The 95th Tour de France bicycle race runs from Saturday 5 July to Sunday 27 July 2008. If you are interested in cycling, or you would just like to be part of this very French event that has been taking place since 1903, then take a Rentavilla villa holiday in France and be part of the action. There will be 22 teams of nine riders each competing over 3,500kms of racing. No matter who the overall winner turns out to be, drama and spectacle are guaranteed.

During the 21 days of racing, the Tour passes through towns and villages in France and several in Italy. The Tour begins this year in Brittany. This will mean magnificent celebrations in this region as it is well known for its love of cycling. The race then continues through the Centre and then through the Midi Pyrenees, Aquitaine and Languedoc Roussillon regions of France. The riders must climb into the mountains of the Rhone Alps before returning to the Ile de France and Paris for the spectacular finish on the Champs-Élysées. The race consists of flat stages, mountain climbs of various degrees and 82kms of time trials.

The towns and villages involved in this year's Tour have been carefully chosen for their ability to provide adequate services to both riders and spectators. They have had several years to prepare for the event and will be determined to provide a memorable experience for both residents and visitors. As the Tour approaches, participating towns will have special exhibitions, concerts and other performances dedicated to "la Grande Boucle". On race day, the professional riders are not the only sight to see. You will be able to watch street performers and entertainers while tasting the local delicacies and regional wines on offer from local vendors. The Tour de France publicity caravan creates a 20km long procession of around 200 decorated vehicles. The caravan provides entertainment to spectators and allows cycling companies and sponsors to promote themselves, distributing hundreds of gifts to the crowds.

Choosing your Rentavilla accommodation close to the course of the 2008 Tour will give you the opportunity to be a part of this unique aspect of French culture. Either drive to the nearest town on the route and take part in the festivities taking place before, during and after the race passes through, or, when final details of the 2008 route become available, choose a vantage point and join the fans of all nationalities who cheer on their heroes from the side of the road.

Below is a list of the stages of the 2008 Tour, showing the starting and finishing towns for each of the 21 days of racing.

Don't forget that July 14 is also Bastille Day in France, so there will also be many events and festivities associated with this important celebration.

The 2008 Tour de France is a special time to visit France. Follow the race on TV or radio as you lounge by your Rentavilla villa pool, cheer the riders on from the roadside or join the lively debate about the performance of the latest stage winner in the nearest cafe. The people and the towns of the 2008 Tour de France will be out to impress you.

Vive Le Tour!