Everything you need to know about cycling in France your independent guide
Tours: Midi-Pyr��n��es
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Search for tours:Blois to Tours – The Valley of the Kings
A ride rich in history and beauty along the Loire
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33 (0)2 30 96 49 54
Tour length:
7 days / 6 nights
Price:
From €685
It is not by chance that this region was once called the 'Garden of France'. Let yourself be guided through the parks and castles in this flat, cool and green country. From castle to castle, Blois, Amboise, Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceaux and others offer many opportunities to enter the most beautiful residences of French royalty. In the footsteps of François I, Joan of Arc or Leonardo da Vinci, this is much more than a bike trip, it’s a journey back in time. Stages that take you to the heart of the great cities of the valley allow you to understand part of the history of France. This is a trip to the land of kings, queens and artists who made history. 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.
Bordeaux and the Dordogne
From Bordeaux wine county to prehistoric France in one week
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €3065
Beautiful chateaux, famous wines and terrific food – a quintessentially French experience! This self-guided cycling tour starts in France's wine capital, Bordeaux, easily reached by TGV train from Paris or flight from overseas, before heading into the vineyards, including the famous terraces of Saint-Emilion, and continuing on to the pretty city of Bergerac. Then cycle back in time as you venture further into the prehistoric region of the Dordogne, including visits to Les Eyzies and Sarlat. The price includes 7 nights' accommodation in superior hotels, breakfasts, 8 dinners, transfers, bike hire, an in-person briefing with a local guide, a detailed road book that includes maps, tourist information, and a step-by-step itinerary and cue sheets. Technical and emergency support, plus a concierge service, is available if needed.
Bordeaux City & Arcachon Bay
Combine a vibrant city visit with sandy beaches and vineyards
Offered by:
BSpoke Cycling Tours
Phone number:
+44 (0)20 3813 9562
Tour length:
5 or 7 nights
Price:
From £1225 per person
The city of Bordeaux is one of France's must-see highlights for history, architecture, gastronomy and, of course, for wines. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander Bordeaux's city centre, admire its architecture and its Roman gates, take in its culture, food and wine at one of hundreds of cafes and restaurants – among them some of France's finest. Venture out onto wine routes of the Medoc and Margaux. The beautiful Arcachon Bay offers a classy, classical seaside feel, making it a popular summer spot for those in the know. Beautiful sandy beaches, delicious fresh seafood and an excellent network of cycle routes combine for the perfect coastal break from the city. Enjoy the sand, sun and seafood of Arcachon Bay and the spectacular views from the top of Dune du Pilat – Europe's largest sand dune. The price of this tour includes fully serviced bikes, water bottle and accessories, hotel B&B accommodation (3 and 4 stars), tour information pack upon arrival, detailed navigational material, often including GPS maps, local support whenever needed. E-bikes available. UK flights and transfers can also be arranged.
Bordeaux Culture & Vineyards
Blend of cycling, wine and food in sunny SW of France
Offered by:
BSpoke Cycling Tours
Phone number:
+44(0)20 3582 5503
Tour length:
4 or 7 nights
Price:
From £940 per person
Bordeaux is in many ways the perfect city – easy to navigate by bike, and full of culture, great wine and wonderful food. This tour offers the chance to explore this magnificent city and to spend time amongst the vast vineyards of the Entre-Deux-Mers wine appellation. From the city, you’ll ride a loop to the east, taking in famous wine towns like St-Emilion, Sauternes and Cadillac. Other highlights include the world-class red wines of Pomerol and St Emilion and the sweet and dry white wines of Sauternes and Cadillac. The price of this tour includes fully serviced bikes, water bottle and accessories, 3 & 4 star B&B hotel accommodation, tour information pack upon arrival, detailed navigational material, often including GPS maps, local support whenever needed. E-bikes, are available. UK flights and transfers can also be arranged. Full financial protection through ABTA and ATOL.
Bordeaux cycling tour from the vineyards to the ocean and Arcachon
A self-guided ride through fine vineyards and to sandy bays
Offered by:
Evazio Cycling Holidays
Phone number:
+ 33 (0)5 56 79 25 05
Tour length:
6 or 8 day options, 30 to 50km per day
Price:
From €840
This locally run self-guided bike tour takes in the Bordeaux area and its treasures: from the prestigious Bordeaux vineyards to the Atlantic coast. Discover the richness of the Gironde region as you cycle from the Premières Côtes de Bordeaux wine-making area to end your holiday with a swim in the ocean. Evazio, an English-speaking Bordeaux-based bike company, can provide everything you need, including a full road book with maps. Start by cycling through the Entre-Deux-Mers vineyards and onto the vast forests of the Parc Naturel Régional des Landes before reaching Arcachon Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The route takes in dedicated cycling paths as well as mostly flat smaller backroads. The starting price is for 5-7 nights' B&B in charming 3-star hotels and guesthouses, GPS app with vocal guiding, daily luggage transfers, return ferry from Arcachon to Cap Ferret and taxi transfer on your first day or last day. There is also emergency phone call support 24/7. Touring bikes with panniers can be provided on request if you're not bringing your own.
Bordeaux Single Centre City Break
Experience a vibrant city combined with lush vineyards
Offered by:
Cycling for Softies
Phone number:
+44 (0) 20 3918 7866
Tour length:
4 nights
Price:
From £1075
The city of Bordeaux offers a heady mix of rich history, world-class architecture, excellent gastronomy and of course, fine wines. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, valued as an inhabited historic city and an icon of the Enlightenment era. This city bike break allows you to explore the bike-friendly streets of Bordeaux, to explore some of the more than 120,000 hectares of vineyards that surround the city and to spend a day at the beach on the beautiful Arcachon Bay. The price of this tour includes all B&B hotel accommodation, bikes, panniers and puncture repair kits, GPS navigation app, route maps and instructions and local support whenever needed. Available with or without flights from the UK.
