Help in watching a tour de France stage

[philinmerthyr]

We are planning to watch the 2nd July stage of the tour at the finish in Tournai.

We have the channel tunnel booked at 7:50am and with the hour difference and the journey from Calais, we expect to be at Tournai at about 11am.

The caravan is due around 4pm and the race finish should be between 5pm and 5:40pm.

We are then driving to Disneyland Paris for a few days.

I have never been to a tour stage before so would welcome some tips and advice so that we get the most out of the day. My main concerns are parking, how to get the best view and how to take the stress out of getting on the road the end of the day.


I'd appreciate any help anyone can offer

I've always wanted to see the tour live so am really looking forward to it.

Thanks

Phil

 

[asterix]

Obviously the best bet is take bikes and then you won't have to park anywhere near. One year I went on my bike quite early and did a bit of the route. Already there were quite few spectators and as I went along the crowds roared. No, really they did!

And you need to be on a steep ascent. Even on moderate rises I find they go so darn quick it's just a blur! Sadly this year they won't go anywhere near Limoges and I can't get to the Pyrennees.

 

[raindog]

We are planning to watch the 2nd July stage of the tour at the finish in Tournai.

The finish at pro races is great if you can get to where the Team buses and cars are, because you can get bidons of the riders and mechanics. Don't be shy - just ask - say you collect them, and they'll give them to you. I've collected loads with this system, some I even use. On the Tour, the bus park will be fenced in, normally, but you should still be able to get close enough.
Good luck, and have a great time.