Our selection of cycling holidays in www.freewheelingfrance.com Contents Why •• Page 5: Alsace •• Page 7: South-West France cycle •• Page 14: The Pyrenees in France? •• Page 16: The •• Page 20: + Bespoke France is the perfect destination for cyclists •• Page 21: Northern France of all ages and abilities – that’s one of the reasons we love it. •• Page 23: Burgundy •• Page 25: Loire Valley Whether you’re a first-time cycle tourer, a family, or a road rider with lots of kilometres •• Page 30: Paris + South of France in your legs, there’s an experience for you. •• Page 36: Multi Activity Trips For people who don’t want a completely •• Page 38: Off the beaten track ‘do-it-yourself’ trip, there are lots of great •• Page 43: Our holiday planning service guided and self-guided options. What is a self-guided cycling holiday? We have put together a selection of tours covering a range of budgets and for all types Self-guided cycling tours are (usually) cheaper of cyclists. You can also browse them at than their guided equivalents because they don’t www.freewheelingfrance.com. involve the costs of having to employ a guide or full-time van driver. They are great for people If you need help choosing a tour, you can who want to cycle independently but who like email me at [email protected] to have a bit of local support as well to take the Bonne route! hassle out of the planning Lyn. All tours differ, but self-guided cycling tours generally include some or all of the following: •• accommodation booked or recommended Who are we? •• breakfasts + plus some or all other meals freewheelingfrance.com is an independent website for cycling in France. The tours in this brochure are NOT run by us. We have collated •• maps and detailed route notes them to help you enjoy cycling in France as much as we do. You can •• bike hire option read more about us here. •• luggage transfers (though some companies offer panniers rather than day-to-day Disclaimer: This brochure is provided for guidance only. Tours are run by companies luggage transfers) independent of Freewheeling France. Bookings/enquiries should be made directly with the companies featured. Details are subject to change. Freewheeling France •• airport pickups takes no responsibility for tour-related problems of any kind. Please ask the tour company all the usual questions about consumer protections prior to booking. •• emergency phone support All images are copyrighted to Freewheeling France or supplied by tour companies, unless otherwise credited. Any errors are incidental and we are happy to make amendments to future editions to rectify them. Copyright Freewheeling France 2017 2 What is a guided cycling holiday? (though you can also take panniers). These tours can be guided or self-guided. Bike hire and All tours differ, but guided cycling tours other add-ons can be arranged. generally include some or all of the following: •• an experienced guide What is a fixed base cycling holiday?

•• on-road support (car or van) These are cycling holidays that use a fixed base •• accommodation booked for you – usually a hotel, B&B or self-catering gite – from which you can explore the local area. •• breakfasts + some or all other meals •• maps and detailed route notes These tours may be guided or self-guided, with daily routes mapped out within a set radius of •• bike hire option your accommodation. Sometimes your tour •• luggage transfers operator will be on hand to ferry you to ride •• airport pickups starting points farther afield.

Guided tours tend to be ‘bells and whistles’. Fixed base holidays can also be trips you’ve arranged yourself directly with the What’s a point-to-point holiday? accommodation provider, who may be able to supplement your own research with local route These are tours that go from one place to advice and maps. Bike hire and other add-ons another each day (or sometimes every other can be arranged. day). They move from hotel to hotel or B&B to B&B, with your luggage usually moved for you

3 Useful links Choosing a level of difficulty Questions for the tour company •• Is the itinerary fixed or can you tailor it for There is lots of Terms like ‘easy’ and ‘advanced’ are subjective in information and me? (Dates, route, accommodation, etc?) France, and are often relative to the tour advice on our •• Is bike hire included or does it cost extra? operator (and their usual clientele) rather than website. Here (What pedals are used on the bikes if I’m cycling in general. are a few quick hiring? Are locks, puncture kits, helmets hyperlinks. etc provided? Do you have electric bikes/ For example, a tour company that specialises in children’s bikes/trailers etc?) Ferry information the Loire Valley may call a route ‘moderate’, as Trains to and from might an operator in the foothills of the Pyrenees, •• What happens if I ‘break down’? What France but they are catering to cyclists of different abilities support is available? – what’s moderate in the Loire will be easy for •• Do you offer airport or train station Train travel within someone who’s used to cycling in the Pyrenees. France transfers? •• What deposit is necessary and what are Bike/train On the following pages I’ve tried to apply my own reservations sensibilities to the tours, so I’ve labelled nearly all your booking/refund terms? Loire tours as ‘easy’ (because they are generally •• Is there a supplement if I’m travelling alone? How to take your flat), and used ‘moderate’ and challenging’ in the bike on Eurostar Alps/Pyrenees relevant to the type of cyclist the Flying to France tour would attract. Family cycling holidays in France

Shipping bikes to Look also at daily distances, as well as elevation Finding a family cycling tour in France shouldn’t France profiles to see how hilly routes are. Consider be a problem. There are many companies whether you want to be cycling all day or if you offering family friendly tours as part of their want to leave time for sightseeing en route, as this regular schedules, while other companies will may affect your daily mileage/how easily you can tailor any tour for kids if you ask (this may be complete the ride in the allocated time. harder in some areas than others – eg where mountains are involved!) They’ll also Finding good value for money have access to kids’ bikes, trailers and tagalongs for you. It really is a matter of shopping around to find the perfect combination of itineraries, accommodation and support services.

Prices do change and may be more expensive in July and August than in the spring and autumn.

Sometimes you can save money by, for example, We can help you find the perfect tour choosing three-star accommodation instead of four-star, or by opting out of the set evening meals If you use our Freewheeling France bespoke and eating locally on your own. service, we’ll match your requirements to the right company and route. If you’re worried about your budget, ask the Just email us at [email protected] operator as tours can usually be tailored for you. or see this page.

4 guided Self-guided Self-guided ALSACE OR GUIDED

4-day bike ride from Alsace Route du Vin Alsace and the Rhine Strasbourg to Colmar Offered by: Cycling for Softies Valley Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7760 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by:  BSpoke Cycling and Tour length: 7 days Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Walking Holidays Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 4 days Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7750 Price: From £1325 Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Price: From €430 Spend a delightful week pedalling along pretty Level of difficulty: Easy lanes that meander through vineyards and Price: From £1155 Discover the vineyards of Alsace on this fields of sunflowers while exploring the famous leisurely short break from Strasbourg to Explore the beauty and gastronomy of the Alsace wine road. Eat Alsatian specialties and Colmar. The route starts out following the Alsace region at your own pace while staying drink in the region’s fabulous wine heritage. towpaths of the Bruche Canal before heading in 3- and 4-star accommodation throughout. This tour takes you from the cobbled market off on to quiet country roads with little traffic. You will start your tour in the colourful Swiss square in Obernais to Colmar, a wonderfully The wine trail itself starts near Molsheim, town of Basel and then meander your way up preserved old town with bold hues splashed and takes you through Rosheim, Andlau the glorious river Rhine passing through the across the magnificent half-timbered terraces. Itterswiller, Châtenois and Bergheim en route lovely Alsatian towns of Freiberg and Colmar, The route has been tailored so that something to the medieval castle of Haut-Koenigsbourg until your final destination, the wonderful new is on the agenda each day, providing lots (the most visited monument in Alsace). From cycling city of Strasbourg. The price includes of opportunity to visit historic towns such as here you’ll visit hilltop villages dotted along bed and breakfast hotel accommodation, centuries-old Riquewihr and majestic chateaux the route to beautiful Colmar, where you’ll flights from the UK (discounts apply if you’re at your own pace (electric bikes and tandems find no shortage of celebratory Alsatian wine not coming from the UK), airport and luggage are available). The tour includes hotels, and bretzels (local pastries). Price includes transfers, bikes, panniers and puncture repair flights from the UK (discounts for people not baggage transfers, accommodation, full route kits, route maps, and assistance whenever flying from the UK), bikes, maps and local notes and maps, bike hire. Maximum distance needed. Tandems and electric bikes are assistance. Leave some space in your bag for per day: 37km. available on request. a bottle of Riesling or two.

Alsace Villages & Vineyards Offered by: Inntravel Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Tour length: 7 nights Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From £698 This cycling holiday is the perfect chance to get to know the very heart of Alsace. It’s based at three hotels (Eguisheim, Kaysersberg and Bergheim), each giving you access to some of the best cycling routes in this fascinating and beautiful area.The routes are flexible, so you can meander along quiet country backroads and through pretty villages, or tackle a more challenging day by riding up to one of the many hill-top châteaux to soak up the views across the valley. The routes are a mix of quiet backroads, dedicated cycle paths and vineyard tracks. Includes all accommodation plus maps and luggage transport.

5 guided Self-guided Self-guided ALSACE OR GUIDED

Alsace Discovery: Alsace Prestige en Vélo Alsace Wine Road Villages, Vineyards Offered by: Belle France cycle trail from & Forested Hills Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Strasbourg to Colmar Tour length: 6 nights Offered by: Inntravel Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Level of difficulty: Moderate Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617 003 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Price: £1499 Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 8 days Level of difficulty: Moderate Discover this little, unknown corner of France Level of difficulty: Moderate Price: From £765 with its distinctively Germanic influence. Price: From €879 Make your way south from Strasbourg, Quiet lanes, rolling hills, world-class wines and This is a chance to discover Alsace at your the buzzing capital of Alsace and one of top French gastronomy. You’ll get all this on own pace. You’ll start in UNESCO-listed France’s leading cities for cycling, and follow this self-guided trip along some of France’s Strasbourg (a super cycling city) where you the waters of the Canal du Rhone au Rhin. least-explored bike trails. It’s a hotel-to-hotel can see Notre Dame cathedral, the city’s From here you’ll cycle along the foot of the holiday, so you’ll be seeing something new distinctive bridges and the medieval quarter, Vosges and through winemaking villages. every day as you explore this lovely area ‘Petite France’. Then follow the Bruche Canal There is the option to add an extra night to nestled between the Vosges mountains and all the way to the vines, where you’ll join the give you the time to explore Strasbourg. Daily the River Rhine. The route is mostly on country wine trail through villages with half-timbered cycling distances are between 36km and roads and cycle paths, plus on wooded trails houses and colourful geraniums. Take in 65km. Price includes half-board B&B – it’s very much a tailored adventure, with the towns of Rosheim, Obernai, Barr and accommodation in atmospheric and locally the option of extra walking or cycling. The Bergheim, and admire the castle of Haut- run 4- or 5-star hotels, plus bike hire and cycling is mainly flat with some hills, and all Koenigsbourg. Head into the hills to visit luggage transfers. accommodation, bike hire, baggage transport, Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr and Hunawihr before route notes and maps are included. reaching Colmar. Includes luggage transfers, accommodation, bike hire, and route notes/ maps. Maximum daily distance: 37km.

