Nice is absolutely fantastic at throwing a celebration! Situated perfectly between the stunning sea and majestic Alps, this city is a true natural beauty that knows how to get all dolled up for those special occasions. Even though a few riders may have missed spinning past the iconic Parisian landmarks, the 111th Tour de France wrapped up in the most stylish way possible, right along the grand 200-year-old Promenade des Anglais.
Preparations
Excited to finally be part of my first Tour de France, we landed in the city the Wednesday before and were greeted by a vibrant atmosphere! Everywhere we looked, there were signs of the upcoming event - from the maillots jaunes proudly suspended from the light posts, to the colorful chairs in yellow, green, and polka dot patterns peeking out among the classic rows of chaises bleues. Not to mention the magnificent yellow stands that had taken over Place Masséna. Nice was beaming with pride as it prepared to host the grand finale of the Tour!
The Fan Park had its grand opening on Friday, featuring a lively showcase of vendors, demonstrations, and complimentary samples. Children raced around a miniature track, while adults tried out racing bikes to test their endurance. Spectators cheered enthusiastically as stunt bikers performed flips and hairpin turns.
I was most surprised by a booth showcasing all the regional specialties along this year's route. It's unexpected how passionate Tour de France is about regional specialties, just like us! The experience concluded with Socca chips, a delightful local treat from Nice, and the stunning bags from French Riviera Girls, a brand that I am thrilled to feature in my boutique too!
Saturday - Stage 20 - Nice > Col de la Couillole
This stage started at Port Lympia and was to follow the Promenade des Anglais before ascending (and ascending!) into the Alps. But two hours before the peloton arrived, there was the Caravane! This joyful procession of floats threw out all kinds of gifts to the anxiously awaiting crowd - t-shirts, hats (the famous "bob"), key chains, cheese (this is France after all!), beverages ...
After much anticipation, the peloton arrived.
And after a brief blur of activity, they were gone.
But the energy was electric, and we were completely swept up in it.
That evening we strolled the Promenade towards la Vieille Ville to catch an open-air concert proceeding the most magical display of drone fireworks! Absolument magnifique!
Sunday - Stage 21 - Monaco > Nice
Although the first rider wasn't expected until after 3 pm, the crowd started forming at 9 am! The Danes were very well represented, ready to cheer on their star, Jonas Vingegaard. We were perfectly poised on our balcony at the 2 km mark - happy to have a respite from the heat, and a bathroom when needed!
During the "Contre-la-montre" stage, which is an individual time trial, the cyclists would arrive one by one, with the spectators showing their admiration for each one. We were mesmerized for hours.
As expected, It was the Slovenian Tadej Pogačar for the win. What an absolute thrill to watch him ride past to thundering applause and cheers. My first Tour de France was in the books. But it won't be my last!
Do you have a Tour de France experience to share? We would love to hear from you!
Comments