Where to stay: Aquitaine

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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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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Angouleme/Limoges – Le Moulin de Pensol (Pensol)

Bikers' base between Limoges and Angouleme (self-catering + B&B)

Heidi and Nik at Le Moulin de Pensol were recommended to us by cyclists who stayed with them. They have space for 17 people in a combination of B&B and self-catering accommodation, making this a flexible base for solo riders through to larger groups. They are located roughly halfway between Limoges and Angouleme in the heart of the Perigord-Limousin national park near the northern edge of the Dordogne. This is a stunning area for cycling (see here). The roads are well-maintained and virtually traffic-free, offering routes of every distance and for every ability through gently rolling hills, chestnut woods, pretty stone villages and past grand chateaux. Heidi and Nik can pick you (and your bikes) up from Limoges or Angouleme, or help you arrange bike hire locally. Ample space for bike and bike box storage. In all, there are 2 x double B&B rooms, a triple B&B room, two 2-person self-catering gites, and a larger gite that's perfect for 6 people. English, French and German 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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Aubisque - Green Bike Pyrenees (Laruns)

Perfect accueil velo B&B base in the western Pyrenees

We wished we'd known about this place when we went to the Vuelta in 2016 when we were looking for cycling accommodation in Laruns. The Green Bike Pyrenees chalet is – as the name suggests – a dedicated biking base. Located in the Ossau Valley, it has three mythical cols from the Tour de France on the door step: the Col d’Aubisque, Soulor, and Marie Blanque. Other cols like Tourmalet, Pourtalet and La Pierre St Martin are within reach. The owners Mireille and Nick are involved in cycling at different levels, so they understand your needs and can cater for them. You just cycle and they will handle the rest (including booking you a sauna or sports massage at the local spa for when you get in!) Bikes can be safely stored in a lockable garage, plus there are cleaning facilities, a workshop with work stand, and spares. English, French, Spanish spoken.

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Bayonne - Le Grand Hôtel

Comfortable four-star hotel for a relaxing stop on the Atlantic Coast

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Bergerac - Campanile Bergerac

Budget hotel option with restaurant on the city's outskirts

Campanile Bergerac is a clean and reliable option just over 1km from the Bergerac city centre and 4km from the airport, just off the road to Bordeaux. Terrace, small garden. Contemporary-style rooms you'd expect of a modern budget hotel. All rooms are en suite rooms. Tea, coffee and biscuits provided in all rooms. Onsite restaurant with regional cuisine and local wines plus an all-you-can eat cheese and dessert buffet. Room service option. Buffet breakfast. Dedicated bike shed (Tour de France teams stayed here for the Bergerac stage of the 2014 Tour, though they had a fancy bus and team cars for their bikes and kit!) French and English spoken. Free wifi.

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Bergerac - Hotel de France

Good-value city centre hotel with outdoor pool and private garage

Friendly 3-star hotel in the centre of Bergerac and close to all amenities. We have had good reports from cyclists who have stayed here. A short ride from the Dordogne River, it has 20 air-conditioned rooms. There is secure bike parking in the hotel's private garage. Rooms have views of the pool/courtyard area or of the city centre. Buffet breakfasts. Heated outdoor pool plus garden area. Free wifi. English, French, Spanish and Italian spoken.

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Biarritz - Hotel Kemaris

Bike-friendly hotel on the La Vélodyssée Atlantic Coast bike route

Hotel Kemaris was recommended to me by a cyclist who was riding the Atlantic Coast bike path, La Vélodyssée. "It is very central," he wrote, "and hotel staff put our cycles in a locked storeroom inside the hotel."  The hotel is only 200m from the beach (some rooms have terrrace balconies). Buffet breakfast with local produce served daily (there's the option to have the full buffet or an 'express' version). Free wifi. Hotel combines local Basque architecture with modern touches. Groups welcome (discounts available). English, French and Spanish spoken. Good local knowledge and advice on off here.

