Accommodation - Hotels, hostels and B&Bs: All France

Abbeville - Ibis

Mid-range hotel between the bay of Somme and Amiens

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

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Agen - Chambre d'Hôtes et Spa

A friendly welcome for cyclists riding the Canal de Garonne

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

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Agen - Citotel Stim'Otel

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

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

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Aïnhoa - Hotel Ithurria

A typical Basque welcome on the Santiago de Compostela route

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

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

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

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

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Aix-en-Provence - Adagio Apart-hotel

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

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

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Aix-en-Provence - Hotel de l'Arbois

Friendly hotel-restaurant outside the city centre

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

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Aix-les-Bains - Aix-les-Bains Best Western Aquakub

Ride the shores of Lake Bourget and relax waterside afterwards

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Ajaccio - Hotel Les Mouettes

Bike-friendly hotel overlooking the Gulf of Ajaccio on Corsica

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Albas - Chateau de la Blainie

Grand chateau B&B on the Lot Valley bike route

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

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Albert - Hôtel Royal Picardie

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

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

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Albert - Ibis Hotel

Bike-friendly hotel near the battlefields of the Somme

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

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Albi Ibis Hotel

Affordable hotel option in the centre of UNESCO-listed Albi

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

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Alençon - Hôtel des Ducs (Paris-Mont St Michel route)

Perfect for the Veloscenic Paris to Mont St-Michel route

Hôtel des Ducs is super convenient for anyone arriving in Alençon on the Paris to St Mont-Michel Veloscenic route. The rooms are spacious, spotlessly clean and have all the mod cons (including free wifi). Generous breakfasts well above and beyond the standard croissant and pain au chocolat. Great coffee, too. The hotel is close to local restaurants and the cobbled streets of the old town. Friendly owner/managers. Secure bike storage in a carport with electric gates. French and English spoken. 
See our full review of this hotel here. 

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Altkirch - Logis Auberge Sundgovienne

Hotel set in lots of green space on the Western Front Way bike route

Logis Auberge Sundgovienne is a family run hotel set among lots of green space near a forest near the Altkirch town centre. This is an ideal stop if you are cycling the Western Front Way bike route, a World War One memorial bike ride. The hotel is in fact less than 2km from the Monument Kilianstollen, an important local landmark on the old German front line. It's also possible to see old trenches, slowly being reclaimed by nature, nearby. "Family run" is sometimes overused but not in this case – Logis Auberge Sundgovienne has been run by the same family for three generations. It has an in-house restaurant serving traditional and modern cuisine, plus a shady terrace and lovely gardens. Singles, doubles, triples and family rooms. Dedicated bike storage. Altkirch is 20km south-west of Mulhouse and so also handy for the Alsace vineyard routes.

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Amboise - Le Vinci Loire Valley

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

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

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Amboise - Novotel

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

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

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Amiens - Appart'Hotel Odalys Blamont

Modern apartment-style hotel between Calais and Paris

One of our contributors Richard Peace stayed here on a ride from Calais to Paris. He says the accommodation was one of the highlights of his day in the saddle. Appart'Hotel Odalys Blamont offers lovely self-catering apartments five minutes from Amiens cathedral. You are allowed to keep your bike in your room with you (it's a bit of a squeeze in the lift but it can be done!) There is also a separate bike storage area. The rooms are modern with all the appliances and kitchen equipment you need. There's free wifi. French, English and Spanish spoken.

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Amiens - Grand Hôtel de l’Univers

Stylish three-star hotel right in the centre of Amiens

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

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Amiens - Mercure Cathedrale

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

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

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Amiens – Ibis Centre Cathedrale

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

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

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Ancenis - Hotel Akwaba

A welcoming hotel on the Loire route between Nantes and Angers

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Andernos-les-Bains - Hotel Villa Teranga

Relaxed vibe with bike friendly welcome

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

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Angers - Hotel d'Anjou

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

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

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Angers – Hotel de l'Europe

Affordable city hotel with enclosed bike parking and good breakfasts

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

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Angoulême - Hotel Saint Antoine

Affordable hotel with secure parking on the Flow Vello route

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

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Annecy - Hotel International

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

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Antibes - Hotel Sophia Antipolis

Comfortable hotel 8km from Antibes on the French Riviera

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Apt - Les Oliviers & Les Cerisiers (Ventoux)

