The Tour de France is on once again! One of the most celebrated sporting events in the world, the Tour continues to captivate global audiences year after year. With its gruelling routes through breathtaking landscapes, fiercely competitive athletes, and rich history, the Tour de France stands as an unparalleled sporting event.
If you’re visiting the Tour this year, you may also be interested in checking out some other activities along the route. In today’s article, we’ve compiled a list of five activities that you can enjoy while visiting different stages of the Tour.
History of the Tour de France
Starting in 1903, the Tour de France is arguably the most prestigious bicycle race in the world. It is held annually for three weeks and has become an iconic event in French culture. The event was initially created to drum up publicity for the sports magazine, L’Auto, by editor Henri Desgrange and rugby and cycling reporter, George Lefèvre.
READ MORE: Here are 10 tourist attractions to visit in France
The Tour has seen many thrilling victories, heartbreaks, and scandals throughout its history. One of the most remarkable aspects of the Tour de France is the stunning backdrop it provides. As riders pedal through France and occasionally cross into neighbouring countries, they are treated to breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, and iconic landmarks.
The physical demands placed upon the riders are extraordinary, requiring exceptional fitness, mental fortitude, and strategic thinking. As the riders jostle for position, battling for precious seconds, each stage becomes a high-stakes battle of strategy and endurance. The sprint finishes and mountain climbs often create nail-biting moments that leave spectators on the edge of their seats.
A unifying global event
The Tour de France has a unique ability to bring people together from all corners of the world. Each summer, fans line the roads, wave flags, and cheer on their favourite riders. The event attracts a diverse international audience, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity among cycling enthusiasts worldwide. Additionally, advancements in technology and media coverage have made the race accessible to a broader audience, allowing fans from across the globe to experience the excitement and drama in real time. So, you don’t have to be right there amongst it to see all the action unfold!
What to see along the 2023 Tour route
Whether you’re a cycling enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for an inspiring experience, the Tour de France is a fantastic event to explore. Here are five activities you can enjoy on the 2023 Tour de France route:
Swim in the Combloux Ecological Mountain Lake
Stage 16 of the 2023 Tour sees competitors completing an individual time trial from Passy to Combloux. While in Combloux, why not check out the renowned Ecological Mountain Lake? This lake has been created to allow visitors to swim in water that has no chemical products and is heated solely by the sunlight overhead. You can even grab lunch and watch people enjoying the water.
Visit the pubs along the route
If you’re visiting France for the Tour, you might be looking to explore a number of the local pubs along the Tour route. owayo has put together a convenient interactive map to help punters find the cheapest pint on the Tour. Explore some of the local haunts while cheering on your favourite athletes.
Marvel at the Monastere Royal de Brou
With the building completed in 1532, this Gothic church is filled with an array of breathtaking statues, tombs, and stalls. The church is located in Bourg-en-Bresse, where the 18th stage of the 2023 Tour is completed. Those that enjoy architecture and history won’t want to miss this remarkable sight.
See the Lion of Belfort
The 20th stage of the Tour this year begins in beautiful Belfort. Here, visitors might like to check out the famous Lion of Belfort, a red sandstone piece created by the legendary sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi in 1880. This sculpture honoured the French resistance at the Siege of Belfort from December 1870 to February 1871. Bartholdi would later go on to sculpt the Statue of Liberty.
Stroll along the Champs-Élysées
One of the most famous streets in the world, the Champs-Élysées is the finishing spot for the final stage of the tour. Take a walk along the street and explore the cafes, bars, and luxury shops that are on offer. It’s also an ideal spot to take in the atmosphere of the Tour and watch the athletes arrive for their final sprint.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to some of the activities you can do while visiting the Tour de France this year. Whether you’re cheering on your favourite athlete or seeing some of the sights along the route, there’s plenty to explore along the Tour!
