Published by Lyn on 26 April 2011
Dunkirk's annual pro-cycling event – usually held each May – also includes a festival of cycling for those of us more akin to pottering than to racing.
The race itself is confusingly entitled 'Les 4 jours de Dunkerque' despite running over 5 days. It covers 900-odd kilometres over five stages, and attracts a strong contingent of high-profile riders and teams.
There's more information (in French) on the official site.
If you're thinking of a trip to watch the race, Norfolkline has regular ferries from Dover; see voyages-sncf.com for train options.
For ideas on where to cycle while you're in the area, see Bradt's Cross-Channel France: Nord-Pas de Calais, The Land Beyond the Ports. There's also Michelin's Tourist Guide Northern France and the Paris Region 2010.
There's other tourist information at Dunkirk Tourism.