cars and used bicycles and trains instead. It would surely make more than a 1% difference on the environment… wouldn’t it? When an ice cube reaches 0ºC (32ºF) it melts, alas 1 degree can be the difference between a solid state and falling apart – needless to say, we can relate this to the polar caps and the dangerously rising sea levels… Just 1º can make a huge difference to the state of your beverage, and the climate… –– If a monkey can eat a doughnut whilst roller skating, without assistance, anything really is possible. Speaking of monkeys, or primates to be more scientific, the 1% difference between humans and our closest mammal relations suggests there’s a minor difference between living in the jungle or being able to charter a flight beyond the earth’s atmosphere. The British got rather good at cycling in the 2000s after being terrible for much of the 20th century, and that’s down to small 1% improvements. Dave Brailsford, the mastermind of British Cycling’s rising star, called it ‘marginal gains.’ ‘The whole principle came from the idea that if you broke down everything you could think of that goes into riding a bike, and then improve it by 1 per‐ cent, you will get a significant increase when you put them all together.’ Those 1 per cent increases across the board have led to great successes, such as five Tour de France victories and countless Olympic medals. 1% ABV. The difference between a 12% ABV bottle of wine and a 13% bottle might mean the difference between getting up in the morning or staying in bed and calling in sick. Another glass? –– If your dreaded interest rates or inflation goes up by 1% you’ll know about it. Same with those awful things called examinations; 1% off that distinction or pass? Could be life changing… exams really are awful aren’t they. 1% of eight minutes is almost 5 seconds: When you cook pasta just a few moments over, it’s the difference between al dente and soggy spaghetti, and in some parts of Italy the difference between life and death. –– Jay-Z rapped about having 99 problems, with the elusive 1 not related to any so-called bitch. Imagine how little time he’d have to write misogynistic raps if he’d had that extra 1%. Oh well. If a pilot flying from Paris to Gibraltar airport shifted the flightpath south by 1%, the aeroplane would land in the Mediterranean Sea… –– If you’ve read this far, you’re in the 1% of people who read to the end of articles. 1% of 590 words is 5.9… so let’s round that figure up to 6 with another short fact: If we all got 1% better every day for a year, we’d be 37% better by the end of that year. No matter how you see things, that’s a big jump. With that in mind, keep making those tiny improvements and do what you can to make the difference. –– Café du Cycliste is a member of 1% for the Planet, helping to tackle environmental issues. 1% for the Planet We spoke to our Caravan ambassador and professional sailor Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. VIEW MORE The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. And then they’ve ridden some more. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE

Take me to the River #8: In the Creeks of the Esterel Riding for a long time in the South of France in the summertime often requires cooling down the engine, especially if you choose to traverse the side of a big ancient rock formation. Crossing the Maritime Alps to reach the Var – from Nice to Saint Raphaël – is one of those outings that can be stifling on the mountainside, when the red rocks of the Esterel cornice radiate all the heat stored up during the night. But if you plan ahead and slip a swimsuit into the back pocket of the jersey, your experience can be one of beautiful balance. It determines the choice of a jersey with big pockets of course, which is Mona on this occasion. The first kilometres alongside the beaches of the Alpes Maritimes offer the usual service, a necessary road to take in order to go up into the mountain valleys. Today it is a question of staying on the flat, following the sea, and leaving in the morning as early as possible. Tourists with umbrellas and inflatables under their arms, the scent of sunscreen and donuts from the food-trucks. There’s no doubt summer has arrived on the Côte d'Azur. Past Théoule-sur-Mer the atmosphere changes, the orange rocks have appeared, the stifling heat too. On the slopes of the Pic de l'Ours, the temperature flirts with 35°C, the Lac des Ecureuils in the heart of the massif has been dry for many weeks. It is almost surprising given the scorching heat and the regular blowing of the wind that the roads are still open to cyclists and walkers. The sound of the cicadas becomes deafening as well, as if they too are feeling the heat. The freshness of the air which glides over the skin when the descent begins is a real relief. And now it's time to find a secluded cove to discreetly switch into the aforementioned swimsuit and jump into the water. A simple luxury that you can afford in a few minutes, why deprive yourself of it? Here the water is more crystalline than anywhere else on the Côte d'Azur, due to the clear rocks that line the bottom. Do a few breaststrokes and then let yourself float on your back while gazing at the pure blue sky. Then a quick lie down on this submerged slab to enjoy the freshness for a few more moments. It’s the end of the break. Almost 60 kilometres remain to be covered to reach the port of Nice. The next stop, in Mandelieu-la Napoule, will consist of eating Pan Bagnat, the most famous Niçoise sandwich. Arriving in Nice again, the urge to take out the bathing suit will briefly cross your mind, but here the beaches are crowded with people, with no hidden coves. The suit remains rolled up, still wet, in the back pocket of the Mona, and you will go your way. Further Riding Les Gorges Du Loup When the heat gets too much, escape to l’arrière-pays for some fresh water wild swimming. Introducing a new series of riding to rivers, starting with Les Gorges du Loup. VIEW MORE Ruisseau de Redebraus We reveal yet another secret of the Col de Braus. Discover wild swimming paradise just a few hundred metres below some of the most perfect switchbacks in the Alpes-Maritimes. VIEW MORE Rochetta Nervina Across the border, up the valley and through the olive groves. The latest ‘Take Me To The River’ takes us into Italy for a dip and a doppio. VIEW MORE Gordolasque High summer means high heat means the search for high roads and high mountain river swimming. Go to Gordolasque. VIEW MORE Col St Roch Halfway up Col St Roch lies a hidden treasure known only to a few. The perfect place to take a minute and unwind. VIEW MORE

Another Tour - Morzine, July '22. The Tour is life. From the northern cobblestones to the Alps, the Pyrénées to the Champs Élysées. Every dog has its day. The highs and lows, the mountains and the valleys, on and on they race. Punctures, flares, agony and ecstasy. The devil and the deep blue sky. Every year they try, the raging peloton, slogging it out again and again. Friends and foes, solo escapes, chasing teams, searing heat. Here today, gone in a flash. The Tour won’t last forever, will it? Enjoy it while you can.