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Biarritz - Pierre & Vacances Premium Haguna

Clean apartment hotel in a central location

A cool surf vibe awaits at this centrally located apartment hotel, close enough to the Grand Plage to be sat on the sand in 5 minutes whilst still being surrounded by local restaurants. Freewheeling France has stayed here, using it as the launch pad for a gentle 80km spin around this wonderful coastal resort. There is a dedicated bike storage room, though the staff didn't blink an eye when we decided to take our bike up the lift and to our room. Perfect for families with comfy sofa beds, a small playground in the garden and a kids' toy and book corner in reception. All the kitchen equipment you'll need for a stay, including fridge, small oven, coffee machine, toaster and kettle. Free and fast wifi.
** We've stayed here – read our review **

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Biarritz Airport - Campervan and minibus hire

Choose your own cycling adventure in a campervan or minivan

Hit the road for a cycling holiday in a fully self-contained campervan or in a minibus with rear bike rack. Standard VW campervans seat 6 and sleep 2 (the extra 4 can camp nearby), while the VW campervan with roof tent seats 6 and sleeps 4. All campervans come with a rear kitchen pod that includes a sink with running water and a double hob. Bike racks, roof boxes and roof bars are also available to ensure you can take all your gear with you. Minibus hire also available to seat 6-9 people + bikes. Available for pickup at Biarritz Airport, or delivery to you by arrangement. 

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Biscarrosse - Camping Bimbo

Popular 4-star Atlantic Coast campsite on EuroVelo 1

If you can get past the name – which I don't think has any origins in English! – Camping Bimbo in Biscarosse is well placed on the Atlantic Coast for rides down the EuroVelo 1 La Vélodyssée bike route. It's a 4-star campsite with both covered pool and outdoor pools + paddling pool, water games and slides for the young at heart. Situated 600m from the lake, it provides a refreshing and comfortable stop. Tent pitches, as well as mobile homes, chalets and wooden cabins for hire. Gets busy in summer – may be minimum night stay, depending on the season. Part of the Flower Campings network of independently run sites.

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Biscarrosse - Hôtel la Forestière

Small, good value 3-star hotel with its own pool

Hôtel la Forestière is used by small cycle tour companies on La Vélodyssée Atlantic Coast cycle route, so the staff here are used to welcoming riders. 800m from the beach. There is a heated swimming pool and free wifi. French and English spoken. Onsite restaurant. There are also a couple of golf courses nearby if you fancy a break from the sand. It's a hard life!

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Bordeaux - Campervan and minibus hire

Choose your own cycling adventure in a campervan or minivan

Hit the road for a cycling holiday in a fully self-contained campervan or in a minibus with rear bike rack. Standard VW campervans seat 6 and sleep 2 (the extra 4 can camp nearby), while the VW campervan with roof tent seats 6 and sleeps 4. All campervans come with a rear kitchen pod that includes a sink with running water and a double hob. Bike racks, roof boxes and roof bars are also available to ensure you can take all your gear with you. Minibus hire also available to seat 6-9 people + bikes. Available for pickup at Bordeaux Airport or railway station, or delivery to you by arrangement. 

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Bordeaux - Le Saint James Bouliac

Magical bike-friendly retreat in the hills overlooking Bordeaux

If you're after a truly magical vineyard stay in Bordeaux, then this could be the place for you. Granted, it's not cheap, but Le Saint James offers a wonderful Bordeaux food and wine experience. The hotel is set in the lovely village of Bouilac, a short detour from the towpath that leads to the Roger Lapebie bike path and the Canal de Garonne bike route. It comes with its own boutique vineyard, proudly overseen by Richard Bernard, a former winner of the French Sommelier of the Year competition. There's a Michelin-star restaurant, a courtyard that's ideal for sundowners, and a pool with table service. House bikes are available for bimbles down into Bordeaux. This is an ideal base for a start/end-of-trip celebration or to mark a special occasion during your cycling holiday in France. We've stayed here - read our review!