6 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH-WEST FRANCE OR GUIDED

Dordogne and the Lot Valley

A Sarlat Cycling Holiday Dordogne Cycling Dordogne Hub & Offered by: Cycle the Dordogne Through History Tour Spoke Tour Phone number: +33 (0)5 53 30 23 20 Offered by: Cycle Breaks Offered by: Cycle the Dordogne +44 (0)77 7455 1647 Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 72 15 55 Phone number: +33 (0)5 53 30 23 20 Tour length: You decide Tour length: 8 days/7 nights +44 (0)77 7455 1647 Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Moderate Tour length: You decide! Price: Varies with tour length Price: £1052 Level of difficulty: You decide! Price: You decide! Self-guided tour through the heart of the From the cave paintings at Lascaux and the Dordogne. This trip is a two-centre tour ancient gorges around Les Eyzies to pretty This is the ideal tour for cyclists who don’t starting in Sarlat, the ancient capital of cliff-top villages at Béynac and Rocamadour, really want to take a tour. Stay in one location the Périgord, and moving on to either and the gardens at Chateau de Marqueyssac, – either in a hotel or at a self-catering gîte Rocamadour or Les Eyzies (it’s your choice). the valleys around the ‘Cradle of Prehistory’ – and take day rides from the door. Sarlat, Enjoy quiet country roads and river views as have many surprises. This is circular tour Domme, La-Roque-Gageac and Beynac are you cycle at your own pace. Route suggestions taking you over rolling hills and through river all there for you to explore. If you don’t want and maps are provided, as is luggage transfer valleys, past medieval chateaux and into caves. to cycle one day, just relax by the pool or go between your two bases. This is a tour for Half-board accommodation in 2- and 3-star canoeing. This tour is a good introduction to leisure cyclists who want to take the time to hotels at Souillac, Rocamadour, Gourdon, cycling holidays, and is perfect for couples with sightsee en route. La Roque Gageac, Les Eyzies and Sarlat, one ‘serious’ cyclist who wants to clock up the plus luggage transfer, bike hire, route maps miles and a more occasional rider keen on a included. 32-54km a day. Start any day more leisurely pace. March-October.

Discover the Dordogne Dordogne Prestige Dordogne Valley Tour Valley en Vélo (Option 1) Offered by: Inntravel Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Cycle the Dordogne Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Phone number: +33 (0)5 53 30 23 20 Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 7 nights +44 (0)77 7455 1647 Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Challenging Tour length: 7, 9 or 11 days Price: From £880 Price: From £1999 Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From €910 This scenic route explores the beguiling Ride through the heart of the Vézère Valley landscapes between the handsome market on this classic Dordogne itinerary. All the A flexible and fun way to explore the Dordogne town of Souillac and the pretty, hill-top village highlights are here from one of France’s most Valley. Choose the length of your tour and of Loubressac. Each evening, enjoy wonderful historic and most visually stunning regions: local cyclists Annie and Cliff will devise a route gastronomic dinners, while for lunch, picnic Les Eyzies and its caves, gorges and museum for you. Explore Rocamadour, the Gouffre de by the river or stop at authentic, inexpensive of prehistory; La Roque Gageac, Sarlat and Padirac, Loubressac, and the prehistoric sites village restaurants. The cycling is undulating and, Domme, plus the river routes of Le Bugue, and chateaux around La-Roque-Gageac and in places, challenging, but always rewarding, Limeuil and Trémolat. This is a prestige cycling Les Eyzies in the Vézère Valley. Fully inclusive and there is time to pause at châteaux and holiday staying in stylish chateau and hotel of high quality B&B accommodation, luggage churches. A highlight of the week is exploring accommodation. Route notes and maps, plus transfers and high-spec bike hire. Full route the renowned hanging village of Rocamadour; luggage transfers, and lots of added extras notes and maps also provided. you can also visit the cavern of the Gouffre de are included. Padirac. This is a self-guided hotel-to-hotel cycling holiday, with all accommodation, bike hire, maps and route notes, plus luggage transfers included.

7 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH-WEST FRANCE OR GUIDED

Dordogne and the Lot Valley

Dordogne Valley Tour Dordogne Valley, Lot & Dordogne/Lot Valley (Option 2) Quercy Tour Combo Tour Offered by: Cycle the Dordogne Offered by: La Ligne Verte Offered by: Cycle the Dordogne Phone number: +33 (0)5 53 30 23 20 Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Phone number: +33 (0)5 53 30 23 20 +44 (0)77 7455 1647 Tour length: 5-9 days +44 (0)77 7455 1647 Tour length: 9 days Level of difficulty: Very light Tour length: 8-18 days Level of difficulty: Easy Price: 7 days: €724 Level of difficulty: Easy Price: €1345 Price: Varies Cycle at your own pace on this self-guided This is an insider’s tour of the Dordogne, tour that follows the Dordogne River from Can’t decide whether to cycle the Dordogne or with off-the-beaten trail highlights that don’t Souillac in the Lot department to the medieval the Lot? Why not do both with the Dordogne/ make it onto usual itineraries. Head for villages of Martel, Carennac and Rocamadour. Lot Combo Tour? This is a custom tour that the open spaces of Les , passing Ride as few as 20km in a day or as many varies in length from 8 to 18 days, depending through unspoilt scenery to Rocamadour and as you like – it’s your choice on this leisurely on your time and budget. How much cycling St-Céré, gateway to the waterfalls at Autoire, exploration of river valleys and limestone do you want to do? How much do you want to Château-de-Montal, Castelnau-Bretenoux plateaux. Baggage transfer, accommodation see and explore? Annie and Cliff can tailor the and Les Grottes de Presque. Pedal along the and some meals included. Group discounts tour to your needs and your cycling ability. Fully river to Carennac, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne available. Departures every day from March inclusive of B&B accommodation, luggage and to Collanges-la-Rouge in the Corrèze. 15 to October 31. transfers and high-spec bike hire. Maps and Visit the Jardins d’Eyrignac as you loop back full route notes also provided. to Gourdon. Includes B&B accommodation, luggage transfers and bike hire.

8 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH-WEST FRANCE OR GUIDED

Bordeaux and the Atlantic Coast

Bordeaux to Biarritz on La Rochelle to Bordeaux: Arcachon Bay La Vélodyssée La Vélodyssey Cycling Tour Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 3 days Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Very easy Price: From £1389 Price: £1247 Price: From €239 Starting in beautiful Bordeaux, head west to This adventure offers wonderful variety, from Arcachon Bay is an easy and relaxing cycling the coast along the traffic-free Lacanau bike the beaches of the Atlantic to pine forests destination. Cycling is mostly on car-free path. Then pick up La Vélodyssée and head and marshlands. Starting in the historic paths, and there are lots of places to stop south on dedicated bike trails, parallel to sand harbour town of La Rochelle, with its world- for refreshments (or a swim). From the dunes and past deserted stretches of beach class aquarium, you’ll follow the Vélodyssée oyster-farming village of Gujan Mestras to to Cap Ferret and the ferry to Arcachon. Stop EuroVelo 1 route down the coast. Visit wide sandy beaches, the great dune of Pyla off at the Great Dune of Pyla (the highest sand Rochefort, famous for its ‘Corderie Royale’, and fragrant pine forests, Arcachon is a dune in Europe) before continuing through the the citadelle in Brouage, the oyster farms treat for the senses (and the tastebuds). pine forests of the Landes. From here, it’s on in La Tremblade and the seaside resort of Take a boat ride to Cap Ferret to enjoy views to Biscarrosse, Mimizan and Moliets before Royan. A short ferry ride takes you over to the back across the bay, wander the pedestrian arriving in Basque country and Hossegor, Médoc to discover the vineyards and UNESCO precinct at Arcachon or climb sand dunes for Capbreton and Biarritz beaches. Distance per city of Bordeaux. Luggage transfer, route panoramic views. Fishing huts, colourful boats day: 29-63km. B&B hotel accommodation, notes, accommodation, and a local agent for and awesome architecture combine to make bikes and road books included. advice and support all included. Arcachon a super cycling destination.

La Velodyssey from La Family cycling tour along From Bordeaux to Rochelle to Bordeaux the Atlantic Coast Arcachon along the Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Atlantic Coast Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Tour length: 8 days Tour length: 7 days Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Very easy Tour length: 4 days Price: From €875 Price: From €799 Level of difficulty: Very easy From La Rochelle’s fortified harbour you’ll A cycling holiday for all ages on one of the Price: From €424 ride on the Atlantic Velodyssey route along most beautiful cycling routes in France. Spend A family cycling holiday on one of the safest beaches, through marshes and pine forests. some time in Bordeaux, with its family-friendly bike paths in France. The Bordeaux-Atlantic You’ll discover the city of Rochefort and its pedestrianised streets and playgrounds on route takes you through forests of pines to ‘Corderie Royale’, Brouage citadel built by the waterfront. Cycle along the river, stopping beaches and sand dunes. Start in UNESCO- the French engineer Vauban, the marshes for ice-cream at the restored ‘hangars’ listed Bordeaux, with its beautiful architecture of Marennes, the oyster-farming port of La on the riverfront at Chartrons. Then head and river, before cycling west. At the coast, Tremblade and the coastal town of Royan. west via pine forests towards the sand ride along along the peninsula to Cap Ferret, You’ll cross the by ferry to dunes and beaches. Here, water sports admire Arcachon Basin, indulge in oysters and Le Verdon and continue your bike trip across like surfing, kitesurfing and paddle boarding stroll through the town of Arcachon, with its Médoc. Cycle along the seashore and through await you, combining with cycling to provide wide pedestrian boulevard and restaurants. Grand Crus vineyards. You’ll reach Pauillac a true nature-lover’s holiday. Eat oysters at a Don’t forget to climb the Dune du Pyla and be before getting to Bordeaux by train with your restaurant on the Bay of Arcachon, or relax amazed by the views from the top. At the end bikes to discover this historic and lively city. All with a glass of wine or a juice as the sun goes of each day, dip your feet in the waters of the in all, a great cycling holiday! down and ponder the next day’s adventures. sea and enjoy a glass of Bordeaux’s finest.

