British Cycling Success is Boosting Tourism
With the incredible success of Britain’s Bradley Wiggins last season, it’s no surprise that the Brits have got cycling fever and excited about being in France to witness the TdF first hand next year.
British Cycling Success is Boosting Tourism
By Leandro Paragas
Recent British success in world cycling has resulted in a very sudden interest in the sport. Following Bradley Wiggins’ victory in the Tour de France, many people are already looking for discount holidays and packages from travel companies like Holiday Hypermarket and the chance to cheer on British riders in next year’s race. Fortunately, there are several deals that offer people the chance to witness the key stages of the race without spending a fortune.
A number of different terrains and challenges await the riders, making it the ultimate test of stamina. The tour takes in some of the most stunning scenery France has to offer, forcing riders to demonstrate their various skills, such as climbing, sprinting and endurance. For many, the most iconic images are those of the final stage’s sprint down the Champs-Elysees in Paris. There are a number of options for anyone wanting to follow the entire tour or simply take in some of the highlights.
Next year’s tour promises to be one of the most exciting ever. The likely return of Alberto Contador will ensure that Bradley Wiggins is pushed all the way for the 2013 title. In anticipation of this great event, several travel companies are offering packaged deals which allow fans to follow the whole race. Perhaps the most impressive package involves travel by luxury coach to every single stage. For one price, travel, food and accommodation throughout the trip is included; an ideal scenario for those wanting to see the whole event without the hassle of organising a long and complex journey.
There are also a number of shorter deals that include travel and accommodation to specific stages of the tour. For the more energetic cycling enthusiasts, many travel companies offer the chance to follow in the footsteps of the professionals. As well as watching some of the key stages, fans will get some expert training and the chance to ride along some of the Tour de France routes; there surely can be no more exciting way of experiencing the spectacle.
Key stages of the 2,000 mile race can be enjoyed at any time of the year. A particular favourite with enthusiasts is the Alps base tour . It includes a number of stunning ascents and descents against the spectacular backdrop of the Alpine mountains. Many packages include the use of professional cycles, tuition and all of the necessary equipment. As cycling continues to capture the imagination of new fans, interest in these types of holiday will probably continue to rise.
bit behind the times – Bradley is doing the Giro to win, but the Tour to support Chris Froome – so is unlikely to be pushed all the way by Contador, as he’s not going for the overall. No less exciting, as it will be great to see what Froome-dog can do with the support of Team Sky – maybe a second GB Tour winner in as many years.