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

Le Fleix - Le Manoir du Bois Mignon (Sainte-Foy-la-Grande)

Warm and luxurious stop on the banks of the Dordogne River

There can't be many better places to relax after a day on the bike than on the banks of the Dordogne near Sainte-Foy-la-Grande. This grand B&B oasis is set in a beautiful old manoir house built in 1791. The tiny hamlet is a wonderful stop on a ride along the river Dordogne (Freewheeling France rides this area often, winding along the river and back up through the vines). From the door, the UNESCO-listed St-Emilion is a 40km ride (en route to Bordeaux); in the other direction you'll find the sweet white vines of Monbazillac, the city of Bergerac and, further east, the ancient cobbles of Sarlat. This is a worthy stop on any Dordogne Valley bike route.

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Paris – Hotel de La Porte Dorée

Paris hotel – run by cyclists – that will store bikes and bike boxes for you

I've been running Freewheeling France for more than seven years and, in that time, there has been one email that intermittently pops into my inbox: "I'm arriving into/passing through/leaving from Paris. Where can I safely store my bike/bike box?" Now I have a very good answer: Hotel de La Porte Dorée is in the 12th arrondissement, near the glorious Bois de Vincennes park and forest, on the Metro line to the Eiffel Tower, and close to Gare de Paris Bercy and Paris Gare de Lyon (for trains from Burgundy/Dijon and Lyon Part Dieu); by bike, you can get here from Gare du Nord or Montparnasse in under half an hour; the EuroVelo 3 route passes nearby. The hotel is owned by Laurent and Christina, a Franco-US team who cycle to work having dropped their three kids off at school en route. It's a certified eco-friendly hotel with a small fleet of hotel bikes. There's a large basement storage room for bikes and bike boxes (though they can also be taken to your room if you prefer). There's also a courtyard for daytime storage. If you're starting your trip in Paris before heading off elsewhere, they're even happy to store your bike box until you get back. Great breakfasts, free wifi. This is without a doubt top-of-the-list if you need somewhere to stay with your bike in Paris. 
**We've stayed here - read our review**

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Abbeville - Ibis

Mid-range hotel between the bay of Somme and Amiens

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

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Agen - Citotel Stim'Otel

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

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

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Aïnhoa - Hotel Ithurria

A typical Basque welcome on the Santiago de Compostela route

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

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

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

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

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Aix-en-Provence - Adagio Apart-hotel

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

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

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Aix-en-Provence - Hotel de l'Arbois

Friendly hotel-restaurant outside the city centre

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

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Albas - Chateau de la Blainie

Grand chateau B&B on the Lot Valley bike route

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

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Albert - Hôtel Royal Picardie

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

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

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Albert - Ibis Hotel

Bike-friendly hotel near the battlefields of the Somme

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

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Albi Ibis Hotel

Affordable hotel option in the centre of UNESCO-listed Albi

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

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Alpe d'Huez - Chalet Morville (Venosc)

Spacious, modern chalet offering B&B for cyclists in Les 2 Alpes

Chalet Morville is a specialist cycling chalet in the picturesque medieval Alpine village of Venosc just 13km from Le Bourg-d'Oisans and the start of the Alpe d'Huez climb – so a perfect warmup ride away from the famous 21 hairpins. With spectacular mountain views and the best riding the Alps has to offer, Sue and Jules at Chalet Morville aim to offer a home away from home for your French cycling adventure. To ensure your bike is as happy as you are, there is a secure, dedicated bike workshop (pictured) with tools, work stands and spares. The chalet itself is perfect for relaxing after a ride, with a sunny south-facing balcony and garden, a hot tub, sauna and gym. There is a spacious lounge area with UK TV, a dedicated cinema room and a games room with pool and table football. The chalet sleeps up to 12 people and offers accommodation on a per-night basis, with hearty breakfasts served up to power you through the day, along with home-made cakes and optional evening meals for when you get back. The chalet sleeps up to 12.

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Alps (Provence) - Chez-Ray

Low-cost accommodation run by cyclists for cyclists north-west of Nice

Affordable, low-cost cycling accommodation in the Provence Alps run by Ray – a cyclist – for other cyclists. Local routes are varied and can be as challenging or as relaxed as you like, with lavender fields combining with gorges, lakes and mountains. Ideal training ground for cyclists and triathletes. French and English spoken. Ray is on hand to advise about routes and provide maps and ride suggestions, to share local knowledge or to provide some company out on the road. Twins, doubles, triples and quads available, making Chez Ray a flexible option for groups as well as individuals.