9 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH-WEST FRANCE OR GUIDED

Bordeaux and the Atlantic Coast

Bordeaux & St Emilion: Bordeaux Sunshine, Bordeaux Vineyards to Gironde’s Vineyards, Wines and Vines the Atlantic Coast Rivers & Valleys Offered by: Cycling for Softies Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Inntravel Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7760 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 7 days Tour length: 6 nights Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Very easy Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From £1295 Price: From €859 Price: From £825 Start your cycling adventure in style with a This trip leads you through the heart of the Starting in Bordeaux, this holiday explores visit to Bordeaux, a city with a great blend Bordeaux region: from the wine traditions the area to the east – including UNESCO- of architecture and cosmopolitan vibe. The handed down for generations to the sandy listed St-Emilion – before returning to this cycling starts proper the next day alongside coastline of the Atlantic with its fragrant pine elegant, cycle-friendly city for a night. It focuses Canal de and from there you’ll make forests. You’ll start in Bordeaux, with the on the area between the Dordogne and your way slowly through gorgeous terrain, with beautiful architecture of the UNESCO-listed Garonne rivers, an area famous for its clarets a heady mix of vineyards, rivers and forests city centre and its cycle-friendly river routes. and gastronomy. The region is steeped in until you reach the ancient town of Saint- Head north through the Medoc, passing history, with fortified stone villages scattered Emilion, with its narrow lanes, old churches some of the most prestigious wine houses in across the landscape – a reminder of when and wine shops. The price of this tour includes the world. Then it’s off to the pine forests of this land was contested by the French and restaurant meals each night, bed and the Atlantic coast, down to the spectacular English during the Hundred Years War. All breakfast accommodation, expert support, Cap-Ferret and to the Dune du Pyla. Finish at accommodation, baggage transport, route luggage carried between your hotels, and fully Arcachon, where you can relax and stroll at notes and bike hire included. serviced touring bikes. your own pace, enjoying an oyster en route.

Coast and Basque Nantes to La Rochelle Brittany to La Rochelle Mountains Cycling Holiday on La Vélodyssey along the Atlantic Coast Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Fellow Velo Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Phone number: +44 (0)78 1128 5021 Tour length: 6 nights Tour length: 7 days/8 nights +44 (0)1788 568 371 Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Easy-moderate Tour length: 10 days Price: £1139 Price: £1675 Level of difficulty: Easy Price: £800 (discount for under 14s) This tour opens up the unique culture and Enjoy the endless beaches and sea views as geography of the Basque Country, taking you cycle along this section of the Velodyssée, There are quite a few self-guided tours rugged coastal scenery, historic villages such the dedicated cycle path that opens up the available of the Atlantic Coast, but it’s much as Hondarribia, a walled old town packed with Atlantic coast to all ages. Fly through pine harder to find one that’s fully guided. Ride colourful Basque houses, and, of course, the forests, wetlands and colourful ports and from one historic port town to another: the renowned cuisine. You will also get the chance fishing villages, ending up in the historic wonderfully walled St-Malo in Brittany to the to enjoy the classic French resort of Biarritz harbour town of La Rochelle – complete boats of La Rochelle, via salt marshes, fields and take a train journey to the summit of La with aquarium and seaside restaurants. of peat bog and the water world that is the Rhune for breathtaking views of the Western Price includes luggage transfers between Marais Poitevin – some of the French coast’s Pyrenees. The price of this tour includes 6 hotels, comprehensive route notes, bike most magnificent scenery. Accommodation, days’ cycling with 6 nights’ accommodation, hire for 7 days’ cycling, plus 8 nights’ B&B luggage transfer, bike hire (if you need it), all including 3 evening meals, luggage transfers accommodation and some evening meals. breakfasts and lunches plus some evening between hotels, comprehensive route notes, meals included. bike hire, river shuttle and an English-speaking rep to help you get the most of your holiday.

10 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH-WEST FRANCE OR GUIDED

Bordeaux and the Atlantic Coast

Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port Grand Cru Tour Atlantic Coast from La to the Basque coast Offered by: Belle France Rochelle to Oléron Island Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 6 nights Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 8 days Level of difficulty: Moderate Tour length: 4 days Level of difficulty: Moderate Price: £2599 Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From €799 This prestige cycle tour is for those who are Price: From €319 From Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port to Saint-Jean-de- interested in the renowned wine-producing Leave the beautiful city of La Rochelle along Luz, go by bike to discover the Basque Country region of Bordeaux. The route takes you the Atlantic Coast La Vélodyssée bike path. and Bearn region. During your cycling week, through Pauillac, St Emilion and Margaux, with Through fishermen’s harbours and dried up enjoy the rich historical and cultural heritage a chance to taste wines at top chateaux along swamps, your bike ride leads you to Rochefort. via secured cycle paths and quiet back roads. the way. You’ll stay in top-rated hotels and Share the coast with storks and herons as Discover the quaint Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, eat two Michelin-starred menus. The cycling you take in the sea air. Visit Rochefort and its an essential stop on the road to Santiago mainly follows the Medoc Route des Vins and former royal shipyard before taking the last de Compostela. Cycle into the heart of the goes via vineyards such as Lafite Rothschild, transporter bridge in France and continuing Bearn, passing traditional villages where you Latour, Mouton Rothschild and Chateaux onto the Oléron Island. Savour a dish of can enjoy the delicious local products (goat’s Pichon Longueville. You’ll also visit St Emilion. Marennes’ oysters, your feet hanging in the cheese and other fresh produce). Then, cycle B&B accommodation (including a night in a water, and enjoy your refreshing break. You’ll along the Basque coast as the Vélodyssée private chateau), 5 evening meals, luggage discover the long fine sand beaches and bike path leads you to the fishing ports of St- transfers, bike hire, route notes and a local fishermen’s villages of Oléron before taking Jean-de-Luz and Bidart, and to Biarritz. agent to help you along the way. the boat to return to La Rochelle.

Bordeaux to Toulouse Entre Deux Mers Cycling Cycling Tour on the Offered by: Fellow Velo Canal de Garonne Phone number: +44 (0)7811 285 021 or +44 (0)1788 568 371 Offered by: Bonkersfrog Tour length: 11 days Phone number: +44 (0)16 22 37 11 31 Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 7 days Price: £855 (discounts for under 14sn Level of difficulty: Tailored, but generally easy to moderate The Entre Deur Mers is one of south-west Price: £700 per person France’s surprises. This fully guided tour Starting in the beautiful UNESCO-listed city of starts on the Atlantic coast at La Rochelle Bordeaux, this tour takes you along the Roger before winding through the vines of Lapebie bike path and the Canal de Garonne Bordeaux, crossing some of the country’s to Toulouse. Tailored route maps and notes most prestigious wine appellations, including are provided so you can just focus on enjoying the Médoc, Entre Deux Mers, Graves and the villages, the tranquil, shady bike path and Armagnac. But it’s not all quiet country lanes the world famous vineyards nearby. This is a and glasses red overlooking gently sloping leisurely holiday for all abilities, taking in 50- hills and river banks: there’s also Bordeaux 60km per day on almost pan-flat backroads itself, that magical old city on the banks of the and traffic-free bike paths. The trip includes Garonne, and Toulouse, France’s elegant old all B&B accommodation, quality bike hire and ‘Pink City’. Includes all breakfasts and lunches helmet, route notes and maps, and luggage plus three evening meals. transfers.

11 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH-WEST FRANCE OR GUIDED

Canal de Garonne & Canal du Midi: Bordeaux to Toulouse

Affordable biking holidays A 4-day biking trip along Canal du Midi: From on the Canal de Garonne the Canal du Midi Carcassonne to the Offered by: Cycle South West France Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Mediterranean Phone number: +33 (0)7 85 14 56 17 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Offered by: Inntravel Tour length: You decide Tour length: 4 days Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Level of difficulty: You decide Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 7 nights Price: From €125 Price: From €399 Level of difficulty: Easy This super break gives you the chance to Ride up the Canal du Midi from Carcassonne Price: From £840 experience the countryside of south-west to Narbonnes in the cool shade of trees, Linked to the Canal de Garonne, the Canal France at its best. It’s run by Jean-Pierre and passing barges and boats swaying on the du Midi made the transport of goods Clare, a Franco-English couple (Jean-Pierre waters of France’s most famous canal. This between Bordeaux on the Atlantic Ocean grew up here). Their base in Buzet-sur-Baise is a short break through the rich history of and Marseilles on the Mediterranean Sea far between Bordeaux and Toulouse is just the canal, taking in Cathar landscapes, the quicker and safer by avoiding the possibility 500 metres from the Canal de Garonne majestic fortress at Carcassonne fortress of attack from the pirates and slave traders – meander along its towpaths or ask the and the beautiful Narbonne Cathedral – an of North Africa’s Barbary Coast. There are guys to put together a more challenging often overlooked attraction along the canal no such worries today and the shady canal inland route for you. It includes three nights’ where you can relax and spend the evening towpath makes for idyllic cycling through accommodation, bike hire and route info. in a local cafe or brasserie reflecting on your picturesque landscapes. This week-long tour Relax near the pool after your ride, explore the time on the Midi. includes B&B accommodation, detailed route local village, or go wine-tasting or kayaking. map sand notes and more,

Canal du Midi Cycle Canal du Midi: A 4 day Canal du Midi: Camping or B&B trip from Toulouse to A Petit 5-day tour Offered by: Fellow Velo Carcassonne Offered by: Cycle Breaks Phone number: +44 (0)7811 285 021 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +44 (0)1449 721 555 +44 (0)1788 568 371 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 5 days/4 nights Tour length: 11 days Tour length: 4 days Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From £599 Price: £800 (discounts for under 14s) Price: €375 Carcassonne, Narbonne and Béziers are just Experience one of France’s most popular This short break links two of the Canal du some of the hotspots you’ll discover when canals by bike from Toulouse through to Midi strongholds: the starting point of the you stop off from cycling the shady towpaths the Med and then along the coast towards canal – the pink city of Toulouse – and the of the Canal du Midi. Dip in to the Languedoc Provence. You’ll use the canal as a rough medieval fortress of Carcassonne. The route vineyards, savour the taste of French guide, but you’ll also leave it to explore follows the canal towpath as well as low-traffic cassoulet from Castelnaudary and wonder vineyards, olive groves and historic towns– country backroads, leading you across the at the amazing feats of engineering which there is more to this corridor than its famous Lauragais, a large fertile plain surrounded by created the locks, tunnels and architecture waterway. This fully guided and supported hills where the pastel trade prospered in the of one of France’s most historic canals. ‘Length and Breadth’ tour gives you the 15th and 16th centuries and brought wealth Fantastic cycling, charming places to stay chance to get close to nature. You can stay to Toulouse. Ride through Castelnaudary – it’s all here over five fabulous days. Either in B&Bs or camp your way along without the and past the abbey of Saint-Papoul before B&B or half-board. Full route notes and maps hassle of having to carry your own kit or tent arriving in medieval Carcassonne. Bike hire, provided. Electric bike hire option. Three days (or even pitching it). Price includes support accommodation, maps/route notes included. of cycling (45km-53km per day) plus extra car, luggage transfers and guide, breakfasts, Daily distances: 24-49km. days to explore Carcassonne and Béziers. plus lunches and some evening meals.