Le Tour du Vin Every July, millions tune in to see the grandest cycling event in the world. But it’s not just the bike tournament itself that enchants us: the architecture, sunflowers, mountains and TV helicopters, all of it makes for the summer’s best sporting show. And alongside the Tour, which one thing is synonymous with France? Wine, of course. From the vineyards of Alsace to the caves of Bordeaux, from Asterix’s barrel to Gérard Depardieu’s cellar, wine is the cultural blood of the country, with its history reaching back to the Roman Empire (santé, Caesar!). And wine isn’t simply about quenching your thirst and getting merry, it’s about the land – the terroir. Each region has its own distinctive soil, climate and, of course, grape varieties. Once those grapes become wine, it can be the ultimate expression of the land from which it’s grown. The main wine regions are traditionally listed as Bordeaux, Burgundy, Rhône, Alsace, Champagne, Loire, Languedoc and Provence. And using the Grand Boucle as a virtual wine tour is the perfect way to discover each. This year’s route takes a clockwise ‘loop’, heading from Calais down to the Alps, and then southwest to cross the Pyrenees, and finally back up to Paris. So, rather than give you a rundown of each stage of the race, here instead is a general classification of grand crus and world champion vintages that come from the fertile soils of France. Stages 1 – 4 : Start with water and bread The Grand Départ of this year’s edition takes place in bike-centric Denmark. So, with the upmost respect to our Nordic friends, we’ll skip those and use these first three stages as a palate cleanser. After a rest/transfer day the peloton arrives in France proper for a sprinter’s stage between Calais and Dunkerque. Not known for wine, apart from the duty free. Stages 5 and 6 : Champagne A mini-spring-classics is on the cards in the French northeast, with cobbled sectors and a detour into the Ardennes. This is undoubtedly where the race will really begin to fizz. So, as we’re not a million miles away, let’s begin our wine odyssey with the finest (most expensive) bubbles known to humanity. Champagne vintages are commonly made blending Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay, but the more elegant ‘blanc de blancs’ are 100% Chardonnay. Vinification involves a secondary fermentation (adding more yeast and sugar to produce carbon dioxide) to create those celebratory bubbles. There’s a lot to discover here beyond the big dogs like Krug, Cristal and Dom Pérignon, and single estate wines such as Billecart Salmon are highly regarded. Other more affordable makers, such as G. Tribaut, and family-run Piot Sévillano, are just a cork-pop away. Or, perhaps, you’ll seek out Castelnau’s cuvée Véloce, the Tour’s official VIP Champagne (apparently). Food pairing : Oysters Stage 7 : Alsace The first stage with a summit finish, the route runs parallel with the region of Alsace. Most notable for its white wines (although they do Pinot Noir well), the area’s proximity to Germany and its curvaceous landscape have made it one of the best places for Rieslings and Gewürztraminer wines, alongside Pinot Gris and Muscat. There are 51 ‘Grand Crus’ (top-end vineyards) in the vicinity, with a variety of soil types promoting fresh and formidable profiles. We recommend one of the region’s dry and bright Rieslings. Famed Alsace vignerons include Humbrecht, Hugel, Cave de Turckheim and Rolly Gassmann. Expect zesty attacks and a distinctive finish. Food pairing : Tarte Flambée Stage 8 : Burgundy Moving swiftly on, we’re veering slightly west of the stage and dipping our noses into world-renowned Burgundy. Arguably the place for the most romantic, and some of the most expensive, vintages; the Côte d’Or, a patch of vineyards just south of Dijon, is where you’ll find the world’s best examples of single variety Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Beaujolais made further south of here offers better value for money, with crus such as Cote de Brouilly and Fleurie. Created with Gamay grapes, Beaujolais is best served slightly chilled. Food Pairing : 24-month-aged Comté (cheese) Stages 9 – 11 : Rhône Valley We’re into the Alps now, and there’s a lot to discover. It’s a very diverse region where you could try a dry full-bodied white from the Jura or a spicy red from the Savoie. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is typically known as the pinnacle of Rhône vintages, the Col du Galibier of red wine (although they do produce a few whites in this appellation too). Some Châteauneuf-du-Pape vintages are so good even beings from outer space are believed to have to been spotted hovering over the vineyards. Outstanding Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines include those from Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe, Chateau Rayas and Guigal. More affordable but often great reds come from the Rhône villages of Cairanne, Sablet and Lirac. Apparently, some grape varieties from the Rhône date back to the Greeks; cuvées made with Grenache and Syrah or whites using Viognier are fail-safe. Food pairing : Tartiflette Stage 13 : Provence The Tour isn’t visiting Provence this year, but we had to include Café du Cycliste’s home region. For something that sings of summer in southern France, a bottle of Provençal rosé will really quench the thirst, especially after a sprint finish, or alongside the world-famous fish stew, Bouillabaisse. Rosé is made with red grape varieties but macerated with minimal skin contact, and so colour and character depends on the grapes and vinification method. One of the most revered rosé producers is the Domaine Tempier estate in Bandol, their rosé is made using Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault grapes. For wines local to Nice, Chateau de Bellet’s floral whites go perfectly with seafood. Stage 14 – 18 : Languedoc–Rousillon and Sud Ouest Moving west towards the Pyrenees, the Languedoc is home to some essential appellations including the ever-popular Picpoul de Pinet whites. The south-west wine region is vast and made up of disparate wine-making pockets. And as the race itself undoubtedly reaches its climax, you’ll find some very intense reds to enjoy. Côtes-de-Bergerac is full bodied and complex and made to extremely strict harvesting conditions. Cahors is a Dordogne wine which is even more robust, and perfect for a mountaintop finish. Wines made with native Tannat grapes are also rather punchy. Sweet wines can also be found in the mountains, such as Jurançon-sec and whites using Petit Manseng are outstanding. Cheese pairing : Rocamadour Stage 19 – 20 : Bordeaux You can’t do a tour of French wine without at least a whiff of the world’s best known winemaking region. Wine classification began here in 1855 and cuvées of thick-skinned Cabernet Sauvignon (left-bank) and Merlot (right-bank) create both powerful and smooth vintages. There are also sweet Sauternes produced here, in the sub-region of Graves, which is also where ‘Claret’ (as Bordeaux wine was referred to in the UK) was originally exported to England from. The most expensive wines here are from the left bank, known by some as ‘millionaire’s vinegar’, and offer more length and robustness than an uphill time trial. The First Growth wines of Châteaus Lafite Rothschild and Margaux will not be for everyone, so look for smaller producers from appellations such as St. Emilion, Pauillac and Médoc. Food pairing : Steak frites Stage 21 : Loire Valley The final stage is of course traditionally about a glass of Champagne (see above) for the rider in the yellow jersey, but you might wish to visit the Loire further west of Paris. Cremant from the Loire is made in the Champagne method using Chenin Blanc grapes and the south-facing slopes of the region also produce excellent whites with Sauvignon Blanc and Sancerre. The red wines of the Loire using Cabernet Franc are worth investigating, such as producers in Saumur Champigny and Bourgeil. These wines are best served lightly chilled. As American Francophile and food writer Richard Olney said it’s ‘difficult to touch with words the soul of a wine.’ Therefore, we suggest the best way to discover the wines of France is to saddle up, and head for the vineyards (or wine shop). Don’t forget the corkscrew. Further Riding The best Gnocchi in the world Found in the Cottian Alps, shared with old friends and served by new friends in a mountain retreat that momentarily mutes the volume on modern life. VIEW MORE The best socca in the world Can only come from Nissa la Bella. A niche local speciality, best enjoyed after a starter of Cols Eze and Madone, it's more niçois than Nice itself. VIEW MORE The best crêpe in the world Found in France. Obviously. A specific part of France, the place where it was invented. The rugged, coastal and rural Bretagne. VIEW MORE The best pizza in the world Not from Italy - though it is made not far from the Italian border, in the French Alpes Maritimes. VIEW MORE

