Cycling ‘tragics’ will be in heaven next month, as the world’s premier road cycling event, the Tour de France, commences its three week journey on 09 July 2019.
For those polkadot jersey followers, Stage 14 will feature the most climbed mountain in the Tour’s 106 year history, the legendary Col du Tourmalet – climbed 82 times.
Ideally for Tour de France enthusiasts, UTracks, leading active European holiday specialist, has introduced a new cycling tour which includes the Tourmalet climb.
The challenging, 11 day guided Coast to Coast Pyrenees Cycle traverses the Pyrenees with three Hors Category (hardest rated) climbs, including another Tour mountain, Col d’Aubisque. E-Bikes are an option enabling cyclists to conquer the cols without the burn.
This year the Tour will be the celebrating the centenary of the famous yellow jersey and fiftieth anniversary of Belgian Eddy Merckx’ (winner of the most stages) first win. It will also see the Tour start in Brussels for the tenth time.
Brussels is the starting point of UTracks new eight day self guided Belgium Cycle – Brussels to Bruges tour. This trip is perfect for cyclists preferring flatter terrain along quiet country roads stopping in the renowned cities of Antwerp and Ghent before arriving in quaint Bruges.
UTracks General Manager, Kate Baker, says there’s always a spike in demand for active cycling itineraries in France around the world’s biggest cycling event.
“For three weeks every year, millions of people from all over the world are glued to their screens watching live coverage of the Tour de France,” she said.
“It’s more than a sporting event; it’s also a travel show or cultural experience, showcasing the sublime countryside, vertiginous mountain regions, fascinating history and tasty cuisine of France, and this year Belgium. It’s about the stunning castles and the crazy spectators.
“We definitely receive more enquiries for cycling itineraries in France due to the event and with 45 cycling tours available in France alone, UTracks has something for all enthusiasts. This year has seen a spike in Belgium cycling enquiries. For those who aren’t quite race-ready wanting a little assistance, e-bikes are available.”
Coast to Coast Pyrenees Cycle – New for 2019
The rugged Pyrenees range, with its soaring peaks, deep valleys along the Franco-Spanish border will test cycling skills with daily ascents of around 1500 metres; the highest being 2938 metres. An average of 75kms per day allows more time to explore the historic, medieval towns and admire the views than a Tour de France cyclist.
Departures on 29 June, 03 August and 24 August 2019
From $3990 per person twin share including accommodation, breakfasts daily, carbon road bike, luggage transfers, support vehicle and experienced bi-lingual guide. E-Bikes optional.
https://www.utracks.com/PYC
Belgium Cycle – Brussels to Bruges – New for 2019
Explore the Flemish countryside, sampling the chocolate, beer and frites, and studying the Flemish masters along the way. Cycling-friendly Belgium is a perfect introduction to Europe.
Daily self guided departures
From $1780 per person twin share including accommodation, breakfasts daily, 24-speed bike with pannier and helmet, luggage transfers, comprehensive route notes and maps.
https://www.utracks.com/BUB
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