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Alps - Chalet Mathilde (Sainte Foy Tarentaise)

Relax in the Alps and hit the mountains from the doorstep

This is a great fixed base for cycling in the heart of the Alps. Chalet Mathilde is run by cyclists Ben and Maddison, who are keen for others to share their little slice of Alpine life. The chalet is available on a catered or self-catered basis for cyclists wanting a self-guided biking base. There are 5 bedrooms, which are available on a sole occupancy basis and ideal for groups of 4-10 people. From the door you can reach Col de l’Iseran, Col du Petit St Bernard, Col de la Madeleine and the Cormet de Roseland, among other classic Tour de France climbs. This part of the Alps is a real hot spot for road cycling, and this is an ideal base for exploring it. Ben will be on hand to share local routes and help you plan your days on the bike – for newer (or unfit!) riders there are gentler local roads with friendlier gradients as well (Ben also offers an emergency rescue service if you get stuck). Free wifi.

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Alps - Hotel Chalet d’Antoine (Megève)

Alpine-style hotel in a great mountain location for cycling

Hotel Chalet d’Antoine is a small, well-established chalet – founded by the current owner Simon Butler over 30 years ago – specialising in chalet-hotel holidays throughout the summer (as well as in winter for skiers) in the beautiful resort of Megève in the Haute-Savoie. The Alpine-style hotel is a great base for exploring the mountains and is popular with cycle groups, who use the hotel as a base, including for the Haute-Route and 2016 Tour de France race stages. There is a secure bike room in the basement, which is accessible from inside and outside the hotel, plus a cosy lounge and bar to relax in the evening and plan the next day's rides. The hotel is a sort walk to the Megève town centre, so close to local restaurants and bars. Free car parking, free wifi, plus delicious continental buffet breakfast every morning. What's not to like?

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Amboise - Le Vinci Loire Valley

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

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

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Amboise - Novotel

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

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

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Amiens - Appart'Hotel Odalys Blamont

Modern apartment-style hotel between Calais and Paris

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Amiens - Grand Hôtel de l’Univers

Stylish three-star hotel right in the centre of Amiens

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

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Amiens - Mercure Cathedrale

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

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

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Amiens – Ibis Centre Cathedrale

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

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

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Ancenis - Hotel Akwaba

A welcoming hotel on the Loire route between Nantes and Angers

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Andernos-les-Bains - Hotel Villa Teranga

Relaxed vibe with bike friendly welcome

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

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Angers - Hotel d'Anjou

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

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

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Angers – Hotel de l'Europe

Affordable city hotel with enclosed bike parking and good breakfasts

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

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Angoulême - Hotel Saint Antoine

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

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Angouleme/Limoges – Le Moulin de Pensol (Pensol)

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

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

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Annecy - Hotel International

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

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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 overooking orchards and hilltops. They have two one-bedroomed self-catered gites (Les Oliviers & Les Cerisiers), plus a B&B room sleeping two people. There is also a three double bedroomed self-catered house with its own pool on the adjacent property – perfect for families or small groups. There is everything you need here for the perfect cycling holiday. Each villa has a private terrace and barbeque, along with access to a superb infinity pool, perfect to return to after your ride (or your partner to relax at whilst 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' 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. 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 (Mountain Vacances)

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 - Hôtel Du Delta

2-star hotel with Arcachon an easy ride away

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

Cycle friendly hotel on the Basin d'Arcachon bike routes

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Arçais - Maison Flore

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

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

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Argelès-Gazost - Hôtel Le Miramont

Pyrenees spa town hotel with its own dedicated bike area

The Hotel Miramont is a well-appointed cycle friendly hotel that's used to welcoming cyclists – it even has a dedicated bike area called The Grange. There, you'll find four individual bike lockups, plus a communal bike storage area, a workshop with tools, plus a bike cleaning area. Individual riders welcome, as well as groups. The hotel is in the spa town of Argelès-Gaznost, making it an excellent choice as a base for exploring the many cols accessible from here, such as the Aubisque, Col du Soulor and the Hautacam. It's also great for non-cycling family and friends as it has lovely gardens – relax in a deckchair! – plus a restaurant that opens onto a terrace when the sun is shining. It's also just a short walk to the town's spa centre. Free wifi. French and English spoken. Twins, doubles and family rooms.

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Ariège Pyrénées - Le Pistoulet Cycling Holidays

Cyclist-run, value-for-money base in the wonderful Ariège Pyrenees

Cyclists Becky and Matt (and their mini-cyclists – both competitive riders) have opened their home to other riders, transforming it into a family friendly biking base thanks to their wonderful attic suite, which can sleep upto 4 people in either a double bed and 2 singles, or 4 singles. They are in a wonderful spot near Saint-Girons (a 2017 TDF town) and the Mas d'Azil cave on the western edge of the Ariege and near the Haute Garonne border. They offer accommodation and stacks of local advice to ensure you get the most out of your cycling trip. With their extensive knowledge of the local terrain, they can help you plan your route each day so you can enjoy cycling on quiet smooth rural roads, cols of the Tour de France or mountain trails. Their accommodation price includes airport/train collection from Toulouse if you need it, breakfasts, post ride snacks and three-course evening meals based on local fresh produce. Secure bike storage and workshop, plus a cleaning area. This is an ideal base for road cycling couples, active families or small groups of friends who are after personalised boutique-style accommodation. English and French spoken. Free wifi.

