Tours: All France

4-day cycling tour on ViaRhôna from Montélimar to Avignon

Ride from the orchards of the Drôme to the vines in Provence

Take a short 4-day self-guided biking trip to discover the ViaRhôna from Montélimar – a city famous for its colourful and tasty nougats – to Avignon and its Palais des Papes. Cycle 30km to 50km on three consecutive days with the day off on arrival allowing you to get your equipment and prepare at your leisure. Follow the ViaRhôna bike path to Pont-Saint-Esprit before enjoying small typical roads of Provence. Your ever present companion will be the wild Rhône river snaking through orchards and vineyards. Your trip ends in the gorgeous historical cities of Orange and Avignon. The price of this tour includes bikes, GPS routes, maps and tourist leaflets, accommodation and panniers. Ebikes and luggage transfers if necessary can also be added as extras.

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A 8-day bike trip on the ViaRhona from Seyssel to Lyon

Follow the Rhone river as it meanders to magnificent Lyon

For the vast majority of this ride you will follow the Rhône river on the ViaRhona, exploring by old towpaths and quiet roads. If the river views aren't enough, there's the beautiful mountain bikedrop as well. Discover traditionals hamlets and fishing ports such as Chanaz or Groslée as well as the lively spa town of Aix-les-Bains and its lake of Bourget. Taste local specialities along the way: from Saint-Genix-sur-Guiers and the Cité du Gâteau to the medieval streets of Pérouges (and its sugar pie) to Lyon's famous bouchons, this is a bike ride for foodies, wine enthusiasts, history buffs and nature lovers. The price of this self-guided ride includes bikes, GPS routes, maps and tourist leaflets, accommodation and panniers. Ebikes and luggage transfers can be added on as extras.

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Agen to Sarlat through the Lot Valley to the Dordogne

The Dordogne = black truffles, mushrooms and duck confit!

With your welcome pack and bike waiting for you on arrival in Agen, a beautiful city famous in France for its quality prunes and markets, you'll be ready to cycle 40-50km per day over the next 6 days. Leaving Agen, visit to the medieval bastides along quiet and pretty countryside lanes. Pedal through shady woods to arrive at the fortress of Gavaudun, before picking up the Dordogne River, which you will follow to the castles at Les Milandes, Castelnaud and Beynac, plus the amazing Roque Gageac, located at the foot of a cliff. Explore the Vezere, a prehistoric valley with lovely gorges and villages, en route to Sarlat. Included in your tour is 5 days' cycling, accommodation and some meals, full and detailed route notes and maps, bike hire (electric bikes are also available), support and luggage transfers.

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Along the Leisurely Loire

A gentle meander along the Loire from Blois to Saumur

Enjoy this gentle exploration of the beautiful Loire River. Ride from Blois to Saumur, taking in vineyards and chateaux as you enjoy daily rides of no more than 32km. See Amboise and its Royal Château, or Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci’s old manor house, before enjoying a night in Tours. From here, take the voie verte bike path to Villandry Château and its medieval vegetable gardens, before heading on to Saumur. The hotels on this route offer genuine French charm and wonderful regional fare, whilst the B&Bs provide an opportunity for you to discover truly ‘local’ restaurants. 

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Alps Challenge: Geneva to Alpe d'Huez

6 famous cols en route to the Alpe – are you up for the challenge?

Voted Outside Magazine's 'Trip of the Year', this tour starting in Cyclomundo's own backyard in Geneva can be taken as a guided or self-guided option. From the shores of Lake Geneva you'll ride to the switchbacks of Alpe d'Huez, climbing some of France's most famous cols en route: the Colombiere, Aravis, Saisies, Madeleine, Telegraphe and the mighty Galibier are all here. This tour can be booked as a self-guided ride or organised for cycling clubs and private groups. Itineraries and support can be tailored to your fitness levels. This tour can be combined with cyclosportives such as La Marmotte, Etape du Tour and the Time-Megeve-Mont-Blanc. Price includes 5 nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, 4 dinners, luggage transfers, transfer from Geneva to start of day 1, marked maps and route notes, a GPS unit (subject to availability). Full carbon road bike hire available on request.

