Campsites in or around L'Alpe-d'Huez
hammerite
Posts: 3,408
Can anyone recommend any campsites in or around L'Alpe-d'Huez? Or have a list of campsites?
What is availability usually like around the time of the TdF?
What is availability usually like around the time of the TdF?
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sounds like a great idea
although having a 6 yo with us camping half way up a cliff probably isn't too practical!
I stayed at Cascade, just before the beginning of Alpe.
Its fine as campsites go - either tents or chalets.
Dunno bout Tour time - i imagine it will be hectic
hope that helps
Red
great thanks, had seen that one, looks like it will do the trick.
I've camped twice at the town at the foot of the climb Bourg d'Oisans: 'La Piscine' is right at the foot of the climb and 'La Colporteur' is a 5min walk back into the town of Bourg from the start of the climb. There's a big supermarket a couple of mins walk away from either. Colporteur was probably nicer, but La Piscine (as the name suggests) had its own pool which was very much appreciated in the hot summer sun.
On the day of the Tour stage you won't be able to get your car anywhere near the climb. My advice is buy enough food/drink for the day and a cheap parasol & camp chairs from the supermarket (the day before), sling them over your shoulders and start walking up the climb in the early morning when it's cool (I started about 8am). It will already be fairly busy but you should find a nice gap to set up your chairs if you get there about that time. Once you get a spot, spread out a bit and guard it with your life as people will try and muscle in front of you. That's why the chairs come in handy because you can you them to block people off who look like they might jump into your patch! Plus, it's a bloody long day to be on your feet. And if the parasol seems overkill make sure you take suncream otherwise you'll COOK!
Fluffsters advice would be mine. Book accomodation early and on the day walk up, starting early and with plenty of bribes (sweets, nintendo etc). be prepared for any weather inc. hailstorms and 40C grilling - check weather 'meteo' at tourist office - usuallyy reliable.
The actual village is sort of an empty ski station where you might find a room or two too, leaving you free to walk down or watch finish 'circus', but for the experience and stand on the mountainside. Remeber the camper vans arrive up to a week in advance!