Where to stay: Poitou-Charentes��

Paris – Hotel de La Porte Dorée

Eco-friendly, cyclist-run hotel that will store bikes/bike boxes for guests for free

I've been running Freewheeling France for more than 10 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 will store bikes and boxes free of charge for its guests. It 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 that's endeavouring to go 100% plastic free. They compost, use vegetable-based paint and all their breakfast products are organic. "We are making a huge effort to reduce our use of resources as much as possible," says Christina. They also have their own 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 happy to store your bike box free of charge until you get back. 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.

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Agen - Chambre d'Hôtes et Spa

A friendly welcome for cyclists riding the Canal de Garonne

Chambre d'Hôtes et Spa has been recommended to us by cyclists who stayed there while cycling the Canal de Garonne. They said the pool, garden and terrace were lovely for relaxing and that the owners had a wealth of knowledge about the local area. All rooms are air-conditioned and have private bathrooms with hottubs and bathrobes. Towels for the pool can also be provided. Run as a B&B, it offers a continental or buffet breakfast. Evening meals are also available. There is also a paid airport shuttle service.

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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 halfway between Calais to Arras (60km from each), 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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Ajaccio - Hotel Les Mouettes

Bike-friendly hotel overlooking the Gulf of Ajaccio on Corsica

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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.

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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 Maitreya

Self-catering option nestled at the bottom on the famous 21 bends

La Maitreya is an 8-bedroom chalet with a sun-blessed terrace, hot tub and sauna. Add in bike storage and it's ideal for anyone looking to conquer the famous 21 bends of Alpe d'Huez. The owners can arrange massages, bike rental, help with route planning, or cater for any other special requests you might have. Alpe d’Huez is on the doorstep, with the Glandon, Galibier, Lautaret, Croix de Fer and many more all within reach from here. For mountain bikers, the Grand Domain Alpe d’Huez lift system runs throughout summer for downhill and crosscountry trails. French, English, Dutch and German spoken. Free wifi.-----

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Alpe d'Huez - Ferme Noemie

Alpine farmhouse offering self-catered and camping options

Surrounded by renowned Tour de France country, the Ferme Noemie is a British family-run farmhouse in a quiet rural location that provides a great base for relaxing and exploring the area. There is a nice mix of accommodation with something for everyone from the solo tourer to large groups: there are four apartments, two mobile homes, two furnished tents, and 16 tent places, all available for the majority of the year. For cyclists there are numerous rides on your doorstep, from the 4.5km flat ride to the town of Bourg d’Oisans, to the cols of Alpe d’Huez, Galibier, Sarenne, Croix de Fer and Glandon. There are also lots of mountain trails and loads of activities for non-cycling friends and family, including watersports at the nearby lake and river. Free wifi. French and English spoken.

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Alpe d'Huez – Le Château d’Oz

Conquer Alpe d-Huez, Galibier, Glandon and Croix de Fer

The mythical 21 bends of Alpe d'Huez are just around the corner from Le Château d’Oz. The Galibier, Glandon and Croix de Fer are just up the road with their dramatic landscapes and lung-busting gradients. The Oisans has more than 30 routes, including famous stages from the Tour de France. All routes start from the door. Transport is available in the chalet's minibus by arrangement. Free wifi. Secured garage for bikes and maintenance/washdown area. Accommodation is flexible, offering both self-catered and catered options, with the latter including hot and Continental breakfasts, three-course evening meals and post-cycling pasta.

