Where to stay: All France

Paris – Hotel de La Porte Dorée

Paris hotel – run by cyclists – that will store bikes and bike boxes for you

I've been running Freewheeling France for more than seven years and, in that time, there has been one email that intermittently pops into my inbox: "I'm arriving into/passing through/leaving from Paris. Where can I safely store my bike/bike box?" Now I have a very good answer: Hotel de La Porte Dorée is in the 12th arrondissement, near the glorious Bois de Vincennes park and forest, on the Metro line to the Eiffel Tower, and close to Gare de Paris Bercy and Paris Gare de Lyon (for trains from Burgundy/Dijon and Lyon Part Dieu); by bike, you can get here from Gare du Nord or Montparnasse in under half an hour; the EuroVelo 3 route passes nearby. The hotel is owned by Laurent and Christina, a Franco-US team who cycle to work having dropped their three kids off at school en route. It's a certified eco-friendly hotel with a small fleet of hotel bikes. There's a large basement storage room for bikes and bike boxes (though they can also be taken to your room if you prefer). There's also a courtyard for daytime storage. If you're starting your trip in Paris before heading off elsewhere, they're even happy to store your bike box until you get back. Great breakfasts, free wifi. This is without a doubt top-of-the-list if you need somewhere to stay with your bike in Paris. 
**We've stayed here - read our review**

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Abbeville Ibis

Mid-range hotel between the bay of Somme and Amiens

Mid-range hotel on the outskirts of Abbeville, 20km south-east of the Bay of Somme and en route to Amiens. Abbeville is a frequent stop on the London to Paris route. Free wifi. Onsite restaurant with terrace. Management advises that bikes can be locked securely inside a room in the hotel. Official website has a best-price guarantee.

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Agen - Citotel Stim'Otel

In the heart of Agen on the Canal de Garonne bike route

The Stim'Otel is an accueil velo hotel in the centre of Agen and is easily reached from the Canal de Garonne bike path, as well as from the station if you are arriving from Toulouse or Bordeaux by rail. It has modern, clean rooms, plus an inhouse restaurant that also serves buffet breakfasts each morning. It's ideal, affordable base for an overnight stay, and wlel-placed for exploring the Old Town after you've parked your bike nd had a shower. Free wifi. French, English and Spanish spoken.

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Aïnhoa - Hotel Ithurria

A typical Basque welcome on the Santiago de Compostela route

Hotel Ithurria is a family -owned and operated hotel-restaurant, now in the hands of its third generation. The hotel (and its restaurant) has stayed close to its Basque-Bearn origins, offering high-quality local hospitality and scrumptious food based on local ingredients (they also grow a lot of produce in their garden). As a mark of its quality, the hotel is now a member of the Chateaux et Hotels Collection of hotels, though still independently owned and operated. There are beautiful gardens and an outdoor swimming pool to enjoy, plus a sauna and fitness room. Free wifi. The owners guarantee us there is plenty of safe and secure bike parking. French, English and Spanish spoken.

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Aire-sur-la-Lys - Chateau de Moulin le Comte (en route to Calais, Roubaix, Arras)

A lovingly renovated oasis of B&B calm in a magnificent setting

Château de Moulin le Comte is a stylish 19th century mansion (circa 1850), which was renovated with love and passion in the summer of 2012. It is ideally located for rides to/from Béthune, Saint-Omer, Lens, Louvre Lens, Arras and Lille. It is roughly between Calais to Arras, making it a great base if you are en route to cycling the Somme. Lille (60km) and Roubaix (70km) are to the east. This is a quiet and peaceful place to rest after a day on the bike – the river Leie still flows through the castle's garden. The owner, Monsieur Francis Van der Elst, offers a warm welcome in what is now his private home. He tells me he is particularly keen to see more cyclists. There are five B&B guestrooms – all are very spacious and have been updated with modern creature comforts, including luxurious beds and mattresses. Rooms can be double or twin, and each room has its own bathroom. Cycling families are very welcome, as are pets. Personal service, hospitality and flexibility are key words here. All rooms are offered B&B, and there is also an excellent table d’hôte evening meal service that attracts locals as well as tourists. I'm told all dishes are "highly refined and carefully prepared for a reasonable price." Dutch, French, English and German spoken. Aperitifs are also served in the lounge or on the cosy terrace.