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Alsace Wine Road from Strasbourg to Colmar

A leisurely bimble through one of France's most distinct wine regions

This is a chance to discover Alsace – one of France's lesser-visited wine regions – at your own pace. You'll start in UNESCO-listed Strasbourg (a super cycling city) where you can check out Notre Dame cathedral, the city's distinctive bridges and the medieval quarter, 'Petite France'. From here follow the Bruche Canal all the way to the vineyards, where you'll join the wine trail through historic villages with half-timbered houses and colourful geraniums. En route take in the towns of Rosheim, Obernai, Barr and Bergheim, and admire the castle of Haut-Koenigsbourg on its rocky outcrop. Head into the hills to visit Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr and Hunawihr before reaching Colmar – France's 'Little Venice'. From here it's a day trip to the beautiful village of Eguisheim. This is a varied bike trip taking in the culture, food and wine of one of France's most individual region. Price includes luggage transfers, accommodation, bike hire, and full route notes and maps. Maximum daily distance: 37km.

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Atlantic Coast - La Rochelle to Bordeaux via Velodyssee and the Gironde estuary

Combine the coastal terrain awaits on this coastal tour

From La Rochelle your cycling tour takes you along the Atlantic coast to discover the Charente Maritime area. You will cycle along the Velodyssey to discover the island of Ile de Ré, wide sandy beaches, marshes, oyster farms and the towns Rochefort and Royan. Continue along small backroads through the Haute-Saintonge and Haute Gironde, and meet Cognac and Pineau wine-makers of the Charentes. Discover superb Roman churches, caves, and some unique Gallo-Roman sites. At the coast, discover small ports along the estuary like Meschers-sur-Gironde, and charming villages like Talmont-sur-Gironde. This is a self-guided journey on bicycle paths and  flat backroads – from streams of vineyards to cliffs, from the Citadel of Blaye to the famous Margaux vineyard down and majestic Bordeaux itself. Starting price includes 6 or 7 nights' B&B in charming hotels and guest houses, one evening meal, full route notes and maps, GPS app for smartphone with vocal guiding, luggage transfers, estuary ferry crossing, and 24/7 emergency phone call support. Touring bikes (including electrics) can be also provided. This self-guided holiday is offered by Evazio, an English-speaking French company based in Bordeaux.

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Atlantic Coast Cycle Holiday

Guided cycling from Brittany to La Rochelle with camping or B&B options

There are quite a few self-guided tours available of the Atlantic Coast, but it's much harder to find one that's fully guided. Even better, there is a fully guided camping option, allowing you to stay close to the wild ruggedness of Atlantic Coast while having someone else carry your camping kit for you (there'll be a support car on hand for that; non-cycling partners and youngsters with tired legs can even grab a lift). If you prefer though there is also a B&B option too. Ride from one historic port town to another: the wonderfully walled St-Malo in Brittany to the boats of La Rochelle, via salt marshes, fields of peat bog and the water world that is the Marais  Poitevin – some of the French coast's most magnificent scenery. Tents, luggage transfer, bike hire (if you need it), all breakfasts and lunches plus some evening meals included. Combine this trip with the Entre Deux Mers and Canal du Midi trips to ride all the way to the Med. 

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Atlantic Coast La Rochelle to Bordeaux (La Vélodyssey)

The ocean on one side and pine forests of the other

This cycle adventure offers wonderful variety, from the endless beaches of the Atlantic Ocean to pine forests and marshlands. Starting in the historic harbour town of La Rochelle, with its world-class aquarium, you'll follow the Vélodyssée EuroVelo 1 cycle route along the coast. On the way you'll be able to visit the city of Rochefort, famous for its 'Corderie Royale', the citadelle in Brouage, the oyster farms in La Tremblade and the seaside resort of Royan. A short ferry ride will take you over to Le Verdon and on to the Médoc peninsula so you can discover the vineyards and UNESCO city of Bordeaux. Included in the price is luggage transfer, detailed route notes, 7 nights' accommodation, and a local agent to provide any help you may need.

