The first day leaves Paris through the northern edge of the metropolis and quickly reaches a different kind of France: fewer city streets, more fields, avenues and small settlements between Île-de-France, Oise and Aisne. After the suburbs, Senlis becomes the first strong marker, with its medieval centre, cathedral and old walls. From there, the route continues through rolling country towards the Oise valley. Compiègne brings together palace surroundings, river setting and the edge of the forest before quieter roads lead on to Noyon. Its cathedral gives the stage a clear historic stop. In the final kilometres, the landscape turns more northern French: open, direct, with canals, villages and long lines into Saint-Quentin, where brick, basilica and Art Deco façades close the day.