12 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH-WEST FRANCE OR GUIDED

Canal de Garonne & Canal du Midi: Bordeaux to Toulouse

Canal du Midi Cycling Canal du Midi from Canal du Midi Prestige Holiday Carcassonne to Béziers Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Bonkersfrog Cycling Holidays Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Phone number: +44 (0)16 22 37 11 31 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 8 days Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Moderate Price: £1999 Price: From £699 Price: From €749 If you’re after a well-balanced holiday, with This tour offers the chance to experience the This self-guided cycling holiday takes in all excellent food and wine combined with great Canal du Midi from the ‘pink city’ of Toulouse the highlights of the eastern stretch of the cycling, this tour could be perfect for you. to the fortress city Carcassonne. The pace Canal du Midi through Langeudoc. From Starting in the breathtaking fortified town is perfect for first-time cycle tourers and Castelnaudary to the fortress at Carcassonne of Carcassonne, and finishing next to the families, with the paths generally flat. You’ll be (don’t forget to indulge in a bowl of cassoulet beaches of the Mediterranean, you’ll cycle met at the airport or railway station, taken to and sample other local culinary delights) and down tree-lined towpaths, over beautiful the first hotel and provided with everything across the Cathar country of the south of bridges and through some of the prettiest you need to get out on the towpaths. Price France. This is a region rich in historic Roman scenery in France, ending each day in high includes detailed maps/route guides, bikes, ruins and magnificent cathedrals (don’t miss standard accommodation. The price includes accommodation in hotels and B&Bs, airport the one at Narbonne). From the old city centre 6 days’ cycling, 7 nights’ B&B accommodation transfers and luggage transfer. Optional of Béziers, ride through the marshlands and some evening gourmet meals, luggage upgrades, such as higher rated hotels with passing pink flamingos to finish on the transfers between hotels, detailed route pools, and a dedicated guide for whole trip. beaches of the Mediterranean Sea. notes, bike hire and a local agent if needed.

Canal du Midi: Castles Canal du Midi: From Atlantic-Mediterranean: & Cathar Villages Toulouse to Sète Canal des Deux Mers Offered by: Cycle Breaks Offered by: Bike Trips France Cycling Tour Phone number: +44 (0)1449 721 555 Phone number: +33 (0)4 58 14 04 35 Offered by: Bonkersfrog Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Tour length: 7 days Phone number: +44 (0)16 2237 1131 Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Moderate Tour length: 14 days Price: From £797 Price: From €585 Level of difficulty: Moderate From Carcassonne’s über-impressive castle The Canal du Midi is an ideal route for anyone Price: £1600 per person to classic Cathar villages and Languedoc wanting to take a leisurely ride with friends or This self-guided tour allows you to experience vineyards, this linear tour along the historic family. From lock to lock and bridge to bridge, one of the most popular bike routes in France Canal du Midi makes a refreshing, easy- the canal will carry you from the heart of without the hassle of having to hire bikes, plan going cycling holiday. Here, wonderful open Toulouse to Marseillan, on the Mediterranean. the route or find accommodation. Take in the scenery combines with the warm sunshine Enjoy time exploring the narrow streets of vineyards of Bordeaux to the magical Roger of the Mediterranean. Historic highlights the ‘pink city’ of Toulouse before heading off Lapebie bike route out of the city, the ancient like Narbonne and Béziers and wonderful along the canal to the Plaines du Lauragais, citadels of Carcassonne and the lapping gastronomy and local hospitality are all Castelnaudary and on to towering, fortified waters of the Mediterranean. The itinerary locked together thanks to those shady canal Carcassonne. You’ll also pass by the seven includes rest days in Bordeaux, Toulouse and towpaths. This self-guided ride includes locks of Fonséranne and the Etang de Thau Carcassonne for sightseeing. You’ll be met B&B or half-board accommodation. Electric (complete with oyster beds), before arriving at at the airport by Andy and Cris, who’ll have bike option available. Full route notes and the Med. Price includes B&B accommodation, your bike, route maps and notes ready. Price maps are provided. Daily mileage ranges from 4 evening meals, baggage transfers, road includes accommodation, luggage transfers 37km-53km. book, maps and GPS tracks. and bikes.

13 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE PYRENEES OR GUIDED

Iconic Climbs Pyrénées 6 (or 7!) Cols Tour in Across the Pyrénées Challenge Pyrenees Offered by: Bike Basque Offered by: Veloroo Offered by: Cycle Aude Phone number: +33 (0)6 9594 8237 Phone number: +33 (0)6 65 95 30 97 Phone number: +33 (0)4 68 20 66 08 Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Tour length: 5 nights +33 (0)7 86 70 43 15 Level of difficulty: Very challenging Level of difficulty: Challenging Tour length: Tailored for you Price: €1800 Price: €1995 Level of difficulty: Moderate to challenging Do you want to climb the biggest and most Price: From €50 per night Take on the big names – Tourmalet, beautiful cols in the Pyrenees? Then start Aubisque, Hautacam and Soulor – plus other Ride the cols of the Pyrenees from cyclist in Biarritz and finish in Ax les Thermes 10 local favourites on this all-inclusive trip. Full Martyn’s base in the beautiful Aude at the days later. En route take in the Tourmalet, vehicle support, accommodation, meals and foothills of the mountains and within reach the Aubisque and Peyresourde – in total performance bike hire – all you need to do is of all the big-hitters: Col de Portel, Col de there are 16 climbs (with over 12,000 ride. You’ll get a free jersey, plus your kit will Portet d’Aspet, Col de Peyresourde, Col metres in elevation gain) over 705 be washed daily. Maximum of 9 riders plus de Mente, Col de Aspin, Tourmalet and kilometres. Fully supported by professional guide. This is a personal trip run by cyclists for the Hautacam. Airport/train transfers or guides and cars. Price includes half-board cyclists. 2017 dates: Spring Challenge, May luggage and bike bag collection included (you accommodation, transfers, and snacks and 30-June 4 for the official opening of the cycling can cycle from the airport or train station drinks while you’re on the bike. Optional bike season in the Pyrenees (it includes guiding if you like). To keep things simple, the trip’s hire available. Dates for 2017: July 2-9, the Le Géant statue back to the Tourmalet); priced at a flat per-night rate that includes September 8-15 (alternative dates may be Autumn Challenge, September 19-24 for the B&B, evening meals and on-road nourishment. available, please ask). annual regional transhumance. As much or as little support as you need.

Cycling in the Pyrenees - Supported and Guided Rides Offered by: Mountain Bug Phone number: +33 (0)5 62 42 90 50 Tour length: 7 nights Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: From £790 Rob and Emma’s ever popular week of cycling the classic cols is based on the current Tour de France itinerary and previous Tour routes. They call it the “I’ve been there” cycling week. Offering a challenging but enjoyable week, rides take in summits such as the Col du Tourmalet, Aspin and Peyresourde, as well as Luz-Ardiden (2011 Tour finish) and Hautacam (2008 Tour and Etape finishes). There’s also an optional ride to UNESCO-listed Gavarnie and the Col de Tentes (2200m), the highest paved road in the Pyrenees. The tour price is based on 2 sharing an ensuite room and includes full board in either a 3-star chalet or hotel (except one free day, when you have breakfast only), five days of guided/vehicle supported cycling and bike storage. Set week: July 1, 2017 – please ask about availability for other weeks.

14 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE PYRENEES OR GUIDED

Classic Climbs of the Raid Pyrenees East to Legendary Cols of the Pyrenées West Pyrenees Offered by: Bike Basque Offered by: Cycle the Alps of Provence Offered by: Gite Belle Vie Phone number: +33 (0)6 95 94 82 37 Phone number: +33 (0)6 78 11 91 85 Phone number: +33 (0)6 35 16 06 27 Tour length: 7 days/6 nights Tour length: 8, 9 or 10 days Tour length: 7 nights Level of difficulty: Challenging Level of difficulty: Challenging Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: €1200 Price: £1150 Price: From €900 Ride the classic cols of the Tour de France Starting in Perpignan, follow the classic ‘Raid This tour allows you to tackle the famous cols with the local Basque experts. Over the course du Pyrenees’ from east to west (though you that have been climbed by the Tour de France of seven days in the Pyrenees, you will climb, can ride the other way if you prefer), tackling over the generations. It’s a fully supported among many others, the Aubisque, Hautacam many of the climbs made famous by the Tour tour with an experienced guide on hand each and the Tourmalet, fully guided and escorted de France, including the mighty Tourmalet, day and a support car for the longer rides to by a support car (but also available self- the Aspin, Peyresourde, Mente and more. transfer bags and supplies. Accommodation guided). You will stay in 2-3 star hotels that This tour is fully supported with luggage included, along with all meals. Bike hire, airport are well-versed in welcoming groups of cyclists transport, support car, snacks, spares and transfers and massages can be arranged. and looking after them. Nine climbs in the drinks never far away. Price includes half- Eric and Angela are local cycling experts and Pyrenees in all, 11,000m elevation gain and board accommodation; itineraries can be know the roads here better than most – they 480km of cycling. High spec bike hire can be extended to allow for rest days or for riders can put a tour or a training camp together arranged. Dates for 2017: June 19-25, July who’d prefer to pedal at a more leisurely pace. to ensure riders of all abilities can enjoy their 24-30 (please ask about other dates). Group transfers also included. backyard.