Bordeaux to Cahors by Bike – the Garonne and Lot Valleys
If you love cycling, food and wine, this could be for you
Offered by:
Evazio Cycling Holidays
Phone number:
+33 (0)5 56 79 25 05
Tour length:
7 or 8 day options, 35 to 60km per day
Price:
From €970
This self-guided cycling holiday in the Garonne and Lot river valleys is ideal for lovers of nature, gastronomy, wine and culture. It's centred between Bordeaux and Cahors and along the Canal de Garonne and the Lot River. While Bordeaux is a popular cycling hotspot, venturing to Cahors is still a road less travelled - this holiday provides the best of both worlds. Follow the Canal de Garonne, classified a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, alternating between bike paths and small backroads. Discover exceptional and diverse landscapes that wind through the Lot Valley's vineyards and orchards. You'll continue into one of south-west France's 'hidden' corners, the beautiful and authentic area around the Quercy. End your ride in Cahors, a medieval town with an old and mysterious town centre. The price includes 6-7 nights' B&B accommodation in charming hotels and guesthouses, two dinners, route notes and maps, daily luggage transfers, emergency phone call support 24/7. Hire bikes (including electrics) can also be arranged. Evazio are local English-speaking cycling and walking specialists based in Bordeaux.
Bordeaux to Sarlat along the Dordogne River
A picturesque riverside ride along the mighty Dordogne
Offered by:
Evazio Cycling Holidays
Phone number:
+33 (0)5 56 79 25 05
Tour length:
6 to 7 day options, 40 to 60km per day
Price:
From €870
This cycling holiday follows the iconic Dordogne as it winds its way through the Gironde and Dordogne departments. En route pass through the famous vineyards of Saint-Emilion, Monbazillac and Bergerac - their tasty gastronomy awaits. After the vineyards, you'll move into the Black Perigord or Perigord Noir – a cradle of prehistory that offers a diversity of landscapes between the Dordogne River and the Vézère Valley. You will stay in Les Eyzies and go on to visit the Grotte de Lascaux – highly recommended as it's France's most famous cave system. You will eventually end your tour in Sarlat, jewel of Perigord. The price for this self-guided ride includes 6 or 7 nights in 3-star hotels with breakfast, full route notes and maps, luggage transfers and emergency phone call support 24/7. Touring bikes and ebikes available. This self-guided holiday is offered by Evazio, an English-speaking French company specialising in the Bordeaux area.
Bordeaux to the Dordogne and Lot by Road Bike
Cycle through stunning vineyards and along the Dordogne and Lot rivers
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33 (0)2 55 99 92 92
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €1285
This self-guided cycling getaway from Bordeaux to the Dordogne and Lot Valley is designed for experienced solo road riders, groups and clubs, allowing you to discover spectacular and authentic landscapes of one of the most beautiful regions of France. The itinerary includes daily mileages of between 72km to 102km a day, making this the perfect cycling holiday for serious road riders. The roads of Bordeaux, Dordogne and Quercy can be hilly – and you may be surprised by the daily elevation changes (the stage between Sainte-Radegonde and Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil has 1300 metres of elevation). Leaving Bordeaux, the wine capital, explore the vineyards that make the region famous including those of Saint-Emilion. Then, it’s on to the Périgord Noir and its forests and history. Along the river, hilltop castles, fortified towns and caves tell the story of the region. The Lot region draws its character from its plateaux cut by its rivers – the Lot, the Dordogne, the Vézère and the Célé. Stop for rest or coffee in some of the most beautiful villages in France, such as Rocamadour, Cahors, Figeac and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. This is also a land of gastronomy – truffles, foie gras, lamb, Quercy melon and, of course, wines. The price of this self-guided tour includes 7 nights' accommodation, breakfasts, 1 dinner, luggage transfers, phone assistance 24/7, access to an exclusive app for your route, and lots of local knowledge and advice.
Bordeaux to Toulouse (or reverse) on the Canal de Garonne
Cycle along the Canals des Deux Mers on this self-guided ride
Offered by:
Evazio Cycling Holidays
Phone number:
+33 (0)5 56 79 25 05
Tour length:
7 days, 40 to 60km per day
Price:
From €915
Ride the increasingly popular Canal de Garonne route between Bordeaux and Toulouse along the Canal des Deux Mers bike route (it eventually links to the Mediterranean). Cross the diverse Gironde, Lot-et-Garonne, Tarn-et-Garonne and Haute-Garonne areas, exploring vineyards and tranquil landscapes on the Canal de Garonne greenway route. Discover olive groves, hillsides, orchards, villages, art, and historical monuments along the canal. Stop for a spot of canoeing, eat at a waterside restaurant or bar, or share a glass of wine with the locals. This itinerary, put together by Bordeaux-based English-speaking Evazio is a wonderful introduction to south-west France. Starting price includes 6 nights' B&B in charming 3* and 4* hotels and guesthouses, 4 dinners, route notes and maps, including GPS smartphone app with vocal guiding, daily luggage transfers, and emergency phone support 24/7. Bike hire (including electrics) can also be arranged. This self-guided holiday is offered by Evazio, an English-speaking French company based in Bordeaux.
Bordeaux to Toulouse: Canal de Garonne
Green lanes and cycle paths next to the beautiful Canal de la Garonne
Offered by:
France Bike Trips
Phone number:
+33 (0) 4 58 14 04 35
Tour length:
6 days
Price:
From €620
The Canal de la Garonne may well be the little sibling of the famous Canal du Midi, but it's no less impressive. This is mostly a flat route suited to all abilities. It's also mostly an off-road/car-free route that uses a great network of cycle paths and green lanes, where the waters of the canal set the pace of the riding. It's a great opportunity to ride under your own steam from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea, linking with the Canal du Midi at Toulouse. Little noise, few cars, no stress – just a gentle progression from lock to lock. Visit the Abbaye de la Sauve-Majeure (a UNESCO heritage site), follow the medieval ramparts of Pommier and admire the half-timber houses of Damazan. Visit also the historical towns of Agen, Marmande, Moissac and Montauban. This tour is e-bike compatible.
