London to Paris Cycle Ride

After an early registration, this epic ride begins. It’s not too long before you are past the outskirts of London and hitting the countryside of Kent. It’s a long cycling day but when you reach Dover and the famous white cliffs, there’ll be a great sense of achievement.

Next, board the ferry to Calais and have dinner whilst on board. Upon reaching Calais, it’s just a very short push the hotel for a well deserved rest, ready for day two.

Cycling distance – approx. 90 miles 

Day 2 – Calais to Arras

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, you will leave Calais behind you (remembering to stay on the right!) Cycle on smooth, flat roads before the approach to the first water stop. The route then becomes more undulating as you cycle through the French countryside to a lunch stop.

Some small climbs after lunch bring you to a gentle descent into the beautiful medieval town of Arras, one of the prettiest towns in northern France, where you will check into the next hotel.

Cycling distance – approx. 77 miles

Day 3 – Arras to Compiègne

Your cycle continues after breakfast, south through the region of the Somme and its WWI battlefields. Take in the views of rolling, green meadows studded with the many war memorials and cemeteries of the First World War.

Following traditional French, tree-lined avenues, you will approach your next overnight stop in Compiègne. Since 1968, Compiègne has been the starting place of the “Paris-Roubaix”, the most famous French cycling race after the Tour de France.

Cycling distance – approx. 75 miles

Day 4 – Compiègne to Paris

This last day in the saddle sees you leaving Compiègne and riding through the beautiful forest surrounding the town. The route then continues through pretty towns and villages towards the outskirts of Paris.

You will cycle through the hustle and bustle of the Parisian streets until you reach the Louis Vuitton Foundation, a stop to re-assemble, then ride as a group along the majestic Champs Elysées to the finish line at the Champ de Mars, looking back at the Eiffel Tower! Round off the trip with a toast to your achievement at a celebratory dinner.

Cycling distance – approx. 70 miles

Day 5 – Paris to UK

After breakfast at the hotel, you are free to enjoy the sights and sounds of Paris. The Tour de France will be reaching its climax today as it races through the streets of Paris, so ensure you grab your place on the Champs-Élysées to see some of the action.

In the early evening each participant will be responsible for getting themselves to Gare du Nord in order to catch the Eurostar back to St Pancras. Bicycles will be transported back to London and upon arrival back in the UK, there will be a short transfer back to the starting point for farewells. Alternatively, participants are free to travel home directly from St Pancras and we can arrange for your bicycle to meet you there.

Please note, this is a complex itinerary and subject to change.