Ariege Pyrenean Challenge Offered by: Rhino Velo Pyrenees Phone number: +33 (0)5 61 64 35 77 or +33 (0)6 37 10 60 00 Tour length: 5 days Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: €450 Mike and Wendy at Rhino Velo Pyrenees have over 30 years of cycling experience and have developed the ‘Ariege Pyrenean Challenge’ to showcase the best this area has to offer. Cycling in the mountains of the Ariege is outstanding, with many of the cols being remote, rustic, and joyous to ride (think jaw-dropping scenery). The routes for this adventure are centred at Mike and Wendy’s base, meaning they’re based on their own local rides and on roads the guys know well. Price includes B&B, evening meals and post-ride snacks. The trip comes with full on-road support, but you can ride self-guided if you prefer (all maps and local knowledge included). Bike hire can be arranged, along with airport transfers and other individual needs.

15 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE FRENCH ALPS OR GUIDED

A Northern Alps Alps Challenge: Classic Cols of Savoie Weekend Geneva to Alpe d’Huez Mont Blanc Offered by: Bike Weekender Offered by: Cyclomundo Offered by: Alpine Velo Phone number: +44 (0)845 557 5983 Tour length: 5 nights/6 days Phone number: +33 (0)6 26 80 77 67 Tour length: 4 days/4 nights Level of difficulty: Very challenging Tour length: 3 to 7 nights Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: From €825 self-guided or €1335 Level of difficulty: Moderate to challenging Price: From £395 per person with a support vehicle Price: From £355 to £595 Just an hour from Geneva airport and From the shores of Lake Geneva you’ll ride Cycle from the door and onto some of the you’re into one of the world’s true cyclists’ to the switchbacks of Alpe d’Huez, climbing epic climbs of the Tour de France from your playgrounds. This weekend break is based in some of France’s most famous cols en route: valley base near Bourg-Saint-Maurice. Mix and the beautiful Aravis mountain range, home to the Colombiere, Aravis, Saisies, Madeleine, match ride lengths, altitudes and gradients the Tour de France cols of Aravis, Colombière, Telegraphe and the mighty Galibier are all according to your appetite and stamina. There and Croix Fry. This is an area of incredible here. This tour can be booked as a self- are 14 different climbs within striking distance climbs, spectacular views and breath-taking guided ride or organised for cycling clubs and of this fixed base holiday – including four often descents. For gentler rides, the roads around private groups. Itineraries and support can used in the Tour de France: Col du Petit St Lake Annecy are second to none. This be tailored to your fitness levels. This tour Bernard, the Iseran, Cormet de Roseland and package provides an easy, convenient long can be combined with cyclosportives such as the Madeleine. This is a single base holiday weekend of road cycling that can be tailored to La Marmotte, Etape du Tour and the Time- with all as much or as little support as you your legs. Offered guided or self-guided. All you Megeve-Mont-Blanc. need –including stacks of local knowledge. need to do it turn up in Geneva and enjoy.

Cycle the Via Rhona Cycling Cycling the Alps near Offered by: Belle France Self-Guided Bourg-Saint-Maurice Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Offered by: Forever Cycle Tours Offered by: Alpine Velo Tour length: 5 nights Phone number: +44 (0)20 3289 6100 Phone number: +33 (0)6 26 80 77 67 Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate Tour length: You choose Tour length: 3 to 7 nights Price: £1325 Level of difficulty: Moderate or challenging Level of difficulty: Moderate to challenging This self-guided tour will take you from Vienne, Price: From £425 for 4 nights (longer stays Price: From £355-£595 are available - please ask) previously the ancient capital of Roman Gaul, Explore quieter cols on this flexible, Choose your own adventure as you explore the to the nature reserve of L’île au Beurre, via tailormade holiday based near Bourg-Saint- iconic cols and valleys of the Northern French steeply terraced vineyards including the Maurice. Choose from three or seven nights Alps on this self-guided cycling trip. Select your prestigious Côte-Rôtie and onto Montélimar – allowing you to take in the roads around the own program drawing on the knowledge and following the River Rhone’s cycle ways. This Bourg-Saint-Maurice, Tarentaise and Tignes experience of local experts. Cols and Alpine beautiful stage of the Via Rhona will appeal areas of the French Alps. Price includes vistas in every direction, plus home-away- to anyone interested in history, nature or accommodation in a dedicated cycling chalet from-home chalet accommodation tailored gastronomy. Along the way you’ll stay in with breakfasts, dinners and return airport for cyclists in the town centre (complete with atmospheric 3-star hotels and visit many transfers. The chalet is based in the valley, hot tub!) Dinners and camaraderie await places of interest, including a vineyard and so there’s an easy start and end to each you every night so you can share your day’s Roman theatre. Lots of great cuisine available day. Cols include Petit St Bernard, Courmet de adventures with other riders. Price includes at every stop. The price includes luggage Roseland, Col de l’Iseran, Col de la Madeleine, half-board accommodation, transfers plus transfers between hotels, detailed route La Plagne and Notre dame du Pré. Others loads of expert local advice. Bike hire an notes, 5 nights’ B&B accommodation and including Alpe d’Huez are within a 1-2 hour optional extra. some evening meals, and bike hire. drive (dropoffs and pickups can be arranged).

16 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE FRENCH ALPS OR GUIDED

Geneva to Annecy: Geneva to Lyon on the Geneva, Bourget, Annecy: Famous climbs and Via Rhona 3 Lakes lesser-known passes Offered by: Cyclomundo Offered by: Zenith Holidays Offered by: Cyclomundo Tour length: 6 day package Phone number: +44 (0)20 31 37 76 78 Tour length: 5 nights/6 days Level of difficulty: Easy to Moderate Tour length: 5 nights/6 days Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: From €790 Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate Price: From €610 If you’re dreaming of “la bonne vie” but are Price:From £500 Designed for serious cyclists, this self-guided short on time, this 6-day package could be the Cycle between Switzerland and France as you tour links three of Europe’s most beautiful perfect fit. Meander along the Via Rhôna, a ride from Lake Geneva to Lake Bourget and lakes: Geneva, Bourget and Annecy. Follow in bicycle path that follows the Rhone River as it Lake Annecy on this self-guided tour. Following the tracks of the Tour de France as you climb flows towards the Mediterranean. Ride past the towpaths of the rivers Rhone and Isere, mountain passes and cruise through Alpine farmers’ fields, through ancient villages, and wind your way through historic villages and villages with stunning mountain scenery. The around vineyards as you make your way at a past beautiful mountain scapes. This is a ride takes you into the heart of the Savoie wine leisurely pace from Geneva to Lyon. Castles, tour for anyone who wants to experience the region, and through wine-growing villages such churches, caves and Roman ruins – they are beauty of the Alps without having to climb any as Apremont, Abymes and Chignin, famous all yours to visit on this self-guided holiday. This mountains. Total distance is 211km. Price for light, crisp whites that carry the scent of tour is tailored for all cycling abilities, with daily includes B&B accommodation in 2- and 3-star Alpine flowers. Daily distances: 95-111km. rides ranging from 41-68 km on mostly gentle hotels, 2 dinners, detailed maps and route Includes accommodation, breakfasts, detailed terrain. Price includes accommodation, 3 information, and luggage transfers. Bike rental maps and route notes, GPS plus luggage dinners, marked maps and route notes, a GPS can be arranged. transfers. Carbon road bike hire available. device, and luggage transfers.

Geneva, Bourget, Annecy: Geneva-Annecy-Geneva: Morzine Sportive, 3 Lakes Rivers, Lakes and June every year Offered by: Cyclomundo Mountains Offered by: Forever Cycle Tours Tour length: 5 nights/6 days Offered by: Cyclomundo Phone number: +44 (0)20 3289 6100 Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate Tour length: 2 nights/3 days Tour length: 4 nights Price: From €610 Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Challenging Experience the magic of the Alps without Price: From €360 Price: £425 for 4 nights, £695 for 7 nights having to struggle up its mountains on this Ride from the Swiss Alps, across the border The annual Morzine Haut-Chablais Sportive self-guided holiday linking Lake Geneva, Lake and into France (and back again), experiencing is a highlight on the sportive calendar, taking Bourget and Lake Annecy. Follow paths and two great cycling countries in the one trip. in Col de Joux Verte, Col du Corbier, Col du back roads along the Rhone and Isere rivers, Ride from Geneva along the waterways of Grand Taillet, Col de Jambaz and Col de Joux take in historic villages and stop to admire the Rhone, across farmlands and through Plane. Forever Cycle Tours can walk you famous cols from a comfortable distance. vineyards. This trip can be tailored to your through the registration process, help you Daily distance: 48km-68km. Choice of either ability. Distances a day range from 38km to with route info and advice, provide backup hotel or B&B/guesthouse accommodation. 90km. On the French side of the border, you’ll support on the day, and a chalet base near Price includes accommodation, breakfasts, pass through Seyssel, a picturesque village the start and finish points. Package includes some dinners, luggage transfers, detailed by the banks of Rhône River, en route to the half-board accommodation, airport transfers, maps and route notes, a Garmin GPS (subject Fier River and its gorges. Explore medieval and local knowledge. Master’s route covers to availability). Bike rental can be arranged on Annecy’s cobbled streets and canals (it’s not 145km and 3700m climbing; senior’s route request. If you would like to take on the climbs, called ‘the Venice of the Alps’ for nothing) is 103km and 2520m climbing. The sportive a more challenging version of the same tour before taking in sweeping views of Lake is part of the Grand Trophée French national can be organised. Bike rental can be arranged Geneva on your way back to Switzerland. series, and accepts around 600 riders. on request.

