This year’s Tour de France starts on Saturday 2nd July in North Western France by the famous Le Mont-Saint-Michel and finishes on Sunday 24th July in Paris.

For the first time in Tour de France history, the famous cycle race will start in Manche, Normandy before crossing Western France, with a long stretch down through Angers, Saumur and Limoges.

The tour will pass through southern France and will then dip its toes in Northern Spain before winding its way back up. Stage 16 and 17 diverts through Switzerland summits promise to really put the cyclists through their paces.

One of the final stages is expected in landlocked Andorra but, as usual, the Tour will culminate on the Champs-Élysées in Paris for a sprinters’ showdown.

Much of the route is through areas of France perfect for combining relaxation and sightseeing with the excitement of the race, so check out our easy search in relevant regions for self-catering accommodation or a friendly B&B.

Close to the Normandy start is La Cidrerie, formerly an old cider farm and now three beautifully renovated cottages. Orchard stands alone whilst Cider and Apple are semi-detached. The cottages are ideally suited for couples, families or larger groups and La Cidrerie is situated just outside the pretty village of St Pierre Langers.