As if Yorkshire needed putting on the map, this Saturday will see all eyes drawn to God's Own Country as world's best cyclists gather for the Tour de France's Grand Depart. The epic event will see flocks of visitors lining the roads, adding to the 40 million or so tourists that already visit the county each year.
Whether you're heading up there for the race itself, or get inspired by the coverage – which will see riders cruising through the picturesque landscape of Yorkshire Dales – our comprehensive holiday guide to the region is a great place to get inspiration for a trip. It includes more than 100 tips, from seaside B&Bs and cosy pubs to budget tourist spots and family attractions.
Those intending to take to two wheels themselves this summer should check out our round-up of some of the toughest hill climbs in Yorkshire. The dramatic lungbusters were tried and tested by our writer Kevin Rushby this spring, who also had the pleasure of riding a far more accessible bike trail through the North York Moors from the Sutton Bank national park centre. Or you could test your mettle on stage one of the Tour as Tim Lewis did on his Yorkshire recce. Our rangers' guides to the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales are also a must read for anyone planning on venturing out into the hills.
If you're on the look out for the best accommodation along the route, take a look at our guide to the best campsites in Yorkshire (as well as Cambridgeshire and Essex – where stage three of Le Tour will be held). We've also reviewed plenty of cosy countryside hotels, such as the King's Head in Kettlewell, the Florentine in Sheffield and Crab Manor in Thirsk. Also check out our guide to the best hotels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms in North Yorkshire and the best budget stays in the Yorkshire Moors and the Dales.
Cycling or not, you'll certainly be in need of some fuel. The Guardian's food critic Marina O'Loughlin has done the ground work, going on a foodie romp around the county picking out the best places to eat in Yorkshire. If you're in need of a second opinion, the Michelin starred chef of the Yorke Arms in Pately Bridge, Frances Atkins, has also shared her top restaurants, pubs and food producers in the county. Meanwhile, Kevin Rushby visited the Harbour View Cafe in Scarborough earlier this year to make a video about his favourite fish and chip shop.
Of course, one thing Yorkshire will always be famed for is its pubs; take a look at our round up of the best ones in North Yorkshire. Our critic Tony Naylor has also picked out the best craft beer pubs in York, and includes a few choice watering holes in his round up of the best budget restaurants and cafes in Leeds.
And if after all that you're still not convinced by all the hype – Yorkshire was voted the third best place to visit in the world by Lonely Planet last October – have a read of northern editor Helen Pidd's good, honest assessment of the county.