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Alpe d’Huez - Chalet Pitu (Venosc)

Renovated barn for 4 people near Alpe d’Huez and the Glandon

The cyclist-run Chalet Pitu is positioned right in the centre of the beautiful, traditional and quaint village of Venosc with its 
restaurants, bars, boutiques and artisan shops. Venosc is 12km from Bourg-d'Oisans and is uniquely positioned for some of the best cycling in the Alps. It sits on one of the most picturesque and quiet climbs in the area including the ride up to the village of La Berarde on the very edge of the Ecrins national park. For those looking to emulate their heroes from the Tour de France, a number of famous climbs are within easy riding distance, including Alpe d’Huez, Col de la Croix de Fer, Col du Glandon, the Galibier and Col du Lauteret. The gondola is a 5-minute stroll from the chalet and takes mountain bikers directly to Les Deux Alpes in 6 or 7 minutes, opening up lots of world class off-road runs. The run back down to Venosc from Les Deux Alpes in particular should not 
be missed, according to cyclist owners Jodie and George. This page gives an excellent summary of local road cycling, whilst also providing lots of information for mountain bikers. Chalet Pitu itself has been recently lovingly restored to a high standard, and offers luxury accommodation for 4 adults with all the creature comforts you could expect for a memorable stay.  We speak French, Dutch, English, German & Japanese.

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Alps - Campervan and minibus hire

Choose your own cycling adventure in a campervan or minivan

Renting a campervan can give you great flexibility for your cycling holiday. Bonfire Vans rent a unique range of compact, all-wheel drive campervans perfect for your French cycling holiday. They have a selection of VW Californias with offgrid potential and VW conversions with rear kitchen pods for cooking al fresco. Also available are 6 to 9-seater minibuses for groups. All available with rear hanging bike racks.

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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.  

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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.

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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 - Camping de l'Etang (Brissac-Quincé)

Rural camping south-east of Angers on the Loire Valley route

Far from bustling roads, Camping de l'Etang sits in a quiet natural lake environment. Interestingly, the owners focus on providing employment for disabled people, making it accessible for everyone. They also take tremendous care to ensure that the communal areas are planted with flowers and well-kept year-round. The site is family friendly, with open-air or covered pools and childminders during the summer months who are fluent in English. A real highlight is its proximity to Angers – a key stop on the Loire valley bike route, which runs concurrently with La Velo Francette along this section (La Velo Francette is just 14km from the campsite). Angers has a stunning catherdral and chateau, home to the Apocalypse Tapestry, a breathtaking work and well worth a day trip. This all makes Camping de l'Etang a good base to relax and enjoy the Loire valley. Part of a network of independently run sites.

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Angers - Camping du Port Caroline

Bike-friendly campsite near Angers on the Loire Valley bike route

Camping du Port Caroline is located just outside the Angers city centre, on the eastern side. It's an Accueil Velo-rated campsite on the EuroVelo 6 Loire Valley bike route. Designated a 3-star campsite, its has tent pitches, as well as fixed base canvas bungalow tents to rent, plus mobile homes and chalets for longer stays. There are also 'tentelodges' (pictured) that are fixed tents in small wooden huts - ideal for cyclists. Heated, covered pool. Family friendly. 

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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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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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Annecy - Hotel International

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

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Anneyron - Camping La Châtaigneraie

Bike-friendly campsites on the Via Rhona between Lyon and Valence

Camping La Châtaigneraie at Anneyron is a cool and shady campsite between Lyon and Valence and ideal for the Via Rhona bike route. It's got camping pitches, as well as self-catered chalets and mobile homes for longer stays or a few more creature comforts. Family friendly with kids' club. Swimming pool + spa/wellness centre. Accueil Velo-rated campsite. Onsite shop. 

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Antibes - Hotel Sophia Antipolis

Comfortable hotel 8km from Antibes on the French Riviera

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Apt - Cent Cinq apartments

Town centre apartments in Provence's picture-perfect Luberon region

Jen and Chris at Cent Cinq have two beautiful holiday apartments in an 18th-century townhouse in Apt, a vibrant market town in the heart of the Luberon. The fully equipped apartments sleep 3 people – so ideal for couples or small groups of friends. There is also a smaller en suite bedroom with a fridge and a kettle. It sleeps 2 people. Shorter stays are welcome all year round for all three options. Cent Cinq is located 200m from the lovely Véloroute du Calavon, which forms part of the longer Euro Velo 8 Méditerranée à Vélo. All the key sites of the Luberon and Vaucluse areas of France are within reach from here, including the vineyards of the Rhone Valley, Mont Ventoux, the market town of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and Avignon. After your ride, relax in the courtyard or make use of the games room in the vaulted cellar. Apt has a great range of shops and restaurants, so you will be fully self-sufficient here.