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Bordeaux Gare Saint Jean (train station) – Ibis Styles

Affordable, cheerful hotel close to the Bordeaux railway station

We stayed here at the end of our La Velo Francette trip after we'd caught a late train back from Caen via Paris. It had been a long day and we arrived very late. The hotel is a very short ride from the station and it's close to restaurants and cafes that are open late. The staff at the 24-hour reception were really friendly, and welcomed two weary cyclists by checking us in efficiently and locking our bikes safely in the conference room just off the reception area. The Ibis Styles brand is one notch up from the chain's 'Budget' brand. The room was clean, the shower was hot, the beds comfortable, and breakfast was from an all-you-can eat buffet with cereals, toast, fruits and fresh juices. Our room was quiet despite the proximity to the station and a tram line out the front.

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Bordeaux to Sauveterre bike path - l'îlot Vignes B&B

A warm welcome awaits in the vineyards east of Bordeaux

If you're riding the Roger Lapebie bike path, which runs from Bordeaux to Sauveterre before joining the Canal de Garonne route to Toulouse, then the beautiful stone l'îlot Vignes B&B is a small (approx 4km) diversion. Pierre-Yves and Laure's place is also perfect for exploring the peaceful vineyard routes to the east and south-east of the Bordeaux city centre. It's in Rauzan, a pretty town surrounded by vineyards and its own chateau, and within easy reach of Saint-Emilion, and the riverside Ste-Foy-la-Grande (with one of France's best Saturday markets). There are five lovely rooms, with the B&B able to sleep up to 15 guests in total. So it's perfect for solo riders through to families and small club or touring groups. Pierre-Yves has 12 years' experience in French restaurants, so the optional table d'hotes (evening meal) is something to look forward to after a day's riding (or relaxing by the pool!) Pierre-Yves also works with a local bike company and can have bikes delivered to the door for you – perfect for families. French and English spoken.

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Bordeaux – Grand Hotel Francais

Bike-friendly hotel staffed by cyclists in central Bordeaux

Elegant city centre hotel that has been lovingly restored. It has a luggage room for bikes and cyclists on staff who are keen to share their local bike knowledge with guests. The Grand Hotel Francais, set in a quiet but central street, was bought by the Frenchman Jean Auriacombe back in 1987. He spent a year restoring it and returning the building to its pre-war glory. The hotel is now run by Jean's son, Frederic, and his wife, Sandrine. It has been listed in the Michelin guide since its re-opening. Close to cafes, bars and restaurants in the UNESCO-listed city centre. Free wifi and complimentary breakfasts. The hotel also carries the French eco label for environementally friendly hotels. French, English and Spanish spoken. 

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Bordeaux – Ibis Bordeaux Aéroport

A short ride from Bordeaux's Merignac international airport

Clean and reliable hotel located a 5-minute ride from Merignac international airport, 9km west of Bordeaux city centre. 24-hour reception. Free wifi. Buffet breakfast available from 4.30am for early flights. Onsite bar and restaurant serving traditional French food and local Bordeaux wines. Management advises bikes can be stored in rooms overnight. French, English, Spanish and German spoken. 

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Bordeaux – Novotel Aéroport Hotel

Reliable chain hotel a short ride from Bordeaux's Merignac airport

Hotel located a short ride from Bordeaux's Merignac airport, west of the city centre. Onsite restaurant and bar. Lounge area. Free wifi. Kids' play area. Pool and terrace. Management advises bikes can be securely locked overnight in the hotels conference room, or kept in bedrooms. Good for groups.

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Bordeaux – Le Boutique Hotel

Classy city centre hotel with friendly staff and secure bike parking

Treat yourself to a touch of class in one of France's most elegant cities. Le Boutique Hotel is a converted 18th-century townhouse located in the UNESCO-listed centre of Bordeaux. Its modern, stylish rooms and self-catering apartments are surrounded by a peaceful green courtyard, and there's even a lovely terrace shaded by a 100-year-old chestnut tree. Rooms are air-conditioned, each with an iPod docking station and a Nespresso coffee machine. Continental breakfast. Wine bar. Massage and hot tub available. Luggage room for bike store. Staff can help you plan local bike routes, including through the vineyards. Free wifi. French, Spanish, English, Romanian and Bulgarian spoken.

