The world's biggest cycling race is coming remarkably close this summer. With three stages in northern France-all within a three-hour drive of the Dutch border and a stone's throw from Belgium-the region is Pas-de-Calais The place to experience Tour fever up close and personal in July.
(c) header photo: Yannick Cadart-CD62
Three stages, three chances to experience the Tour again!
Fair is fair: many cyclists are only too happy to pass up the north of France. On their way to the Alps or Pyrenees or simply on their way to sunnier places. Rightly so? Who knows may say. We will not immediately recommend Roubaix in January, but still: the region is hilly and has a lot to offer because of the cycling races that have taken place there, but also because of its cultural and historical value. And the Opal Coast, is there anything more beautiful than that? Now the Tour is passing through again and you have three chances to see it up close and personal
5 July - Start and finish in Lille (185 km)
The Tour kicks off in Lille, a city that breathes cycling. The route passes Lens, Liévin, Béthune and Armentières. Expect a fast ride with an expected bunch sprint in the middle of historic Lille. Will you sprint straight to the terrace afterwards or do another lap?
July 6 - From Lauwin-Planque to Boulogne-sur-Mer (209 km)
A varied stage with rolling terrain, a solid finale with climbing and a summit finish in Boulogne-sur-Mer. This is where the difference will be made. The Opal Coast is a picture - even as a spectator you are in the right place.
7 July - Valenciennes to Dunkirk (172 km)
On the third day, the peloton winds through the former mining basin towards the Belgian border. Finishing is by the sea, in the familiar Dunkirk - a place where you, as a cycling fanatic, can also have your fill.
Combine course with culture - tips along the route
Those who plan cleverly will experience more than just the peloton's passage. This region is bursting with places to wander around both before and after the Tour. A few tips:
- Lens - Visit the modern Louvre-Lens, built on a former mining site. The Galerie du Temps is free to enter.
- Béthune - Art-deco architecture, cosy squares and the oldest belfry in northern France.
- Arras - Two magisterial squares, lively markets and a fascinating WWI corridor system.
- Montreuil-sur-Mer - A medieval town with top gastronomy and artisan shops.
- Boulogne-sur-Mer - Medieval charm, a huge aquarium and on 6 July also the sailing regatta La Course des Caps. Formula 1, but on water.
Please note that on Tour days, feeder roads are closed two hours before the riders arrive. In Boulogne, a free shuttle runs between car parks and the city centre.
Cycling in the Pas-de-Calais
Once the Tour caravan moves on, the region remains perfect for exploring on your own. From gravel and climbing inland to coastal rides along rugged cliffs:
- Vélomaritime - This route runs parallel to the coast, from Dunkirk to Boulogne-sur-Mer. Overlooking the sea, cycling along car-free roads. Pure enjoyment. Check out the route below
- Cycle junction network - Between hills, fields and old railway lines, you cycle through the Leie region and Franco-Flemish hills. A surprising alternative to busy Alpine passes.
Route Velomaritime - Pas-de-Calais
So one of the nicer routes is the Velomaritime. This follows the coast from Dunkirk to the south (or vice versa). Actually, cycling along the water is always a good idea. This is always a hit in the Netherlands and Belgium too, as well as in other countries. In the warmer summer months, you have the breeze from the sea to cool you down. In winter, on the other hand, it's nice to get a breath of fresh air. Always something beautiful to see and the trails you find here are well laid out and inviting to give it a go. Or just to enjoy.
Also check our travel guide to northern France for routes, accommodation and tips.
Why go now?
- If you are a fan of the Tour, this is a really great opportunity to see the riders. The last time they were this close was in 2019, so grab your chance.
- The region is bike-proof - in terms of routes, accommodation and facilities. Check, for example, our review of The Street in Lille
- You combine sport, history and culture in one trip.
- And above all: you yourself ride on roads where the pros have just passed.
Want to cycle yourself in Pas-de-Calais, around the Tour de France? Looking for routes, lodging tips or day suggestions? CyclingDestination.cc will help you on your way.
Tour watching. Cycling yourself. France is just around the corner.