17 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE FRENCH ALPS OR GUIDED

Ride Through the ViaRhôna from Vienne to 4 Day Guided Road Upper French Alps Valence in 4 days Cycling Holiday Offered by: Cyclomundo Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur in the Alps Tour length: 4 nights/5 days Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Offered by: The Alpine Generation Level of difficulty: Challenging Tour length: 4 days Phone number: +44 (0)20 7191 1120 Price: From €820 Level of difficulty: Very easy Tour length: 4 days Price: From €399 With Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc as picture Level of difficulty: Challenging perfect backdrops, ride 50-112km a day The ViaRhôna is a 815km-long cycling Price: £295 per person through the Chablais mountain area and skirt route connecting Lake Geneva to the This tour is a great chance to experience the southern shore of Lake Geneva. En route, Mediterranean. This 4-day stretch between some wonderful climbing in the Alps over conquer Col de la Forclaz, Col de la Croix-Fry, Vienne and Valance passes along the Rhône 4 days, a perfect long-weekend. Running the Colombiere, Col de Joux-Plane, Col de River with views of the Alpine peaks in the from Wednesday to Sunday you’ll tackle l’Encrenaz, Col de la Ramaz, Col de la Faucille, distance (but none of the legwork involved in some of the most famous climbs in the Col de la Givrine and Col du Marchairuz. On climbing them!) From Vienne – an old Roman region, including Col de Joux Plane, Col des your last day, cross the Lake in Yvoire – an capital– cycle down through villages and Aravis, Col de Joux Verte, Col de la Ramaz impossibly photogenic Medieval village – and steeply terraced vineyards to the orchards of and the Col de la Colombiere, all with a guide ride through the Swiss Jura. Includes transfer the Rhône Valley. Most of this route follows and vehicle support. The price includes chalet between Geneva and your first/last place of greenways (voies vertes), making it an easy accommodation, breakfast, afternoon tea, stay, accommodation, breakfasts, 2 dinners, ride. Maximum daily distance 38km. Includes two-course evening meals with wine, and luggage transfers, a Garmin GPS (subject to all accommodation, bike hire, full route notes transfers to and from Geneva airport. availability) and route maps. and maps, plus luggage transfers.

7-Day Guided Road Future Classic Cols Tour Cycling Holiday Offered by: Forever Cycle Tours in the Alps Phone number: +44 (0)20 3289 6100 Tour length: 7 nights Offered by: The Alpine Generation Level of difficulty: Very challenging Phone number: +44 (0)207 191 1120 Price: £1550 Tour length: 7 days Level of difficulty: Challenging This is a chance to ride lesser-known cols Price: £445 per person before everyone else catches on. It’s a challenging 7-night point-to-point tour that Ever watched sun-drenched riders on the starts and ends in Morzine. This is a serious Tour de France or Dauphine climbing beautiful challenge with daily ascents of 3000m and Alpine stages and fancied experiencing them 100+ kilometres of riding. Most of these yourself? Then this tour could be perfect for climbs have long and often steep sections, so you. It runs from Sunday to Sunday and is a this tour will appeal to strong club riders or fully guided experience, with vehicle on hand regular climbers. Even so, you can ride at your throughout week to help with mechanicals, own pace. There’ll be a minibus for support, food, drink and clothing – and, of course, leap-frogging the group with water, energy morale support. All you need to do is ride. gels, bars, flapjacks, and spare kit. Bike hire Features Col de Joux Plane, Col des Aravis, Col available. Includes half-board accommodation, de Joux Verte, Col de la Ramaz and Col de quality meals with plenty of carbs, and airport la Colombiere. Includes accommodation, transfers. Get to Geneva and the rest will be breakfasts, afternoon tea, two-course evening taken care of for you (except the big hills). meals and airport transfers.

18 guided Self-guided Self-guided ALPS/PYRENEES/VENTOUX OR GUIDED

Mont Ventoux to Icon Tour Routes des Alpe d’Huez Offered by: Forever Cycle Tours Grandes Alpes Offered by: Cyclomundo Phone number: +44 (0)20 3289 6100 Offered by: Forever Cycle Tours Phone number: +33 (0)4 50 87 21 09 Tour length: 7 nights Phone number: +44 (0)20 3289 6100 Tour length: 5 nights/6 days Level of difficulty: Challenging Tour length: 8 nights Level of difficulty: Very challenging Price: £1695, £280 single supplement Level of difficulty: Very challenging Price: From €835 The ultimate French cols experience: demolish Price: £1850 Forget watching the Tour de France on TV – cycling’s hit list in just 6 days of cycling. Over 9 days, you’ll be supported all the way experience some of the most famous climbs Conquer 10 of France’s most iconic climbs at as you climb and descend the entire French in France for yourself on this 6-day journey your own pace. They’re all here: Ventoux, Alpe Alps from north to south. While this is a from Ventoux to Alpe d’Huez. Cycle up the d’Huez, Galibier, Telegraphe, Izoard, Bonette, serious challenge averaging 95km a day and ‘Giant of Provence’ – twice if you want! – and Madeleine, Glandon, Colombiere and Joux ascending 2200m, the ethos is to ensure follow Cyclomundo’s tried-and-tested Alps Plane. That’s 400km of riding with 13,500m everyone can ride at their own pace. You’ll itinerary. Encounter mind-boggling vistas, of climbing (including the podium on Alpe tackle renowned climbs such as Col d’Iseran, gorgeous gorges, and the charming towns d’Huez). Scale European highest paved road Cormet de Roseland, Col d’Izoard, Col de la of Sault, Orpierre, Guillestre, and Briançon, across the Bonette before spending your final Bonette, Mont Cenis, and many others while among others. This is a challenging self-guided day on top of Ventoux. It doesn’t get much being supported from well-stocked cars tour passing over such legendary cols as the better than that. Price includes half-board and staff who understand your needs. The Izoard and climbing the famous 21 hairpin accommodation, transfers, and full support tour uses highly-rated hotels where you can bends to Alpe d’Huez. The amazing views are team. Bike hire optional extra. This is a popular recharge and share tales of conquest. an added bonus. tour – book early.

Cycle the Routes des Legendary Cols Tour Geneva-Nice Challenge Grandes Alpe Offered by: Forever Cycle Tours Offered by: HC Bike Tours Offered by: Cycle the Alps of Provence Phone number: +44 (0)20 3289 6100 Phone number: +37 1 26306180 Phone number: +33 (0)6 78 11 91 85 Tour length: 10 nights +1 650 319 8824 Tour length: 7 nights/8 days Level of difficulty: Very challenging Tour length: 7 days/6 nights Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: From £2750 Level of difficulty: Very challenging Price: From $US2990 Price: £950 Conquer 5 legendary cols in one tour: the Cycle the classic Geneva to Nice High Alps Stelvio, Alpe d’Huez, the Galibier, the Ventoux This is a trip for anyone wanting to challenge route, taking in some of the most famous and the Tourmalet, plus others as you ride themselves against the biggest and best climbs in the Alps, including Cormet de the French Alps, the Italian Alps, Provence and mountains of the Alps. This fully supported Roselend, Col de l’Iseran, the Galibier, the Pyrenees. This is a fully supported tour ride across the French Alps follows Lautaret, Telegraph and Izoard. This is a fully from Milan to Toulouse to give the amateur the Route des Grandes Alpes from Geneva guided tour with support vehicle, spares, rider the chance to demolish cycling’s ultimate to Nice, climbing 16 cols in 6 days. It’s a snacks, drinks and transfers included. Price bucket list. Highlights include the 48 hairpins hotel-to-hotel ride without having to worry includes 7 nights’ half-board accommodation, of the classic Passo dello Stelvio ascent, about accommodation, luggage transfers or but the tour can be extended to include rest standing on the podium at Alpe d’Huez, support – everything will be provided for you. days and/or to cater for riders who’d like to ethereal vistas from the Galibier, and the Ride 750km at an average of 120km a day go at a slower pace. chance to take the 3 ascents of Ventoux and along some of the most challenging roads in finish by conquering the Tourmalet. Includes the Alps. Trip limited to SEVEN riders only. half-board accommodation, meals with plenty of carbs, and transfers in a luxury 21-seater coach. Non-cycling partners welcome.

19 TOUR DE FRANCE CUSTOM

2017 Tour de France in 2017 Tour de France Custom Cycling (Pyrenees), July 9-15 (Pyrenees), July 8-15 Holidays in France Offered by: VeloRoo Offered by: Mountain Bug Offered by: La Ligne Verte Phone number: +33 (0)6 65 95 30 97 Phone number: +33 (0)5 62 42 90 50 Phone number: +33 (0)6 74926314 +61 (0)411 047 828 +33 (0)6 70 81 52 91 Tour length: 5-22 days Tour length: 6 nights Tour length: 7 nights Level of difficulty: You decide Level of difficulty: Challenging Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: From €346 Price: €2395 Price: £860 Tailor-made self-guided cycling or mountain

This Tour de France trip is aimed at bike tours of southern France for individuals A complete package including your road cyclists who want to experience the or groups. Itineraries can be planned for all accommodation in boutique hotels, Tour de France while also riding classic abilities and budgets. You choose where you’d guided riding and support car (rides include Pyrenean routes. It includes viewing two TDF like to go and for how long, and La Ligne Verte the Tourmalet, Luz Ardiden and the stunning stage finishes – and it comes complete with will do the rest. Holidays include as standard Gavarnie circuit), performance road bike local knowledge from Rob and Emma, who run half-board (dinner and B&B), luggage hire, TWO Tour de France stages (stages this trip from their base in Barèges. You can transfer, transfers of persons when needed, 11-12), bib shorts, jersey and gloves (plus ride the Aspin, Hourquette, Tourmalet, Soulor, detailed maps and written route notes with daily washing), all meals – all you have to do is Hautacam, Aubisque, Luz-Ardiden and others. information about interesting sites and events ride (and cheer). This is a personalised tour so Oh, and the Col de Tentes – the highest along the way. These are self-guided rides numbers are limited (it sold out in 2016). paved road in the Pyrenees. Half-board tailored just for you – where you want to go Non-cycling partners welcome (there will be a accommodation with picnic lunches on cycling and when you want to go. support car). days, guided/vehicle supported cycling.

Custom Guided Road Cycling Tours Offered by: HC Bike Tours Phone number: +37 1 26306180 +1 650 319 8824 Tour length: You decide Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: Varies Tailor your own dream cycling adventure. HC Bike Tours specialise in custom tours taking you anywhere in Europe. Just tell them where you want to go and how challenging you want your ride to be and they’ll work out the best routes, sort logistics, book hotels and make all the other arrangements to ensure you have a hassle-free holiday. They can cater for small groups of between 1 and 14 riders, and can take care of cyclists of all abilities as well as non-cycling partners.