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Brantome - Hostellerie du Perigord Vert

Bike-friendly hotel-restaurant in the north of the Dordogne

Situated in Brantôme, a pretty village on the Saint-Jacques de Compostelle route in the River Dronne area in the north of the Dordogne region, the Hostellerie du Perigord Vert is a welcoming hotel and restaurant. After exploring the area, you can take a dip in the heated pool or take a meal on the shady terrace. Hotels bikes available for guest use. Free wifi. French and English spoken.

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Canal de Garonne - Chateau Saint Marcel

17th century chateau a short detour from the Garonne river route

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Canal de Garonne - Gîte Les Hirondelles (near Marmande)

4-bedroom bike-friendly barn conversion sleeping 8 people

Matt and Pauline at Gîte Les Hirondelles are keen to welcome more cyclists to their detached and spacious barn conversion in the beautiful Lot-et-Garonne. Located between Marmande and Duras and just 15km from the Canal de Garonne, Gîte Les Hirondelles offers a great base for exploring bastide towns and villages with castles atop hills, market squares, rivers, vineyards and sunflower fields. This is one of France's under-explored areas for cycling – there are several marked bike routes here, taking in rolling hills, winding roads and beautiful views across open countryside. We at Freewheeling France live around 40km to the north(ish) and we can ride for miles without passing cars on the roads around here. In fact, it's one of our favourite areas for a pootle. Les Hirondelles is private with views across the open countryside from the terraces and a 10x5m salt-water pool for post-ride relaxation. English and French spoken. Bikes can be stored inside the gîte in the utility room or in the communal areas. A local bike hire service will also deliver leisure bikes to your door (for kids and adults). Sleeps 8 adults + cots for two babies.

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Canal de Garonne - Le Clos d'Any

Modern take on an ancient mill on the Garonne towpath

This is a wonderful stop on the Canal de Garonne ride. Le Clos d’Any is a 12th century farmhouse and mill that has been brought into the 21st century. It's now run as a modern B&B with three guestrooms (sleeping 3-4 people each), plus a Gypsy caravan for two (with bonus private jacuzzi). It's just south of the La Reole and east of Castets-en-Dorthe where the canal splits off from the river Garonne. Within easy reach of the vineyards of Graves and the sweet white wines of Sauternes. Outdoor pool. Free wifi. Secure bike parking in the barn. Families welcome.

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Canal de Garonne and Lot Valley bike routes - La Maison Duffour (Tonneins)

Cyclists are welcome at this B&B near the junction of two major routes

French couple Isabelle and Pierre at La Maison Duffour have 5 spacious rooms in the heart of Tonneins, near the banks of the river Garonne. This is an ideal place to stay for either the Canal de Garonne Bordeaux to Toulouse bike route or the Lot Valley bike route, which branches off nearby. La Maison Duffour is a true 'local' French experience, offering everything you need for a comfortable night's rest – including a kettle and tea/coffee in your room (something of a rarity for French B&Bs). As an accueil velo B&B, they offer secure bike parking and can also point you in the right direction for bike hire and luggage transfers. Lots of local advice is available for route planning, and Isabelle and Pierre can pick you up from the station if you're arriving by train. Free wifi. A washing machine and dryer are available to help refresh your panniers, plus tools are on hand for repairs. As an added bonus, there's a spa on the upper terrace (complete with views of Tonneins) to ease tired muscles. La Maison Duffour can sleep 15 people in total, making it ideal for solo riders and couples, as well as families and small groups. French and basic English spoken.