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Aix-en-Provence - Adagio Apart-hotel

Hotel with self-catering studios and apartments for up to 6 people

Close to Place de la Rotonde and the famous Cours Mirabeau, the Adagio Aix-en-Provence Centre is in the heart of the city. A 4-star holiday residence, the aparthotel has 89 air-conditioned apartments, including studios for 2 people through to 3-room apartments for 6. Ideal for families and cycling groups. All apartments have fully equipped kitchenettes. Free high-speed wifi. Management advises there is a luggage store for bikes, plus a private undercover car park downstairs.  

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Aix-en-Provence - Hotel de l'Arbois

Friendly hotel-restaurant outside the city centre

Relaxing hotel around 10km from the Aix-en-Provence city centre. There's an outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and fitness room. The onsite restaurant serves Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, including regional specialties. Management advises they have a locked garage that's used for bike storage. Free wifi. 24-hour reception. French and English spoken.

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Albas - Chateau de la Blainie

Grand chateau B&B on the Lot Valley bike route

Fancy staying in a castle? Chateau de la Blainie dates back to 1860 – it was built by General Pagès, who served Napoleon III. It's since taken on a new life as a B&B and it's been recommended to us by cyclists wo stayed there while cycling the Lot Valley Bike Route. It offers wonderful views of the Lot River, the ancient village of Albas and the local AOC Cahors vineyards. There is a terrace and pool area for guests, as well as other activities like table tennis. Despite being a castle, it's a small working B&B with just two rooms – the chateau is also the home and workplace of wine and food authors Jolande Burg and Erik Spaans (they sometimes also offer culinary workshops). The chateau is close to local restaurants and wineries (including Château de Cayx, which the Danish royal family owns). German, English, French and Dutch spoken.

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Albert - Hôtel Royal Picardie

Comfortable and friendly 3-star hotel in the heart of the Somme

This hotel comes recommended to us by a cyclist who used it while cycling the battlefields of the Somme. Set in the heart of the Picardy region, Hôtel Royal Picardie is an elegant and peaceful 3-star old-style French hotel. It has 24 rooms – all either double or twins and all with en suites. There is an onsite restaurant with traditional French cuisine. Excellent range of options for breakfast (including pancakes, accordng to our cyclist!) plus packed lunches available on request. There's also a hotel bar. The staff were happy to find a secure room in the hotel to lock his bike overnight. Free wifi. French and English spoken. 

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Albert - Ibis Hotel

Bike-friendly hotel near the battlefields of the Somme

Good bike-friendly base from which to explore the Battlefields of the Somme. Within reach of Boisselle, Thiepval and Beaumont Hamel memorials. Bikes available for guest use (see also this page), maps of the Circuit of Remembrance available to reception. Secure parking on a private terrace that is locked. Cafe, restaurant and bar. Free wifi. Official website has a best-price guarantee.

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Albi Ibis Hotel

Affordable hotel option in the centre of UNESCO-listed Albi

Located in the centre of the city, just 1km from the cathedral. 24-hour reception. Family friendly. 24-hour bar. Restaurant. Wifi. Bikes can be kept with you in your room or, if available staff can find a spare, secure room for your bike.

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Alpe d'Huez - Chalet La Folie (Oz-en-Oisans)

Large apartment for 10 people with Alpe d'Huez on your doorstep

Chalet La Folie is a spacious apartment within easy reach of Alpe d’Huez (and its gondolas for summer MTB or TDF access), and close to local shops, restaurants and bars. This is a great base for cycling many other the famous cols, too, including the Glandon, Croix de Fer and Galibier. Bourg d’Oisans is nearby and is something of a Mecca for road cyclists –the famous Marmottes race starts and finishes there as well as many other routes. Mountain bikers have a huge area to discover, and many ‘VTT’ events are held on the challenging terrain around of Oz. The famous Megavalanche takes place in July every year – starting at the top of Pic Blanc in snow and cycling a huge descent into Sarenne gorge. Walkers have Les Ecrins national park and wonderful, signposted walking from the door, or lovely ridge walks between the gondolas. Many wonderful mountain restaurants are also open in summer.  The chalet sleeps 10 people in four bedrooms and there's a swimming pool, hammam and sauna in the chalet development to rest weary legs. The owner Alison is flexible about check-in during summer months.