The Repair-Café with Alexia Barrier When Alexia Barrier, world-class sailor and Caravan athlete, suggested the idea of organizing a Repair-Café to us, we jumped at the idea. After all, we are both now committed to working together to improve environmental cohesion, sustainability and education. As of last month, Café du Cycliste is donating 1% of revenue to Ms. Barrier’s 4myplanet initiative. So let us explain a bit more about her Repair Café. The Repair-café concept is simple: Many bicycles sit idly in the back of a garage, only because a tyre is flat, or the brakes don’t work. The Repair Café teaches people how to correct such minor issues, how to do it themselves. If you were thinking of dropping off your bike to your trusted (or slightly untrusted) local bike shop and pick it up two hours (or maybe days) later, ready to roll, go your way. However, if saving a few euros (or equivalent currency) and getting your hands dirty sounds more your cup of tea, then take the self-sufficient, planet-friendly and mentally rewarding option. The advantage is that at the end of this workshop you will be able to get tough on the simplest repairs: disassembling a wheel and putting a patch on an inner tube, adjusting brakes, gears, and mending broken chains. The principle: fix things, don’t chuck them away and replace them if unnecessary. The Repair Café welcomes old and young and is an opportunity to bring together a disparate group of people around the same virtuous project. Held worldwide, Repair Cafés offer opportunities to learn and preserve. Zero waste, maximum satisfaction. The operation was brilliantly orchestrated by the eco-warriors of Université Côte d'Azur who have held such events previously on its campuses. The team from the University came to offer expert knowledge and helped to draw the crowds into the Café du Cycliste. Students and youngsters turned out in large numbers for this first experience at the port. The workshop was an experience and an education for everyone, expertly hosted by Cyclotrope, a non-profit association. Their presenters set the tempo, involving everyone from more advanced repair workers to those who were struggling a little in their plan to bring their old bike back to life. Nice à Vélo were also there, a social scheme that informs and raises awareness among the public of Nice about the use of bicycles in the city. The Repair Café is most certainly set to return, with requests flying into us at the Café du Cycliste. The bicycle virus continues to spread. Further Riding Alexia Barrier Alexia is the 10th woman in the world to have finished the Vendée Globe race without stopping and without assistance. Cycling is her other passion. VIEW MORE The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE 1% for the Planet We spoke to Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. VIEW MORE

1% for the planet We spoke to our Caravan ambassador and professional sailor Alexia Barrier about her 4myplanet enterprise and how Café du Cycliste will be contributing to her future projects through 1% for the Planet. Can you introduce us to 4myplanet? 4myplanet is a charitable association that I created 12 years ago. My goal was to preserve my playground, the ocean. We carry out two main actions which revolve around education and science. We create educational kits for children and carry out practical lessons with them. In addition, my racing boats are equipped with sensors to report data to oceanographic researchers around the world, which helps monitoring changes and patterns in marine biology. With 4myplanet I want to be able to give meaning to my sailing and my competitions. Success in competition is not my only goal. I love it when we continue to learn and progress together collectively. Today we have hundreds of thousands of children who follow us in France, South Africa, Brazil, and the United States through schools, associations of disadvantaged children, and with the National Union School Sport (UNSS). I hope that by the end of next year we will reach one million children. We are also a UNESCO ambassador for ocean research and observation. We can be proud of all that I believe. Can you explain one of these educational workshops to us? We are currently investigating the resources of the ocean because we often forget that ultimately the resources of the ocean are an integral part of our daily lives. Algae, for example, which we use in food, which we use for their bioluminescence in x-rays, have great gelling properties for pastries, for example. We are currently doing workshops with the kids in schools, we have them test all the properties of seaweed and they love it. How does competition and participation in the biggest races contribute to the cause of 4myplanet? Sail-racing is all the same a little selfish, even if we make people dream a lot. In general, we go there to win and have fun. That's why I need to give meaning to my races. We associate the actions of 4myplanet with every navigation, every time we set sail. I see us as players in raising awareness because we give visibility on the water and then globally. We give an important voice to the cause of the preservation of the environment and more particularly of the ocean, thanks to the races, and the media interest we get. Alongside this the Café du Cycliste as a sponsor will allow us to accelerate and amplify our actions in favour of children and the preservation of the environment. We share common values; I am really delighted and proud of this collaboration. What’s upcoming with 4myplanet? It’s all about the new sensors on my racing boats that’s got me excited right now. With these we will take data from under the water whereas before it was from the surface, hopefully providing some valuable data. I'm also going to change mounts and sail in a trimaran. These boats really fly. For the educational part, we will develop a virtual reality program for children to learn about the environment. For children who don't have access to the sea, I think virtual reality is great for giving them this experience and bringing them closer to nature. We are also going to bring young people together at our Repair Café that we will soon be organizing in the port of Nice at the Café du Cycliste. This will be an opportunity to learn how to repair your bike so you can get to and from school by bike. And in terms of sailing, what are your next projects? As for racing, I am attempting the Jules Verne trophy – a crewed, round the world, non-stop journey. I’ve assembled a 100% female crew; it's been 25 years since there has been a female team competing for this trophy. So, we're really going to try to be a model for women who want to achieve big things in sailing and life in general. If we can be this driving force, it will be even more beautiful than winning the record. I think we will succeed in involving as many people as possible in our adventure. Soon I will set off on the Route du Rhum, on a 32-meter multihull. This will also be a world first because there are no women on this type of boat. The program is quite ambitious, it's going to be super interesting. The cause for women is close to your heart, you have a personal commitment to the most vulnerable? Yes, 4myplanet dedicates actions to disadvantaged women, women who are experiencing difficulties in their professional and family life. We are committed to an association called Parcours de Femmes in Cannes. We take them sailing and I invite my coaches and we organize for them wellness workshops, yoga, learning to breathe, freediving experiences, learning to relax. What they are going through can happen to any of us. How will 4myplanet use the annual €30,000 that Café du Cycliste will allocate to it as part of its 1% for the Planet policy? €30,000 per year for the association is a huge boost that allows us to trigger actions that are waiting to be activated. A few thousand euros were missing for it to exist. Typically, the virtual reality program we couldn't do because we didn't have the budget. We will be able to launch this, and in September 2022 at the start of the school year, classes will have access to the sea thanks to sponsorship from the Café du Cycliste. Café du Cycliste is a member of 1% for the Planet®, donating 1% of our turnover to nonprofit environmental groups and charities. FURTHER RIDING NO GAS FULL GAS Sometimes it is all about fast. Clock ticking, legs screaming, heart pumping, tank emptying fast. Against a pack jostling for position or in search of a personal best. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. And then they’ve ridden some more. VIEW MORE