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Cap Ferret - Le Saint-Eloi

Bike-friendly hotel on Arcachon Bay near Cap Ferret

Friendly hotel just 100m from the Bay of Arcachon. With great access to Cap Ferret and to routes around the bay, it's ideally located for anyone cycling this section of the Atlantic Coast. Onsite restaurant serving local food. Free wifi. Some rooms have balcanies with view of the bay.

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Capbreton - Baya Hotel & Spa

Ocean views from hotel and spa on Atlantic Coast bike route

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Carcans - Le Medoc Bleu

Accueil velo-accredited campsite on the Atlantic Coast

Le Medoc Bleu is part of the Flower Campings network of independently owned campsites with fewer than 300 pitches. This one has just 121 pitches, making it one of the smaller ones on the Atlantic Coast. It's 3-star and an ideal stop on the Atlantic Coast EuroVelo 1 bike route. There are pitches for tents and camping cars, as well as mobiile homes and log cabins for self-caterers. Heated outdoor pool, 5km from Carcans-Hourtin (France’s largest freshwater lake). Children’s activities. Close to Lacanau, it offers peace and quiet in spacious grounds dotted with oaks and sweet chestnuts. This area of France - well within reach of Bordeaux and an ideal stop on the Bordeaux-La Rocelle Ride, is a favourite summer holiday destination for Freewheeling France and her mini-cyclists. 

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Casteljaloux - Camping Moulin de Campech

Peaceful lakeside campsite close to the Garonne river south of Marmande

With a focus on peace and quiet, Camping Moulin de Campech is located in a wooded valley complete with 16th century watermill. The mill is located on the river Ourbise which provides delightful background sounds of running water, and a home for local flora and fauna. The site itself has a heated pool set away from the large pitches to maintain the sense of tranquility. The mill is home to a popular restaurant, bar and terrace. The area is rich in cycling and walking opportunities and the English-speaking owners can supply further details about paths and trails. There's also a trout fishing lake and unspoit local towns waiting to be explored.

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Chadenne - Rural Gites Chadenne (Montpon-Menesterol)

Cyclist-run self-catered cottages for 4 or 6 people east of Bordeaux

If you're looking for a cyclist-run base for biking in a lesser-explored area of France, than this could be it. The Marshall family are cyclists who have spent two years creating comfortable and modern self-catered gites nestled in the ancient Foret de La Double halfway between Bordeaux and Perigueux. The nearest town is Montpon-Menesterol, which is on 5 designated local cycling circles. It's also on the Lawrence of Arabia bike route and the new Velo-route Voie verte de la Vallee de L'Isle, which goes all the way through to Perigueux. It's a safe car-free route along the river valley. The area also has lots to offer mountain bikers and families. The national park of La Jemaye is 20 minutes away and has beautiful cycling routes around the lake with places to swim and picnic. The gites themselves have modern creature comforts plus a safe storage area for bikes (there's a reliable repair shop in Montpon and hire bikes can be delivered to the door). The gites provide a beautiful-urban-meets rural space for cyclists of all levels. There's even a heated swimming pool for post-ride relaxation. 

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Charente/Dordogne border - Cycling Chez Nous at La Vieille Porcherie (Oradour-Sur-Vayres)

Cyclist-run accommodation in the Limoges-Angouleme-Thivers triangle

As the name suggests, Cycling Chez Nous is run by cyclists - in this case Sue and Phil, who are keen to share this lesser-explored area of France with the rest of us. They are in a perfect area for cycling – and they know it like the backs of their hands. They are just 2.5km from the lovely voie verte (greenway) that runs from Oradour-sur-Vayres to Chalus. It's perfect for a (flat) return trundle but also ideal for tourers linking to the Lawrence of Arabia route. The roads here are scenic and largely traffic-free. I asked Sue to choose a favourite but she said it was impossible – the routes are so varied. "We have short local routes routes we can suggest, plus longer routes from 50km to 160kms on gpx files with varying elevations," she said. "We live in an almost untouched cycling paradise, bordering the Dordogne and the Charente. I have to pinch myself each time I cycle." The village is also within reach of Oradour-sur-Glane, which holds a special place in French history and is one of the most remarkable places Freewheeling France has ever been (there is more on the area here). The house itself is a pretty French farmhouse in an ancient hamlet. It has a lovely garden and a chestnut orchard with pear, apple and cherry trees. There is room for 6 people – with four in a self-catered gite and two in main house. B&B or self-catering is available. English and French spoken. Good connections to Limoges, Angouleme, Thivers for trains and airports. Ask Sue and Phil if you need picking up.