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Atlantic Coast La Vélodyssée from Nantes to La Rochelle

Ride along the Atlantic coast on the EuroVelo 1 bike route

On this self-guided tour, you'll enjoy the Atlantic section on the La Vélodyssée with its endless sandy beaches to explore. Hop off the bike to take a dip, top up the tan lines or enjoy the pine forests whenever the fancy takes you. Discover the marshlands of Vendée and spend time in colourful ports. Dine in the evenings with a fresh local seafood platter. La Vélodyssée is nearly all flat and signposted, mostly on secured dedicated greenways – it's a perfect introduction to cycling in France. The price of this tour includes 24/7 phone assistance, GPS guided itinerary, luggage transfers, bike rental and accommodation with a number of different options to cater for all budgets.

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Atlantic to Mediterranean - Canal des Deux Mers Cycling Tour

Coast to coast tour across popular south of France route

This self-guided tour allows you to experience one of the most popular bike routes in France but without the hassle of having to hire bikes, plan the route or find accommodation. Take in the vineyards of Bordeaux to the magical Roger Lapebie bike route out of the city, the ancient citadels of Carcassonne and the lapping waters of the Mediterranean at Sete. You will be met at the airport by Andy and Cris, who will have your bike, route maps and notes ready for you. Price includes accommodation, luggage transfers and bike hire. The itinerary includes rest days along the way in Bordeaux, Toulouse and Carcassonne, so you can combine sight-seeing with cycling.

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Avignon to Nice: Visually Stunning

Villages, vineyards and Ventoux on this holiday for road cyclists

Ride through low-lying vineyards and across mountain passes to the Mediterranean on this self-guided tour aimed at fit riders accustomed to long distances on road bikes. Average distances are around 100km a day, with 1,500m of climbing. Follow the Rhone River as you head from Avignon into Languedoc to see the famous Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct before cycling on to the wine regions of Tavel and Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and to the foot of Ventoux. From here, it's up to hilltop villages and through lavender fields to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, near Nice and the Mediterranean coast. Top-quality full carbon road bikes available on request. Price includes 7 nights of hotel accommodation, daily breakfast, 3 dinners, luggage transfers between hotels, detailed maps and route notes, GPS device (subject to availability). Tour offered May 25- September 3 but can be tailored for private groups of 6 or more outside these dates.

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Bespoke Cycling Tours in the Alps and Provence

Flexible cycling options for fixed base and point-to-point riding

Ray at Cycle the Alpes of Provence can tailor a trip just for you and your group. Why not take on the Route des Grandes Alpes, the Alpes de Haute Provence or a RAID Pyrenees? Or try seven days in Corsica or a trip over the southern cols from Nice. Ventoux and Alpe d'Huez trips (either individually or together) are also possible. Tick off the classics or explore lakes, rivers, gorges and cols from a fixed base. Prices and itineraries designed for you. British Cycling Level 3 coaching also available.

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Best of the Pyrenees Coast-To-Coast by Electric Bike

A crossing of the Pyrenees that anyone can achieve

As the name suggests, this self-guided tour is a coast-to-coast epic by electric bike, although you can choose to ride a standard bike if you prefer. This is an excellent option for mixed ability groups with both experienced/fitter riders and riders who need a little e-boost. This tour essentially means that pretty much anyone can experience the fabulous Pyrenees, and its array of cultures and food. Ride from Hendaye in the Basque Country to Banyuls on the Mediterranean Sea. To join in the fun you only need to be reasonably fit as the tour is sensibly paced over 14 days, and you will average well under 80km a day, which is a comfortable distance by electric bike (and also achievable by non-e-bike riders). The price of this tour includes 13 nights' dinner, all bed and breakfast accommodation, luggage and other transfers; detailed route instructions; 24/7 customer phone service, and electric bikes.

