We arrived at Gap late the previous night in pitch black, so we were pleasantly surprised when we saw the stunning views that surrounded us in the morning. The Alps are simply spectacular, especially for us Australians in Western Sydney.



We are very fortunate to have some great travel companions in Thomas and Helena from Sweden. They like us are organised and don't mess about on the road. Thomas has been to the Tour 10 years ago and camped on Alpe d'Huez. This is the first trip to the Tour for Helena. Like us they decided in 2013 to do the tour in camper van style.



We soon all hit the road and continue to be in awe as more amazing views keep coming at us at each corner. As we get closer to Alpe d'Huez the mountains equally get higher. The alps are crazy high and I use up a lot of my media card taking photo after photo.



We arrive at Bourg-d'Oisans, a town at the base of Alpe d'Huez. The place is an absolute zoo with camper vans, cars, people and bikes all over the place. We don't mess about getting through town and starting the climb up Alpe d'Huez. It becomes all too real and exciting as we see the painted words on the ground and a multitude of cyclists starting to get out of the saddle and climb.



Finding a spot on Alpe d'Huez to park is a serious task. Nearly every available bit of roadside has a camper van, car or tent on it. We almost give up hope finding a spot on the climb when we stumble upon a small side road which overlooks the course. We don't mess about in securing the spot and displaying our huge Australian flag.



We spend about five hours enjoying our awesome spot when we get a visit by the Gendamnes. Seems we are parked illegally. Lucky for us a local who we had several conversations with during the course of the afternoon sees us being turfed out. Our friend advises us of some limited spots further up the mountain ... we head up at mach 1 to secure our spot.

As we drive up there is a Gendamne on the roadside and it seems the road is restricted. Our friend advises me to hit the gas as the Gendamne has his back turned to us. The Gendamne however catches us. A few lies and wink to me from our friend and we are allowed to continue! It is always a good thing to tell people you are Australian, our friend helped us simply because of our nationality.

We found a great little spot close to the top ski resort town of Alpe d'Huez. It looks a tad illegal but with another 5 campers in the same area we feel confident we are all good.

The great thing about our new spot is access to the town. So tonight we go to bed happy knowing we have a spot on what will be the best mountain stage of the Tour.