Leisurely drive to Le Mans

[stuey]

For several years now I have used the Eurotunnel on Thursday morning early, then driven to Le Mans as quickly as possible to make sure that I can still bag some space on the campsite (MB last year). I also went to the Classic last year, avoided the Autoroutes and major roads and it really reminded me of how it used to be and what I have been missing, the journey being a big part of the overall enjoyment

So to get to the point, I am determined to take my time getting there this year. I have Houx camping (thanks Steveaich) so I do not need to worry about there being no space when I arrive. I am crossing from Dover to Dunkerque with Norfolkline on Wednesday morning (thanks Gordonwr for the tip, £38 all in about £100 less than the tunnel!).

My plan is to avoid the Autoroutes and Rouen, take the scenic routes, stop overnight somewhere, and reach Le Mans Thursday early evening in time to pitch the tent and watch some qualifying.

I reckon it must be 280 miles plus between Dunkerque and Le Mans. Anyone have any recommendations for places to visit on route, favourite roads (or ones to avoid) and finally any interesting overnight stops.

Thanks for any ideas

Stuey

[Mr. Invincible Mou]

Well, I always thought that the old road through Abbeville was especially nice. I used to like passing the old Castle ruins and then on down the side of the river/canal. I also then used to really enjoy the old road from there to Rouen, with its tree lined prettiness as it cut pretty much dead straight across the farmland. Much better than the new dual carriageway most seem to use (I remember all the chaos caused whilst that was being built  ).

However, if you wish to avoid Rouen, you could go from Abbeville to Amiens along the side of the waterways (N235). I have never done this, but it should be a pretty scenic route, and there is a great Cathederal in Amiens.

From there how about an overnight in Versailles? Then the following morning overland to Alencon and a traditional finish to the journey from there. Or you could go straight down via Chartres and use the quiter east side of Le Mans for your entry.

Hope those give you some ideas.

[termietermite]

If you followed Mr I's suggestion of Amiens, you could then head South towards Breteuil, Marseille en Beauvais, Gournay, then cross the Seine at Les Andelys (overnight stop?); Evreux, Damville, Verneuil; La Ferte Vidame; Nogent le Rotrou; La Ferte Bernard, St Cosme en Vairais; Bonnetable; LM.  I've never tried it (apart from the bit from Nogent le Rotrou onwards) but the countryside round most of those places is pleasant.

[rcutler]

I cycled that route in 1998 for my first visit. Fantastic roads to cycle so perfect for a lesuirely drive.

[stuey]

Thanks for the ideas, time to dig out the French Atlas.

Cheers

Stuey

[Mr. Invincible Mou]

 

Hmm, why bother with an old Atlas.

Try http://maps.google.co.uk/ you will be amazed how detailed the maps are.

Here is a link to Houx Roundabout, and it goes in one layer further if you wish Click Ici