Years ago I started watching the Tour de France on TV just for the scenery. Then I became a bit of a cycling fan. At the time it was fun watching Lance Armstrong dominate Le Tour - and it was equally fun seeing all of the beautiful images of France along the route.
Nice viewing spot by the Tuileries gardens.
After the doping scandals my interest in cycling faded, but I still enjoy watching the Tour de France for the scenery. And now that I'm living in Paris I can see the final stage in person!
This was my second year watching the finish. The weather was perfect - a huge improvement from the cool and rainy weather in 2015.
Serious fans and front row seats
Getting around is a bit of a challenge on finish day, but well worth the effort to see this special sporting event. While expensive paid tickets are required for the grandstand seating on the Champs Elysees much of the course can be accessed for free.
Waiting for the riders to arrive
Security was tighter this year with most of the access from the Tuileries blocked off. I was hoping for an elevated view from the wall overlooking the course and instead had to settle for a view of the wall.
They were fast!
Being on street level ended up being a better choice in end. I loved being so close to the action and feeling the breeze as the peloton rode by. But taking good photos was a challenge. I'm glad that they made eight passes, because this allowed me to try some different camera settings and angles. Some were better than others.
The peleton passes
Watching the Tour de France is one of my favorite - as well as free things to do in Paris. It's also a good reason to plan a trip to Paris in July. Hope to see you next year!
Nice day for a bike ride.