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Canal du Midi Cycle Holiday

Cycle along France's most famous canal on this guided tour

Experience one of France's most popular canals by bike, taking the famous canal from Toulouse right the way through to the Med and then along the coast towards Provence. You'll use the canal as a rough guide, but you'll also leave it to explore the vineyards, olive groves and historic towns around it – there is more to this lovely corridor than its famous waterway. This fully guided and supported ‘Length and Breadth’ tour gives you the chance to get close to nature, camping your way along the canal but without the hassle of having to carry your own camping kit or tent (or even pitching it). If you prefer you can stay in B&Bs rather than camping, the choice is yours. Price includes support car, luggage transfers and guide, all campsite breakfasts or B&B if selected, plus lunches en route and some evening meals. You can combine this tour with the Atlantic Coast and Entre Deux Mers trips to navigate your way from the top of France to the bottom. 

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Canal du Midi Cycling Holiday

Follow the Canal du Midi from Toulouse to Agde

This tour offers the chance to experience the Canal du Midi from the 'pink city' of Toulouse  to the Mediterranean via the fortress city of Carcassonne. The pace and ease of riding is perfect for first-time cycle tourers, as well as families, with the paths generally flat. High-quality Specialized or Trek mountain bikes included to ensure you have a comfortable ride. You'll be met at the airport or railway station, taken to the first hotel and provided with every assistance you need to get you out and on the towpaths. The tour price includes detailed maps and route guides, bike and helmet hire, B&B accommodation in a combination of hotels and chambres d'hotes, airport transfers and luggage transfer between hotels. Optional upgrades can also be included, such as higher rated hotels with pools, and a dedicated guide for whole trip.

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Canal du Midi Cycling Holiday: From Toulouse to Sète

A leisurely ride along France's most famous canal to the Med

The Canal du Midi is an ideal route for anyone wanting to take a leisurely ride and relax for a week of cycling with friends or family. From lock to lock and bridge to bridge, the canal will carry you from the  heart of Toulouse to Marseillan, on the Mediterranean Coast. Enjoy some time exploring the narrow labyrinthine streets of the 'pink city' of Toulouse before heading off along the canal to the Plaines du Lauragais, Castelnaudary and on to the towering fortified town of Carcassonne. You'll also pass by the seven locks of Fonséranne and the Etang de Thau (complete with oyster beds), before arriving at the Med. Price includes 6 nights' B&B accommodation, 4 evening meals, baggage transfers, detailed road book, maps and GPS tracks. Available guided or unguided. 

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Coast and Basque Mountains Cycling Holiday

Experience the varied beauty of the Basque region

This tour opens up the unique culture and geography of the Basque Country, taking rugged coastal scenery, historic villages such as Hondarribia, a walled old town packed with colourful Basque houses, and, of course, the renowned cuisine. You will also get the chance to enjoy the classic French resort of Biarritz and take a train journey to the summit of La Rhune for breathtaking views of the Western Pyrenees. The price of this tour includes 6 days' cycling with 6 nights' accommodation, including 3 evening meals, luggage transfers between hotels, comprehensive route notes, bike hire, river shuttle ticket and an English-speaking rep to help you get the most of your holiday.

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Coast-to-Coast France – St Malo to Nice Fully Supported

Traverse France from end-to-end with help all the way

This is an ultimate France coast-to-coast ride, fully supported and guided. Two-thirds of days are in the 50-60-mile (80-90-km) bracket – with a few shorter ones thrown in – so it's achievable but still challenging, especially as your luggage will be carried for you (no panniers!) This trip highlights the wonderful diversity of France and is suitable for all recreational cyclists. It passes through simply stunning countryside and visits some of the most famous sites in the country – from Mont St Michel to an optional ascent of the iconic Ventoux. Price includes fully guided on-road support and luggage transfers, 14 nights' B&B, and most meals. Can be tailored for groups. St Malo to Sete and Calais to Nice also available. 

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Cycle the Atlantic from Nantes to La Rochelle

Enjoy the beaches that hug the Velodyssey Eurovelo 1 bike route

With this self-guided trip along the Velodyssey cycle route you will experience the wide variety of landscapes that the Atlantic coast has to offer – from sandy beaches and rocky coastlines to marshland and pine forests, charming villages and trendy seaside resorts. The initial part of the itinerary to Pornic feels like Brittany because of the historic heritage and the architecture. Further into the Vendee country is a different story. The land is more open, with agricultural polders, oyster farming land and forests. For the most part, the cycle path is close to the coast, offering the best views of the ocean. Stay each night in one of the welcoming seaside towns scattered along the Vendee coast and end your bike trip in La Rochelle and its old harbour. The price of this tour includes bikes, GPS routes, maps and tourist leaflets, accommodation and panniers. Ebikes and luggage transfers are available as added extras.