Versatile accommodation for small solo riders, couples and small groups

David and Karen offer a homely welcome in a stunning location facing south overlooking a swimming pool and gardens and with a backdrop of the Luberon hills. They have two one-bedroomed self-catered gites (Les Oliviers & Les Cerisiers), plus a B&B room sleeping two people. Les Oliviers & Les Cerisiers is close to the Veloroute du Calavon, which forms part of the longer Euro Velo 8 Méditerranée à Vélo. There is everything you need here for the perfect cycling holiday. Each gite has a private terrace and barbeque, along with access to a superb infinity pool, perfect to return to after your ride (or for your partner to relax near while you ride!) Surrounded by endless peaceful roads, this is a great base for riders of all abilities, with both gentle and challenging climbs offering stunning views as a reward. The 'Monts de Vaucluse' in the 'Prealpes' rises to 1256 metres at Signal de Saint-Pierre and provides a beautiful backdrop and leads to the Plateau de Sault and the mighty Mont Ventoux (1912 metres), a 104km round trip. The gites sit in a peaceful olive and fruit orchard with views over the Luberon Valley, the village of Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt is an easy walk away for baguettes, restaurants and other supplies. David is a keen cyclist and has accompanied many cyclists (including Freewheeling France!) on rides around the area and to Ventoux. He can also arrange local bike hire for you. You can even order a Champagne breakfast and/or evening meal on arrival to kick off your stay in style. Free (fast) wifi. French and English spoken.
*** We've stayed here – read our review. ***

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Aramits - Maison Rachou B&B

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

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

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Arcachon - Hôtel de la Plage

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

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

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

Cycle friendly hotel on the Basin d'Arcachon bike routes

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Arçais - Maison Flore

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

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

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Argeles-Gazost - Logis Hotel Beau Site

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

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

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Ariege Pyrenees - Velobnb (Coutens)

Stay with passionate cyclists with intimate knowledge of the Pyrenees

As the name suggests, Velobnb is a bed and breakfast run for cyclists by cyclists. An accueil velo B&B, it's just 100 metres from the picturesque voie verte (greenway route) connecting Mirepoix to Pamiers, the location is a dream for two-wheeled adventurers of all abilities. Velobnb is also situated on the V81, making it a prime spot for avid riders seeking new challenges. The B&B is spacious and elegantly decorated. It has 4 bedrooms that can accommodate up to 9 people. Rooms can be booked individually or you can book the whole house for a tailor-made group package. The house is surrounded by a beautiful garden and it has a swimming pool. Owned and operated by cyclists Beata and Karl, you can expect a warm welcome and insider knowledge on all things cycling. They are seasoned road cyclists and mountain bikers, conquering the famous Ariègeoise sportive year after year. Benefit from their valuable tips and advice to enhance your stay. Secure bike storage, tools, and laundry facilities available. There is also a games room. B&B + dinner packages available so that you can relax and unwind after a day on the bike. All tastes and dietary requirements catered for at dinner as well as during breakfasts designed to fuel your day out.

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Ariège Pyrenees – Les Deux Vélos (Biert)

Cycling retreat in the Pyrenees, 130km south of Toulouse

As the name suggests, Les Deux Vélos is run for cyclists by cyclists – and it's been running now for more than 20 years. Elma Mark, originally from the Netherlands and fluent Dutch, English and French (+ a bit of German + Spanish) have been the custodians since 2008. Les Deux Vélos is a bike lodge between the villages Biert and Massat in the Ariege Pyrenees (130km south of Toulouse). This is a fabulous base for cycling some of the great Tour de France cols – there are more than 12 climbs from the door, all accessed on loop rides of 50-120km. Ride the Col de Port, Col d’Agnés, Port de l’Hers Col de Latrape, Portet d’Aspet, Plateau de Beille and many more. The Tourmalet and the Aubisque can also be done on a day trip if you are travelling with a car. There is accommodation at Les Deux Vélos for solo riders as well as groups (it sleeps up to 18 people), and 3-course dinners and big breakfasts are provided to provide the fuel you need to make the most of your days on the bike. Van support available on request. Bikes can be hired on site. Secure, locked garage overnight for overnight storage + workshop equipment and spares.
Photo: Les Deux Vélos

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Arles - Hôtel la Muette (Via Rhona Euro Velo 17)

A central location in the heart of historic Arles

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Arles - La Résidence (Via Rhona)

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

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

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Arles - Le Rodin Hotel

Spacious hotel near historic Roman Arles

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

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

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

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

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Arras - Hotel de l'Univers

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

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

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Arras - Maison d'Hôtes La Corne d'Or

Elegantly decorated family-run B&B in central Arras

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

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Asnois - La Vieille Gorce B&B

Flexible cycle-friendly B&B and cottages between Angouleme and Poitiers

Sarah and Paul at La Vieille Gorce offer cyclists B&B accommodation in their mid-18th century farmhouse in the Vienne countryside between Angouleme and Poitiers. There are three boutique-style B&B rooms. The property is a tranquil oasis surrounded by sunflowers, woodland and charming villages. There are cycle routes on the doorstep, including the Tour de Charente bike route just to the south. Explore historic chateaux, beautiful rivers, wildlife and quiet country lanes. Nearby is the medieval town of Charroux with its famous Charlamagne’s tower on the pilgrim's route to Santiago de Compostela. ‘The Way of Charroux’ is a variant of the Way of Vézelay and follows the GR48. It begins in the Vienne at Angles-sur-l'Anglin, one of the most beautiful villages in France, continues by Montmorillon, Isle Jourdain, Charroux and leaves the Vienne after Surin to go towards Angouleme and Saint Aulay. Charroux is just over 5km from La Vieille Gorce, with bars, shops and restaurants to enjoy. Lockable shed for bike storage.

