London to Paris 2008 - information
Depart Wednesday 03 September 2008, from Blackheath
Return Sunday 7 September 2008, Paris to London
(five days and four nights)
Day one - from London to Calais
An early start from Greenwich allows us to avoid the morning traffic as we pass through the outskirts of London onto quieter roads. It is not long before we are among the fields and villages of rural Kent, passing orchards and traditional oast houses where hops are stored. | |
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. The welcome sight of the Port of Dover awaits your weary legs. We have dinner on board the ferry and then stay overnight in Calais.
Cycle approx. 153km (95 miles)
Day two - from Calais to Abbeville
| | After a hearty breakfast 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 ancient Desvres, renowned for its pottery. |
Following quiet winding roads we reach the valleys of the Canche River, and cross the river to Hesdin, a pretty town near the site of the historic battle of Agincourt. Continuing south, our final 30km brings us to the River Somme and town of Abbeville. Abbeville suffered in a German air raid in World War 2, but its beautiful Flemish-style architecture is still in evidence and its Gothic church has been restored to its former glory.
Cycle approx 120km (75 miles.)
Day three - from Abbeville to Beauvais
Leaving Abbeville behind us we follow the River Somme east out of the town in the direction of Amiens. These lands are renowned for the terrible battles of the First World War and are scattered with cemeteries and other poignant reminders of the thousands of men who died here. | |
Our route soon turns south and we follow shady beech-tree-lined avenues so typically French, into meandering valleys and traditional farming hamlets. The cycling is mostly flat and through agricultural lands. Our day ends at Beauvais, a town renowned for its large gothic cathedral.
Cycle approx 110km (70 miles.)
Day four - from Beauvais to Paris
| | Our final day’s cycling takes us over the river Théram and south of Beauvais towards the great capital city. Following small country roads we head towards the small town of Meru and continue south through beautiful countryside. |
As we reach the suburbs of Paris we look out for the distinctive landmarks of the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré Coeur standing out on the skyline. Reaching the suburb on St. Denis we reach the River Seine, and follow its northern esplanade until we head up the Champs Elysées, around L’Arc de Triomphe, cross the Pont d’Iena and finish beneath the lofty arches of the iconic Eiffel Tower. In the evening we reflect on our achievement over a celebratory meal.
Cycle approx 95km (60 miles.)
Day five - from Paris to London
After breakfast you are free for the rest of the day to explore the city, going up the Eiffel Tower or visiting renowned attractions such as the Arc de Triomphe and Notre-Dame cathedral. You’ll need to get yourself to the Gare du Nord on time for our evening Eurostar train back to Waterloo. | |
Call us on 020 7426 3854 or email us to find out more.