Brittany – Tregor and the Pink Granite Coast
Explore the beautiful coast of northern Brittany by bike
Offered by:
France Bike Trips
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 58 14 04 35
Tour length:
7 days
Price:
From €635
"Degemer mad E Breizh!" (Welcome to Brittany!) Join this maritime bike trip from Saint Brieuc to Morlaix to discover the riches of northern Brittany. This is one of the most beautiful coastlines in France, the Pink Granite Coast stretches for roughly 15km between Trebeurden and Perros Guirec. Carved out by the mighty force of the sea, the coastline is full of sculpted creeks and bays, such as Ploumanac'h, a chaotic mass of pink granite boulders. Cycle along quiet roads through the heart of the Breton countryside to the town of Morlaix at the western end of the Trégor. The price of this tour includes 6 nights in 2* and 3* hotels and guesthouses in double rooms with en-suite facilities, 6 breakfasts, daily baggage transfers, a carefully designed itinerary, a navigation app, a detailed roadbook including maps (digital format) and GPS tracks. Two difficulty levels to choose from.
Brittany at the tip of your pedal: Rennes to Mont-Saint-Michel
All the highlights of Brittany are here – coasts, rivers and monuments
Offered by:
Le Vélo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
8 days
Price:
From €849
Discover the delights of Rennes, the capital of Brittany, the city of pirates Saint Malo and Dinan with its medieval streets. You will also cross over into Normandy to ride along the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel, on the Normandy border, to see the majestic abbey set against a clear sky, gradually getting closer and closer. Meander on greenways along the canals in the shade of the trees, ride along the sea, try oyster dishes and push inland to meet the unknown pearls of Dinan or Dol-de-Bretagne. The highlights of Brittany and its border with Normandy are all here: Rennes, St Malo, Cancale, Dinan, Dol-de-Bretagne and Combourg. Bérangère and Eugénie have been cycling in France since they were 22. They started Le Vélo Voyageur to share their discoveries with cyclists from around the world.
Brittany to Normandy Cycling Holiday
A week cycling between famous beaches and picturesque villages
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €2750
Normandy is an artist's paradise and its wonderful coastline, woodlands and countryside combine to make a fabulous cycling destination. Of course, Normandy is also well known for the WWII D-Day landing beaches used by the Allied armies – and this self-guided ride takes in all that history. This region of France is also renowned for its dairy products, and the gastronomical delights won't disappoint. In addition to its cider and Calvados, Normandy produces the famous Camembert cheese. There is a feast for both mouth and eyes as you cycle by green pastures and seaside towns, discovering the history that has made this area so famous. The price includes 7 nights' accommodation in superior hotels with breakfast and 3 evening meals. Hybrid bike hire is also included (with an option to upgrade to road bikes or electric bikes), as well as a detailed road book, a meeting with a local guide and a 24/7 helpline. You’ll also receive a Discover France waterbottle.
Brittany's Emerald Coast
Discovering the depths of Brittany’s beauty and real identity
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33 (0)2 30 96 49 54
Tour length:
7 days / 6 nights
Price:
From €915
This self-guided tour starts and ends in Saint-Malo but covers lots in between on great cycle-friendly roads. Over 6 days pay visits to Dinan, a really well-preserved medieval city, Jugon-les-Lacs, a small authentic town perfect for a stopover, Lamballe, its church and national horse stud, Erquy, with superb panoramas from the peninsula where early risers can watch fishermen coming back from the sea with their catch. Cap Fréhel, a protected natural site that you access by cycling on one of the most beautiful coastal roads, offers the chance to visit a lighthouse for a 360° view. Treat yourself to a crêpe or an ice-cream or oysters as a reward for all your efforts over this lovely week – all within easy reach of the UK. 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.
Brittany's Gulf of Morbihan
A charming cycling holiday exploring the Gulf of Morbihan
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33 (0)2 30 96 49 54
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €950
With its mild microclimate, the Gulf of Morbihan is the ideal place for a cycling adventure. From the peninsula to the islands, you will cycle along this small interior sea (Morbihan means “little sea” in Breton). Among many highlights you will also visit the l’île aux Moines (Monk’s island) and l’île d’Arz (Arz island), sampling fine seafood in adorable ports. 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.
Burgundy Bike and Wine Tour - 1-Day Tour
A gentle guided bike ride through Burgundy's beautiful vineyards
Offered by:
Active Tours
Phone number:
+33 (0)3 80 26 17 12
Tour length:
1 day
Price:
€155 adults (ask about discounts for kids aged 6-16)
Enjoy a gentle guided bike ride through Burgundy's beautiful vineyards with Florian and his team of local cycling experts. Take in the vineyards south-west of regional capital Beaune, including a stop at a local chateau, with the winemaker himself opening his doors just for you. This is a great chance to try local wines and learn more about viticulture in Burgundy (and, yes, you can have any bottles you buy sent to your hotel or shipped home). This is an easy circular route between St Romain and Pommard via Volnay, Meursault, and Puligny Montrachet, with a minivan transfer from Beaune. It's suitable for all abilities, including kids. Private and custom tours are available on request. Price includes bike hire, all wine tastings, lunch in a local restaurant plus a local guide.
Burgundy Wine Region Bike Tour - 3 days
Explore the vines of Pommard, Chassagne-Montrachet and Meursault
Offered by:
Le Vélo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0) 1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
3 days
Price:
From €355
On this self-guided 3-day bike ride, explore some of the most prestigious Burgundian vineyards such as Côte de Nuits and Côte de Beaune. Start your bike trip in Dijon, 'the city with the hundred bell towers', and ride towards Nuits-Saint-Georges on small country roads. Stop in Beaune, a famous trade place for the wines, and admire its beautiful Hospices, before continuing on a beautiful bike path winding through the famous vineyards of Pommard, Chassagne-Montrachet and Meursault. Bérangère and Eugénie began to cycle across their home country at the age of 22. Year after year, they hand-selected the finest routes across France, sharing with you some of France's hidden treasures.