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Cycle to Oberammergau Passion Play 2020

Ride to the incredible Oberammergau Passion Play, held every 10 years

Every 10 years since 1634, the residents of this small Bavarian village give thanks for being spared from the Black Death by performing a Passion Play, based on the events surrounding the death of Christ. The whole village is involved, with the actors themselves needing to have been born in Oberammergau to win roles – but this is far from an amateur production. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to cycle to see the famous Oberammergau Passion Play, passing many interesting and historic places in France and Germany en route. The Green Jersey team rode from the Portsmouth to Oberammergau in 2010 – the last time the play was performed – so this route is tried and tested. Whether you wish to visit for religious reasons, to witness one of the most historic cultural events in Europe or to re-create the happenings in Jerome K Jerome's Three Men on a Pilgrimage, this is an event you will always remember. The route takes you north of Paris then across France to the southern Vosges, via Verdun, and into Germany passing the source of the Danube, Lake Constance and, finally, to the little village near the famous ski resort of Garmsich-Partenkirken. It covers 12 days' cycling and is not to be missed. Covers between 50 miles (80km) and 80 miles (130km) each day, clocking up a total of 706 miles (1131km). Price includes tickets to the play in the highest category of seats (worth almost £200), 13 nights' accommodation, all breakfasts except on on one ferry crossing, and 9 evening meals. Fully guided with on-road vehicle support. 
Dates: May 24 to June 6, 2020

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Cycling from Mont Ventoux to Alpe d'Huez

A guided or self-guided ride conquering two of France's icons

Forget watching the Tour de France on television – experience some of the most famous climbs in south-western France for yourself on this 6-day journey from Mont Ventoux to Alpe d’Huez. Cycle up the 'Giant of Provence' – twice if you want! – and follow Cyclomundo's tried-and-tested Alps itinerary. Encounter mind-boggling vistas, gorgeous gorges, and the charming towns of Sault, Orpierre, Guillestre, and Briançon, among others. This is a challenging self-guided tour passing over such legendary cols as the Izoard and climbing the famous 21 hairpin bends to Alpe d’Huez. The amazing views are an added bonus. Available self-guided or fully guided with on-road vehicle support. Price includes 5 nights' accommodation, daily breakfast, 2 dinners, luggage transfers, marked maps and route notes, a GPS device (subject to availability). Bike rentals available on request.

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Cycling holiday to the highlights of the French Basque country

Explore the Pays-Basque and the foothills of the Pyrenees with its unique history and culture

A wonderful loop around the French Basque country you will start in Biarritz and finish back there some 8 days later after some amazing riding on quiet country roads or cycle paths. Along the way you will visit Bayonne famed for its colourful timbered houses and Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, a beautiful stopover on the route of the Santiago de Compostela. Throughout the trip you will have the chance to enjoy the delicious local products such as the famous Espelette chilli peppers and famous Basque tarts to give you lots of energy! The provided itinerary also takes you to the Atlantic coast on the Velodyssey bike route, passing by the coastal town of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and it's cosy harbour before arriving back in Biarritz.

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Cycling La Velodyssee from Bordeaux to Biarritz on the Atlantic Coast

Atlantic Coast on the EuroVelo 1 from vineyards to fishing villages

Cycle from Bordeaux to Biarritz along the Atlantic Coast via the excellent Velodyssee. Experience the nature, heritage and culture of the Gironde, Landes and Basque Country regions on one of the longest veloroutes in Europe. This self-guided tour is broken down into manageable stages from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Bordeaux to the famous seaside town of Biarritz. In between, ride around lakes, along the ocean, and through the vast forested Landes de Gascogne. Discover salt marshes, dunes, forests, and beaches surrounded by pine trees. There are many restaurants and bars to enjoy on this itinerary, including wonderful local oyster and seafood stops, and restaurants specialising in duck. You won’t be starving or thirsty! Stop for a glass of wine at lunch and chat to locals as you soak up te sunshine of south-west France. The starting price includes 7-8 nights' B&B in 3* and 4* hotels. Route notes and maps, including a GPS smartphone app with vocal guiding, daily luggage transfers, bay ferry crossing, emergency phone support 24/7. Hire bikes (including electrics) can also be arranged. This self-guided holiday is offered by Evazio, an English-speaking French company based in Bordeaux.

