London to Paris – Tour de France Finish

An early start from Blackheath Common allows us to avoid the morning traffic as we pass through the outskirts of London onto quieter roads.

It is not long before we are among the rolling fields and villages of rural Kent, passing orchards and traditional oast houses where hops are stored.

We follow country roads across the hills of the North Downs to Dover and the coast.

Taking the ferry to Calais, we have dinner onboard and cycle the short distance to our hotel in Calais.

Night hotel.

(Dinner on ferry not included)

Cycle approx. 80 miles

After a hearty breakfast we head south from Calais, and it’s not long before we’re passing through beautiful rural landscapes.

We pass through ancient Desvres, renowned for its pottery, and head south on quiet winding roads running parallel to the coast.

Reaching the picturesque valleys of the Canche River, we head southeast towards Doullens, pedalling through lovely farmland dotted with villages, chateaux and abbeys as we follow the Authie River.

We then pedal south through villages of the Somme heavily damaged during the First World War, before reaching Amiens, straddling the banks of the River Somme itself.

Although the city suffered considerably in both World Wars, its 13th-century Gothic cathedral was unscathed and now has World Heritage Site status.

Night hotel.

Cycle approx 106 miles

Another early start as we cycle through the centre of Amiens, heading south through quiet villages and farmland.

We pass the 14th-century Chateau de Folleville before pedalling through Breteuil and then alongside the Brèche River for some time.

There are several short, steep climbs as we head further south, crossing the larger River Oise after lunch as we approach Paris.

We pass the remains of the beautiful Royaumont Abbey and then, after a short stretch through woodland, reach the suburbs of Paris.

Looking out for the distinctive landmarks of the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré Coeur standing out on the skyline, we come to the suburb of St. Denis and the River Seine.

We follow its northern esplanade in the shadow of the Bois du Boulogne, riding until we reach the Pont d’Iena and finish beneath the lofty arches of the Eiffel Tower.

We check into our hotel and enjoy a great celebration to mark our achievements.

Night hotel.

Cycle approx. 107 miles

Wake up to see some of the Parisian sights, but don’t waste too much time as you will want to scope out a prime spot for viewing the Tour de France finish.

This is technically a free day and when you are finished with watching the TdF, make your way to the airport for your flight home.

(Meals not included)