Burgundy Wine Tour
Cycle among some of the most famous vineyards in the world
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
5 days / 4 nights
Price:
From €1600
Burgundy's Route des Grand Crus Classic
The perfect self-guided ride for wine lovers
Offered by:
Cycling for Softies
Phone number:
+44 (0)20 7471 7760
Tour length:
5 to 7 nights
Price:
From £1355
If you appreciate fine wine then the famous Burgundy area is a dream come true. This self-guided tour offers you the chance to explore the region on two wheels. In between wine tastings and gastronomic stopoffs, you'll enjoy relaxed cycling along quiet roads between picturesque villages and wonderful hotels. Follow the Route des Grand Cru bike circuit through gorgeous scenery and colourful vines. Take in the delightful regional capital, Beaune, as well. The price includes 3* and 4* B&B hotel accommodation, some evening meals, transfers from local train stations, bikes, panniers and handlebar bags, full route maps and instructions, and local support.
Burgundy's Secrets in 7 Days
Enjoy an amazing bike ride through the heart of a world-class wine region
Offered by:
Le Vélo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
7 days
Price:
From €879
On this self-guided bike tour in Burgundy, you'll see why wine here means everything. Why people find it so special: a beautiful place where authentic villages, wine traditions, historical monuments and nature merge. As a world-renowned wine region, Burgundy has preserved a heritage which reflects its former power in the Middle Ages. So you will not only enjoy beautiful landscapes with gently rolling hills, but also outstanding cultural sites like the Cluny abbey, the old cities of Macon, Tournus and Chalon-sur-Saône or the beautiful and world-famous Hospices de Beaune.
Caen to Dunkirk on the Vélomaritime Euro Velo 4 bike route
Cycle the rugged and beautiful northern coast of France
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33 2 55 99 92 92
Tour length:
11 days / 10 nights
Price:
From €2205
Ride on small backroads to discover the beautiful northern France coastline and its spectacular flora and fauna, its nature reserves and the other exceptional sites on the Vélomaritime cycle route (part of Euro Velo 4). Take in the Baie de l’Orne, the orchards of the Pays d’Auge, the beach cabins of the Côte d’Albâtre, white chalk cliffs and the Baie de Somme, as well as sand dunes and beaches. Follow the coast through the port cities of Le Havre, Dieppe, Tréport and Boulogne-sur-Mer, from typical fishing villages to lighthouses. The Velomaritime may be a signposted route but it's still one of France's cycle routes less travelled. This is a land of hospitality and authenticity, and this self-guided cycling holiday promises lots of local interactions and traditions, traditional festivals and street markets, plus lots of history, with the ride ending in Dunkirk, famous for the monumental evacuation of British troops during World War II. And, of course, there's gastronomy: seafood, of course, plus crêpes and waffles, cheese, ciders, and the famous Calvados, one of the emblems of Normandy. The price of this tour includes 10 nights' accommodation, breakfasts, luggage transfers, phone assistance 24/7, access to an exclusive app for your route, a private transfer between Honfleur and Le Havre, and lots of local knowledge.
Camargue & Provence by Bike & Boat
Explore the rivers and vineyards of Provence by boat and bike
Offered by:
Cycling for Softies
Phone number:
+44 (0)20 3944 8857
Tour length:
7 nights
Price:
From £1195
Enjoy a week's bike-boat cruise to explore the beautiful rivers and vineyards of Provence and Camargue. Cruise through lagoons, olive groves and limestone cliffs, and enjoy cities full of hidden treasures and glorious Provençal wine. This is France as it should be discovered. The MS Caprice and MS L'Estillo are 2-star to 3-star vessels. See the famous flamingos of the Camargue regional nature park, the picture-perfect villages of Les-Baux-de-Provence, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Vallabrègues, and, finally, the spectacular Pont du Gard aqueduct. The price of this tour includes flights and transfers from the UK (price can be amended if you are coming from elsewhere), en suite accommodation on the 2-star to 3-star boats, full board dining arrangements, daily semi-guided cycling tours and excursions, welcome cocktail, touring bikes with panniers, route maps and instructions and local support and friendly crew.
Camargue from Avignon to Nimes: Cycling in Provence
A ride for nature lovers through Provence and Camargue's wetlands
Offered by:
Le Vélo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
8 days
Price:
From €1109
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 pretty 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 be added.
Canal de Garonne loop ride to to Nérac
Get off the beaten track to explore the rural France away from the canal
Offered by:
Cycles Sud Ouest
Phone number:
+33 (0) 7 52 05 90 48
Tour length:
2 days/1 night
Price:
€170
This is a locally planned and run tour from Clare and her team at Cycles Sud Ouest. It's a self-guided overnight tour is designed for people who are cycling the Canal de Garonne from Bordeaux to Toulouse, but who want to see a little more of the area rather than just pass through. It's also a perfect overnight or weekend ride out of Bordeaux or Toulouse – both are accessible by local trains to the starting points at either Buzet-sur-Baise or Agen. From there, ride to the charming town of Nérac – in the footsteps of Henri IV. En route, visit bastides and wineries and enjoy authentic south-west gastronomy, and stay overnight at a charming locally run hotel. This self-guided ride is a loop around the Albret region, passing through Vianne, Barbaste and Nérac and providing you with a real off-the-beaten itinerary not usually experienced by Bordeauix-Toulouse cyclists. The price includes overnight accommodation, bike hire (ebikes or regular bikes), route maps and notes and full local support and guidance from Clare and her team, who live locally.
Photos: Office of Tourisme Albret
Canal du Midi - From Toulouse to Carcassonne in 4 days
Ride one of France's most famous canals in a leisurely 4 days
This short break links two of the Canal du Midi's strongholds: the starting point of the canal – the pink city of Toulouse – and the medieval fortress of Carcassonne. The route follows the canal towpath as well as low-traffic country backroads, leading you across the Lauragais, a large fertile plain surrounded by hills where the pastel trade prospered in the 15th and 16th centuries and brought wealth to Toulouse. Ride through Castelnaudary, the capital of cassoulet, and past the abbey of Saint-Papoul before arriving in Carcassonne to explore the city in all its medieval glory. This is a self-guided ride, with bike hire and accommodation included, as well as maps, route notes and lots of local biking advice. Daily distances: 24-49km.