Ride of the Month : Provence Markets There are two things which fuel the cyclist. One is food and water, the other is the topography and scenery. Both are necessary rewards for the miles spent pushing and panting. In Provence, the home of Café du Cycliste, we are spoilt with an abundance of beautiful ingredients, a world-renowned cuisine, and thousands of miles of mountains, trails and incredible rolling roads. Campagne et gastronomie de la Côte d’Azur. May is the season of the markets in Provence, where a cornucopia of open air stalls appear each week in most towns and villages. We often like to go grunting and gathering, like the little Lycra-clad piggies we are, on our bikes to such markets – a great excuse to sample some saucisson, uncover archictectural gems and enjoy a coffee or three. We depart our Provencal promenade, of course, from the Café du Cycliste shop in the port of Nice. A cappuccino, a black Americano and an espresso for our photographer. We smile at the sun gods, blessing us yet again with golden rays and the effervescence of springtime. First we ride an easy tempo to the Basse Corniche, beginning to perspire as we reach Villefranche sur Mer with its stunning viewpoint over the sea, dinghies and yachts casting their shadows on the water. Somewhere in this vicinity was discovered the remnants of Stone Age tools. It’s fascinating to imagine prehistoric humans stalking beaches around here and lighting fires within their primitive huts. Then imagine them trying to logon to the WiFi or even zip-up their Café du Cycliste jerseys. Mind-boggling. Our carbon fibre and alloy machinery brings us to Beaulieu-sur-mer and its Art Deco Grand Casino. Feeling lucky? We keep moving. We then take the obligatory race positions on the smooth blacktop into Monaco, bellies towards our top tubes alongside the F1 circuit to Menton. Riding by the lapping waves of the turquoise sea, with the smell of sun cream in the air, brings a sense of holiday time. Some people below are even having a little dip in the chilly May water too, brave. This summer vibe – 35km into the ride – makes us want to stop for another coffee, before starting the toughest leg of the trip so we make our stop at a cute café, with a terrasse right by the sea. After having ordered our next round of cappuccino and Americano (water for the photographer this time), we sit at a table in the shade of a parasol. Maybe gelato would be better today. No matter, the stimulating aromas are rewarding. Sipping our coffee, admiring the views, this really is a taste of la dolce vita. Safety first of course. Back on the bike, taking it easy, spinning the legs until we cross the limits of Menton. Then a sudden right angle turn into a narrow road at the bottom of the Mortola climb which can take us over into Italy. But not today. As we begin to climb this narrow road we see more of Menton below, offering a view of the old town with its colourful facades of reds and yellows, the church and the port. Flashing blue water comforts our eyes once more. Following this tiny road, our route takes us up to Castellar offering beautiful views of the mountains between greenery and rocks. After Castellar, we join the road towards Castillon and Sospel but instead of going up, we take a left and turn back down toward Menton. Soon after, we reach the bottom of the famous Col de la Madone that we’ll only use for 3km before taking another left and a smooth climb that leads to Gorbio, a pretty typical perched village with quiet cobbled streets and medieval passages. Then along a pine-tree-lined road we roll back down seawards to another perched idyll, the old town of Roquebrune Cap Martin. Here we finally reach our market, in the central square with a big olive tree. We hear it before we see it. Today, market day, the tree is surrounded by stalls – from market gardener, fishmonger, to cheese monger and charcuterie. We take a quick browse, sample some Tomme à l'Ancienne, inhale the smells and adore the scenery. A quick tour of the old town (dismounting our bikes) through tiny narrow streets with cool, fresh air bouncing off the stonework. A sleeping cat, the smell of lunch being prepared. We finish off the day by riding up to La Turbie via La Moyenne. It is a gentle climb above Monaco and leads us to out third and final coffee stop. Espresso all round, single shot. From La Turbie, a true cycling crossroad of the French Riviera, it is all the way down to Nice with a plunging view over the bay and Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, always good for tired legs. Further Riding March In the world of cycle racing, Milan–San Remo is one of the most prestigious events of the season. To win this trophy is to have your name chiseled into history. But only if you’re a man. VIEW MORE January Exiting Nice from the north side, this ride provides a healthy mélange of architectural and natural landmarks, with a side of local legend. VIEW MORE December In Provence, Christmas lasts 40 days. In the small village of Luceram, nativity scenes have become a sacred tradition for its inhabitants. VIEW MORE November A ride that goes further than the normal nourishing experience, climbing the iconic Col d’Eze en route to Monaco in search of a model turned urban gardener. VIEW MORE

No Gas Full Gas Facts Civilisation began 12,000 years ago. For 10,000 of those rotations of the sun, the planet’s climate has provided the stability for humanity to develop. But since the mid-twentieth century the rate at which we’ve produced energy has raised the earth’s temperature to dangerous levels. Fossil fuel consumption is a major part of this crisis. We must reduce the damage. Fast. 1. Carbon dioxide (CO2) from human activity is increasing more than 250 times faster than it did from natural sources after the last ice age. 2. Renewable energy needs maximum investment. The uptake in low-carbon energy sources can help economies to grow without increasing emissions. 3. The biggest producers of CO2 are China, the USA, India and Russia. 4. We need to fix things now. Rebalance by recapturing billions of tonnes of carbon. And stop emitting carbon on a daily basis. 5. Wind power currently fuels about 5% of the world’s electricity, which is a 2% increase since 2012. Denmark leads the way with 36% of its output produced via wind turbines. 6. The bicycle’s contribution to a greener culture is undeniable. Unsurprisingly it is the Netherlands who have the most bicycle use per capita. 99% of the population cycle, compared to 32% in the USA. 7. The combustion engine needs to be abolished for life to continue. But it’s not that simple. We need alternatives which are available and affordable. 8. To move forwards we need to be mindful of how we behave. From the choices we make every day. 10. The wheel is humanity’s greatest technological breakthrough, but now it must be used for the greater, greener good. Quick solution? Ride a push bike. 9. Scrap the car, take the train, the boat or best of all, the bicycle. 11. Café du Cycliste are forever outsiders, and we want future generations to follow us. Further Riding The Life Cycle Cycling as a lifestyle empowers people physically and mentally and allows us to connect with nature – a key force for changing behaviours and reducing carbon emissions. VIEW MORE Shorts Stories : Marinette Our ‘flagship’ in the bib shorts fleet, they’ve ridden across continents, up to the highest peaks, and down low on the hottest highways. And then they’ve ridden some more. VIEW MORE No Gas Full Gas Sometimes it is all about fast. Clock ticking, legs screaming, heart pumping, tank emptying fast. Against a pack jostling for position or in search of a personal best. VIEW MORE Our Community Join our global community by sharing your rides, adventures and discoveries. Follow us on Instagram @cafeducycliste. VIEW MORE

Nissa La Bella: Float down to the Carnival Held officially since 1873 (although reports suggest the Count of Provence held carnivals in the late 13th century), the Nice Carnival is one of the world’s most celebrated parades. A truly international festival, the fortnight-long show celebrates the city’s history and culture, hailing the start of Lent and the passing of winter. Millions of people flock to the city each year and it is yet another reason for us to celebrate our home – Nissa La Bella. A psychedelic spectacle, particularly at night, the carnival caravan consists of papier-mâché sculptures and effigies, costumed dancers and musicians, flagpoles, and dazzling illuminations. One of the most distinctive elements is the flowers featuring on the floats, and the flower battles that occur along the Promenade des Anglais. The theme of the 2022 edition was ‘King of the Animals’, and saw artists build some gargantuan representations of wild and wonderful creatures. Our Eglantine jersey is badged in honour of our hometown and available for both men and women in two colours for SS22. 1. Fierce reputation : one of the world’s longest-running parades, the carnival has been held since 1873. 2. Petal power : Flowers feature prominently every year, with ‘flower battles’ taking place along the Promenade des Anglais. 3. Capture the moment : over a million people flock to Nice during the two-week festival. 4. The paper trail : papier-mâché effigies ands cultures feature heavily, with months of preparation 5. Wild side : each year a special theme is chosen. 2022 was ‘King of the Animals’. 6. Mouse-party : all kinds of crazy costumes to be seen, and that’s just the spectators 7. Party-goers : the carnival attracts people of all ages, fun for all the family 8. Floating fun : an unhappy face at carnival is rarer than a unicorn’s tail 10. Thumbs up : See you next year young lady. 9. Sneak peek : even the locals going about their daily business can’t help but take a look at the festivities 11. Naked attraction : Nissa La Bella, what a place to be.

