Experience the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift
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Tour de France Femmes 2024

From Classics to Alpe d’Huez


Tour de France Femmes 2024

Covering three countries and four mountain ranges, the 2024 edition of the Tour de France Femmes promises a race of epic proportions in the August sunshine.

Rotterdam in the Netherlands plays host to the Grand Depart and opening stages of the race, which will see the riders take on Spring Classics parcours before journeying south for a finale in the mountains. With the monstrous 21 switchbacks of the legendary Alpe d’Huez lying in wait, you can be sure to see the exciting build to a thrilling climax.

Thomson Bike Tours riding the Alps at the Tour de France

Our Trip Unpacked

As always with our race trips, you can expect the ideal blend of live race viewing and breathtaking riding on our Tour de France Femmes trip. We’ll witness each of the first FOUR stages in the Netherlands and Belgium, alongside a ride program of FOUR rides. As we move into the Alps you’ll ride every day – including the iconic Alpe d’Huez – and be there to witness the two decisive mountain stages as the race reaches the Grand Finale.

With SEVEN days of riding and no fewer than SIX live stages to see, you really can’t pack more into a trip!

A Thomson Bike Tours guest riding the Pyrenees at the Tour de France

What is the ride program?

One the course of the trip you’ll ride over 300 miles, climbing nearly 33,000ft, so its fair to say ‘we ride’. From the old streets of Rotterdam to the classic bergs of Amstel Gold and Liège-Bastogne-Liège and onto the giant mountains of the Alps, you can expect trip packed with rides that you’ll never forget.

Rotterdam



It’s important you spin the pedals when you first arrive; to check the bikes, orientate yourself and get those legs ready for what’s to come! As always we will ride on day 1 — a 46 mile ride along the River Lek to Schoonhoven where we’ll take in one of the any cafés in the town square.

Ahead of stages 2 & 3 you’ll ride the course of Stage 2 from Dordrecht to Rotterdam, a unique opportunity to recce what the peloton will take on later that day.

Belgian Classics



In Belgium you will take on the famous sections of the Amstel Gold and Liège-Bastogne-Liège races, including the infamous Cauberg. The highlight has to be the Côte de la Redoute; at only 1 mile long this punchy climb will be a challenge. Expect gradients over 15% as we reach the summit and an average of over 9% along the length. One to be proud of!

Into The Alps



Whilst the race goes into transfer mode, we’ll head to the Alps for some serious riding! The super fast TGV high-speed train will take us to the famous Alpe d’Huez. On our first day we’ll take on the Hors Categorie Col de Sarenne and enjoy stunning views from Mont de Lans – the warmup before the big event. On day 6 well taking on the 21 switchbacks of Alpe d’Huez! This famous climb is on the bucket list of every cyclist and it’s clear to see why. A stunning and storied mountain, this is truly one of the greats of cycling.

Let’s Go Again



With the Alpe in the bank it’s not time to rest on our laurels, because day 7 sees another beast in Le Grand Bornand. You’ll ride 66km of the race route on roads lined with cheering fans. The atmosphere will be electric, not least on the final 20km of the uphill finish of the stage. There really is nothing like this experience.

What could be better than conquering Alpe d’Huez? Well, doing it twice of course! Stage 8 is the final stage, where the peloton themselves will take on this massive challenge. Lined with fans in celebratory mood, this ascent will be special and an unforgettable way to conclude the riding for this special trip.

Thomson BIke Tours roadside marquee, spectating the Tour de France Femmes

What stages can I see?

With our customary VIP access to the race you will be treated to the best race viewing imaginable. With entry to Stage Starts, including the team paddock, and the VIP Guest area at the Finish line you’ll have ample opportunity to rub shoulders with riders and celebrities again and again on the trip. Our famous Private Roadside Marquees offer the best hospitality, with live TV coverage of the race and all the refreshments you could wish for, in the ultimate position. Ring side seats have never been so special.

Stages 1, 2 & 3 - The Netherlands



As the race kicks off at the Grand Depart you will mingle with the teams and celebrities at the Stage Start before heading to the Finish Line for a VIP afternoon of VIP catering, drinks and live TV coverage before witnessing the final sprint. An intense day follows as you see two stages packed into one from the privileged position of the Finish Line VIP Lounge.

Stage 4 - Belgium



Moving in to Belgium and the iconic Côte de la Redoute, where we will enjoy the race the comfort of a Private Hospitality Marquee. Situated near the summit of this punchy climb you can expect to see the battle in full flow as the riders power their way to the crest. With full live TV coverage of the rest of the race, you won’t miss a beat.

Stage 7 - French Alps



Le Grand Bornand is the summit finish for Stage 7 and will be our home for witnessing the riders take on the first real climb of the race. There will be fireworks and we’ll have the best seats in house!

Stage 8 - Alpe d’Huez



Is there a more famous mountain in the history of the Tour de France? The iconic mountain summit is where we’ll be to enjoy special treatment in the VIP Lounge and more importantly, witness the Grand Finale. Expect a celebration, a party atmosphere and the very best seats on the mountain for this landmark stage.

Thomson Bike Tours VIP access to the fan zone at the Tour de France

Are non-riders welcome?

Yes, of course! We will be running a dedicated program for your non-riding partner who would like to join you. With all the race viewing plus Alpine hiking, sight seeing and the best local cuisine this is a trip for everyone.

Thomson Bike Tours ride leader helps a guest conquer their ambitions on the big climbs of the Tour de France

When is it?

The trip runs from August 11th to August 19th 2024. We’ll pick you up from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and drop you off at Lyon St Expert Airport. All transfers are included.

You are welcome to bring your own bike to ride — our expert mechanics are on hand to help you build and check your bike on arrival. Rental bikes are available for those that wish to travel lighter or experience something new!

Join us in 2024 at the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. A special race with an incredible ride program.