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Ariège Pyrénées - Rhino Velo Pyrénées

Specialist cycling base for the Pyrénées and their foothills

As the name and the photo above both suggest, Mike and Wendy's set up at Rhino Velo Pyrénées is geared 100% for cyclists. They're based in the foothills of the Pyrenees near the village of Crampagna in the Saurat Valley. The Ariege river flows at the bottom of the garden, making this an ideal spot for rides into the hills or gentler bimbles along the valley (10 minutes up the road there's a flat 40km voie verte to the medieval town of St Girons). A 15-minute ride south and you're into the 'Pyrénées proper', opening up Tour de France cols including Plateau de Beille, Port de Lers and Mur de Peguerrei. The four bedrooms here can sleep upto 10 people. There's a chill-out room for before and after rides, and a fridge stocked with cold drinks and post-ride snacks. Mike and Wendy can help with maps and ride ideas (and you wouldn't need to twist anyone's arm too far if you wanted some company out on the road, either).

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Arras - Maison d'Hôtes La Corne d'Or

Elegantly decorated family-run B&B in central Arras

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

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Arras - Hotel de l'Univers

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

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

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Asnois - La Vieille Gorce Gites & Chambres d’Hotes

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

Sarah and Paul at La Vieille Gorce offer cyclists B&B accommodation plus self-catering cottages in their mid-18th century farmhouse in the Vienne countryside between Angouleme and Poitiers. There are two well-appointed self-catering gites sleeping up to four people each, plus 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 plus stacks of local knowledge is on offer from Sarah and Paul.

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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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Aubisque - Green Bike Pyrenees (Laruns)

Perfect accueil velo B&B base in the western Pyrenees

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

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Aubisque/Tourmalet - Pyrénées Cycling Lodge (Saint Savin)

Mountains in all directions from this base created for and by cyclists

Cyclists Niamh and Mark have created the perfect cycling experience in the High Pyrenees. Situated in the beautiful medieval village of Saint Savin, mid-way between the Tourmalet and the Aubisque, the location is about as good as it gets for cycling. There are 7 Tour de France climbs right on their doorstep (Soulor, Aubisque, Bordéres, Cambasque, Luz Ardiden, Tourmalet and Hautacam); plus many more hidden gems. The cycling lodge has 5 bedrooms in a range of room formations (sleeping 18 people in total), plus a large communal dining and social space, all with stunning mountain views. They offer a dinner/B&B package with their rooms, so all you have to do is turn up and ride. This is a base for te entire cycling family – including non-cycling partners and friends, so everyone can enjoy this little piece of paradise in the Pyrenees. Indoor lockable secure bike storage room, tools and all the added extras you'd expect of a place with 'cycling' in its name.

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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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Aude - The Au Petit Verger Cycle Aude B&B

Cyclist-run B&B offering local knowledge and lots of bikey support

Local cyclist Martyn has five rooms at his tranquil B&B close to excellent road routes and equally special mountain bike circuits. From his door, the Tour de France cols of Plateau de Beille, Port de Pailhères and Col de Porte-Pa are all within reach, but so too are some gentler local rides suited to all abilities. (See here for some local circuits). Martyn has a garage for storage and a full bike workshop for maintenance and running repairs. He can also provide help with route planning, airport pickups and local bike hire. Free wifi. French, English and Spanish spoken.

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Aulnay-de-Saintonge - Les Volets Verts (Euro Velo 3 La Scandibérique)

Bike-friendly B&B on EV3 Pilgrims Route between Saintes and Poitiers

Les Volets Verts is a family owned and run, independent, boutique chambres d’hôtes (B&B) located in the centre of Aulnay-de-Saintonge, a small town between Poitiers and Saints in the Charente-Maritime, Department 17. The B&B is on the Euro Velo 3 Pilgrims route – one of the signposts for the route is in fact right in front of the B&B's gates. Paula and George at Les Volets Verts offer a high standard of flexible ensuite accommodation. They are flexible on arrival times as well as on breakfast times – if you would like breakfast at 6am in summer to take advantage of riding in the cooler part of the day, then all you have to do is ask! Also, if you are arriving earlier than the usual 3pm check in, there is plenty of space for relaxing if your room isn't quite ready. There is a heated outdoor pool in the summer (April-October) with sunbeds and towels included. All room rates are for a double room (1 or 2 people) with breakfast included. Evening meals and packed lunches for panniers are also available with a bit of notice. And, of course, secure bike storage with basic repair tools are also available. The B&B sleeps up to 12 people, making it a great option for groups and families.

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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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