Canal du Midi - From Toulouse to Sète
Follow the course of the Canal du Midi, visiting local gems along the way
Offered by:
Le Vélo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
8 days
Price:
From €999
This self-guided cycling tour takes you from Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea along the Canal du Midi. Ride on the hauling path or further afield to discover abbeys, vineyards and lakes. Start your cycling holiday in Toulouse, where you already feel the way of life of the south of France, discover its gastronomy and wonder at its soft colours. Ride through the Lauragais, a vast fertile plain dotted with nice churches and ride through Castelnaudary, the home town of cassoulet, before reaching the cute port of Bram. Head then to Carcassonne and its famous medieval fortress before riding into Minervois, where you will pass many peaceful wine villages along the canal. Stop in one of them before going to your next stop in Béziers. Afterwards, the sea is only a few kilometres away. You reach first Agde and the Thau Lagoon. Ride the last stretch along the sea and arrive in the town of Sète and its port, your ultimate destination. The price of this tour includes bike hire, accommodation, luggage transfers and all the maps and information you need to get the most out of your trip.
Canal du Midi Cycling Holiday: From Toulouse to Sète
A leisurely ride along France's most famous canal to the Med
Offered by:
France Bike Trips
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 58 14 04 35
Tour length:
7 days
Price:
From €620
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 B&B accommodation, some evening meals, baggage transfers, detailed road book, maps and GPS tracks. This route can be linked at Toulouse with the Canal de Garonne to form a coast-to-coast itinerary. Available guided or unguided.
Canal du Midi from Carcassonne to Sète
Relaxing waterside cycling and stunning villages
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
7 days / 6 nights
Price:
From €1590
Explore France's most famous canal as you ride self-guided from the walled city of Carcassonne to the Mediterranean coast at Sete. En route, take in Narbonne and Beziers, which offer important historical sites and are yet so typical of this southern France coastal region. Experience the rural French lifestyle while enjoying both the waterway of the canal and the inviting Mediterranean. Don't forget to allow extra time to experience the marvellous and intact medieval city of Carcassonne, one of the most beautiful villages in France. This tour could be combined with a regional ride to make give you a longer break to fully explore the best of the Languedoc. Price includes 6 nights' accommodation in superior hotels, breakfast and 2 dinners. Hybrid bike hire is included (plus option to upgrade to electric bikes). You also get a detailed road book, a meeting with a local guide, access to a 24/7 helpline, and a complimentary Discover France water bottle.
Canoe + Bike Escape Tours and Saumur (4 days)
A leisurely ride through vineyards to the famous chateaux of the Loire
Offered by:
Le Vélo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
4 days
Price:
From €459
Bérangère and Eugénie began to cycle across their home country at the age of 22. Year after year they hand-selected the finest routes and hidden treasures. Now, via Le Vélo Voyageur, they are inviting you to share them. Encounter the breathtaking beauty of the Loire Valley by riding between Tours and Saumur. Meandering between the Loire Valley and the Vienne Valley, the bike route follows little country roads passing by the most prestigious castles, the chateaux de la Loire such as Chateau de Villandry, Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau or Chateau d'Ussé, the castle of the Sleeping Beauty. You will not only admire the changing colours of the Loire River and the traditional boats floating between the sandbanks, but also the vineyards of Chinon and Saumur, the Abbaye de Fontevraud and the cave houses lining the valley. Give in to the magic of a cycling holiday in the Loire.
Castles of the Loire Valley
A gentle and enjoyable tour around the stunning chateaux of the Loire
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
5 days / 4 nights
Price:
From €935
This bike tour is a great way to discover the famous castles of the Loire Valley. Start your trip in picturesque Amboise before cycling to Chateau de Chenonceau and Chateau de Chambord and finally arriving in Blois. The self-guided includes visiting other castles such as Cheverny and Chaumont and cycling through beautiful landscapes and gardens. The terrain is mostly flat and well adapted for casual biking. The price includes 4 nights' accommodation in superior hotels, breakfasts and an evening meal. Hybrid bike hire is also included (with an option to upgrade to a road/gravel bike or an electric bike). You also get a detailed road book, a meeting with a local guide, access to a 24/7 helpline and a complimentary Discover France water bottle.
Centre-based trip – Magical Valleys of the Périgord (Dordogne)
The heart of Périgord, along the Dordogne and Vézère rivers
Offered by:
France Bike Trips
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 58 14 04 35
Tour length:
8 days
Price:
From €715
Riding along the Dordogne and Vézère rivers, discover the exceptional heritage and beautiful countryside of the Périgord Noir. Quiet back roads and tracks take you through majestic forests and meadows, leading time and again to exceptional monuments and buildings, most notably the castles of Commarque, Puymartin and Beynac. Each village is as pretty as the last, inviting us to explore the winding streets that take us on a journey back in time. The famous Dordogne gastronomy adds a welcome ingredient to this rich and wonderful circuit. This is a relaxing fixed-base stay in a 3* hotel with a swimming pool. No need to move hotels every day - just settle in and enjoy the cycling. Two difficulty levels – 25-35km per day or 35-50km per day, plus options to explore further on your own. Ebike upgrade available.
Chalon to Macon loop along the Saone River
A southern Burgundy ride almost exclusively on bike paths
Offered by:
Active Tours
Phone number:
+33 (0)3 80 26 17 12
Tour length:
5 days/4 nights
Price:
From €400
This self-guided tour is a loop ride from Chalon to Mâcon via “the blue route” bike path that follows the Saône River. The itinerary returns via Cluny on the green route along the Côte Chalonnaise vineyards to Chalon-sur-Saône. It takes in local gastronomy, vineyards and culture. Visit Chalon-sur-Saône, Tournus, Mâcon and Cluny, taking in Romanesque art, impressive cathedrals and wonderful museums and abbeys en route. The ride can be extended to cross with the vineyard route into Beaune. Almost exclusively on cycle paths, this tour is ideal for first-time cyclists, families and more experienced tourers alike. Run by local Burgundy specialists. Price includes B&B-style hotel and guesthouse accommodation, bike rental, and full route notes and maps. 33km-51km (can be tailored for you).
