The 2024 Tour de France: A Historic Route Passing Through the Heart of France
The Tour de France is set to make history once again in 2024 with its 111th edition, starting in Florence, Italy, and concluding in Nice, France. This year’s route is especially exciting as it brings the Grande Boucle through several picturesque departments, including the Creuse, Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, and Gers. For cycling enthusiasts and those who cherish the charm of rural France, this year’s Tour promises to be an unforgettable spectacle.
A Landmark Return to the Creuse
After a 20-year hiatus, the Tour de France is finally returning to the Creuse. On July 10, 2024, the 11th stage of the race will start from the beautiful thermal town of Évaux-les-Bains. This marks a significant occasion for the Creuse, a department known for its tranquil landscapes and historic charm. The stage will take cyclists from Évaux-les-Bains to Le Lioran in the Cantal, offering a route filled with scenic beauty and challenging terrain.
Évaux-les-Bains, with its rich history and therapeutic hot springs, will be bustling with excitement as it hosts the Tour. The town’s successful bid to become a stage town highlights its dedication and enthusiasm for the event. Expect a festive atmosphere with plenty of local celebrations and activities for visitors and residents alike.
Exploring the Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, and Gers
The Tour de France will also weave through the departments of Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, and Gers, showcasing the diverse beauty and cultural richness of these regions.
Lot - Known for its stunning landscapes, mediaeval villages, and the breathtaking Dordogne Valley, the Lot is a treasure trove of natural and historical wonders. As the peloton races through this area, spectators will be treated to views of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and picturesque riverbanks. Towns like Cahors, with its famous Pont Valentré, and the cliffside village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie are just some of the highlights.
Lot-et-Garonne: This department offers a mix of scenic countryside and charming bastide towns. The Tour’s passage through Lot-et-Garonne will provide a glimpse of its fertile valleys, orchards, and vibrant markets. Key locations such as Agen, known for its prunes and historic architecture, and the idyllic canal-side villages will be on display, highlighting the region’s agricultural heritage and serene beauty.
Gers: Often referred to as the heart of Gascony, Gers is synonymous with rolling landscapes, sunflower fields, and culinary delights. As cyclists traverse this department, they will pass through towns like Auch, with its impressive cathedral, and the medieval village of Lectoure. Gers is also renowned for its gastronomy, particularly its foie gras and Armagnac, adding a delicious dimension to the Tour’s route.
A Historic and Unique Tour
The 2024 Tour de France is unique not just for its international start in Florence but also for its revised final stage due to the Paris Olympics. Instead of the traditional finish on the Champs-Élysées, this year’s race will conclude in Nice, offering a fresh and exciting twist to the event.
As we prepare for this extraordinary Tour, the anticipation builds for the diverse landscapes, historic towns, and the festive spirit that will follow the peloton through each stage. From the tranquil beauty of the Creuse to the gastronomic delights of Gers, this year’s route promises to be a celebration of French culture, history, and the enduring appeal of the world’s greatest cycling race.
Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the 2024 Tour de France as it passes through the heart of France, bringing with it a wave of excitement, celebration, and breathtaking athleticism. Whether you’re a dedicated cycling fan or simply love the charm of rural France, this year’s Tour is set to be an event like no other.
