Tour de France Video, Alpe d'Huez 2011
The Tour rolls into Alpe d'huez
Before the race came through the road was open to anyone who wanted to tackle the steep and demanding hill climb for themself. The town was full of cyclists and fans who had been lining the roadside for days in anticipation of the race, camped out in tents and caravans desperate for a glimpse of their heroes.
For those who liked the idea of cycling more than the actuality of climbing the gruelling mountain, there was a carnival atmosphere in the town with live music, stalls and tonnes of freebies to keep the party atmosphere alive.