13
TOUR DE FRANCE
Where?
The 2,200-mile course varies from year to year, but travels throughout France and neighboring border countries, always ending in Paris.
When?
Annually for twenty-three days in July.
Significance:
Only the best cycling teams from around the world are invited to participate in the Tour de France. Established in 1903, it is recognized as the world’s largest cycling race and has grown in prominence and profile. Lance Armstrong has become a household name, primarily because of his success in the Tour de France. For twenty-three days, twenty to twenty-two cycling teams composed of nine riders each compete in twenty-one stages over 3,500 kilometers (2,200 miles). Each stage is considered an individual race and the time taken to complete each stage is added to a cumulative total for each rider. Adding to the drama, it is possible to win the overall race without winning a stage, as Greg LeMond did back in 1990. The terrain is unpredictable, ranging from flat to mountainous, but always ends at the Champs-Elysées in Paris (since 1975). The race is considered by many to be one of the most demanding athletic events, akin to running multiple marathons over three weeks or climbing three Mount Everests.
Who attends?
Seemingly increasing in popularity every year, the Tour de France attracts fans from throughout Europe. Cycling enthusiasts travel from all over the world for the race every July.
Tickets:
No ticket necessary. Find a spot along the lengthy route and get comfortable.
Accommodations (Paris):
Marriott Paris, Champs-Elysées Hotel
70 Avenue des Champs-Elysées
Paris, 75008, France
Phone: +33 (1)5393 5500
Fax: +33 (1)5393 5501
Toll-Free: 1-800-90-8333
www.marriott.comNote: Classic Parisian atmosphere and the only hotel on the Champs-Elysées. Close to boutiques, businesses, and landmarks.
Hotel Raphael
17 Avenue Kléber
Paris, 75116, France
Phone: +33 (0)1 5364 3200
Fax: +33 (0)1 5364 3201
www.raphael-hotel.comNote: Four-star hotel and a deluxe-class property with a personal touch similar to a family-run hotel. Near to the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Elysées.
Elysées Union Hotel
Note: In the heart of the Embassy District, it provides a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere for guests.
Hotel Elysées Régencia
Note: This hotel offers charm, refinement, and tranquility with a great location. Close to businesses and tourist stops.
On-Site Hospitality:
The VIP zones are only available to those who buy an official Tour de France package or are invited by a sponsor. However, in the areas outside of Paris, hardcore followers camp out for days and have wine and cheese picnics while waiting for their favorite riders.
Travel Packages:
If you are going to travel to this event, I would recommend using a reliable company to work with you on making the necessary arrangements. The suppliers listed in this book have solid references and are by far the most trusted in the business. Below are some of the organizations to try for this Top 100 Must See Sporting Event.
Premiere Corporate Events
14 Penn Plaza, Suite 925
New York, NY 10122
Phone: (212) 695-9480
Fax: (212) 564-8098
Toll-Free: 1-877-621-5243
E-mail: requests@tseworld.com
www.tseworld.comwww.pcevents.comPremiere Sports Travel
201 Shannon Oaks Circle, Suite 205
Cary, NC 27511
Phone: (919) 481-9511
Fax: (919) 481-1337
Toll-Free: 1-800-924-9993
E-mail: sales@sportstravel.com
www.sportstravel.comGraham Baxter Sporting Tours
91 Walkden Road
Manchester, M28 7BQ, U.K.
Phone: +44 161 703 58 03
Fax: +44 161 703 85 47
E-mail: allan@sportstoursinternational.co.uk
www.sportingtours.co.ukDining:
Ratatouille
Note: Traditional and top-of-the-range French cuisine and the finest wines in an elegant atmosphere.
Le Vin dans les Voiles
Note: One of the better wine restaurants in Paris.
La Grille Montorgueil
Note: Traditional French Bistro.
In addition to the fine local cuisine, you can make your own winner by picking up bread, cheese, and fruit from a local market. Bread is fresh and kept warm while the cheeses are top-notch. Grab a spot along the route and picnic.
Airport:
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
BP 20101
95711 Roissy Charles de Gaulle
France
Phone: +33 1 4862 2280
Fax: +33 1 4862 6389
www.airwise.comSports Travel Insider’s Edge:
Best way to watch the action:
While the various stages take the riders through mountainous and rocky terrain, the final stage finishes with six laps on the Champs-Elysées and passes the beautiful Arc de Triomphe.
Best place to get up close:
Get up close and personal at the start of stages. The proximity allows spectators to interact with the athletes prior to the firing of the starting gun. The finishes also give you a unique perspective as well as a great view of the podium trophy and jersey presentations.
Best travel tip:
Secure a vacation package that exposes you to various aspects of the race, including mountain stages, time trials, starts, and finishes. In addition, prepare for crowds everywhere on the tour and in the local hotels, restaurants, and bars.
Notable Quote:
“This is a hell of a race. You should believe in these athletes, and you should believe in these people. I’ll be a fan of the Tour de France for as long as I live. And there are no secrets—this is a hard sporting event and hard work wins it.”—LANCE ARMSTRONG, cyclist and marathon runner
Relevant Websites: