Cycling along Lake Maggiore
Alsace cycling
Alsace cycling
Bordeaux at night
Bordeaux at night
Chateau de Chenonceau
Chateau de Chenonceau
Cycling at Alsace, France
Cycling at Alsace, France
Nelson | Credit: Dean McKenzie
Nelson | Credit: Dean McKenzie
View of Strasbourg, France
View of Strasbourg, France

Cycling Tour & Holiday Packages

France beckons travellers with its alluring landscapes, rich history and a deep-seated love for cycling. Imagine pedalling through the picturesque countryside, with the gentle breeze against your face and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. Our cycling holiday packages capture the very essence of French allure and promise one-of-a-kind experiences.

Cycling offers an exquisite blend of adventure and serenity. Plus, you get to explore the hidden gems of France, from the wine regions of Bordeaux to the serene paths along the Loire Valley, at your own pace. Our packages seamlessly blend exhilarating rides with culturally enriching destinations. Find the one that speaks to your wanderlust!

Guide to Cycling Travel & Holiday Packages

Discover all-in-one cycling holidays and deals that promise not just a holiday, but a French escapade like no other.

Choosing the Perfect Destination

Unravel the beauty of France as you pedal through its varied landscapes. Your choice of destination should align with your interests and fitness level:

  • For wine enthusiasts, the vineyards of Bordeaux are the top choice.
  • Seekers of historic charm can venture through the lanes of Normandy and Brittany.
  • Those looking for a challenge will find the mountainous terrains of the Pyrenees invigorating.
  • Coastal lovers will be drawn to the breezy tracks of the French Riviera.

Benefits of Booking Cycling Holiday Packages

Booking cycling holiday packages offers numerous advantages. These packages provide tailored experiences that cater to both novices and adept cyclists, ensuring a journey tailored to every rider's comfort level. Cyclists can effortlessly navigate routes enriched by guides who share not just the path, but also captivating stories of the region's history. What’s more, the convenience of these packages means all logistical aspects, from plotting routes to arranging accommodations and meals, are handled for you, allowing you to focus solely on the joy of the ride.

Activities and Excursions

Beyond the exhilarating experience of cycling through picturesque landscapes, our packages offer various enriching activities to immerse you further into the French culture and environment:

  • Wine Tastings: Dive into the world of French viticulture by savouring the flavours of regional wines amid local vineyards.
  • Historic Tours: Navigate through time as you step into mediaeval towns, castles and ancient ruins  understanding the stories that shaped them.
  • Local Cuisine: Indulge your taste buds with authentic French dishes, from creamy cheeses to mouthwatering pastries, all served in rustic bistros and cafes.
  • Nature Walks & Canoeing: Swap your bicycle for a canoe paddle or sturdy boots. Paddle through serene waters reflecting the sky or hike nature trails to discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
  • Workshops: Engage in hands-on learning experiences, be it a local craft session or a French cooking class, and take home more than just memories.

Tips for Booking the Best Package

Consider these tips to book the best cycling holiday:

  • Define Your Interest: Whether it's history, nature or gourmet delights, choose a tour that aligns with your passion.
  • Check Reviews: Opt for tour operators with positive reviews and testimonials.
  • Inquire about Support: Ensure there's logistical support, like a backup van or first-aid arrangements.
  • Consider Duration: Match the tour's duration with your availability and stamina.
  • Consult Experts: Speak to experts who can provide insights and help tailor your experience.

Packing Essentials

Stay safe and comfortable during your bike tour by packing these essentials:

  • Appropriate Attire: Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothes and a waterproof jacket.
  • Footwear: Sturdy, comfortable cycling shoes or sneakers.
  • Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses and a good quality helmet.
  • Hydration: A refillable water bottle or hydration pack.
  • Navigation: Maps, compass or a GPS device.
  • Repair Kit: Basic tools, puncture kit and spare tubes.
  • Personal Items: Identification, necessary medications and a small first aid kit.

EUROPEAN DESTINATION TOURS

Europe is the birthplace of the bicycle, the Tour de France, and an outstanding cycling infrastructure. We have perfected the art of self-guided travel, designing itineraries in France and Europe with the spirit of independent travel in mind. We offer a full selection of European destinations to satisfy your desire to travel and see more. Looking for spectacular natural landscapes, interesting cultural sites, or new culinary experiences? Our European bike tours give you the opportunity to explore at your own pace.

Choose to ride the dramatic landscapes of Ireland, or explore the festive eccentric culture of northern Spain. Want sea and sun? There are a lot of choice rides along our Mediterranean destinations in Italy and France bike tours. Seeking a cycling challenge or an easy ride along a river or canal? Europe has it all. Whatever the European destination, we are there for you with the support you need along the way.


TOURS IN FRANCE - Enjoy the food, wine and history

Alsace

Located on the east side of France, on the border with Germany, Alsace Lorraine is a mix of cultures. The region offers an amazing experience for tourists seeking a combination of European cultures, breathtaking scenery, and outdoor activities second to none. One of the most popular activities of locals and tourists in Alsace is cycling. Known worldwide for its picturesque villages with typical houses, ancient churches and historical castles, Alsace is also famous for its vineyards.

Bordeaux

France has many beautiful places to visit, and Bordeaux is an absolute must for wine lovers. If you are seeking fantastic food and a rich experience of French "art de vivre”, Bordeaux and the Gironde area is a great place to visit. It's the perfect place to go on a wine tour, cycling through vineyards and discovering legendary Châteaux wines like St Emilion. But Bordeaux is more than renowned wine country. It is also the ideal place for those seeking to enjoy a cultural trip through French History with beautiful monuments and charming castles.

Provence

With its lavender fields, white-blanketed mountains such as Mont Ventoux and its picturesque ancient villages it can be argued that Provence is the loveliest region of France. Historians, artists, but also wine enthusiasts rush to this region for its culture, breathtaking scenery and the delicious Provencal gastronomy. From the experienced cyclist to the weekend bike peddler, our Provence bike tours offer an unforgettable experience to everyone with something amazing to see down every road! Avignon, Gordes, St Rémy: pick your itinerary and let yourself be charmed by Provence and the smell of lavender.

Loire Valley

Only a short train ride south of Paris, the Loire Valley is recognised as a World Heritage site. Touring this French region, you ride from one amazing castle to another: Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, Villandry… to name only a few. Although, the Loire Valley is best known for its many castles, it also boasts lovely historical towns such as Chartres, picturesque villages, and many vineyards from which the Loire Valley wine is made. Come and discover this beautiful part of France!

French Riviera

Between sea and mountains, from the Mediterranean shores between Saint-Tropez and Menton, from the Provençal ranges to the alpine massifs of Mercantour, the Côte d'Azur is a land of contrasting landscapes with its world famous cities of Nice and Cannes! The beauty of its beaches and the luxury of its palaces, the influence of its festivals and the fame of its artists form a harmonious balance with the forests and green valleys of the mountains of the high country, the red roofs of old perched villages and the yellow of the mimosas in bloom.

Burgundy

With its charming countryside, peaceful atmosphere, and pure air, the French region of Burgundy is the ideal destination for those seeking to enjoy life's simple pleasures. It is known in particular for the famous Burgundy wine such as Chablis or Meursault, and its culinary delights. The historical city of Beaune, with its beautiful Hospice, is also worth seeing. The friendly people and laid-back atmosphere make this the perfect relaxing getaway, and the beautiful landscapes are the perfect backdrop for leisure cycling. France certainly has its share of beautiful places to visit, but perhaps none is as serene and inviting as Burgundy.

Tours in Europe, beyond France

Italy

Our Tuscany bike tours are the best way to discover Italy! Ride through the mediaeval villages of Montepulciano, Pienza, and Montalcino in Tuscany. Cycle around the more famous towns of Florence or Siena with their blended atmosphere of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance Period. Go on a Tuscany wine tour and enjoy the beauty of the vineyards. Some of the greatest wines such as Chianti come from Tuscany so don’t miss out on wine tasting!

Spain

Located in Northern Spain, Catalonia is a land with a lot of character. From the mountains passing through mediaeval towns and all the way to the Costa Brava coastline, it is the perfect place for a Spanish cycling vacation. And what’s more, you can enjoy warm pleasant weather year long. The diverse geography, cultural heritage, and spectacular coastal scenery of the Costa Brava with its hidden coves and splendid beaches make Catalonia a top tourist destination in Spain.

Switzerland

Switzerland is where each multi-cultural influence creates something original. There are four official languages in Switzerland: German, French, Italian, and Rumantsch and many more dialects. The language communities eat different things and have different traditions and customs. This is the Swissness! A certain desire for unity, despite their differences. For you it means a variety of traditions and customs to discover as you cycle through a country already known for its exceptional natural landscapes.

From Adventurous Holidays for Couples, Family Cycling Holiday to Tours for Seniors, there is always the right trip for you.

Adventure Holidays for Couples

Sometimes you just need to get away from the real world and spend time with the person you love. These adventure holidays for couples will allow you to cycle through the lavender fields of Provence or discover beautiful villages in the heart of the Midi Pyrenees region of France. Experience an unforgettable outdoor adventure through truly breathtaking regions of France and make everlasting memories with your loved one.

Family Holiday

Looking for travel ideas for family holidays? Cycling is a great family holiday. We realize that a family of adults as well as a family with children both very young and adolescent bring a variety of abilities and desires to a cycling trip. By family friendly what do we mean? Our cycling tours can be accommodated to many. We offer trailers for small children, trail-a-bikes for larger kids, and individual bikes for children through teenage years. Depending on the ages and abilities, we can advise what the best solution is for your situation. We have had elderly family members come along and instead of cycling or walking we have arranged transfers and vehicle rentals to meet up with the family as they explore the countryside.

Tours for Seniors

Travelling as a senior is a special experience. Now it is time to relax and have fun. We understand that travelling as a senior may require special arrangements, especially during an active holiday. We know how to prepare the perfect cycling tours for seniors full of culture, history, and of course breathtaking landscapes. We can provide e-bikes to make your stay even more comfortable. Our adventure trips for seniors are thought of and tailored for you; after all you deserve it.

BIKES - Professional mechanics are employed to look after all rental bikes. Below are just few examples of the types of bikes used.

Hybrid Bike - Standard SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 - (or equivalent)

The SCOTT SUB Sport 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty trekking geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 30 speed transmission, integrated front and rear lights, a custom Racktime carrier and compatibility with Snap'it accessories, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.

Road Bike - Standard SCOTT ADDICT 20 - (or equivalent)

The SCOTT Addict 20 was redesigned from the ground up with those longer days in mind. With new geometry that is less focused on racing and more on enduring, the Addict 20 will be your go to when you're looking to put the miles.

Hybrid bike - Standard SCOTT SPORTSTER 40 - (or equivalent)

Our SCOTT Sportster 40 hybrid bikes are a suitable choice for all our routes in Central Europe. They are comfortable, yet fast with 27 gears. The front suspension makes them capable of more rugged terrain.

HOW TO CHOOSE A TOUR

Regarding our cycling tours, below is some information about Tour Ratings and your ability:

About the "Level" rating system we use:

  • Casual: Beginners and occasional cyclists. Easiest tours we provide. Typically flatter terrain, no notable hills or anything of a steep gradient. Average distance less than 45 km, maximum elevation less than 300m and average 3-4 hours per day.
  • Hobby: Weekend riders. People with some cycling experience, rolling countryside, possible short climbs. Average distance 30-55 km, maximum elevation 300-550m and average 3-5 hours per day.
  • Active: Cyclists with experience on longer rides. Hilly terrain with a reasonable amount of climbs and difficulty. Average distance 50-100 km, maximum elevation 550-1000m and average 4-6 hours per day.
  • Pro: Avid cyclists, ride every week and love long and challenging rides. Dream on riding the Tour de France cols. Average distance more than 100 km, maximum elevation more than 1000m and average more than 5 hours per day.

FAQs About Cycling Experience

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What are the best destinations for cycling holidays?

France offers an array of destinations that cater to cyclists of all preferences. Some of the top destinations include:

  • The scenic lavender fields of Provence

  • The historic riverbanks of Dordogne

  • Vineyard trails in Bordeaux

  • The enchanting paths of the Loire Valley

  • The picturesque routes in Alsace

  • Coastal breezes of Normandy and Brittany

  • Challenging terrains of the Pyrenees

  • The stunning coastal tracks of the French Riviera.

How can I prepare for a cycling tour?

Preparation is key. Boost your stamina with regular rides and get familiar with the route. Remember to stay hydrated and nourished throughout your holiday.

What types of bikes are suitable for cycling tours in Europe?

The right bike depends on your path. Road bikes excel on smooth paths, while mountain bikes are ideal for rough terrains. Hybrid bikes cater to mixed terrains, while touring bikes, equipped for long-haul rides, often have luggage racks.

Are cycling tours suitable for beginners or inexperienced riders?

Yes, our cycling packages and deals are beginner-friendly. Select a route that aligns with your fitness level and consult our experts for the best fit.

What safety measures should I take during a cycling tour?

Safety is paramount. Always wear a helmet and use reflective gear. Stay hydrated, follow any group guidelines, know your route and carry a first aid kit. It's best to avoid headphones to remain fully aware of your surroundings.

What is the typical duration of a cycling tour?

Cycling tours can range from half-day excursions to multi-day adventures, spanning from 4 to 15 days, or even more. The duration often depends on the chosen route and the desired depth of exploration.

Can I rent a bike for a cycling tour, or should I bring my own?

Both options are available. While many seasoned cyclists prefer to bring their own bikes for comfort and familiarity, we can connect you to high-quality rental bikes tailored for the specific terrains of the tour. If renting, ensure the bike is a good fit and is well-maintained.

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