20 guided Self-guided Self-guided BESPOKE NORTHERN FRANCE OR GUIDED

10-day cycling trip in 3 days in Brittany Brittany at the tip Brittany from Rennes to between Rennes and of your pedal the Mont-Saint-Michel Saint-Malo Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 8 days Tour length: 10 days Tour length: 3 days Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Very easy Price: From €759 Price: From €985 Price: €299 Discover the delights of Rennes, the capital This tour is a mix of nature and culture: ride Take three days to completely clear your mind of Brittany, the city of pirates Saint-Malo and along the Mont-Saint-Michel bay and through and enjoy Brittany’s fresh sea air and beautiful Dinan with its medieval streets. You will also Saint-Malo city walls. Enjoy the peace and scenery. You’ll head home feeling more rested cross over into Normandy to ride along the quiet of the countryside as you ride on small than ever. See Brittany’s beautiful and varied bay of Mont Saint-Michel to see the majestic country roads. From Rennes to Dinard, the areas, along coastal paths and little winding abbey set against a clear sky, gradually getting route takes the former boat hauling path– roads in the countryside. Enjoy many and closer and closer. Meander on greenways fishing villages offer beautiful views on the varied activities on offer in this diverse region. along the canals in the shade of the trees, river Rance. This tour helps you discover the Discover the picturesque towns of Saint-Malo, ride along the sea, try oyster dishes and push maritime side of Brittany’s Emerald Coast Dinard and Rennes, and feast on crêpes with inland to meet the unknown pearls as Dinan and across the Normandy border to Cancale a nice and fresh cider bowl after your bike or Dol-de-Bretagne. The highlights of Brittany and Mont-Saint-Michel, and also gives you the ride. The biking route follows safe green paths, and its border with Normandy are all here: chance to discover Brittany’s medieval inland dedicated only to bicycles. Rennes, St Malo, Cancale, Dinan, Dol-de- with its beautiful cities of Fougeres and Vitre. Bretagne and Combourg.

Brittany Chateau Brittany Coastal Brittany’s Land’s End Cycling Tour Classique Cycle Tour Offered by: Inntravel Offered by: Brittany Borders Bicycling Offered by: Brittany Borders Bicycling Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Phone number: +33 (0)2 99 97 08 76 Tour length: 7 days Tour length: 6 nights Tour length: 3 nights Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Price: €270 without baggage transfer/ Price: From £890 Price: €400 (discount available for groups) €390 with baggage transfer This is the quiet side of Brittany and it makes So, you thought all the wonderful chateaux A self-guided, circular cycle tour covering for wonderful cycling, both along the coast were in the Loire or Bordeaux? WRONG! 210km or 250km – you choose! – with a and through some delightful inland terrain. This two-day self-guided holiday is based at maximum daily distance of 68km. Designed The undulating coastal route leads you Brittany’s 17th century Château du Bois-Guy. for individuals, couples, families and groups. from bustling fishing ports to traditional The château was not much more than a ruin Cycle at your own pace as you follow the whitewashed farming communities, past after being abandoned last century, but it’s picturesque northern coastline of Brittany, menhirs and dolmens of an ancient bygone been fully restored to its previous grandeur. ride alongside the Ille-et-Rance canal, and take culture, and on to charming small hotels and Ride through orchards and flower fields to join in Saint-Malo, Mont St-Michel, Dinard and restaurants where you will savour delightful the pilgrims at Pontmain, meander through Dinan en route. The tour is fully supported local cuisine. Accommodation, breakfasts, full the 1600 hectare forest at Fougères, visit with optional baggage transfers, and can be route notes and maps all included. the chateau in Fougères itself, and drop in at shortened/amended on request. Bike hire, the Parc Floral de Haute-Bretagne, a country itinerary, maps and route notes included. park with 18 separate gardens. The total Accommodation not included so that you can distance over the two days is 92km and you choose your own style of accommodation. won’t be riding any further than 55km a day.

21 guided Self-guided Self-guided NORTHERN FRANCE OR GUIDED

Family Cycling Week Baie de la Somme Cycling Flanders, from Rennes to Cycling Holiday Artois & the Somme Saint-Malo Offered by: Fellow Velo Offered by: Cycling the Western Front Phone number: +44 (0)7811 285 021 Phone number: +32 (0)4 75 81 06 08 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur +44 (0)1788 568 371 Tour length: Either 4 or 6 day options Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 7 nights Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate Tour length: 7 days Level of difficulty: Easy Price: €630 for 4 days, €790 for 6 days Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From £745 (self-guided), £875 Price: €619 This tour rides the routes of the historic (guided) Western Front from Ypres to Armentières, This bike trip is ideal for children. The route is A short ferry ride over the English Channel Vimy Ridge, Arras and the Somme. You very flat and very secure, travelling entirely on there is an abundance of coastal and rural will be guided all the way by a licensed tour green ways dedicated to cycling and walking. cycling to be easily enjoyed year-round, with guide, Carl has loads of personal experience You’ll leave the capital of Brittany, Rennes, to the added advantage that you can bring cycling in this area and will support and follow the towpath of the Ille et Rance Canal to your own bike if you want. This tour – offered inform you on key cultural and historical the Emerald Coast and Saint-Malo. Discover fully guided or self-guided – takes you down points at memorials, monuments and military the charming town of Dinan, a medieval town tree-lined avenues and along dedicated cycle cemeteries throughout the trip. Some of which is completely surrounded by ramparts routes through the Seven Valleys around the key sites visited along the way include and overlooks the Ille et Rance Canal, and the the beautiful Baie of the Somme, taking in Vancouver Corner, Passchendaele, Hill 60, lovely Dinard before arriving in the seaside the chic beaches and fishing harbours of the Messines Ridge, Fromelles, Hill 70, Vimy, town of Saint-Malo. Includes full maps and Côte d’Opale, including St-Valéry with its small Beaumont-Hamel, Thiepval, Pozières, Albert, route notes, accommodation, and bike hire. independent shops, cafes and restaurants. Villers-Bretonneux, and Bullecour.

D-Day Beaches by Bike 3 days of biking around 4-day cycling tour to Offered by: Abicyclette the Somme bay explore the Somme bay Phone number: +33 (0)2 30 96 18 22 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Tour length: 6 days / 5 nights Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Level of difficulty: Moderate Tour length: 3 days Tour length: 4 days Price: From €690 Level of difficulty: Very easy Level of difficulty: Very easy Starting in Bayeux – a wonderfully preserved Price: From €269 Price: From €489 medieval city that miraculously escaped the Are you longing for some crisp sea air? The The Somme Bay is a natural bay situated World War II aerial bombardment – discover Bay of Somme is the destination for you for in northern France (Picardy), where you will one of the oldest tapestries in the world, as a short cycle break. The charming seaside be flabbergasted by the fauna, flora and the well as the legend of William the Conquerer. towns of Saint-Valéry and Le Crotoy will authenticity of the small villages of the bay. From here, cycle to the coast to the beaches seduce you with their tranquillity and warm The combination of sea, marshland, beaches that forged ever-lasting ties between France, welcome. Beaches and nature won’t be left and countryside adds charm and makes the the US and Britain. Ride to Omaha, Juno, out of the programme: your bike tour will bay a unique holiday spot. The Somme Bay is Gold and Sword beaches, stopping en route lead you to Cap Hourdel, the bird park of the also an important spot for migratory birds. to pay your respects at the war cemeteries Marquenterre, or to the forest of Crécy. You’ll You can observe them along the bike paths dotted around the coast, each cross marking be able to choose your own itinerary to match on your way to one of the charming villages a life lost in a senseless war. Take the time your mood – this is a flexible and relaxing and harbours situated all around the bay. also to take in the beautiful scenery – a short break by bike. Accommodation, routes notes and maps, bike beauty unimaginable on June 6, 1944. Full hire and local support included. route notes and maps provided, plus B&B accommodation.

22 guided Self-guided Self-guided BURGUNDY OR GUIDED

Baie de Somme 3-day bike tour in the Burgundy & Beaujolais by Offered by: Belle France wine region of Burgundy Bike Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Cycling for Softies Tour length: 5 nights Phone number: +33 (0) 1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7760 Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 3 days Tour length: 3, 5 and 7 night options Price: From £895 Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Moderate Discover the beautiful Bay of Somme, a Price: From £298 Price: From £685 UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Picardy On this bike ride you will explore the most One of the most famous wine regions in coast. Begin your journey in Noyelles-sur- prestigious vineyards of Burgundy, the France, Burgundy is renowned for its rich, Mer and cycle through lush pine forests and world-renowned Côte de Nuits and Côte de deep reds and this tour offers the chance to across dunes, discovering pretty villages Beaune. You start your bike trip in Dijon, ‘the taste as many as you’d like. In between wine and fabulous beaches along the way. Pack city with the hundred bell towers’, and ride tastings and gastronomic stops, you’ll enjoy your binoculars, as there’ll be plenty of towards Nuits-Saint-Georges on small country cycling through wonderful scenery to bustling opportunities to admire local wildlife. Prices roads. Stop in Beaune, a famous trading market towns and grand cathedrals. The include accommodation, full route notes and place for the wines, and admire its beautiful adventure starts at a stunning château hotel maps, luggage transfers and bike hire. Belle hospices, before continuing on a beautiful bike in Fleurville, and from there you’ll continue to France can also help arrange ferry or train path winding through the famous vineyards Chardonnay and Juliénas, exploring villages travel to France from the UK. of Pommard, Chassagne-Montrachet and and caves. Includes restaurant meals Meursault. each night, B&B accommodation, luggage transfers, and touring bikes.

Cycle Normandy to Burgundy by Bike Burgundy Mini-break Paris: Pedal Power Offered by: Zenith Holidays Offered by: France Bike Trips Offered by: Fellow Velo Phone number: +44 (0)20 31 37 76 78 Phone number: +33 (0)4 58 14 04 35 Phone number: +44 (0)7811 285 021 Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Tour length: From 3 days +44 (0)1788 568 371 Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy and moderate Tour length: 7 days Price: From £595 Price: From €235 Level of difficulty: Easy to Moderate Cycle the famous Burgundy wine region at Explore the quiet country lanes and traffic-free Price: From £750 (discounts for under 14s) your own pace, crossing beautiful landscapes bike tracks that weave through the vineyards This jaunt from France’s northern coast to and rolling hills, and passing through charming and countryside of Burgundy. This is a relaxed its capital will have you experiencing delusions villages. This self-guided itinerary takes and friendly corner of France, and an easy of Tour de France grandeur as you arrive on you from Dijon to Nuits Saint Georges and one to explore by bike. This is a flexible trip, the Champs-Élysées. Ride from the harbour Beaune, and on to Givry, Cluny and Mâcon and you can decide how many days you want of Honfleur to the waters of the Seine, via via quiet backroads and canal paths. This is a to ride. Take in Beaune, the best bits of the villages and the often wild landscapes. Haute- tour specifically designed for leisure cyclists, Canal du Centre, the vineyards of the Nuits- Normandie is famous for its cheeses and and covers 25-45km a day. Includes 7 nights’ Saint-Georges (Vosne Romanée, Vougeot, butters, and you’ll have chances to sample B&B accommodation, full luggage transport, Gevrey Chambertin, Chambolle Musigny…), these en route. You’ll pick your way down handle bar bag with maps and detailed and the ‘Voie des Vignes’ to Santenay (think quiet lanes, across tributaries of the Seine route information, and taxi transfer on your great wines like Pommard, Volnay, Meursault and through a patchwork of fields. It ends by departure day. and Chassagne Montrachet). This trip has a cycling through Louis VI’s 13th century arch, strong gastronomical theme, and includes La Porte de Bretagne, arriving in Paris having visits to vineyards and wine cellars, plus food discovered its rural fringes. tastings throughout.

