July 9

Along with hiking Puy de Dôme, the guys saw trains clearly decorated for the bike tour.

The food looked amazing at Le Bistrot des Combes in Mazaye, France. Creme Brulee became the dessert of choice for Randy.

The next morning began a hike that would have the guys feeling as if they were part of the novel Danny Champion of the World by Roald Dahl, as well as the Von Trapp family hiding from the Nazi Regime. The guys had scouted out a trail that would allow them to hike a few hours to reach an area where cars were not permitted during the tour. Here they thought they would be able to have a private viewing location of the Tour de France. Leaving Cody at home, Randy and Zach enjoyed their hike through a variety of landscapes. The hike seemed beautiful through the pictures I saw from afar.

The adventure twisted and turned as they approached the viewing area. It seemed the French police were positioned along the roadside every 50 feet. Apparently spectators were not allowed anywhere near the route to the top of the finish line. The guys kept trying to find a covered place to hide and watch but no luck.

As they were quietly searching through the woods they spotted a fox. A few minutes later several huge wild boars showed their snouts. Both Randy and Zach knew the danger they could have been in from both the police and boars. They concluded it was time to leave. The adrenaline rush made the hike back down seem like a sprint. Good food and Cody awaited their return. Despite not seeing any of the bike race today the guys had an amazing day.