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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 facing south overlooking a swimming pool and gardens and with a backdrop of the Luberon hills. They have two one-bedroomed self-catered gites (Les Oliviers & Les Cerisiers), plus a B&B room sleeping two people. There is everything you need here for the perfect cycling holiday. Each gite has a private terrace and barbeque, along with access to a superb infinity pool, perfect to return to after your ride (or for your partner to relax near while 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' in 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. David is a keen cyclist and has accompanied many cyclists (including Freewheeling France!) on rides around the area and to Ventoux. He can also arrange local bike hire for you. 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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Aramits - Maison Rachou B&B

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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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 - 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 - Le Belvedere

A lovingly restored self-catered retreat in the heart of the Pyrenees

Le Belvedere is a very unique and special place to stay. Built from local stone and chestnut wood and finished in walnut, Le Belvedere has remained largely in its original state over its 300-year history. It has been a government building, a local council house, a school, and a private residence. The old wooden staircase is heritage-listed for its unique construction as it is entirely free-standing without vertical support beams. Recent work on the house has added some modern luxuries. making it an ideal base for a small cycle tour group, two families or a few cycling couples. Sleeping 8 people in ensuite bedrooms, it is in the heart of the famous Tour de France cols of the Pyrenees, with passes including the Hautacam (21km), the Aubisque (30km) and the Tourmalet (46km) within striking distance. This is a popular choice for cycling groups looking for a convenient, comfortable and well-appointed base from which to experience the ultimate cycling challenge. English and French spoken.

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Argeles-Gazost - Logis Hotel Beau Site

Incredible views and access to some of the best cycling in the world

Argeles-Gazost is a great base for cycling in the Pyrenees, providing access to iconic Tour de France climbs including the Tourmalet and Aspin, the Hautacam and the Aubisque (among others). Handy also for exploring the Parc National des Pyrenees. Logis Hotel Beau Site is a lovely 19th-century building that offers panoramic views over the mountain valley (some rooms have their own balconies with super views). There is also an on-site restaurant, meaning you don't have to venture far to refuel after a day on the bike (it serves traditional regional cuisine). Continental breakfast available daily. Plenty of free public parking if you are arriving with a van or car.
Photo: ©Logis Hôtels

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Argelès-sur-Mer - Camping Les Chênes Rouges

Woodland campsite near the Mediterranean coast south of Perpignan

Shady and peaceful, Camping Les Chênes Rouges is located in a wooded parkland just west og the Mediterranean hub of Argelès-sur-Mer. It's set among cork oak, mimosa, aloe vera and eucalyptus trees, and offering stunning views of the Albères mountain range. It's ideally located for both outings across the Spanish border into northern Catalonia and walks along the coves and through the picturesque villages of the Côte Vermeille. Snack bar and onsite pizzeria. Pool and waterslides. Children's play area and outdoor games. Part of the Flower Campings network of independently run sites.

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Arles - La Résidence (Via Rhona)

Well-appointed self-catering apartments in the centre of Arles

La Résidence offers self-catering apartments are in a great central location in the town. Arles is at a key junction on the Via Rhona bike route sitting as it does at the mouth of the River Rhone. It's also the heart of Van Gogh country in Provence (there's art on display in the communal areas). Housed within a 17th-century building, the apartments are stylishly decorated and the kitchens are fully equipped. They make a great base for an overnight (or longer) stay for people wanting to cut costs and prepare their own meals. Apartments sleep 2-4 people so they are also good also for families and groups. Free wifi. French and English spoken.