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Creon - Chateau Camiac

A 'treat yourself' option near the Bordeaux-Toulouse bike route

Who doesn't want to stay in a Bordeaux chateau just once in their life? Just 30km from Bordeaux – 4km from the Roger Lapebie bike path that links to the Canal de Garonne and Toulouse – Chateau Camiac is set amid 20 acres of parks and ponds, and within easy reach of vineyard bike routes. Relax by the pool after your ride or use the free wifi to send photos to your friends to make them jealous of your stately surrounds. Hotel dining is also possible (complete with fine Bordeaux wines). This is an expensive option compared to many hotels but it's a memorable one. 

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Creon - Hotel Atena (Bordeaux-Toulouse bike path)

Budget accommodation on the Canal de Garonne bike route

Hotel Atena is an affordable option at Creon, near the Roger Lapebie bike path on the Bordeaux-Toulouse bike route. It offers basic two-star accommodation that cyclists tell us is clean and friendly. There's an in-house restaurant plus bike storage. All rooms are en suite. There are twins, doubles, triples and family rooms (sleeping 5), making this a good, budget option for groups or couples/friends cycling together. Free wifi. French and English spoken.

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Damazan - Inter-Hotel de la Confluence

Ideal for the Canal de Garonne and Lot Valley bikes routes

This clean and friendly chain hotel comes recommended to us by cyclists who rode the Canal de Garonne bike route between Bordeaux and Toulouse. It is also close to where the Garonne River meets the Lot River (and its bike route) at Aiguillon (hence the 'confluence' in the title). The hotel is registered as an accueil velo place to stay and regularly sees cyclists through. Modern and friendly, it has crisp and interesting interior design that sets it apart from regular chain hotels. This is a good option if you're looking for a clean and reliable base for a night. On site restaurant and bar but may not be open at weekends during the low season.
We've stayed here – check our review.

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Dordogne - La Chataigne et La Grange des Les Taloches

Stone farmhouse surrounded by the majestic Perigord Vert

A former Dordogne farm, Les Taloches sits on the edge of the pretty riverside village of Tourtoirac in the Périgueux-Brive-Thiviers triangle. Suzie and Gary are super keen to welcome more cyclists – there are more than 120km of on-road and MTB routes from the door (including the Lawrence of Arabia route, which goes through the village). They have a large barn with bike racks for storage, plus plenty of space for maintenance, repairs and cleaning. They also work with a local bike delivery service, which has hybrids, tandems and MTB bikes. There are two self-catering gites that are great for families and groups, sleeping between 8 and 20 people (they can be hired individually or together). They are also available for B&B (with home-cooked meals) on request, usually in spring and autumn when it's cooler for point-to-point cycling and ideal for shorter stays. Each gite has its own free wifi, private pool, outdoor eating area and BBQ, all set in 19 acres of peaceful woodland. Tourtoirac village has a boulangerie, bar and restaurant just a 500m ride or stroll away. 

