Live the Dream

GROUP TOUR
STARTING 12 JULY 2011 (ex Paris)
A TOUR FOR CYCLISTS ORGANISED BY CYCLISTS

This is the opportunity for cycling enthusiasts to experience the World’s greatest race with a group of similar minded New Zealanders.

Cycling independently along parts of the Tour de France route is a great way to catch the indescribable atmosphere, spectacle and excitement of this great sporting extravaganza. But there are drawbacks - inability to see many stages without riding yourself into the ground, plus having to carry your own gear - not to mention the problem of finding accommodation in towns already bursting at the seams.

However, the hassles can be eliminated. Our group tour will allow you to be on the spot with the Tour de France, either riding your bike with other enthusiasts or being carried in our coach. Cycle as much or as little as you like. Of course you don’t have to take a bike - a luxury coach is there for your convenience and transportation and all your accommodation is arranged.

In association with Sports Tours International (U.K) we have been able to put together an exciting itinerary which includes all the main mountain stages of the Tour de France in the Pyrenees and Alps plus the Grenoble Time Trial and final stage on the cobblestones of the Champs Elysees in Paris.
For those bringing bikes you will be able to ride some classic mountains including the Col du Tourmalet, Col d´Aubisque, summit finish at Luz Ardiden and Big 5 Col stage to Plateau de Bielle in the Pyrenees. In the Alps you will see the spectacular summit finishes at Col du Galibier and L´Alpe d´Huez. And there is also the opportunity to climb the mythical Mont Ventoux in Provence although not included in the race route. Then you will see the Grenoble Time Trial following which we will travel from Grenoble to Paris by TGV train so that you can see the final stage on the Champs Elysees.
The 2011 Tour de France is an exciting prospect and one which we look forward to seeing. The contenders are too numerous to mention but you can be assured of seeing the world’s top class riders including hopefully some New Zealanders in action at arm’s length.

Visit well known places such as Lourdes and the lovely town of Bagneres de Bigorre in the Pyrenees, then Toulouse, Avignon, Grenoble and of course Paris. From bike or coach, the beauty of the lakes and grandeur of the snow-capped peaks of the mountains is in itself truly magnificent. This, our tenth organised tour to The Tour de France, is a never-to-be-forgotten, inspiring cycling experience as those who have joined us in the past will happily testify.

Ray Hewlett