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Arles - Le Rodin Hotel

Spacious hotel near historic Roman Arles

The Hotel Le Rodin is a lovely 4-star hotel that's a good stopping point on a ride through Provence as it's on the Via Rhona bike route. It's just over 1km from Arles' famous Roman amphitheatre and the city centre. Lovely pool and gardens (all rooms are air-conditioned and overlook one or the other). Rooms also have fridges, which is great if you're bringing food in your panniers. Free wifi and parking if you're arriving by car. The hotel is used by cycling tour companies so it is used to welcoming riders. Around 20km from Nimes-Ales-Camargue-Cevennes Airport. Doubles, triples, quads and family rooms are available, making it ideal for all kinds of groups.

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Arles-sur-Tech - Villa Bonheur Vallespir B&B

Great base for cycling off the beaten track in the Vallespir valley

A welcoming B&B in the eastern Pyrenees. The town, Arles-sur-Tech (not to be confused with Arles in Provence), offers the best of all worlds – the sea, mountains and nice village roads. The B&B is located at the foot of the Pyrenees in the Vallespir, a region known for its tranquillity and beautiful nature. The Spanish border is just 15km away and the Mediterranean Sea is 30km away – so a round trip is possible in a day. The house has been tastefully furnished and each of the five rooms has aircon. French, English, Dutch spoken. Nearby the property there are marked MTB tracks, road bike routes and the villa is also on the Pirinexus route – a 353km circular route that takes you from sea level to 2500m in just 70km through the eastern part of the French and Spanish Pyrenees. What's not to like?

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Arnac - Le Camp (Aveyron Gorge)

Bike-friendly luxury camping in south-west France

Le Camp is located in a stunning and relatively unknown (and unspoilt) cycling country in south-west France. You'll find it around 90 minutes north-east of Toulouse, close to the Gaillac wine region and near the beautiful medieval towns of Saint‑Antonin‑Noble‑Val, Cordes‑sur‑Ciel and Najac. This is a delightful area for cycling, combining river gorges and valley rides with vineyards. The facilities on site are exceptional, including a stunning 20-metre natural swimming pool. Experience the joy of swimming in fresh crystal clear water as you dive in. Everything you need for a luxurious camping experience is here. Enjoy fixed base tents with large handmade beds, soft solar lighting and individually crafted furniture. Each tent offers space and privacy, plus views over the green valley below. There's a woodland spa shower house for post-ride cooling off and you can shower under the trees in the warm summer air. Cook a meal or BBQ in the fully equipped summer kitchen to create a home away from home experience. This truly is luxury in the wild and an exceptional cycling base. Sleeping up to 40 i different tent configuration, it's ideal for family groups or cycling groups looking for something a little bit different on their French cycling holidays.

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Arras - Maison d'Hôtes La Corne d'Or

Elegantly decorated family-run B&B in central Arras

A friendly, family-run bedroom B&B in an elegantly decorated 18th century mansion in central Arras. There are 5 bedroom, and one of them has a kitchenette for basic self-catered meals. All rooms have private bathrooms (one also has a spa). Continental breakfast including homemade jams and local products; free hot and cold drinks throughout your stay. Play the piano, relax in the lounge or admire the local art on the walls after a day on the bike. Great location for exploring Arras’ underground tunnels, the Louvre-Lens Museum and the area's many First World War Monuments. Free wifi. French and English spoken. Bike storage in a locked private garage.

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Arras - Hotel de l'Univers

Stylish and affordable mid-range hotel in the centre of Arras

The centrally located Hotel de l'Univers is a former 17th century Jesuit monastery that has been lovingly restored, with many of its original features remaining. Relax on the terrace, in the bar or enjoy a gourmet meal in the hotel's restaurant. All rooms are en suite with TV. Wifi (surcharge). There is a room for secure bike parking inside the hotel. A good base for exploring the area's war memorials and monuments. It's also ideal if you're cycling from Lille to Paris.
We stayed here – read our review.

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