London to Paris Bike Ride
2nd to 6th July 2008
Connect two of the world’s most chic capital cities as you embark on the challenge of a lifetime.
Cycling through the beautiful English villages and into the stunning countryside of rural France you’ll pass historical landmarks and famous battlefields from World War One until you reach Paris, undoubtedly one of the most magical places on earth. The sense of achievement you will experience will be one you will cherish forever - an unforgettable experience awaits you.
Day 1 - London to Calais - 125km
An early start from Greenwich allows us to avoid the early morning traffic as we pass through the outskirts of London onto quieter roads. Soon we are among the fields and villages of rural Kent. Reaching the ancient city walls of Canterbury we glimpse the famous cathedral before taking the North Downs Way along Country Roads to Dover and the coast. Taking the ferry to Calais we have dinner on board before reaching our overnight hotel.
Day 2 -Calais to Abbeville -120km
We head south from Calais, passing through beautiful rural landscapes to the old market town of Guines. Cycling inland from the coast we avoid busy Boulogne and pass east through Desvres. Following quiet windy roads we reach the valleys of the Canch River and cross the river to Hesdin, a pretty town near the historical battlefields of Agincourt. Continuing south, our final 30km brings us to the river Somme and the town of Abbeville where we will spend the night in a hotel.
Day 3 - Abbeville to Beavais -110km
Leaving Abbeville behind us we follow the river Somme east out of town and in the direction of Amiens. Our route soon turns south and we follow typically French tree lined avenues into meandering valleys and traditional farming hamlets. The cycling is mostly flat. Our day ends at Beauvais, a town known for its vast Gothic cathedral. Overnight in hotel.
Day 4 - Beauvais to Paris - 95km
Our final days cycling takes us over the river Theram and out towards Paris. Following small country roads we head towards the small town of Meru and continue south through beautiful countryside. The locals usually stop and cheer us on as we pass through their towns and villages. As we reach the suburbs of Paris we look out for the distinctive landmarks of the Eiffel Tower and the Sacre Coeur standing out in the skyline. Reaching the suburbs of St Denis we come to the River Seine and follow its northern esplanade until we reach the Pont D?Lena and finish by the Eiffel Tower. We will finish the evening with a celebration meal.
Day 5 -Paris to London
After breakfast you are free for the rest of the day to explore the city to visit famous Parisian landmarks such as the Arc De Triomphe, Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame cathedral. We meet back at the Gare Du Nord for the Eurostar back to the UK.
(Please note due to the nature of the challenge, this complex itinerary is subject to change)
Deposit:£99
Minimum Sponsorship: £1,100
Fo further information and to book now click here
Call Clem at the fundraising office on 01273 747455 for further information on any of the challenges or use our contact form .