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Alpe d'Huez - Chalet Morville (Venosc)

Spacious, modern chalet offering B&B for cyclists in Les 2 Alpes

Chalet Morville is a specialist cycling chalet in the picturesque medieval Alpine village of Venosc just 13km from Le Bourg-d'Oisans and the start of the Alpe d'Huez climb – so a perfect warmup ride away from the famous 21 hairpins. With spectacular mountain views and the best riding the Alps has to offer, Sue and Jules at Chalet Morville aim to offer a home away from home for your French cycling adventure. To ensure your bike is as happy as you are, there is a secure, dedicated bike workshop (pictured) with tools, work stands and spares. The chalet itself is perfect for relaxing after a ride, with a sunny south-facing balcony and garden, a hot tub, sauna and gym. There is a spacious lounge area with UK TV, a dedicated cinema room and a games room with pool and table football. The chalet sleeps up to 12 people and offers accommodation on a per-night basis, with hearty breakfasts served up to power you through the day, along with home-made cakes and optional evening meals for when you get back. The chalet sleeps up to 12.

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Alpe d'Huez - Les Ecureuils (Oz-en-Oisans)

Mountains and water provide the playground for this chalet for 8

The Oz valley provides plenty of sporting and relaxing oppotunities. For the road cyclists you have a wide choice of cols underpinned by the fact that pro-team AG2R have chosen this area for a lot of of its mountain training. The big one is of course Alpe d'Huez to the south but there are lots more including Col d’Ornon, Col de Sarenne, the Glandon and the Croix de Fer – basically lots of beautiful climbs. For mountain bikers or anyone wanting to explore the beauty of the Alps off paved road, there is an abudance of tracks to tackle and plenty to suit every style. You're also just 60m from a high-speed ski-lift. This modern apartment is set in a chalet and sleeps up to 8. It's fully furnished to include everything you need to enjoy a retreat in the mountains. Bikes can be locked in a secure area under the lodge.

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Alpe d'Huez - Mountain Chalet

The famous hairpins are on your doorstep – literally

At the Mountain Chalet you couldn't be any closer to the famous 21 hairpins of Alpe d'Huez – you're on the road itself. The chalet can sleep up to 14 people and is available on a self-catered basis in summer. It's perfectly kitted out for cycling. There's even an outdoor hot tub that sits underneath a large south facing balcony, perfect for relaxing after a ride, complete with a beautiful view. The facilities don't stop there as you can also make full use of a sauna, large social space, UK Sky TV, plenty of bike storage room, wifi and as many famous cols to ride as your legs can withstand. Each bedroom is named after a famous cols in the region, such as Galibier, Croix de Fer, Glandon, Lauteret and more. The guys here promise that if you stay once as a ‘roadie’ at Mountain Chalet and you will be back.

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Alps (Provence) - Chez-Ray

Low-cost accommodation run by cyclists for cyclists north-west of Nice

Affordable, low-cost cycling accommodation in the Provence Alps run by Ray – a cyclist – for other cyclists. Local routes are varied and can be as challenging or as relaxed as you like, with lavender fields combining with gorges, lakes and mountains. Ideal training ground for cyclists and triathletes. French and English spoken. Ray is on hand to advise about routes and provide maps and ride suggestions, to share local knowledge or to provide some company out on the road. Twins, doubles, triples and quads available, making Chez Ray a flexible option for groups as well as individuals.

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Alps - Camping Croque Loisirs (Puy Saint Vincent)

Charming Alpine campsite with views over a national park

We just love the sound of this place. This green and lush campsite is situated on the border of the Ecrins, one of only 10 national parks in France. The site is at an altitude of 1450 metres, meaning that you can literally ride stunning mountain routes from the door. This is mountain camping as it’s meant to be. From your pitch you’ll be able to see the rocks of the Ecrins, as well as beautiful valleys and the glacier of Pelvoux. A three-star campsite, Camping Croque Loisirs is clean, with hot showers and a good friendly service (speaking French, English, Dutch and German). Most of the 50 pitches have access to electricity and there are several water taps. Every morning you can also buy fresh bread, a great way to start your day. The campsite is part of a sports initiative run by an enthusiastic group of Dutch people wo are passionate about sharing the Southern Alps. They can help you plan your rides (GPS maps and stacks of local knowledge), or take on their own bucketlist cols challenge that includes Galibier, Izoard and a bunch of other Tour de France climbs. 