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Cycling Provence and Camargue from Avignon to Nimes

A ride for nature lovers through Provence and the wetlands of the Camargue

Starting your Provençal adventure in the beautiful city of Avignon famed for its bridge, the Palais des Papes and its festival you will cycle at your own pace through a rich mix of flora and fauna to discover some prettye villages such as St-Remy-de-Provence or Les-Baux. Continue towards Arles, a Roman city famous for its arena before reaching the Camargue region, famous for its diversity of animals: bulls, pink flamingos and white horses all living alongside each other. Discover Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a beautiful seaside village but also Aigues-Mortes, a fortified town famous for its violet salt marshes. Finish your cycling tour in Nîmes, an unmissable city full of Roman monuments and traditions. You can enjoy a walk in its colourful streets and visit the ancient theatre. The price of this self-guided tour includes bikes, GPS routes, maps and tourist leaflets, accommodation and panniers. Ebikes and luggage transfers can also be added as extras.

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Cycling the Canal du Midi from Carcassonne to Béziers

Follow the banks of the Canal du Midi to beyond Beziers

This self-guided cycling holiday takes in all the highlights of the eastern stretch of the Canal du Midi through Langeudoc. Ride from Carcassonne (don't forget to indulge in a bowl of delicious cassoulet and sample other local culinary delights along the way) across the Cathar country of the south of France. This is a region rich in historic building, Roman ruins and magnificent cathedrals (don't miss the one at Narbonne). From the old city centre of Béziers, ride through the marshlands – passing bulls and pink flamingos – to finish your journey on the white beaches of the Mediterranean Sea.

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Entre Deux Mers Cycling Holiday

Cycle from La Rochelle to Toulouse on this guided tour

The Entre Deux Mers is one of south-west France's wonderful surprises (Freewheeling France knows this because it's not far from our own base and we ride the area south-east of Bordeaux often). This fully guided tour lets you in on the secret. It starts on the Atlantic coast at La Rochelle before winding down through the vines of Bordeaux, crossing some of the country's most prestigious wine appellations, including the Médoc, Entre Deux Mers, Graves and Armagnac. But it's not all quiet country lanes and glasses red overlooking gently sloping hills and river banks: there is also Bordeaux itself, that exquisite, magical old city on the banks of the Garonne, and the Toulouse, France's elegant old 'Pink City’. There are options for either camping or B&B, so you can decide on your preferred accomodation. Price includes tents and camping kit (and a support car to carry them for you), all breakfasts and lunches plus three evening meals (you'll want to wander off to sample the local cuisine on the other nights). Bike are also included if you're not bringing your own. You can link this tour to the Atlantic Coast and Canal du Midi trips to make your way from the north of France to the south.

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From Nantes to La Rochelle - La Vélodyssey

Breeze along the coast on two wheels

Enjoy the endless beaches and sea views as you cycle along this section of the Velodyssée, the dedicated cycle path that opens up the Atlantic coast to all ages. Fly through pine forests, wetlands and colourful ports and fishing villages, ending up in the historic harbour town of La Rochelle – complete with aquarium and seaside restaurants. Price includes luggage transfers between hotels, comprehensive route notes, bike hire for 7 days' cycling, plus 8 nights' B&B accommodation and some evening meals. 

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From Nantes to La Rochelle on La Vélodyssée

Feel the Atlantic breeze as you cycle along the gorgeous coastline

La Vélodyssée is one of the most popular cycle routes in France – and for good reason. It follows the Atlantic Coast from Brittany to Spain, passing natural and cultural highlights, wild seaside landscapes, golden beaches, giant dunes, salt marshlands and pine forests – all with the ocean as your constant companion. It's an 'easy' route for families and newer cyslists, while its epic nature can still captivate seasoned tourers. This self-guided itinerary includes quaint fishing ports and picture-perfect seaside resorts, adding variety (and amazing food!) to your trip. Price includes 7 nights’ B&B hotel accommodation, one evening meal, a travel folder with maps, route info and tourist brochures in French or English, luggage transfers, bike hire, and an on-call support hotline in case you get stuck.