Champagne from Reims to Epernay in 4 days
Ride among the rolling vineyards of the world-famous bubbly region
Offered by:
Le Velo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
4 days
Price:
From €625
This short self-guided bike tour between Reims and Epernay is ideal for long weekend getaways or side trips from Paris. It takes you across the Champagne wine region, where you can marvel at the vines stretching as far as the eye can see. Bike up and down the hills of Montagne de Reims and Côte des Blancs, stop for tastings in the Champagne houses and admire the architecture of Reims cathedral and Avenue de Champagne in Epernay. See the famous insignia of Moët-et-Chandon, Veuve-Clicquot, Dom Pérignon not on a label but on milestones at the edge of the road as you discover the area at your own pace. In terms of cycle tourism, the Champagne region is still relatively undiscovered compared to the Loire, Provence, Burgundy or Bordeaux, so this is still a surprisingly 'off the beaten track' destination. The price of this tour includes bike hire, panniers, luggage transfers, detailed itinerary documents and accommodation. Electric bike option available.
Chateau de Candes Single Centre Loire Cycling
A self-guided cycling break from the fixed base in the Loire
Offered by:
Cycling for Softies
Phone number:
+44 (0)20 7471 7760
Tour length:
3 to 7 nights
Price:
From £610
This single-centre holiday in the Loire Valley is based around the cobbles village of Candes-St-Martin, classified as one of France's most beautiful villages so you can also expect all original stone buildings. Candes-St-Martin sits on the point of confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers and has a charming cobbled village square, complete with 12th-century church and an excellent local restaurant. A short walk along the river is Montsoreau, an old river port, and its château, the setting of a famous Dumas novel, is the only one in the Loire Valley built into the riverbed itself. This self-guided holiday includes five cycle routes, with maps and route notes, as well as three walking itineraries (there are also other local activities you can add). The price includes self-catering accommodation in stylish, fully-equipped apartments in Chateau de Candes, bikes, pannier bags, water bottles and repair kits for the duration of your stay, support from a local representative and a welcome pack upon arrival which includes two bottles of local wine as a nice extra touch.
Classic - Starry Nights in Provence
Cycle through the landscapes of Van Gogh
Offered by:
Cycling for Softies
Phone number:
+44 (0)20 7471 7760
Tour length:
5 to 7 nights
Price:
From £1280
The beauty of this part of Provence inspired Vincent Van Gogh through the most productive period of his career, with both the natural and the cultural captured in more than 200 of his works. This route will let you experience your own starry nights in St-Remy-de-Provence. Soak up the colours and culture of Arles and explore the glorious Provençal countryside. Soak up the atmosphere of Arles from one of its charming cafes, explore the hilltop haven of Baux-de-Provence, with its vast panoramas, and go flamingo-spotting in the Camargue nature reserve. The price of this self-guided tour includes 3*/4* hotel accommodation on a B&B basis, 3 evening meals, luggage transfers, bikes, panniers and puncture repair kits, route maps and instructions, plus local support whenever needed. Electric bikes are available on request.
Classic Bordeaux City & Beach Break
An invigorating blend of city life, beaches and vineyards
Offered by:
Cycling for Softies
Phone number:
+44 (0) 20 3944 3218
Tour length:
5 or 7 nights
Price:
From £1195
The city of Bordeaux offers a heady mix of rich history, world-class architecture, excellent gastronomy and, of course, fine wines. The beautiful Arcachon Bay offers a classy, classical seaside feel, making it a popular summer spot for those in the know. The beautiful sandy beaches, delicious fresh seafood and an excellent network of cycle routes make this one of France’s best-kept cycling secrets. Here you'll find the sand, sun and seafood of Arcachon Bay and the spectacular views from the top of Dune du Pilat (Europe's largest sand dune). The price of this tour includes delightful 3-star and 4-star hotels, 3 evening meals, fully serviced touring bikes with panniers, daily route maps and cycling instructions, expert on-the-spot support, luggage transferred between your hotels. E-bikes available upon request and 100% financial security through ABTA and ATOL.
Classic Chateaux of the Loire
A paradise of castles, wine and glorious countryside
Offered by:
Cycling for Softies
Phone number:
+44 (0)20 7471 7760
Tour length:
4 to 7 nights
Price:
From £1015
Fancy a perfect long weekend, or maybe a longer break in the magical valley of the Loire river? Then why not spend your days exploring the Chinon vineyards, the magnificent gardens at the Château de Rivau, the stunning Loire Valley châteaux with their iconic fairytale turrets, and beautiful medieval towns. Stop whenever you desire, perhaps for a wine-tasting session in small independent vineyards, the gardeners’ paradise at Villandry, or the spectacular Son et Lumière show. The price of this tour includes delicious restaurant meals each night, bed and breakfast accommodation, expert support, luggage carried between your hotels and fully serviced touring bikes.
Classic Provence Cycling Holiday
A self-guided tour through the history and colours of Provence
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €1630
This self-guided Provence bike tour starts in Avignon, home of the famous Palais des Papes, and takes you on to Uzes and St Remy de Provence. Cycle on quiet roads to the heart of Provence and its picturesque villages: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Tarascon… See the stunning Pont du Gard, the famous UNESCO-listed Roman aqueduct, and explore the Provencal market towns. You might even get inspired like Van Gogh did by the beauty of St Remy and Les Baux. This is a popular Provence tour for one reason: it combines the very best of what Provence has to offer. Cycling is on quiet routes that are accessible for everyone. Price includes 7 nights' accommodation in superior hotels, plus breakfasts. Hybrid bike hire is included (with an option to upgrade to road bikes or electric bikes). Detailed road book, meeting with a local guide and a 24/7 helpline all included, plus a Discover France waterbottle.
