Alps and TDF?

[andyfromotley]

Hope this is the right place to post this.

Having been inspired by the TDF for years my BIL and me have decided to go next year. Not exactly touring, we intend to drive to the alps, camp and ride out most days. We hope to also watch a tour stage possibly up alpe d'huez.

Would anyone be able to assist with the following questions.

Nearby campsites or how to camp on the alp by the side of the road where the tour goes? (i understand these are at a premium.)

When (and where) would one be able to find out the route/dates of the tour in order to make our plans?

I am sure these questions have been asked and answered many times before but i am not having too much success with the search feature!

ta, andy

 

[TheDoctor]

Well, the route of the Tour isn't announced till October or so, but sadly world + dog then book accommodation.
I think to get a good spot on the Alpe you need to get there a few days beforehand.

 

[rich p]

If you're on bikes you don't need to be too close though. You can get up early and ride to the mountain on the day, going up before the event closes the road, with the tifosi cheering you on.

 

[ASC1951]

If you're on bikes you don't need to be too close though. You can get up early and ride to the mountain on the day, going up before the event closes the road, with the tifosi cheering you on.

True, but -

- if it is a hill top finish, e.g. Alpe d'Huez, the road will be closed for at least an hour afterwards. On the Ventoux stage a few years ago we were pretty cold by the time we could descend.

- don't try to look the business on the way up unless you are the business. There may be some derision from bystanders with three hours to fill.

 

[4F]

I shall watch this thread with interest Andy as I was thinking only yesterday of doing much the same

 

[andyfromotley]

bump. Well were definitely off to do this, going out for 5 days on the 20th of july looking to base ourselves near alpe d'huez, the tdf goes up there on the 22nd. any tips would be most welcome.

Thanks andy

 

[Tedx]

I did the Alps. Swiss and French. I wild camped some of it and stayed in campsites. You'll find fresh water fountains in all the villiages, the views are so breath taking you'll forget you've just climbed 2000m and the decents are like roller coasters only they last longer. Takes some warm layers to suit the weather, stop worrying, get on your bike and pedal!.. the tour will teach you all you need to know...

 

[rich p]

If you position yourself near the top of the AdH and the road down is closed there is a great route down over the top using the Col de Sarenne with a corniche ride back to Bourg or a main road route. Whether you could get through to the other side of the finish line may be tricky but it's a quiet and beautiful route down.