Étienne Hubert: Paris by Night Adventure is around every corner on a bike, even in Paris in winter. And so, I took two old kayaking veterans with me to cross the capital at night. I encouraged them with the promise of over a hundred kilometres, lots of climbing and plenty of paths that many would never normally cross in daytime Paris. The pair both held the title of world kayaking champion in past years and spent hours, summer and winter, in the cold water of rivers, in sometimes daunting conditions and have long been fans of big efforts and heavy training loads. Adventure is their bread and butter. Despite their advanced age, I know that they still have fire under their feet and that they just have to sit on a saddle for the desire to fight to burn bright. Departure at 8pm and heading south-east of Paris. At the rate at which we ride the first 15kms, the loop will quickly be completed. There is no escaping this ritual at the start of a ride, a little tester to judge each other’s form. But the fast food slows the pace before entering the forest of Notre Dame Sucy en Brie. We all left work without eating, putting us at that well-known risk of eating anything when we're hungry, and that's exactly what we do: Hamburger, fries, coke. But the next kilometres eliminate all that. Usually in this forest, the single-track is fun, the small bumps a formality, the descents playful. But with nightfall and the rain that has poured over Paris in recent days, the scenario turns out to be very different. Quickly mud gets lodged everywhere, loading the cranks and tyres, rendering us almost useless. You must push, unclog, try to get back on for a few metres further, and stop to unclog again. Our feet are now soaked in mud, I hear them cursing me. It's 11 p.m. and our speedometers show just 25kms. The night will be long. Returning towards Paris central via the Château de Vincennes, I suggest a quick stop with my friend Bertrand (Judo Olympic medallist in Barcelona) at the Olympe Sports Café to fill bidons... “We are not lingering; we still have a long way to go.” The trap is pointing its nose as I leave the bar, pints of beer have replaced bidons of water. The trap finally closes in on us when the boss serves us three shots of rum... “Now there will be a moment of euphoria, then a drop in speed…” At this time of the evening, around midnight, normal people would gladly go to bed. We are not normal people, however, especially this eve. There are still more than 50 km to go but the visit of classic Parisian spots is not negotiable: Baltard, Château de Vincennes, Pigalle, Montmartre, Madeleine, Champs Élysée, Place de l'Etoile. Even with wheels full of mud, at night, on a bike, everything takes on a new dimension, a more mythical quality. Contrasting with the daytime Paris that we know off by heart, this darker quieter city is fascinating. "You’re closed? You don't have enough left to make us three kebabs?" I have just negotiated the supply of a delicacy which will see us to the end of our ride. We get back on track, the crossing of the Bois de Boulogne is done at high speed, wheel to wheel. Roads and streets belong to us at this time of night. The coast of St Cloud will allow us to check what energy we have left 30 km from the finish. What awaits us next is a frantic return with the wind at our backs, along the banks of the Seine. Most people don't want to hang around anymore, we let ourselves be carried away by the speed and the noise of our big tyres on the macadam. The Eiffel Tower and the waterways in the heart of Paris make us however spontaneously reduce the pace, we feel privileged to taste these places at an undue hour. We linger around the Louvre Pyramid. It is 3am when we reach our quarters. The call of the bed is the strongest, we will take care of the bikes tomorrow. But it's already tomorrow... in four short hours the alarm clock will ring to bring us back to reality, our aching legs will then be able to remind us that this crossing of Paris was neither a dream, nor a nightmare, but something altogether different. Further Riding Étienne Hubert: an introduction Étienne Hubert As a World Champion sprint canoeist, cycling has always been a key part of my training routine but also a great way to socialise and explore hidden routes. VIEW MORE A Mont-Blanc Gravel Tour After the last few months of training and the Olympics in Japan, I find myself constantly craving nature. I’ve thought about doing a Gravel tour of Mont Blanc for so long, so this seemed like the perfect time. VIEW MORE Farewell to Winter It is said that the ride should be about the journey, not the destination. However, for Anton Krupicka and Hailey Moore, a recent trip in the Colorado mountains proved it’s about both. VIEW MORE A Traverse Across the Pyrenees Each summer, I set off on an adventurous trip with good friends who are up for a challenge. Last year, we bikepacked through the Alps and this year we tackled the Pyrenees. VIEW MORE

Caravan: When Guillaume Néry dived into the Café It took five magical minutes to understand the dimension of the athlete and the level of requirement of his freediving discipline. Café du Cycliste on the port of Nice is packed with people this Monday evening in March. Click here to watch the full event. Guillaume Néry the world champion free-diver walks on stage and, saying nothing, settles in his chair with relaxed eyes, clips his pince-nez to his nose, takes deep breaths, stores air again and again as if to occupy every every cell in his body and for 5 minutes that seem to last years, Guillaume holds his breath. Time is suspended. As he sits, occasionally opening his eyes to check the elapsed time, the audience watch clips of this motionless man’s extreme endeavours under the sea. This performance is the preamble to a discussive journey with him, taking us 126 meters below sea level to explain how his body and, more precisely his brain, withstand the constraints and pressures of free-diving. For a long time scientists thought that a human could not descend below 50 meters without oxygen. Athletes of Guillaume's calibre have defied all predictions, pushed the limits beyond the imaginable, undermining all scholarly doctrines. There is this moment when the body falls into the depths, drawn to the deepest point possible. At less than 126 metres the organs take 12 times the normal pressure, the body literally crushed under the weight of the ocean. And then you must start the ascent, paddling with power to defy gravity. And the further you go, the more oxygen is lacking. But finally, returning to the surface, the lungs are filled with air, and the body is reborn. For nearly two hours, Guillaume Néry, our Caravan athlete, thrilled the public at the Port of Nice. Relive this extraordinary experience here. More from the Caravan Guillaume Néry: an Introduction Cycling has forged me into the athlete I am today, but it is so much more than just a way to train as it encompasses travel, exploration and discovery, some of my great passions in life. VIEW MORE Guillaume Néry: A Traverse Across the Pyrenees Each summer, I set off on an adventurous trip with good friends who are up for a challenge. Last year, we bikepacked through the Alps and this year we tackled the Pyrenees. VIEW MORE A Mont-Blanc Gravel Tour with Etienne Hubert After the last few months of training and the Olympics in Japan, I find myself constantly craving nature. I’ve thought about doing a Gravel tour of Mont Blanc for so long, so this seemed like the perfect time. VIEW MORE Anton Krupicka: Farwell to Winter. It is said that the ride should be about the journey, not the destination. However, for Anton Krupicka and Hailey Moore, a recent trip in the Colorado mountains proved it’s about both. VIEW MORE

