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Tour de France
2012
FOLLOW “LE TOUR” WITH OR WITHOUT YOUR BIKE

GROUP TOUR
STARTING 8 JULY 2012 (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 Alps and Pyrenees plus the Chartres 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 Grand Colombier, Col de la Croix de Fer, La Toussuire and the Col du Granier in the Alps. In the Pyrenees you will be able to climb the Col du Tourmalet, Col d´Aubisque, Col du Peyresourde and Col Port de Bales plus see the spectacular summit finish at the ski station of Peyragudes. And there is also the opportunity to climb the mythical Mont Ventoux in Provence although not included in the race route.

If this is not enough, you will see the Chartres Time Trial followed by the final stage on the Champs Elysees.

Following the Tour de France for 2 weeks can be tiring so this tour has been designed with the minimum amount of hotel changes. Apart from the first and last 2 nights at our transfer hotel in Paris we shall spend 4 nights in the Alps in the beautiful lakeside town of Annecy, 2 nights in Avignon, 1 night in Toulouse, 4 nights in Lourdes and 1 night in Orleans.

The 2012 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. And Cadel Evans will be there again to defend his 2011 TDF title.

Visit well known places such as Toulouse, Avignon and the lovely town of Annecy, then Lourdes in the Pyrenees and of course Paris. There will also be the chance to visit many small villages away from the usual tourist routes. 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 eleventh 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. Non cyclist partners/wives are well catered for too and will enjoy the whole Tour experience.

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