The Big Adventure Part 1 - Europe 2014/15 and into 2016: Tour De France

Friday 11^th

After a shop in munster we headed over to Gerardmer to rendezvous with Chris and Lillian in their Rapido motorhome. Chris had booked the campsite months ago as we were Tour De France bound. The site was in Xonrupt Longemer 6km outside Gerardmer. Very basic with lots of space. Nice setting. We had just leveled up when C & L arrived. It was good to catch up over lunch.

finish climb - looks easy ! - not

In the afternoon drizzle myself, Tina and Chris cycled into town around the lake. It was relatively quiet but I couldn’t resist cycling up the finish climb – 13%. Tough going for me and several others all trying it before the professionals would make it look so much flatter tomorrow! We got back a bit wet and soggy but a good cycle.

Sat 12 th

ready to go

bit wet at the 1km to go flag

TDF race day! We all scooted into town at 12.30pm prepared for the inevitable rain. After some tee shirt shopping we walked up the climb to “claim” our viewing spot. The waiting around was made worse by the rain coming and going. The promo caravan cheered us up as we tussled with school kids for all the freebies being thrown at us – key rings, Frisbees, fridge magnets, foam toys , haribo and of course caps! I now have Cofidis, Bic and King of the mountains caps. All essential of course, but pride of place? My PMU green foam hand!

Sky team bus

use those freebies

stage winner Blel Kadri

lots of cars and bikes involved

When the riders finally arrived so had the persistent rain. Great to see them suffering up the hill, but so fast. The rain took the edge of the day – what a shame.

Sun 13th

The stage started in town today so we cycled in to soak up the atmosphere. as the roads were closed we followed 2 local cyclists around the back streets to get there in time. the huge team buses were arriving and disgorging bikes and kit. great to see so many of the stars close up. God they are so thin.