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Atlantic Coast - Holiday Inn Express (Saint-Nazaire)

At the start of the Loire à Vélo with the 'cyclists welcome' label

Holiday Inn Express Saint-Nazaire is keen to welcome more cyclists passing through Pays de la Loire – either riders heading up or down the Atlantic Coast on La Vélodyssée or those cycling to or from the Loire Valley. The hotel conforms to the French standard 'accueil vélo' ('cyclists welcome') tourist label, and provides secure and dedicated parking (pictured), along with a wash down and repair area. The general manager, Laurence, says he is super keen to welcome more cyclists. French, English, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish and German spoken. 24-hour reception, onsite bar, free wifi.

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Atlantic Coast bike route - By The Lake B&B (Plumieux)

Friendly B&B handy for the Euro Velo 1 Velodyssee route

The By The Lake B&B was recommended to us by cyclists who stayed there. It's located in La Trinité-Porhoët, a short ride from Plumieux on the Nantes-Brest Canal stretch of the EuroVelo 1 Atlantic Coast route. Free WiFi, BBQ, garden and free private parking. Continental or vegetarian breakfast. This is a great stopover in Brittany – a great base for greenway and MTB routes, plus Brittany's V6 and V3 veloroutes.

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Aubisque and Tourmalet - Soupiets B&B (Betpouey)

Cycle-friendly house with incredible access to the best Pyrenean climbs

Soupiets is a bike-friendly B&B on the D918 in between the villages of Betpouey and Sers – from the door, it's 15km to the top of the Col du Tourmalet. From here, you can also ride the Peyresourde, Aubisque, Col de Portet, the Aspin, Soulor and the Hautacam. The house has just 3 bedrooms sleeping 7 people in total: 1 twin, 1 twin/double and a double room with a separate small interconnecting single. There is fabulous cycle storage (pictured), plus basic tools, a bike stand, and a hose. You also have access to a washing machine and drying area for clothes. Van support and help with luggage, route planning, evening meals and picnics are also available on request. There is also a small bar area for guests eating at the B&B. English and French spoken. 

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Auch – Hotel de France

Old coaching inn with reliable accommodation in the heart of the Gers

Auch is built around the west bank of the Gers river, and is the capital of the Gers region – France's most sparsely populated. The area makes either a wonderful base for cycling, or an interesting stop en route to the mountains of the Pyrenees or to Toulouse to the east. Hotel de France – in the middle or town – is a former coaching inn that's retained much of the elegance and charm of bygone years. There's an informal brasserie, as well as a more sophisticated restaurant serving local cuisine. The staff are experienced at welcoming cyclists and regularly host tour groups. Terrace. Free wifi. French, Spanish and English spoken.

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Auray - Hotel Auray Le Loch

Peaceful forest hotel 17km west of Vannes in beautiful Brittany

Hotel Auray Le Loch is located in the heart of the Auray Forest and near the Auray River in southern Brittany. It's midway between the Atlantic Coast and Vannes (17km). Handy for the Carnac megalithic site. Peaceful setting with a terrace overlooking woodlands and gardens. The hotel’s restaurant serves local cuisine and seafood specialities. Sauna. Free wifi. Dedicated bike store. There are two hotel bikes available to rent from reception.

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Aurillac - Grand Hotel de Bordeaux

Beautifully restored hotel that's used to welcoming cyclists

Elegant and welcoming hotel in the centre of Aurillac, close to the city's pedestrian zone. Management tells me they regularly welcome cyclists and can find a safe and seure room in the hotel to lock your bike. The buildingn itself dates back to 1850 and it has been lovingly restored and tastefully decorated throughout to preseve its original features. Also meets French eco-friendly standards. Full buffet breakfast. Onsite bar. Singles, doubles, triples and family rooms. Free wifi. French, Spanish and English spoken.

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Avallon - Logis Hotel les Capucins

Local hotel offering a warm traditional stay

This is a basic but clean local hotel that is part of the Logis Hotel group (it meets their bike-friendly criteria and often welcomes cyclists on the Burgundy wine trail). There is an onsite restaurant that serves local cuisine and, unusually for France, it makes a point of catering for vegetarians. There is also a garden, where it's possible to eat in summer. Free wifi. Family rooms as well as doubles and twins. Disabled access also. Bike hire can be arranged locally for rides out to Vézelay or Chablis. French and English spoken.
Photo: ©Logis Hôtels

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