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Alps - Chalet Coeurs (Morzine)

Chalet with hot tub and sauna for tired cycling muscles

Mountain chalet for groups just off the Route de la Plagne – a flat, easy 20-minute walk to the centre of Morzine for non-cycling friends and family (there's also a navette/mini-bus stop just 50m away, giving great access into town). The chalet sleeps up to 12 people in two double en-suites that both have one twin and two triple rooms. There's a sauna, plus large terrace and an outdoor hot tub in the garden (pictured). Both the Col de Joux Plane and Col de Joux Verte are within easy reach. Free wifi. Large bike store in the locked basement. 5% discount when mentioning Freewheeling France

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Alps - Chalet La Ferme a Mamy (Morzine)

A beautiful blend of the old and the new catered with the athlete in mind

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Alps - Chalet Mathilde (Sainte Foy Tarentaise)

Relax in the Alps and hit the mountains from the doorstep

This is a great fixed base for cycling in the heart of the Alps. Chalet Mathilde is run by cyclists Ben and Maddison, who are keen for others to share their little slice of Alpine life. The chalet is available on a catered or self-catered basis for cyclists wanting a self-guided biking base. There are 5 bedrooms, which are available on a sole occupancy basis and ideal for groups of 4-10 people. From the door you can reach Col de l’Iseran, Col du Petit St Bernard, Col de la Madeleine and the Cormet de Roseland, among other classic Tour de France climbs. This part of the Alps is a real hot spot for road cycling, and this is an ideal base for exploring it. Ben will be on hand to share local routes and help you plan your days on the bike – for newer (or unfit!) riders there are gentler local roads with friendlier gradients as well (Ben also offers an emergency rescue service if you get stuck). Free wifi.

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Alps - Col du Telegraphe and Col du Galibier - Chalet Le 1000 Thabor (Valmenier)

Brand new Maurienne Valley chalet with views of the Col du Telegraphe

Denis the owner of Chalet Le 1000 Thabor knows a thing or two about the Maurienne Valley and its many attractions for cyclists. And he's just opened a brand new 4* chalet (sleeps up to 15 people) to share it all. Ride Col du Telegraphe (6 kilometres away) or Col du Galibier, Col du Glandon and Croix de Fer, then Lacets de Montvernier or Col de la Madeleine, Aussois and Col du Montcenis, Col de l’Iseran. Some guests have even done the Marmotte tour starting from Denis' place. Wherever you choose to ride, you can be rest assured that you will receive knowledgable and friendly support throughout your stay here. To help you recover from your cycling day you can enjoy a Finnish sauna before firing up the gas BBQ and enjoying a beer in your private garden, all while taking in the wonderful view of the Col du Telegraphe. There's free parking for cars and a secure garage for your bike. Denis speaks French, English and Italian.

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Alps - Hotel Chalet d’Antoine (Megève)

Alpine-style hotel in a great mountain location for cycling

Hotel Chalet d’Antoine is a small, well-established chalet – founded by the current owner Simon Butler over 30 years ago – specialising in chalet-hotel holidays throughout the summer (as well as in winter for skiers) in the beautiful resort of Megève in the Haute-Savoie. The Alpine-style hotel is a great base for exploring the mountains and is popular with cycle groups, who use the hotel as a base, including for the Haute-Route and 2016 Tour de France race stages. There is a secure bike room in the basement, which is accessible from inside and outside the hotel, plus a cosy lounge and bar to relax in the evening and plan the next day's rides. The hotel is a sort walk to the Megève town centre, so close to local restaurants and bars. Free car parking, free wifi, plus delicious continental buffet breakfast every morning. What's not to like?