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La Vélodyssée: from La Rochelle to Bordeaux

A self-guided ride on France's Atlantic cycling route

Setting off from the harbour town of La Rochelle, ride alongside the Atlantic coast through the pinewoods to the Belle Epoque villas of Royan – on the safe, family friendly Vélodyssée cycling path. Then follow the Gironde estuary through through the world famous wine growing areas along the Canal des Deux Mers véloroute. This leads you in the heart of Bordeaux, a lively cosmpotolitan city with plenty of things to do, see and eat. The price includes 7 nights' B&B accommodation in 2-star and 3-star hotels, cycle rental for 6 days, luggage transfers during the day, a detailed travel folder in French or English with maps and full route notes, plus lots of tourist brochures so you can select personal things to do and see. There's also a support hotline 7 days a week.

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Le Velodyssee from Nantes to La Rochelle (Atlantic Coast)

Link the Loire to the Atlantic Coast on this EuroVelo 1 cycling holiday

Experience the magic of France's beaches on this La Velodyssee along the Atlantic coast. The self-guided ride takes you from the fringes of the Loire Valley – the areas of Loire Atlantique and the Vendee – south to the sunny Charente-Maritime. From Nantes,cycle the Loire estuary before reaching the serenity of the beautiful peninsula of the Pays de Retz. Here you'll find sandy coves, jagged cliffs and picturesque hamlets, the diverse lands bringing the fragrances of the sea and air. Cycle through charming seaside resorts like Pornic – the coast’s flagship city – before carrying on south through the salt marshes of the Vendée to Noirmoutier – a nature jewel that was the start of the 2018 Tour de France. Explore sand dunes and forests until Les Sables d’Olonne, renowned for its fine sandy beach, before arriving in La Tranche sur Mer. Your ride will end in La Rochelle after a link through the marshlands of the Marais Poitevin, a protected area. From La Rochelle it's possible to ride across the bridge to the almost traffic-free seclusion that it the Ile-de-Re. Starting price includes 7 nights' B&B in 3-star hotels, all route notes and maps, including a GPS smartphone app with vocal guiding, daily luggage transfers, and emergency phone support 24/7. Bike hire can also be arranged.

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London to Marrakesh via France – African Quest

A true epic from Europe to Africa covering over 3000km

This is an ideal trip for anyone wanting to do a big group trip, or riders not yet ready to go it alone on long overland journeys. When it comes to long-distance cycling Richard and Lucy, the team behind Mammoth Journeys, have plenty of experience, including rides across China and Papua New Guinea. They understand what it takes to ride successfully over distances. The Quest is their original Mammoth Journeys cycle route and takes you from the UK through France, Spain and finally Morocco. There are three legs, the first from London to Bordeaux taking 10 days, the second from Bordeaux to Madrid taking 9 nights and crossing the Pyrenees, and finally the last leg from Madrid to Morocco. You'll have traversed an entire continent by bike. The price of this tour includes 35 nights' hotel accommodation, including the night in London prior to departure for briefing, all breakfasts and 19 dinners (leaving some nights free for you to explore on your own). There is also a support vehicle for luggage transport and mechanical assistance, cycle guide, route maps, or GPS, a cycling jersey, full recommended kit list, and airport transfers at the start and end of your journey. 

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Need planning help? Use our bespoke service

Let Freewheeling France help you plan your French cycling adventures

If you want to cycle in France but you're not sure where to go or how to sort it – maybe you're strugglng to find accommodation or the right self-guided or guided ride for you – then this service is for you. It's my own bespoke service that matches your holiday wishlist to the right tour operator or accommodation option for you. This is for riders who need a little support on the road – anything and everything from accommodation advice and route planning to hiring bikes and luggage transfers. I'm working with a network of cycling specialists across France to offer you the best cycling holidays possible – and tailored just for you, your dates and your cycling ability. Hit the brown button below or see this link for details.

