British cyclists have had some remarkable achievements in the past 10 years, both on the Olympic track and at the Tour de France.
But it took Bradley Wiggins’ win in the world’s most famous cycling race, and the exploits of Chris Hoy, Victoria Pendleton, Laura Trott and Jason Kenny at the London Olympics last summer to put cycling at the forefront of Britain’s sporting consciousness.
Going into this year’s Tour de France, the centenary edition, Britain has another strong hope for victory.
Many tipped last year’s runner-up, and Bradley Wiggins’ Sky teammate, Chris Froome to be the wearer of the Maillot Jaune come July 21st when the peloton speeds down the Champs Elysée for the final time.
Stage 18, held three days before on July 18, is expected to be the most decisive in the race. The 168 km (104 mile) route includes two accents of the legendary Alpe d’Huez.
Every inch of the twisty 15km climb – it has 21 hairpin bends – will be lined with extremely passionate and vocal fans. The leading riders are expected to complete it in around 37-40 minutes.
Froome is considered one of the strongest climbers in the sport of cycling – British cycling fans will be hoping, after 17 days and several thousands of kilometres, that he’s in a position to defend his lead or attack the leader.
This being the most anticipated stage of the centenary tour, you’d be hard pressed to pick a better day to see the Tour de France in person.
VIP SKI has a collection of chalets just metres away from the finish line on Alpe d’Huez. The five modern chalets feature touches of luxury within their traditional alpine frames. All surround a cobbled courtyard at 2,000 metres.
Chalets have to be booked for a minimum of seven nights during the tour, so the company has teamed up with Hammer Sports to provide guests with guided cycle rides in the area. Some of the rides cover parts of stage 18 – the route is open as normal to the public the day before and soon after the race has passed through.
Prices for the seven-day holiday including half board accommodation in the Chalet Ferme and guiding through the week starts at £999 per person. This includes a road cycling guide.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