Classic Vineyards of Bordeaux
Enjoy the stunning vineyards around the vibrant city of Bordeaux
Offered by:
Cycling for Softies
Phone number:
+44 (0) 20 3944 9225
Tour length:
7 nights
Price:
From £1425
The city of Bordeaux, the sixth largest in France, offers a heady mix of rich history, world-class architecture, excellent gastronomy and of course, fine wines. This tour takes offers the chance to explore this magnificent metropolis and to spend time among the vast vineyards of the Entre Deux Mers appellation. From the city, you’ll ride a loop to the east, taking in famous wine towns like St Emilion, Sauternes and Cadillac. The price of this tour includes delightful 3-star and 4-star hotels, delicious restaurant meals each night, fully serviced touring bikes with panniers, daily route maps and cycling instructions, expert on-the-spot support, luggage transferred between your hotels. E-bikes available upon request and 100% financial security through ABTA and ATOL. Available with or without flights from the UK.
Corsica by E-bike: GT20 from Bastia to Bonifacio
Traverse the entire island of Corsica from north to south
Offered by:
Europe Active
Phone number:
France: +33 (0)4 95 44 4 9 67; UK: +44 (0)20 3239 4967
Tour length:
12 days / 11 nights
Price:
From €2360
This self-guided electric bike holiday follows the new route of the GT20 – the Grande Traversée of Corsica that allows you to explore the interior of this stunning island. Follow the route as it unfolds from north to south from Bastia all the way to Bonifacio, the southern point of the island. The price includes B&B accommodation in 3-star hotels and guesthouses, road book and maps, mobile app, luggage transfers between hotels. Stages of between 26km and 52km each day with up to 800m of climbing. On some days there is a choice of 2 routes – one longer and one shorter. Choice of regular touring bikes, e-bikes or road bikes. The route covers about 80km a day. This is a moderately challenging route made much easier by e-bike.
Côte d'Albâtre and the Bay of Somme
A backroad cycle tour along the beautiful coast of Normandy
The northern French coast is a delightful array of contrast, light and atmosphere – painters, after all, never choose an area by chance. Not a few painters fell in love with Normandy, but an entire movement – it was here that Impressionism was born. Between the grey and blue hues of the English Channel, the ever-changing skies, the white chalk cliffs of Etretat, the traditional ochre cob of the houses and their abundant flower arrangements, the Côte d'Albâtre is far more colourful than one imagines. The Impressionists found a neverending source of inspiration here and so too do cyclists as they follow this section of the EuroVelo 4 La Velomaritime. It's a superb mix of quiet coastal backroads, interspersed with charming fishing ports, small villages and cliffs. Visit the wonderful Fécamp, Saint Valéry en Caux and Veules les Roses. The route follows the coastline towards the estuary of the Baie de Somme with its nature reserve and birdlife. Take the time to appreciate the Belle Epoque architecture of Mers les Bains and the medieval Saint Valéry sur Somme before finishing your journey in the small fishing ports along the bay.
Cross Northern Brittany by Road Bike
A multi-stage cycle tour for solo road riders, clubs and groups
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33 (0)2 55 99 92 92
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €1290
This self-guided cycling tour is designed for road bikers looking to get a little off the beaten track. This is a challenging 8-day itinerary with daily mileages from 75km to 136km – it's ideal for serious road riders, cycling clubs and friends looking for an adventure in France. Follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest TDF cyclists of them all – Brittany's own Bernard Hinault. From the Breton capital of Rennes, head to the sea for beautiful panoramas along this magnificent coastal route. Take in Mont-Saint-Michel, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site; Saint-Malo, an intramural city that sometimes seems straight out of an adventure novel; Dinan, a beautifully preserved medieval city; Erquy and Paimpol, the charming little ports specialising in scallops; Perros-Guirec, a seaside resort on the famous Pink Granite Coast. Weave around small hilly roads between the land and sea of the Emerald Coast. At Cap Fréhel, where on the circuit of the cliffs in Plouha, enjoy beautiful roads 70 metres above the sea. The cliffs are impressive and offer a unique French cycling experience. The price of this self-guided tour includes 7 nights' accommodation, breakfasts, 1 dinner, luggage transfers, phone assistance 24/7, access to an exclusive app for your route, and local knowledge and advice from the Abicyclette team based in Rennes.
Cross the French Pyrenees by Bike – Guided
Ride the great cols of the Pyrenees from the Med Sea to the Atlantic
During the Tour de France, the riders cross the two biggest mountain ranges in France: the Alps and the Pyrenees. This fully supported tour offers the chance to ride the length of the Pyrenees from the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. The route alternates between mythical Tour de France cols and lesser-known passes so that you can discover the many facets of the Pyrenees – from dense forests and jagged peaks to the lush green mountains of the Basque country. The price of this tour includes the assistance of a trip leader in a support vehicle (breakdown assistance, daily luggage transport and catering), 7 nights in 2* and 3* hotels in double/twin rooms with en-suite facilities, 7 hearty breakfasts, 7 picnic lunches prepared daily with fresh, regional products: high-energy salad (pasta, rice, lentil), cheese, cold cuts, fruit and muesli/cereal bars, 7 dinners (3 or 4-course menus), carefully designed itineraries on 2 levels of difficulty (80-110km per day or 100-150km per day), navigation app, detailed road book with maps (digital format) and GPS tracks. See here for the regular departure dates.
Cycle Amongst the Loire Valley Châteaux from Blois to Tours
Discover the rich tapestries of the Loire Valley – from castles to vineyards
Offered by:
Le Vélo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
8 days
Price:
From €889
The Loire Valley, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, is perfect for a cycling holiday: cycling paths and roads take you across forests, plains and vineyards on a flat terrain. Be captivated by the wonders of this enchanting area – the magic of Chambord, the delicious Loire wines, the medieval town in Tours and the iconic chateau at Chenonceau. This self-guided bike trip combines the beautiful landscapes of the valley with the importance of the river, the unmissable chateaux de la Loire and the delicious local French cuisine. This is a favourite of best friends and cycling partners Bérangère and Eugénie, who set up Le Vélo Voyageur to share their French cycling discoveries with visitors from around the world.
