Tour de France

At Elegant Ski we are passionate about the skiing market and the beautiful Alps that stretch across three countries, although we specialise in the skiing market we also have many properties available for summer rentals and there is plenty of activity in the French and Swiss Alps all year round. One such event that inspires and encourages summer holidays to the French Alps is that of the Tour de France.

The tour de France is perhaps one of the most renowned cycling events to take place annually in Europe. The race sees professional sports men travel across the French Alpine mountain range and neighbouring countries to win the honour of wearing the iconic yellow jersey.

The Tour de France began in 1903 in Montgeron and had 6 stages with 60 cyclists, only 21 of which completed the whole tour ending in Paris. Cycling this distance in 1903 presented more difficulties than today with the basic bicycles tackling the terrain was an epic battle. Some people found the idea of cycling this distance to be idiotic but soon found that they had great respect for the men who managed to triumph. The first winner of the Tour de France earning himself 6,075 francs was Maurice Garin.

In 1906 the Tour de France came to the French Alps, and in 1919 the yellow jersey was created and was worn by Eugene Christophe. The move to the Alps began to attract spectators from across the world due to the extravagant challenge and spectacular place offering the most incredible views.

Eventually, records were being created and the competition really began with Jacques Anquetil becoming the first rider to win Le Tour de France five times. Shortly after Eddy Merckx became the only rider to win all separate classifications of the tour. Many other records have been broken and the race continues to test even the most physical of men.

In the twenty first century the Alpine mountains are filled with budding cyclists eager to attempt such a challenge, others may travel to the French Alps to cycle and take in the phenomenal scenery along some of the well preserved cycle paths. There is always activity in the Alps and what better way is there than to end a day’s action than returning to one of Elegant Ski’s Luxury Chalets.