Paris to Nice Cycle Race – Front Row Seats at the Race to the Sun

by Charlotte Ashton

March 7th sees the start of the gruelling Paris to Nice road bike race. This year 22 teams have signed up for the 1230 kilometre race which takes 7 days and covers some extremely tough stretches of road including a very nasty climb up the Massif Central Mountain ranges. But it is the stages around Nice that sees that truly sorts the boys from the men – this is a section where the average human would be concerned whether their 3 year old car is going to make it to the top – let alone leg power.

 
The Nice stage totals 119 kilometres and the longest climb takes place over 5 kilometres up to Col de la Porte at 1068 metres.  At times this road reaches a 7.2% gradient – classified as category 1 in biking terminology.  The riders then drop mercifully back down 90 m before putting them selves through the agony of climbing to La Turbie, 485 m and then Eze at 510 m.
The race climaxes with a maddening sprint down treacherous hair pin roads, possibly more terrifying than going up, to the flat and picturesque Promenade des Anglais on Nice´s sea front where only the most courageous of the descent have a hope of expending their very last vestiges of energy in a dash for the line and victory.
This cycle race is probably the most historical event in the professional racing calendar. Kirkor Ajderhanyan who runs Agence 107 Promenade says, “This event brings the crowds out in droves onto the Promenade. Many of our properties that are available for sale are overlooking the finish line and get the most wonderful views of the last stretch of this infamous race.” He goes on to say, “I know of several owners who make this event an excuse to host wonderful parties and show off their beautiful apartments.”
For more information on buying a property on the Promenade des Anglais please contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.
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On the market:
A beautifully presented modern 2nd floor 2 bedroom apartment with terrace and loggia offering panoramic sea views. The property consists of 105 sqm of living space with living room, equipped kitchen, 2 bedrooms and bathroom. Asking price € 680.000. For more information please contact Agence 107 Promenade on 00 33 4 93 44 83 83, email contact@107promenade.com or visit www.107promenade.com.