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Dordogne - Les Cerisiers Cottage for 2 (Monpazier)

Dordogne cottage for two - explore chateaux, caves and hilltop villages

If you're seeking a relaxing retreat after a busy day's cycling, then Les Cerisiers is ideal. It was originally the maison gardienne or 'guardian's cottage' for the neighbouring villa. Completely separate from the villa, the cottage is private, peaceful and perfect for two. Recently renovated, it’s been stylishly updated with modern fittings and facilities, and is only a 700m cycle into Monpazier – a famous Dordogne village that's on the list of 'Most Beautiful Villages of France'. The cottage is ideal for exploring chateaux, prehistoric caves, hilltop villages and vineyards. French doors open onto your private stone terrace for al fresco dining, while a woodburning fireplace will keep you cosy in cooler months. If you don’t have a car, just catch a train from Bordeaux or Bergerac to Le Buisson-de-Cadouin or Siorac-en-Perigord or Belvès and take a short taxi ride (or bike ride) to Monpazier. Bike hire can be arranged locally and delivered to you. Lots of local services, including boulangeries, pharmacy, ATM, a market on Thursday, plus supermarkets. There’s also a great Saturday market at Villereal – just a bike ride away. Free wifi and satellite TV. French and English spoken.

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Dordogne - Les Charmes de Carlucet (Sarlat)

Stylish self-catered accommodation in the heart of the Dordogne

Get the full French 'chateau' experience with a self-catered cycling holiday at Les Charmes de Carlucet, near the popular market town of Sarlat in the heart of the Dordogne. This is an ideal base for cycling groups or families with a mix of cyclists and non-cyclists as there is plenty to do both on and off the bike. From here, it's possible to ride out to a large proportion of the region's key historical sites and natural wonders, including the world-famous Lascaux prehistoric caves just to the north-west, and to the Dordogne River for canoeing or leisurely lunches and picnics. There are various mapped routes from the door (both road routes – see here for longer rides and here and here for day circuits – and MTB circuits). For the accommodation, Kerry has a large manor house sleeping 14 people, as well as smaller villa for 7. They can be rented separately or together. Both have private pools and are stylishly fitted out with all the mod cons you need for a relaxing stay. Bike hire and self-guided rides can be arranged locally. 

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Dordogne River Valley - Le Peyrail B&B

Artist's retreat and B&B in the vineyards east of Bordeaux

Peyrail B&B is a charming 19th century farmhouse in a picturesque and quiet corner of the Dordogne River Valley, east of Bordeaux. It's run by artist Jo. This area is perfect for cycling – mostly empty roads with a choice of undulating routes through the vineyards or flatter routes along the river valley (Freewheeling France lives not far away and cycles these roads regularly). Les Leves-et-Thoumeyragues is a small village within reach of both Bergerac and Bordeaux airports (plus the train line linking Bordeaux to the Sarlat/eastern Dordogne area). Within a 60km radius are Bergerac, Eymet, Monpazier, Beynac and, of course, the great wines of Saint-Émilion. The nearest 'big' town is the medieval bastide of Ste Foy La Grande, which has a wonderful Saturday morning market that had been voted the best market in France. Peyrail B&B is a short and worthy detour for anyone cycling the Dordogne River route from Bordeaux to Sarlat via Bergerac.

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Dordogne Valley - Maison Dordogne (Villefranche-de-Lonchat)

Lovely renovated townhouse near Saint-Emilion and Bordeaux vineyards

There are some areas of France inexplicably overlooked by visiting cyclists - and this is one of them. Freewheeling France knows the village of Villefranche-de-Lonchat, 60km east of Bordeaux, well because we ride these roads often, regularly winding through the country lanes and across the valley top to Saint-Emilion or down to the river Dordogne. Maison Dordogne, 20km from Saint-Emilion, is perfect base from which to explore these quiet and scenic roads. A newly renovated 5-bed, 4-bath stone French townhouse, Maison Dordogne comes complete with a large heated pool, air-conditioning and fast wifi to make it an ideal holiday let for friends and families. There is a boulangerie just next door for fresh croissants and baguettes, while the Villefranche-de-Lonchat has a few local bars and restaurants. In summer, the village holds night markets and other community events in the town square, while the annual area fete is also held here. 5 spacious bedrooms, 3 with en-suite bathrooms, and a separate master bathroom on the first floor. 40km from Bergerac airport and around 10km to the train for Bordeaux, this is a handy and accessible base in SW France. Bike storage in a secure outbuilding plus in the private courtyard.