Anton Krupicka: Farewell to Winter According to the popular adage, the ride should be about the journey not the destination. However, with traces of winter snowfall still blanketing Boulder’s iconic Flatirons and still more signs of the lingering winter season holding onto the high peaks, a recent overnight trip to a local hot spring proved to be about both the journey and the destination too. For my partner, Anton Krupicka, and myself, the journey provided two longer days of riding to season our legs for the forthcoming demands of Spring and Summer rides. Split across the weekend, our 145-mile (233km) round-trip route clocked in plenty of climbing (16,000ft/5,000m) and took us from our doorstep in Boulder, Colorado to the state’s original gold rush town of Idaho Springs. Our destination – a small hot spring at a quaint historic hotel – provided ample motivation to brave higher elevations and enforce two consecutive full-days on the bike. The route opened with bucolic miles out of Boulder with the accessibility of low-traffic gravel routes being one of the area’s greatest gifts to cyclists. The foothills that border Boulder to the west and compose the Front Range are riven with canyons of varying grades and, even though it is the longest continuous local climb, Lefthand Canyon offers one of the more modest grades, averaging around 4% for the full 18-miles required to reach the Peak-to-Peak Highway. True to the forecast, we were greeted by a stiff western breeze, which then turned to punctuated gusts low down in the canyon. Fortunately, the close canyon walls soon acted as a shelter, rather than a funnel, and we were heartened by our progress as we soon found ourselves on the final steep pitches through the small community of Ward, without much worry paid to the wind. The climb took us to the Peak-to-Peak Highway – an iconic, undulating bi-way that boasts sweeping corners and impressive views of the Indian Peaks range. In warmer seasons, you’d be hard pressed to pass any stretch of this classic road without spotting other riders, but today in late winter, we covered the 12 miles (19km) into Nederland without seeing any moving vehicles. Nederland sits at 8,200ft (2500m), versus Boulder’s temperate 5,300-foot (1600m) and we were glad to stop at cafe Salto for hot sandwiches, soup, and coffee. We rode out the 20 remaining miles to reach Central City with our heads mostly down due to a fierce wind. We took the descents much slower than usual, and I spied Anton unclip a foot on a couple of the corners, lest a powerful gust initiate a spill. The sun was already obscured by the surrounding peaks as we reached Central City and the last climb of the day. An 1,800-foot rise took us out of town, from pavement back to gravel, and to the aptly named descent down Oh My God Road which, with its slinking s-curves and unobstructed views of Mount Evans, is indeed divine. Once the sun had disappeared, though, we could have cared less about the divinity of the OMG descent as we reached our hard-earned destination of Idaho Springs. Teeth near-chattering, we hit the first gas station in town and immediately downed a hot chocolate, while holding our hands over the hot dog roller. In short order, we made it to the hotel, had a pizza delivered, and were soon pruned-skinned and thoroughly warmed by our stint in the tub—a luxurious end to an invigorating day on the bike. We started day two with an incredible breakfast at the Main Street Restaurant, a lowkey diner that serves up eye-popping plates, such as our three-egg omelets, slab of hash browns, and two slices of banana bread (which we pocketed for later). Well-fueled, we started up Little Bear Creek Rd— an addition to our route which would add a 3,500ft (1,050m) climb and earn us views of the high mountains strung along the Continental Divide enchainment. Ice-crusted roads turned to clean snowpack higher up and we cruised the serpentine corners talking casually while enjoying the muffled crunch of our tires on the surface beneath. Rolling at around 11,200ft (3,400m), we had reached the literal and psycho-emotional high point of the trip, where we pointed out the familiar profiles of known peaks—Evans being the closest, of course, and then, in the receding distance, Grays, the pyramidal Torres, James and Arapahoe Peaks, and furthest still Longs Peak, perhaps the most iconic of the Front Range and—at 40 miles from Boulder—our “local” mountain. At Echo Lake, we turned back northeast for the 15-mile (25km) return descent to Idaho Springs. While the wind so far had been non-existent and the sun was shining high, the sub-freezing air temperature made the downhill into town painful. Being nearly nauseous with the cold, we opted for a second round of coffees at the Frothy Cup. Afterall, if you can’t stop for a second cup in Winter, when can you? Fortunately, the rest of the day was warm, and our spirits high. Our return ride included much of the same roads we had taken to arrive. A sweat-inducing climb up Oh My God Rd brought us back to Central City and from here we opted for an unsealed shortcut back to the Peak-to-Peak Highway. Whilst this stretch had a hefty grade, it was low traffic and offered a backroads feel that we both appreciated. A blustery western cross breeze characterized the next 12-mile stretch until we eagerly turned east, making our foe a friend in the form of a tail wind through the rollers of the downward-trending Magnolia Road. Aside from some unexpected slush lingering on Magnolia’s shaded, infamously-steep corners, the rest of the ride passed without incident. Rolling back into town in the early evening, it felt like we had pulled one over on Old Man Winter by sneaking up to 11k’ and were thereby gifted the motivational lift that summer would be here before we knew it. Further Riding Caravan: Anton Krupicka I enjoy the adventure of cycling, especially bike packing. For me though, it’s just being in the outdoors, seeing beautiful landscapes and using your body. VIEW MORE Coins Cachés: Boulder, Colorado Nestled on the eastern aspect of the foothills of the Colorado Rockies, Boulder is a unique and idyllic hub for outdoor recreation—including cycling. VIEW MORE A Traverse Across the Pyrenees Each summer, I set off on an adventurous trip with good friends who are up for a challenge. This year we tackled the Pyrenees. VIEW MORE A Mont-Blanc Gravel Tour I find myself constantly craving nature. I’ve thought about doing a Gravel tour of Mont Blanc for so long, so this seemed like the perfect time. VIEW MORE

