Life is all about doing what makes you happy. It’s a cliché I know, but it’s too short. If the truth be known it may only be as long as a winding alpine descent. The question is, how far down the descent are you already and are you happy?

Sometimes it’s deceptive as to the beauty that lies just a breath away, vision and clear thinking can appear to be as blurred as the early morning mist, for some this will last until the first espresso has taken control, in my case it all becomes clearer when the pedals are turning in circles.

I realised this once again as I set off for the fourth stage from Sisteron to Valberg. An overcast, almost monotone, start with the 26km ascent of the Col de Fontbelle straight from the hotel. The air was damp and cool. It was impossible to predict what we were climbing towards. It's best like this, as the impact of slicing cleanly through the cloud to reveal what can only be described as one of life’s moments was jaw dropping. A thick tide of cloud engulfing the valley, mountain peaks, the piercing blue sky of a day that’s just come alive and a meandering road ahead still to explore. And you wonder why I ride bikes? It’s simple…

Cent Cols Challenge director Phil Deeker (or P-Diddy as I refer to him as in my head) is quite literally a genius with this ride, 8 climbs in total including the Col du Corobin, Col des Champs and a summit finish at the ski station in Valberg. The climbs offer everything from gradual and long to single width and steep, all with descents that are simply world class in every respect. Lines that you can carve, tight hairpins, Mach1 speeds (and zero traffic…believe me). I’ll never be able to do the experience justice in words or photos. Absolutely, without doubt, smack bang on the money. Take a deep breath Mikey, and relax...

For your slice of paradise pie this year, and a truly once in a lifetime experience, register now at CentColsChallenge.com