After eating well the last two days, I'm feeling rejuvenated! I extend my Airbnb again for tonight. Then, I remove my saddlebag for my day ride. Georges, my WarmShowers homestay from Die, told me about the three approaches to Ventoux. He recommended the one from Sault, which is the most gentle until the final push. I roll through backroads and I start seeing a lot more cyclists. The sporty kind that carries gels and electrolyte mix. When I get to Bédoin, I fill my bottles at the public tap. I've been using them extensively on tour. They're potable unless otherwise noted. 

From Bédoin, the climb gets serious... 8%, 9%, 10%. Even with my lightened load, it sucks. I'm winding through a nice cool forest, and it starts drizzling. Not the worst, but I'm wishing I had more than a few brownies with me. There are signs that tell you the garbage is x distance away, but still there are discarded gels by the roadside. It seems like most people are descending, not climbing. There's a challenge where you do all three approaches in one day. I love climbing, but I'm not (that) crazy. Much respect to those who can grind out that much Type 2 fun. 

Before long, about 20km into my ride, I hear the crackle of thunder. Hm. Then some lightning. I did not need much more convincing. I turn around, and it's a descent all the way back to the Airbnb. It's cold and drizzly enough that I need to feather the brakes the whole time. I get home, and it's immediately into the shower for me. 

After a hot shower and a big dinner, I decide I'll ride to Sault tomorrow and try Ventoux another way.