I went out for a gravel ride from central Lyon towards the Parc de Miribel-Jonage. I followed the right bank of the Rhône, riding out past Saint-Clair towards Miribel.

Saturday at Valloire was one of those pleasingly quiet ski days that feel better than the forecast or the piste map might suggest.

It was the final day of my three-day trip, and I decided to return to the Col de la Ramaz.

I set out from Praz de Lys at 9.10am, heading off on skate skis in the warmth of an already sunny morning.

Although I cycle every day I'd not been out for a longer ride for a month due to skiing but the weather was spring like today so I decided to get in a short tour after doing some admin chores.

Day trip to the 7 Laux with skimania from Lyon to show the mates my local ski area.

I wanted to explore further along the GTV trail compared to last year when it had not been pisted. Today the prep was excellent.

Tucked away in the far southern reaches of the Jura Mountains, the Nordic ski area of Giron is situated at around 1,000 metres above sea level, the small mountain village of Giron offers sweeping view

We decided to head up to the Sept Laux despite the holiday crowds.

I currently have a my winter bike - an 8 sp Giant, a bit heavy at 14kg. I don't really understand how it is so heavy really. Clearly aluminium frames are not that light.