patrowe

As a new member I would like advice about watching the TdF live. We will be camping in the Pyrennes and intend to watch Stage 16 (Pau to Bagneres de Luchon) and Stage 17 (Bagneres to Peyragudes). Has anyone general advice about driving a car to watch a stage in the mountains - what time do we have to get up a mountain eg. Col d'Aubisque or Col du Tourmalet, before the roads are closed for the caravan? Any specific advice about either of these two stage as regards good places to view, any other general do's and don'ts? Many thanks

ironwood

I think you have to get there at least a day ahead, and even then there isn't much parking on the mountain. I'd walk up, but not on the road. There are a lot of nice hiking trails in the Pyrennees that will get you to a good viewing spot. In fact I'd just go for a hike and enjoy the mountains. The tour is over rated.

jeffpoulin 

I live in the French Alps, so we usually catch a stage every year. For those big climbs, plan to arrive at least 8 hours in advance of the riders. Unless you camp out the day before, you won't be able to park along the road, so park by a trail-head and hike up. Some people bike up along the road and that's perfectly okay too, as long as the caravan hasn't passed. Once the caravan goes by, the road is off limits to cyclists (except the racers). The road closes to cars several hours before the caravan and all the good (and even not so good) parking spots get taken the day before by campers, so park and hike is your best bet. Bring a good book or something to keep yourself entertained because it'll be a long wait.

patrowe

Thanks - useful info. Pat

patrowe

If we wanted to hike we would - the whole point is to enjoy the atmosphere, the caravan, the party, the spectators of the Tour.

ironwood

Well, did you get to see the race? And if so? how did you enjoy it?