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Dordogne Valley – Le Manoir des Granges

Explore Lascaux, Les Eyzies, Sarlat and the Vézère valley by bike

The Vézère Valley is a popular place for prehistory, cycling, walking and canoeing. There are a great routes for all abilities – both on and off-road – from the gates of Le Manoir des Granges. Follow the river down the valley to Les Eyzies-de-Tayac (and its prehistory museum) and on to Le Bugue, or across to the Sarlat voie verte – a great day ride. Just 20km up the valley are the UNESCO-listed Lascaux caves. Paul and Philippa can help with route planning and arrange bike hire. Relax in the gardens or cool off in the pool after a day on the bike. Le Manoir des Granges has a large 6-bedroom house and 4 separate gites, sleeping between 2 and 23 people (they can be hired individually or together). Boulangerie, plus a lovely bar and restaurant, just a 2-minute ride away. French and English spoken.

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Douville - Hotel-Restaurant Le Tropicana

Family-run hotel halfway between Bergerac and Périgueux

Family-run 3-star hotel and restaurant between Perigueux and Bergerac, the two largest cities in the Dordogne. Part of the Logis hotel network, it conforms to that company's cycle-friendly charter. Free wifi. Welcomes groups. Other facilities include an outdoor pool, tennis courts and mini golf.

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Duras - Logis Hostellerie des Ducs

Local hotel for exploring off-the-beaten tracks in Nouvelle-Aquitaine

Hostellerie des Ducs is a locally owned hotel recommended to us by cyclists. In the centre of Duras, it is close to local restaurants and the castle, and is on signposted bike trails (see the Dropt river route and this local cicruit). Free wifi. Private garage. Onsite restaurant during the summer months (check ahead for restaurant opening hours/days off-season if arriving late). Outdoor swimming pool.

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Eymet – Vingt Huit B&B

Friendly B&B in the centre of Eymet

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Gensac – Chateau de Sanse

Elegant country hotel retreat overlooking vineyards

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the vines, Chateau de Sanse is an ideal base for exploring the beautiful corner of France that borders Dordogne and Gironde. The hotel is 25km south-east of UNESCO-listed Saint-Émilion, and 13km from Castillon-la-Bataille, start of the Lawrence of Arabia bike route. This is Freewheeling France's backyard – we ride these roads A LOT, and we love them. The roads from the door of Chateau de Sanse are a bit hilly, but they are achievable (we know of at least one cycle tour company that uses Chateau de Sanse as part of a family cycling itinerary). There are flatter river routes and voies vertes within reach, including the excellent Roger Lapebie bike route, which you can jump on just shy of Rauzan.  

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Hendaye - Camping de la Corniche (EuroVelo 1)

Campsite on the Basque section of the EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast route

Ideally located between the Pyrenees and the Atlantic Ocean, the quiet Camping de la Corniche is an accueil velo campsite that sits in leafy grounds, and is handy for the EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast La Velodyssee bike route. It's a 4-star campsite within easy reach of Hendaye (2.5km) and the Spanish border. Camping pitches, plus mobile homes and canvas bungalows to rent. Onsite pizzeria/restaurant. This is an ideal site whether you’re just passing through staying longer with family or friends. Just 150 metres from the Atlantic Ocean, it offers easy access to the magnificent coastal route that forms part of the EuroVelo 1.

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Lacanau - Holiday Village

Apartments and houses in a wooded area close to the beach in Gironde

Set in a wooded area, these apartments and houses cater for couples through to groups of 8 people, and come in two different levels of comfort – 'select' and 'VIP'. The Atlantic Coast at Lacanau beach is just 2km away and can be reached by bike path. The lake is also within easy reach, just 4km away. Cycling paths in this area are through woodlands and generally well-shaded, making for cool summer cycling.

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