So now we say goodbye to the Tour de France for this year, just returned from our trek across France to follow Stage 16 up through some magnificent alpine countryside.

To those in Oz who’ve been sitting up each night to soak up the scenery on tv all I can say is it’s every bit as good as it looks! Such a variety of views and changes of terrain make France the beautiful country that it is.

And then there is a Chateau around every corner it seems! Although not all as beautiful as this private domain we were lucky enough to visit.

And so back to Le Tour. Having driven three quarters of the route for the following day, we chose our overnight stop on the outside of a tight bend at the beginning of the first Col.

The following morning the crowds began to gather as villagers walked up the road with picnics and flags. Early in the day before the road closures intrepid cyclists of every shape and size ride stretches of the route.

As with each day the excitement builds as La Caravane passes through an hour or so prior to the peloton.

Then the team cars and support crews begin their journey, our Aussie green and gold flag got a great wave from the Mitchelton Scott boys.

There’s always a lull in the chatter of the spectators as everyone listens out for the sound of the helicopters, once they are overhead the peloton comes flying around the corner. With cheers going up for local favourites .

In no time at all it’s all over, the crowds quickly disperse, the Motorhomes pack up and the road is deserted once again. There’s nothing quite like Le Tour💕

Finally just a mention, it’s very advantageous to have a 6’ plus “catcher” when the giveaways are being thrown out!
Below is a selection of Chris’ bounty over our three days this year.