Cycle from Caen to La Rochelle on the Vélo Francette bike route
Beautiful landscapes on an adventure south from Normandy
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33(0)2 55 99 92 92
Tour length:
11 days / 10 nights
Price:
From €1810
The 617-kilometre Vélo Francette is one of France's most interesting and most diverse long-distance bike routes. It crosses rural and largely undiscovered France, between groves and rivers. Created in 2015, it's fully marked and was recognised as the best European bike route by the Dutch Fiets En Wandelbeurs fair. During this self-guided adventure, discover Caen, a city packed with medieval heritage, the spectacular landscapes of the Suisse Normande, Domfront and its architecture from the Middle Ages; Laval and its majestic castle; Angers, city of art and history; get a taste of the Loire Valley; ride through Niort and see the dungeon of Aliénor d’Aquitaine; explore the marches of the Poitevin; and end your ride in La Rochelle, a harbour city so full of history it's like an open-air museum. Cycle from one village to another along the small rivers or through meadows. The price of this self-guided tour includes 10 nights' accommodation, breakfasts, 2 dinners, luggage transfers, phone assistance 24/7, access to an exclusive app for your route, local knowledge and advice.
Image from Calvados Tourism via ABicyclette Voyages
Cycle Provence: The Rhone Valley and Mont Ventoux
Cycle like a local among the vines and lavender fields of Provence
Offered by:
Ride And More Travel – Provence
Phone number:
+33 (0)6 76 35 50 96
Tour length:
6 days/5 nights or 8 days/7 nights, but can be adapted for you
Price:
From €1275
This is a self-guided cycling holiday thoughtfully created by Christophe and his team at Ride And More Travel. Designed to appeal to all cyclists, it can be adapted for all abilities and budgets. Begin your journey in Pernes-les-Fontaines, a picturesque village filled with beautiful stone architecture, and bustling with cafés. Follow former railway lines that have been converted into cycle paths and through the heart of the vineyards to Châteauneuf du Pape – king of the Rhone Valley wines. Stay in Orange, with its Roman theatre, before cycling on to the wine-making villages of Vacqueyras and Beaumes de Venise en route to the mighty Mont Ventoux, an icon of the Tour de France. Climb it if you dare or admire it from a distance before riding towards the stunning Gorges de la Nesque, taking a break in the café square of a hilltop village en route. The price of this tour includes accommodation and breakfast in carefully selected, charming hotels and B&Bs, regular bikes or e-bikes, plus panniers, itineraries on a GPS app, a welcome briefing, luggage transfers, and private transfers to Avignon on the final day. You'll also benefit from a concierge service for restaurants and activities, 24/7 emergency assistance and a brand-new helmet and water bottle. Each day you'll ride between 35km and 47km and climb between 320m and 520m.
Cycle the Atlantic from Nantes to La Rochelle
Enjoy the beaches that hug the Velodyssee EuroVelo 1 bike route
Offered by:
Le Vélo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
8 days
Price:
From €1149
With this self-guided trip along the Velodyssee 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 also available.
Cycle the Lavender Route in Provence: Between Baronnies, Ventoux and Luberon
This cycling trip celebrates the lavender capital of France
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33 (0)2 55 99 92 92
Tour length:
7 days / 6 nights
Price:
€810
This self-guided Lavender Route tour allows you to discover the beauty of the landscapes between the Baronnies of Provence, Ventoux and Luberon in Provence. While the decor is stunning, the relief is quite steep, so an electric bike option is available to allow everyone to enjoy this area. Known for its calming and healing properties, lavender is the symbolic flower of Provence. This cycling trip celebrates its scent, its essential oil, its soaps, cosmetics and perfumes. There are 150 species of lavender and two are cultivated in Provence: fine lavender, which grows at 700 metres above sea level in the Sault region, and lavandin, which grows at lower altitudes. It flowers from mid-June to the beginning of August. Cycle among the fields and visit distilleries and museums, as well as pretty villages like Roussillon, Sault, Fontaine de Vaucluse, L’Isle sur la Sorgue and Pernes les Fontaine. For history, see the Roman sites at Orange and Vaison la Romaine. In between, there are winding gorges, limestone plateaus, cedar forests, olive groves and ocher cliffs. Overshadowing it all is Mont Ventoux, which can choose to climb. The price includes 6 nights, 6 breakfasts, luggage transfers, phone assistance, a personalised greeting, travel documents and maps, a GPS and local recommendations for restaurants.
Cycle the Velo Francette from Saumur to La Rochelle
Ride one of France's most diverse routes – the fabulous Velo Francette
Offered by:
Le Velo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
8 days
Price:
From €1155
The full Velo Francette links La Rochelle on the Atlantic Coast to Caen in Normandy. The section featured on this self-guided tour is one of the route's most varied – between Saumur in the Loire and the coast at La Rochelle. It's a mosaic of landscapes. Start among the castles of the Loire and ride along small backroads following the Thouet river, stopping in beautiful Parthenay, with its medieval atmosphere, then in Niort, with its ancient dungeon and cathedral. Explore the glorious nature among the softness of the Poitevin marshes, making time for a stop in Coulon, its canals and waterways weaving through the landscape. After a detour to Fontenay-le-Comte and the majestic Maillezais abbey, finish your trip in La Rochelle, the gateway to the Atlantic. The price of this self-guided tour includes bike hire, panniers, luggage transfers, detailed route information and accommodation. Electric bikes are also available on this route.
All accommodation has been checked to ensure it meets our cycle-friendly criteria. We also deal with tour operators personally before adding them to the site. To recommend a great French cycling holiday or a nice bike-friendly place to stay, please email lyn@freewheelingfrance.com
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