Ride of the Month: Searching for La Primavera The joy of the new season is difficult to put into words, patiently waiting through winter for spring weather, its arrival signals a kind of revolution. The Italians have, unsurprisingly, a beautiful name for springtime – La Primavera. In the world of cycle racing, La Primavera may also refer to Milan–San Remo, the ‘spring classic’ and one of the most prestigious events of the season. Known as the longest (almost 300kms) and arguably most beautiful of the one-day monuments, to win this trophy is to have your name chiseled into history. But only if you’re a man. Female road racers still only get to watch Milan-San Remo on the screen, or perhaps wearily cheer their male counterparts from the roadside. There was, for a few years in the early 2000s, something called the Primavera Rosa, a shortened version for the ladies which ran before the gentlemen’s event; Trixi Worrack was the last woman to win that race, in 2005. Currently the women have the Trofeo Alfredo Binda in Lombardia (Binda is a celebrated male racer who won Milan-San Remo twice, funnily enough) on the same weekend as Milan–San Remo, and it is always hotly contested, with the masterful Marianne Vos having won there four times. But it's no ‘Classicisima’, it cannot compare to the spectacle of racing from the confines of industrial Milan out to the beauty of the Ligurian coast. Now, in 2022, with the women’s peloton having their own version of some of the biggest races on the calendar like Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders, they want to see Milan-San Remo on their schedule too. Of course, that’s not to say the women’s sport cannot or should not have their own specific events, but to achieve parity, things must be equally distributed; opportunities open to all. Whilst the governing body of world cycling, the UCI, and race-organizers, RCS, get their act together, the roads are still free for us to explore the route in question. ‘The growth in women’s cycling justifies adding bigger races to the calendar. There should be equal chances. With such a strong number of Italian females at the top of the sport now, Milan-San Remo would be a beautiful addition. Nothing is too long or too tough, women are capable of competing on the same parcours as the men, which was demonstrated back in October at Paris-Roubaix. Everybody wants to see more of those thrilling occasions.’ – Stefanie And so it was, in early March, four of us, in Café du Cycliste colours, took off in search of the elusive Primavera, passing over three borders, beginning in Nice, across to Monaco, and up into Italy. We weren’t looking to ride all 298 km of Milan-San Remo, but instead rode along the coast as a sort of pilgrimage up to the two famous climbs of the race – the Cipressa and the Poggio. We rode as a happy unit and chatted about how great it would be to one day share stories of female racers battling to victory again on these roads. Instead, as we crossed the border into Italy from Menton we talk about riders like Vincenzo Nibali and Julian Alaphilippe, men who have had the honour to race up the Poggio di San Remo. We take the cycle path in Ospedaletti and on towards San Remo itself – riding eastwards from Nice we must first pass through San Remo before arriving at our intended targets of first the Cipressa climb, and then back to the Poggio. With views of the sea always at our side, we each in turn suffer but camaraderie and the promise of spring gives us the energy to punch our way up. As we each arrive we see the famous phone box marking the top of the climb. We all take in the view and share a photo before the famous twisting descent back into San Remo. Further Riding THE TOUR DES ALPES MARITIMES The Tour des Alpes Maritimes is an early test for hill racers. But we ourselves are not here to race. We’re here to discover what the Riviera has to offer the amateur cyclist. VIEW MORE LE SAUT DES FRANÇAIS Exiting Nice from the north side, this ride provides a healthy mélange of architectural and natural landmarks, with a side of local legend. VIEW MORE CHRISTMAS IN PROVENCE In Provence, Christmas lasts 40 days. In the small village of Luceram, nativity scenes have become a sacred tradition for its inhabitants. VIEW MORE URBAN GARDENING IN MONACO A ride that goes further than the normal nourishing experience, climbing the iconic Col d’Eze en route to Monaco in search of a model turned urban gardener. VIEW MORE THE RESILIENCE OF THE HINTERLAND In October 2020, Storm Alex hit the valleys in the hinterland around Nice and the whole landscape was permanently altered. VIEW MORE

Ride of the Month: The Tour des Alpes Maritimes The Tour of the Haut Var, or to give it its official title the Tour des Alpes Maritimes et du Var, has been running since 1969. The winner of the inaugural race was none other than Raymond Poulidor, icon of French cycling in the 1960s and 70s. ‘Pou-Pou’, as he was affectionately known, had other success at the spring races, winning one day prizes Milan-San Remo in Italy, Flèche Wallonne in Belgium and stage race Paris-Nice, twice. The Tour du Var is seen as a warm-up to the more prestigious Paris-Nice, known by some as the ‘Race to the Sun’ (or a ‘roll to the beach’ for others). This race in the Var is an early test for punchy hill climbers and mountain goats, with its three voluptuous stages telling you who has been training well during the off-season, or not. More recent winners of the event are Colombian Nairo Quintana and Thibaut Pinot, Burgundy’s top grimpeur. But let us slow down the pace for now, we ourselves are not here to race. We are here to ride and discover precisely what the Riviera has to offer the amateur road cyclist – beauty in abundance. For this month’s ride we take the route of stage three of this year’s Tour des Alpes Maritimes (won by Quintana last Sunday) – from Villefranche-sur-mer to Blausasc. It’s a testing parcours, 113 kilometres with 2300 metres of climbing – so it’s no stroll on the promenade. It’s a beautiful crisp spring morning, and with legs and arms fully covered, and sunglasses firmly on, we set off from Villefranche’s old town. Rolling with the steady, mellow pace of a coastal breeze, the heart-rates of our riders soon crescendo as we reach the mythical, lung-busting Col d’Èze. If you can reach the top in under half an hour, you’re either in fine form or your eyes are deceiving you. The Col’s apex rewards with views of the ocean and the Cap-Ferrat peninsula; and a refreshing recovery on the descent, gulping in the fragrant Mediterranean air. La Turbie is the crossroads that every Riviera rider stops at to refill bidons. Its iconic fountain is just one piece of a mosaic of cobbled streets, olive trees and tranquil hillside buildings. Villages such as Peille perch cosily, and you can see snow on top of the mountains beyond. You may also spot the idyllic training ground of French Ligue 1 club AS Monaco, former employers of Thierry Henry and Kylian Mbappé. The green turf happily hugs the hillside above the sea. We are challenged by switchbacks on the descent from Peille, swooping through olive tree groves, and riding past Blausasc, the location of the finish line and home to yet another picturesque hillside church. Rolling on we take in the rock forms and azure blue that gives the coast its name, punctuated by the yellow fire of the mimosa. And then another climb, Col de Nice, 17km, with an average of 2.3%, with a couple of 9% steep sections. But the col brings us to another beautiful commune, Berre-les-Alpes, where the olive trees are replaced by chestnuts. A chilly descent down to Contes, and maybe a stop at Boulangerie Lefebvre to refuel – we still have the toughest part of the route to come. The Col Saint Roch isn’t the most famous climb in the Alpes Maritimes, but it is devilishly hard. It’s dual personality – with a smooth easier first section, and then a steeper and tougher second part – can catch you off guard. The first half ends at Coaraze, possibly one of the most beautiful of all the hillside villages in the Côte d’Azur and infamous for being a place where the villagers once caught Satan by gluing his tail to the flagstones. Once you leave Coaraze, you may feel your own tail is being dragged to the tarmac, with 12% gradients testing energy and resolve now with roughly 80km in the legs. Reaching the top at 2000m above the sea, our intrepid riders think about continuing the ride up to Col de Turini, for another 15km of alpinism. But the choice was made to turn left down towards L’Escarene, enjoying switchbacks of the Monaco Rally before heading at speed into the valley and down to Blausasc for coffee and pastries. Ride of the Month LE SAUT DES FRANÇAIS Exiting Nice from the north side, this ride provides a healthy mélange of architectural and natural landmarks, with a side of local legend. VIEW MORE CHRISTMAS IN PROVENCE In Provence, Christmas lasts 40 days. In the small village of Luceram, nativity scenes have become a sacred tradition for its inhabitants. VIEW MORE URBAN GARDENING IN MONACO A ride that goes further than the normal nourishing experience, climbing the iconic Col d’Eze en route to Monaco in search of a model turned urban gardener. VIEW MORE THE RESILIENCE OF THE HINTERLAND In October 2020, Storm Alex hit the valleys in the hinterland around Nice and the whole landscape was permanently altered. VIEW MORE