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Alps - Mountain Hotel Saint Roch (Puy Saint Vincent)

Friendly cycle friendly base for making the most of the Alps

Hotel Mountain Roch is part of a sports initiative run by an enthusiastic group of Dutch people in the Southern French Alps. Nestled in the heart of the Hautes-Alps, there are 12 Tour de France cols and many more smaller bumps to get up and over within easy reach of the hotel (including the Izoard, Bonette and Galibier). Lots of local advice on hand to help plan road cycling routes – use the local maps and GPS guidance – or take on the hotel's own bucketlist cols challenge. The guys can also help you combine your road cycling with MTB or trailruning. There's a sun terrace on which to relax and enjoy homemade three-course meals to ensure you're fuelled for the next day. Oh and there's also orand enjoy special bike beers, pasta meals and post-cycling snacks. You can even have a shower the day of your departure so you can sneak in a ride before you go.

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Amboise - Le Vinci Loire Valley

Well-established bike-friendly hotel at the heart of the Loire Valley trail

Stylish and comofortable Loire Valley hotel that's a member of the 'cyclists welcome' programme for the Loire - garage for bikes, plus maps available as well as bike pumps and basic tools. Bikes can also be rented on site. The hotel is in the heart of the Loire Valley, around 1.5 km from the centre of Amboise. Free wifi. Rooms have mini-bar and tea/coffee making facilities. Laundry service plus washing machine and a tumble dryer available for a surcharge.

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Amboise - Novotel

Bike-friendly hotel in peaceful surrounds near the chateau at Amboise

Amboise hotel providing a good base for exploring the chateaux and following the river. Hotel complies to the Loire à Vélo 'accueil velo' (cyclists welcome) standards, providing secure parking, repair kits and other support services. Terrace, tennis courts and swimming pool with view of Amboise Château. Traditional French cuisine served in hotel restaurant. Children's play area. Free wifi.

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Amiens - Appart'Hotel Odalys Blamont

Modern apartment-style hotel between Calais and Paris

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Amiens - Grand Hôtel de l’Univers

Stylish three-star hotel right in the centre of Amiens

Stylish three-star hotel in a lovely old mansion building in the centre of Amiens. Around 100m from the train station and close to all the city's main attractions. Locally managed. 24-hour reception. Free wifi throughout the hotel. French and English TV. Catering trays and snacks available on request. The management advises us that bikes can be safely stored inside the hotel.

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Amiens - Mercure Cathedrale

4-star hotel opposite Amiens' famous UNESCO-listed cathedral

Located opposite France's largest cathedral in Amiens, the Mercure provides a 4-star base to rest your legs. Rooms are large, the restaurant is excellent, and there is also a bar and lounge in which to relax. Free wifi. Management can provide a room in which to securely store bikes overnight. Amiens is the gateway to the Battlefields of the Somme, and a good stop if you're looking to experience a small French city after a few days' riding in the countryside. The official website has a best-price guarantee.

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Amiens – Ibis Centre Cathedrale

Mid-range bike-friendly hotel in the Amiens city centre

Reliable chain hotel in the centre of Amiens. 24-hour reception. Free wifi. Management advises bikes can be locked securely in the conference room overnight, or kept in rooms. Luggage storage. Bar and snack bar. Reception can help with bike hire and maps. French, English, Spanish and German spoken. The official website has a best-price guarantee.

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Ancenis - Hotel Akwaba

A welcoming hotel on the Loire route between Nantes and Angers

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Andernos-les-Bains - Hotel Villa Teranga

Relaxed vibe with bike friendly welcome

If cycling and beaches are your thing then Hotel Villa Teranga could be ideal. This place was recommended to us by readers who stayed here. A bike-friendly stop on the Atlantic Coast bike path, it's ideal for exploring the Arcachon Bay area and the beaches of the Atlantic Coast. The rooms are decorated in beach chic and there is secure bike storage – and a cocktail bar! A continental breakfasts can be enjoyed on the terrace. 

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Angers - Hotel d'Anjou

Elegant hotel in the heart of Angers - perfect for Loire à Vélo

Bike-friendly hotel well-placed for the popular Loire à Vélo route. Located in the centre of Angers, it has been elegantly restored and decorated to retain its neogothic charm. Well-known locally for its restaurant. Secure bike parking in a private, coded garage behind the hotel. Loire à Vélo information is available from reception, plus local bike hire contacts are also available. The staff is well-versed in local cycling routes and can help with other enquiries. Free wifi. French, Spanish, English, German spoken.

