moto-iberientour 22

Stage 5:

From Les/Arantal via the Eth Portihlon, Col de Peyresourde, Col d'Aspin, and Col de Tourmalet (2111m) to Lourdes. I'm tired! The weather was initially great, then more than miserable: 5 Degrees, wind, and hail showers! Lourdes is home to the famous Grotto and the huge Basilica. Around it, a small village has developed into a metropolis of hotels, restaurants, and devotional items. The miracle of Bernadette has turned into a cash cow with international visitors/pilgrims. The expected rain begins, pouring heavily between short drizzle breaks. Not a good sign for tomorrow's final Pyrenees stage!