ANTON KRUPICKA My introduction to running was racing on the track at school. I went to university here in Colorado, and moved to the town Boulder, in the mountains, and that’s when I became interested in racing ultra-marathon. In 2006 I did the Leadville Trail 100 and was fortunate to win there and that launched my career as a professional ultra-runner. I've been lucky enough to race all over the world over the past fifteen years. The Leadville Trail, The Western State 100 here in North America, then internationally, I've been to Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc twice, then Lavaredo in Italy, which I won. I've been all over the world doing races – Australia, South America, and South Africa. But I still love racing at home here in Colorado. A race I did in Gran Canaria sticks in the memory, you traverse the entire island and there was a full moon during that race. We spent all night running across the island – it was a magical experience. I ride my bike more than I run now. Cycling is nice because it doesn’t injure my body and you can cover distances that aren’t possible on foot. I prefer gravel cycling. When you have wide tyres it opens up the options, more trails to explore. It's good to go on the road to connect trails or segments but in general I like to stay off the road. Obviously the nice thing about running is that it’s simple, there’s no mechanical devices to hold – it's just a pair of shoes, a pair of shorts. But I do enjoy the adventure of cycling, especially bike packing, the multi-day trips. For me though it’s just being in the outdoors, seeing beautiful landscapes and using your body. I think a love for the outdoors is something that develops as you go through life but for me I think the origins of it, growing up in a farm in Nebraska where I had a lot of land to explore, I certainly gained an intuition for being in nature. At the moment, I'm riding four or five days a week. Sometimes I run and ride in the same day but generally I run three or four days a week and ride my bike five days a week. Climbing is another activity I like. Right now it’s winter in Colorado but generally I climb a couple of times a week. It's just another way of being outside – you highly engage with your surroundings. instagram @antonkrupicka strava Anton Krupicka “ Where I Ride? Whilst competing internationally I’ve had the chance to bike around Chamonix, a little bit in Italy and also in South America. But I love the riding here in Colorado. One day I’d like to do some kind of international bike tour. ” “ What I Ride? I prefer gravel cycling. When you have wide tyres it opens up the options, more trails to explore. It's good to go on the road to connect trails or segments but in general I like to stay off the road. ” “ Why I Ride? I enjoy the adventure of cycling, especially bike packing, the multi-day trips. Cycling doesn’t injure my body like running and you can cover distances that aren’t possible on foot. ” Related Stories Coins Cachés: Boulder, Colorado Nestled in the foothills of the Colorado Rockies, Boulder is an idyllic hub for outdoor recreation—including cycling. VIEW MORE Farwell to Winter It is said that the ride should be about the journey, not the destination. However, for Anton Krupicka and Hailey Moore, a recent trip in the Colorado mountains proved it’s about both. VIEW MORE Mount Blue Sky Mount Blue Sky sits at an elevation of 14,265 feet (4,348m) above sea level. The road to the summit happens to be the highest paved road in North America and presents a pretty compelling opportunity to cyclists. VIEW MORE BACK TO THE CARAVAN

Ride of the month: “Le Saut des Français” Exiting Nice from the north side, this ride provides a healthy mélange of architectural and natural landmarks, with a side of local legend. The route leads up into the mountains without any particularly challenging climbs, before wrapping things up with a peaceful descent back down to Nice. Highlights include an artificial waterfall overlooking the bay and an infamous cliff hugging the side of the Vesubie valley. After navigating the way up through Nice Nord, pass under the motorway to find yourself at the foot of the mountains. The first port of call on the winding road is the Cascade de Gairaut, an artificial waterfall built in the 19th century to mark the introduction of the Vesubie canal. The waterfall was designed to oxygenate the drinking water that passes down into the city, or into your bidon. With the smooth sound of cascading water in your ears, enjoy the splendid view of the “ Baie des Anges”. The route then flows up towards the eccentric abode of a local favourite. Ben Vautier, known simply as Ben, is a Nice-based artist whose signature handwriting can be seen scrawled across tram stations and even public toilets all over Nice. He is most famous for his scrawlings, often brief meditations on life such as ‘Il faut manger. Il faut dormir.’ His main residence does not disappoint. Standing proudly against the rolling green hills, it resembles a giant haywire papier-mâché. A mishmash of hundreds of colourful pieces are plastered across the front of his house, featuring lone bike wheels, various handwritten slogans, and other sculptural curiosities. Leaving the chaotic beauty of modern art behind, snake around the foot of Mont Chauve, passing a constant stream of houses nestled into the side of the mountain. Follow the road until you reach Aspremont. Ruins are all that is left of the château that once defended this village. However, the view from them over the Var towards Antibes is magnificent. Continue along the meandering mountain road until you approach the medieval village of Levens. The number of cars will begin to thin out significantly, allowing you to ascend the gentle climb without any great difficulty. The village itself features a charming bell tower sitting atop a rocky outcrop, overlooking both the Var and Vesubie river valleys. The traditional homes and cobblestone streets that wind down from the top of the hill are waiting to be explored and provide the perfect backdrop for a quick coffee or ice cream break. Picking up again and heading further into the mountains, you will pass through Duranus. Upon leaving the village, you will find yourself on the side of a spectacular cliff, now the subject of a local legend. In 1792, Nice was not yet French. Faced with French republican troops trying to flee the region, local resistance fighters from the County of Nice formed a militia named the Barbets. Captured prisoners were made to jump over 200m to their deaths into the Vesubie valley. The cliff has since taken on the eerie name the Saut des Français. This section is best tackled in the afternoon when the route, etched into the steep rocky face, is bathed in sunlight. Once you hit Béringuier, take a left and begin the smooth descent towards the Var. Returning to civilisation, a bike lane allows you to spin south at pace, providing the wind is on your side. Once you hit Saint-Laurent du Var, follow the cycle lane along the water’s edge and take the Promenade des Anglais as your victory lap as you return to the centre of Nice. Further Riding CHRISTMAS IN PROVENCE In Provence, Christmas lasts 40 days. In the small village of Luceram, nativity scenes have become a sacred tradition for its inhabitants. VIEW MORE URBAN GARDENING ON THE ROOFTOPS OF MONACO A ride that goes further than the normal nourishing experience, climbing the iconic Col d’Eze en route to Monaco in search of a model turned urban gardener. VIEW MORE THE RESILIENCE OF THE HINTERLAND In October 2020, Storm Alex hit the valleys in the hinterland around Nice and the whole landscape was permanently altered. Chris retur VIEW MORE THE MONTS D'AZUR A 1300m climb to explore the wild animal reserve of the Monts d’Azur and ride the thrilling descent down the other side, through tunnels cut in the rock. VIEW MORE