The Tour Anticipation Issue, August 2009

Bonjour Traveler!

What a race in 2009—we saw Armstrong’s return to France, the battle for team leadership on Astana, a strong showing by the Schleck brothers and the rise of British sensation Bradley Wiggins. There is plenty to keep us wondering over the winter what 2010 will bring.

Needless to say, we’re eagerly awaiting next year’s Grande Boucle and imagine that you are too. That’s why we’re happy to present outstanding itineraries that take you into the heart of the action and give you an up-close taste of the passion, glory, excitement and downright craziness. Millions of live spectators, more than a billion TV viewers, some 200 professional cyclists, over 1,000 gendarmes, scores of automobiles, hundreds of team officials, countless journalists and dozens of directeurs, managers, doctors, soigneurs, mechanics, chefs, and YOU! Join us next July when the cycling world converges to create the biggest sporting arena in the world.

In honor of the 97th edition of the world’s greatest bicycle race—and to witness Lance Armstrong’s attempt at a history-making 8th victory—we invite you to be a part of the festivities in our very own backyard. (Did you know that our European headquarters is little more than a stone’s throw from the base of Mount Ventoux?) As always with Backroads, you can count on hotels and routes that take you up close and into the action, with access to stellar riding and viewing. And, of course, you can look forward to the world-class pampering, flexibility and individualized support that you've come to expect from Backroads.

Our exclusive departures follow key stages of the world’s greatest bicycling race. Departure dates, routes, accommodations and trip price will be available once official information is released this fall. Please call 800-GO-ACTIVE (462-2848) to pre-reserve your space on one of these exclusive departures. Once you do, we will contact you with specific dates, price and itinerary details as soon as they become available. View the 2009 Itinerary.

Regards,


Tom Hale
Founder and President