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Angers – Hotel de l'Europe

Affordable city hotel with enclosed bike parking and good breakfasts

We stayed here for two nights on our La Velo Francette ride. We found it to be a friendly city centre hotel with good bike facilities (it carries the Loire à Vélo stamp of approval). There is enclosed courtyard parking for bikes, and staff can help with buckets and sponges if you need to clean your bike. Breakfast was one of the better ones we had on the trip, with breads and cereals, plus fresh fruit and eggs available as an all-you-can-eat buffet. We had a room facing onto the road, though, so it was a little noisy (ask for a room at the back of the hotel). Good location and within walking distance of restaurants, cafes and bars. Also just a short ride from the train station. Free wifi. (You can read one of our reports frm Angers here).

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Angoulême - Hotel Saint Antoine

Located near the Point Saint Antoine on the banks of the Charente, the Hotel Saint Antoine is a typically French hotel that's a short ride from the city centre and the train station (with links to both Paris and Bordeaux). It offers a locked storage room for bikes, inhouse fitness centre. Courtyard garden. Free wifi. Flexible room options for groups and families + disabled access rooms. French and English spoken. 

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Annecy - Hotel International

3-star hotel with hot tub, hammam and onsite massage facilities

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Annecy - Résidence les Gentianes

Individually designed apartment near beautiful Lac d'Annecy

Located in Doussard, this self-catering apartment (sleeping 6-8) has a garage for bikes and is perfect for exploring the Annecy area. Of all the locations in the Alps, Annecy is the one perhaps best suited to all ages and abilities when it comes to cycling. There is a rich Tour de France heritage here, with a time trial route around the lake; Col de la Forclaz via Montmin and Doussard; and Les Semnoz, which was the finish of the centenary tour’s penultimate stage. But for smaller or less-experienced riders, there's also a dedicated 35km cycle route that runs from Annecy, along the lake and then through countryside to Ugine, towards Albertville. It's a converted railway route that's been extended recently so that the lake is almost completely circumnavigable from Doussard. Alan, the owner of Residence-les-Gentianes, is keen to help cyclists explore this (and other) great routes. With the micro-climate around the lake, you can ride here even during winter. Alan can provide lots of helpful information about the exciting possibilities the area has to offer – just drop him a line.

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Antibes - Hotel Sophia Antipolis

Comfortable hotel 8km from Antibes on the French Riviera

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Apt - Les Oliviers & Les Cerisiers (Ventoux)

Versatile accommodation for small solo riders, couples and small groups

David and Karen offer a homely welcome in a stunning location overooking orchards and hilltops. They have two one-bedroomed self-catered gites (Les Oliviers & Les Cerisiers), plus a B&B room sleeping two people. There is also a three double bedroomed self-catered house with its own pool on the adjacent property – perfect for families or small groups. There is everything you need here for the perfect cycling holiday. Each villa has a private terrace and barbeque, along with access to a superb infinity pool, perfect to return to after your ride (or your partner to relax at whilst you ride!) Surrounded by endless peaceful roads, this is a great base for riders of all abilities, with both gentle and challenging climbs offering stunning views as a reward. The 'Monts de Vaucluse' the 'Prealpes', rises to 1256 metres at Signal de Saint-Pierre and provides a beautiful backdrop and leads to the Plateau de Sault and the mighty Mont Ventoux (1912 metres), a 104km round trip. The gites sit in a peaceful olive and fruit orchard with views over the Luberon Valley, the village of Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt is an easy walk away for baguettes, restaurants  and other supplies. You can even order a Champagne breakfast and/or evening meal on arrival to kick off your stay in style. Free (fast) wifi. French and English spoken.
*** We've stayed here – read our review. ***

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Apt - Maison de Villars (for Ventoux)

Lots of space for cyclists 40km south of the Ventoux

Maison de Villars  is around 40km south of Ventoux, nestled in the village of Villars, near Apt. This is a popular area for cycling, and within easy reach of regular Tour de France routes which pass nearby. It's possible to ride the iconic Ventoux from here, as well as explore other local routes incuding the Gorges de la Nesque and the wine routes of the Vaucluse – ideal for gentler riding and families. The house sleeps 8 people, and includes a room with one of the double bedrooms joining to a room with two single beds – ideal for families. There is a covered and secure area for bike storage, plus a pool and BBQ area for cooling off post-ride. The owner (who speaks English) is keen to welcome cyclists.