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Normandy to Paris - Pedal Power

Cycle from the Normandy coast to the wonderful City of Lights

Available as a guided or self-guided tour, this jaunt from France's northern coast to its forever wonderful capital will have you experiencing delusions of Tour de France grandeur as you arrive on the Champs-Élysées. Ride from the beautiful harbour of Honfleur to the waters of the Seine, via picturesque villages and the often wild and rugged landscapes of the Normandy countryside. Haute-Normandie is famous for its cheeses and butters (not to mention ciders ... ), and you'll have plenty of chances to sample these en route. Pedal Power to Paris picks its way down quiet lanes, across tributaries of the Seine and through a patchwork of fields. It ends in the French capital – cycle through Louis VI’s 13th century arch, La Porte de Bretagne, and arrive in Paris having discovered its rural fringes. Then spend two nights experiencing everything the magical French capital has to offer. B&B and small hotel accommodation included, plus bike hire if you need it.

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Raid Pyrenean Coast to Coast Ride

Raid the Pyrenees, bagging all the big cols en route

The ultimate adventure on a bike in the Pyrenees. Cross 11 of the most famous Tour de France cols as you traverse the Pyrenees. Hug the French-Spanish border during just under 100 hours in the saddle. Enjoy the stunning jagged landscape as you conquer climbs like the Col du Tourmalet and the Col d'Aubisque. End your ride with a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean. This is a fully supported and guided group trip. The 8-day trip includes 6 days of cycling, groups of between 6 and 18 plus a leader in a support vehicle, 7 nights' hotel accommodation, all breakfasts, and flights from London (if required). 
2019 start dates: June 22, August 10, August 31, September 14.
2020 start dates: June 20, August 8, August 29, September 12.

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RAID Pyrénées

Ride 16 climbs and 705km on this spectacular Pyrénéan adventure

Do you want to climb the biggest and most beautiful cols in the Pyrenees? Then why not start in Biarritz and finish with a lifetime of memories in Ax les Thermes 10 days later. En route take in the Tourmalet, the Aubisque and Peyresourde – in total there are 16 climbs (with over 12,000m elevation gain) over 705km. Fully supported by professional guides and cars. Price includes good half-board accommodation, transfers, and snacks and drinks while you're on the bike. Optional bike hire available. 

Dates for 2019: 10th – 17th June, 2nd – 9th July, 27th July – 3rd August, 3rd – 10th September

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The Atlantic coast cycle route from Arcachon to Biarritz

A relaxing ride surrounded by nature and the seaside

This tour will you down the Atlantic coast of France from Arcachon to Biarritz is an easy bike ride except for a short stretch after Biscarrosse, where you bike softly up and down the dunes, which lets face it sounds like fun anyway! You will begin in the beautiful old seaside town of Arcachon and then head south towards the highest dune in Europe, the Pilat dune befire following the Southern part of the Atlantic cycle route named Velodyssey. Along the way you will ride through quiet pine forests, nice villages, typically just a few steps away from a lake, and of course you can stop at any moment on the long beaches of the Atlantic for a dip or relax. The final part of the holiday will takes you along the Basque coast, first to Bayonne and then to Biarritz, the famous seaside town of the Basque country.

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The colours of Perigord

Discover the Purple and Black Périgord

Discover the attraction and majesty of the Dordogne Valley on this week-long tour with a real mix of landscapes that ensure every day is a visual feast. Enjoy winding climbs and descents under the shade of deep forests, golden stone buildings old stones, castles with amazing vistas, and even prehistoric caves. Start your visit in Bergerac, which also has its own airport, the capital of Périgord Pourpre (Purple Périgord), and ride at your own pace through some of the 'most beautiful villages in France'. Rest in Sarlat, a medieval architectural town with lots of restaurants, shops and a fabulous maket. The price of this self-guided tour includes 24/7 phone assistance, GPS guided itinerary, luggage transfers, bike rental, and accommodation with a number of different options to cater for all budgets.

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