An excellent breakfast at the reasonably civilised time of 8.30 a.m.

Weather started disappointingly (coolish, rainy and murky) and continued in the same vein throughout the day. As a result, we elected to recce the Marmotte course via car. Glad we did, as it took us most of the day! We at least had the foresight to book a table for an evening meal at a recommended restaurant in Bourg d’Oisans (La Muzelle). I was tired just driving the course – lots of climbing, descending, hairpin bends, all requiring high levels of concentration. At least I know what to expect, and there were one or two areas where we took the wrong turning. Lost at least an hour because of that, and needed to find petrol in a bit of a hurry! Plus points – got myself registered at the top of Alpe d’Huez with no problem, and the meal in the evening was excellent. Feeling better prepared now.

Need a good night’s kip now – the alarm clock in our room went off at 1.30 a.m. last night! Obviously set by the previous incumbents, and we didn’t spot the fact that it was on!

Said goodbye to a New Zealand couple – Murray and Linda – who were leaving that morning. I’d inadvertently nicked one of Murray’s beers the previous day, but he was very gracious about it. Both have been very good company. We await to see who will join us for breakfast tomorrow – at least one other Marmotte sufferer, we are told….