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Aramits - Maison Rachou (Mountain Vacances)

Cyclist-run B&B with stunning views of the Pyrénées

Run for and by cyclists, Maison Rachou is tucked in the heart of cycling country in the western Pyrenees. Yet the roads here are much less travelled than the busier areas to the east. In one direction there are rolling hills (think Cotswolds in the UK) and in the other direction fantastic Pyrénéan mountain climbs. Here it's not uncommon to have Tour de France cols like the Aubisque, Marie Blanque, La Pierre St Martin, Soulor and d’Osquich to yourself, especially in autumn and spring. Maison Rachou itself is a lovely farmhouse with a tastefully converted barn that provides five generously proportioned B&B rooms, all with en suites, as well as a large living area. It is only one kilometre from the village with a bar/bistro and patisserie. There is a swimming pool for guests to use and, of course, stunning mountain views. It sleeps up to 12 in a range of room formations. English and French spoken.

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Aramits – Lae de Haut

Flexible B&B and self-catered accommodation in the Pyrenees

Lae de Haut is the perfect cycling base, just a few kilometres from Arette, where stage 10 of the Tour de France passed through on Bastille Day 2015. This is the gateway to the western cols that regularly feature on the Tour de France route, including Aubisque, Marie Blanque, La Pierre St Martin, Soulor and d’Osquich. The roads here are mostly French Cycling Federation-approved, with signs marking distances to col and gradients. There are also signposted circular routes for mountain biking just 200m from the door (you can see them from the bedrooms). Margaret and John are used to welcoming cyclists and are keen to welcome more riders through Freewheeling France. BBQ area; outdoor pool. Free wifi. French and English spoken.

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Arcachon - Hôtel de la Plage

Relax on the terrace at this 3-star hotel after a ride around the bay

Arcachon is a popular and thriving seaside town that echoes a bygone area in its architecture. The Hotel de la Plage is in the centre of town and close to the beach, so perfect for exploring by foot or cycle. It's close to the La Vélodyssée bike route and cycle tour companies use it as an overnight stop on the Atlantic Coast route. Onsite bar. 24-hour reception. Bikes can be hired through the the hotel. Free wifi. English and French spoken.

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Arcachon - Hôtel Du Delta

2-star hotel with Arcachon an easy ride away

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Arcachon - Hotel Le B d'Arcachon (Atlantic Coast EV1)

Cycle friendly hotel on the Basin d'Arcachon bike routes

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Arçais - Maison Flore

Small eco-hotel in the heart of the beautiful Marais Poitevin

We stayed at this small eco-hotel on our La Velo Francette ride. It's in a lovely location, with the rambling gardens backing straight onto the canal system of the Venise Verte in the Marais Poitevin. There are 10 rooms – singles, doubles, triples and a family room – some of them with balconies and garden views. There is a bike parking area in the garden; it's not a fully enclosed shed, but the B&B's central gates are locked at night and I felt comfortable leaving my bike in the bike area. There is a hose nearby for washdowns. Free wifi. All-you-can eat buffet breakfast of cereals and fresh fruit. There is an emphasis here on the environment, with the hotel (though it's more like a B&B) having its own solar-energy system.

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Argelès-Gazost - Hôtel Le Miramont

Pyrenees spa town hotel with its own dedicated bike area

The Hotel Miramont is a well-appointed cycle friendly hotel that's used to welcoming cyclists – it even has a dedicated bike area called The Grange. There, you'll find four individual bike lockups, plus a communal bike storage area, a workshop with tools, plus a bike cleaning area. Individual riders welcome, as well as groups. The hotel is in the spa town of Argelès-Gaznost, making it an excellent choice as a base for exploring the many cols accessible from here, such as the Aubisque, Col du Soulor and the Hautacam. It's also great for non-cycling family and friends as it has lovely gardens – relax in a deckchair! – plus a restaurant that opens onto a terrace when the sun is shining. It's also just a short walk to the town's spa centre. Free wifi. French and English spoken. Twins, doubles and family rooms.

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Ariège - Les Deux Petits Pois

Cyclist-run vegetarian B&B in the foothills of the Pyrenees

Les Deux Petits Pois Chambres d’Hotes is situated in ‘Poets Quarter’ in the village of Fougax-et-Barrineuf. Run by keen cyclists Philomena and Paul, the B&B is a charming 18th century 'Maison du Maître’ perfect for couples, groups or solo riders. The area is known for its great cycling routes, with plenty of varied road and mountain bikes options, and Philomena and Paul can share lots of local advice. If you're passing through to Spain or looking for somewhere to rest and relax, Les Deux Petits Pois offers a perfect retreat with nearby mountains, lakes and the river l'Hers. It's also a great base for exploring the Medieval towns and Cathar castles of Mirepoix, Foix, Limoux and Carcassonne. To get you ready for the day ahead, breakfast is a typical French affair with a contemporary twist: homemade breakfast pots, fresh bread, fresh croissants or occasional gâteau fait maison. There is also a vegetarian table d'hôte where your hosts prepare fresh, home-cooked, nutritiously packed food that even meat eaters will enjoy. For rides and days out, you can also order picnics. Free wifi. English and French spoken.

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Ariège Pyrénées - Le Pistoulet Cycling Holidays

Cyclist-run, value-for-money base in the wonderful Ariège Pyrenees

Cyclists Becky and Matt (and their mini-cyclists – both competitive riders) have opened their home to other riders, transforming it into a family friendly biking base thanks to their wonderful attic suite (double bed, sofa bed and two singles). They are in a wonderful spot near Saint-Girons (a 2017 TDF town) and the Mas d'Azil cave on the western edge of the Ariege and near the Haute Garonne border. They offer accommodation and stacks of local advice to ensure you get the most out of your cycling trip. With their extensive knowledge of the local terrain, they can help you plan your route each day so you can enjoy cycling on quiet smooth rural roads, cols of the Tour de France or mountain trails. Their accommodation price includes airport/train collection from Toulouse if you need it, breakfasts, post ride snacks and three-course evening meals based on local fresh produce. Secure bike storage and workshop, plus a cleaning area. This is an ideal base for road cycling couples, active families or small groups of friends who are after personalised boutique-style accommodation. English and French spoken. Free wifi.

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Ariège Pyrénées - Rhino Velo Pyrénées

Specialist cycling base for the Pyrénées and their foothills

As the name and the photo above both suggest, Mike and Wendy's set up at Rhino Velo Pyrénées is geared 100% for cyclists. They're based in the foothills of the Pyrenees near the village of Crampagna in the Saurat Valley. The Ariege river flows at the bottom of the garden, making this an ideal spot for rides into the hills or gentler bimbles along the valley (10 minutes up the road there's a flat 40km voie verte to the medieval town of St Girons). A 15-minute ride south and you're into the 'Pyrénées proper', opening up Tour de France cols including Plateau de Beille, Port de Lers and Mur de Peguerrei. The four bedrooms here can sleep upto 10 people. There's a chill-out room for before and after rides, and a fridge stocked with cold drinks and post-ride snacks. Mike and Wendy can help with maps and ride ideas (and you wouldn't need to twist anyone's arm too far if you wanted some company out on the road, either).

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Ariège river - Sunflower Cycling B&B

A popular base for pro riders and leisure cyclists in the Pyrenean foothills

A regular host to professional peloton riders, Sunflower Cycling is a renovated, centuries-old stone/brick farmhouse. As the name suggests, the property rests among sunflowers, as well as wheat fields and woods high above the Ariège river. It's around 25 minutes (along a scenic river road) from the centre of Toulouse. A short ride from the historic Canal du Midi and within reach of the epic climbs of the Pyrenees, Sunflower Cycling is an ideal base for either training rides or leisurely breaks through the undulating, postcard-perfect French countryside. The “Our story” section of their website provides an insight into how Sunflower Cycling became a base for Garmin pro riders, among others. It's a tale of bikes and the roads (literally and figuratively) they take us down. You’ll also find over a dozen day rides with maps from the door, profiles, photos and video flyovers.

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