23 guided Self-guided Self-guided BURGUNDY OR GUIDED

Burgundy Prestige Canal du Nivernais Dijon to Mâcon Self- en Vélo Offered by: Belle France Guided Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Cyclomundo Tour length: 7 nights Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Phone number: +33 (0)4 50 87 21 09 Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 6 nights +33 (0)6 35 22 23 24 Price: £1385 Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 7 nights/8 days Price: From £1845 The Canal du Nivernais runs through Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate Burgundy’s unspoilt countryside and its Price: From €1025 per person Take this easy self-guided cycling holiday towpaths and quaint side roads make cycling through Burgundy’s famous vineyards and This very popular tour allows you visit and along it a joy for all ages. Along the way you beautiful vistas. From Beaune, you’ll follow experience some of the finest vineyards and can sample a variety of landscapes, including canal towpaths and quiet back roads as you scenery to be found in France. Starting out a stop at Vézelay, a beautiful hill-top UNESCO wind your way through historic wine villages, from Dijon and ending in Macon, both of site and home to a 11th century Basillica. You including Pommard, Volnay, Meursault, Puligny which are easily accessible by train, the route will of course be able to enjoy wine tasting in Montrachet and Nuits St Georges. En route, passes through Pouilly-Fuissé, Aloxe-Corton, this famous wine producing region and great stay at delightful hotels offering gourmet Montrachet and Meursault, as well as smaller cuisine – all well earned. The price includes menus – the perfect opportunity to enjoy villages that each have a rich history. You’ll 7 nights’ accommodation, bike hire, luggage some classic French cuisine and excellent stay in some of the area’s most prominent transfers between hotels and easy-to-follow local wines. towns, including Beaune, Clun and Dijon, detailed route notes. allowing you to sample the world-renowned Burgundy wine and amazing local food.

Discover the Beauties of Discover Treasures of The Secrets of Burgundy Burgundy Southern Burgundy in 7 Days Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Inntravel Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +33 (0) 1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 4 days Tour length: 6 nights Tour length: 7 days Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From €349 Price: From £998 Price: From €689 This short self-guided bike tour of Burgundy For a holiday that is indulgent on every level, On this bike tour in Burgundy, you’ll see why takes you almost entirely on bike paths. It’s choose this route in Burgundy. The famous wine here means everything. Why people find perfect for new cyclists, as well as families wines – reds such as Nuits St Georges it so special: a beautiful place where authentic – it’s also perfect for wine-lovers. You’ll visit and whites like Puligny-Montrachet – are villages, wine traditions, historical monuments Chalon, Cluny and its Abbey, Tournus and complemented by an equally superb regional and nature merge. As a world-renowned wine Macon along an old railway track converted gastronomy which is considered to be one of region, Burgundy has preserved a heritage into a beautiful bike lane. You even take the the best in France. As you follow the region’s which reflects its former power in the Middle longest bike-only tunnel in Europe. In Macon excellent network of cycle trails, you can feast Ages. So you will not only enjoy beautiful you’ll join the banks of the Saône to reach your eyes on all manner of architectural gems, landscapes with gently rolling hills, but also Chalon. This bike tour is the perfect way to from Romanesque churches and majestic outstanding cultural sites like the Cluny abbey, discover the Burgundy wines from the Côte abbeys to Renaissance châteaux and fortified the old cities of Macon, Tournus and Chalon- Chalonnaise, the religious heritage of Cluny mansions. sur-Saône or the beautiful and world-famous and Taizé, the Lamartine area or the castle of Hospices de Beaune. Cormatin.

24 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE LOIRE OR GUIDED

Burgundy Bike and Wine 4 days along the Loire A Discovery Tour Tour - 1-Day Tour Valley from Blois to of the Loire Offered by: Bourgogne Évasion Amboise Offered by: Loire Life Cycling Holidays Phone number: +33 (0)6 64 68 83 57 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +33 (0)6 25 81 98 51 Tour length: 1 day Phone number: +33 (0) 1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 5 days/6 nights Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 4 days Level of difficulty: Easy Price: €135 adults (discounts for kids) Level of difficulty: Easy Price: €1140 Enjoy a gentle 24km guided bike ride through Price: From €339 See the Loire on this unique fixed-based Burgundy’s beautiful vineyards. Take in This is a very easy Loire Valley bike ride for holiday. The flexible self-guided routes of regional capital Beaune, including a stop at cyclists of all ages and abilities. The route is between 30-50km each day will take you to a local chateau, with the winemaker himself along established bike paths and quiet roads, chateaux, along river towpaths and quiet rural opening his doors just for you. This is a great making it a safe and easy weekend getaway roads, through vineyards, and to caves and chance to try local wines and learn more for young and old. Visit the Loire’s famous market towns. It includes a wine tasting with about viticulture in Burgundy (and, yes, you can chateaux (including Blois, Chenonceau, great food to match. Includes bike hire, local have any bottles you buy sent to your hotel or Amboise, Cheverny, Beauregard, Chaumont support, accommodation, breakfasts and shipped home). This is an easy circular route and Le Clos Lucé) at a leisurely pace, stopping evening meals. Swimming pool, hot tub, wifi between St Romain and Pommard via Volnay, to take photos or taste wine en route. This is and laundry facilities all included at your base, Meursault, and Puligny Montrachet, with an enchanting river ride that will give you a an 18th century B&B set in woodlands. minivan transfer from Beaune. It’s suitable for true taste of the Loire – and make you want to all abilities, including kids. come back.

A Gourmet Loire Tour A Loire escape between Offered by: Loire Life Cycling Holidays Blois and Amboise Phone number: +33 (0)6 25 81 98 51 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur + 44(0)79 7607 5564 Phone number: +33 (0) 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 6 days/7 nights Tour length: 3 days Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Very easy Price: €1395 per person Price: From €239 See and taste the best of the Loire on this Bike along the Loire river on the Loire à unique and luxurious self-guided fixed-based Vélo paths between two of the Loire‘s holiday. Explore the Loire à Velo cycleway must-see destinations. Discover some of around Saumur and Chinon using circular the most prestigious castles in France, routes that have been mapped out to take including the Château de Blois, the Château in 30-50km each day. Take in chateaux, the de Chenonceau, the Châteaux d’Amboise, rolling vineyards of Anjou and enjoy specially Cheverny, Beauregard, Chaumont, and Le Clos organised events including a picnic in the Lucé. The Loire really is an enchanting region: vines of a chateau, and an underground cycle stop to taste the delicious wine, feast on local through wine caves. Price includes bike hire, produce, and be seduced by the medieval city local support, accommodation, breakfasts and of Amboise. This is a self-guided ride along evening meals freshly prepared. Massage and cycle paths and small country roads through beauty treatments are available and there is a vineyards and forest. Three words to describe swimming pool, wifi and laundry facilities all set this bike trip: pleasure, fresh air (OK, so that’s up just for cyclists. two on its own) and diversity.

25 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE LOIRE OR GUIDED

Along the Leisurely Loire Châteaux of the Loire Chateaux of the Loire Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Bspoke Cycling and Cycling Tour Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Walking Holidays Offered by: Bonkersfrog Cycling Holidays Tour length: 4 nights Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7750 Phone number: +44 (0)16 22 37 11 31 Level of difficulty: Moderate Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Tour length: 7 nights Price: From £1269 Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From £835 Enjoy this gentle exploration of the beautiful Price: From £699 Loire River. Ride from Blois to Saumur, taking Soaring high slated turrets are your constant Ride along the Loire and Cher rivers, in vineyards and chateaux as you enjoy daily companions on this tour of the famous taking in some of France’s most famous rides of no more than 32km. See Amboise chateaux of the Loire Valley. As you cycle chateaux en route: Château d’Azay-le- and its Royal Château, or Clos Lucé, Leonardo through glorious countryside and medieval Rideau, Chenonceau, Amboise and Villandry da Vinci’s old manor house, before enjoying a towns, you can sample some of the world’s are all here. This is a leisurely holiday for all night in Tours. From here, take the voie verte finest food and wine while staying in highly abilities, taking in between 20-40km per day bike path to Villandry Château and its medieval rated 3- and 4-star accommodation. Most of on (almost) pan-flat backroads and traffic- vegetable gardens, before heading on to the route is on quiet roads or the Loire à Velo, free bike paths (longer routes on request). Saumur. The hotels on this route offer genuine so a relaxing ride with a chance to enjoy the A circular tour starting and ending in Tours, French charm and wonderful regional fare, natural surroundings . Includes B&B, flights the trip includes B&B accommodation (half- whilst the B&Bs provide an opportunity for you and transfers from UK (discount if you’re not board also available), bike hire, route notes to discover truly ‘local’ restaurants. coming from the UK), luggage transfers, bikes, and maps, and luggage transfers. Flight also route maps and local assistance. Tandems included from some UK airports. Start any and electric bikes on request. Saturday from April through until October.

Chateaux of the Loire: Chateaux, Abbeys & Cycle Amongst the Loire Castles, Caves & Vineyards Valley Châteaux from Vineyards Offered by: Cycle Breaks Blois to Tours Offered by: Inntravel Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 72 15 55 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Tour length: 6 days/5 nights Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 6 nights Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 8 days Level of difficulty: Easy Price: £770 Level of difficulty: Very easy Price: From £760 A circular tour that gives you the full flavour of Price: From €769 Famed for its magnificent châteaux and wide the Loire Valley – from the Plantagenet tombs The Loire Valley, which is on the UNESCO flowing rivers, the Loire region is a delight. at Fontevraud l’Abbaye to the caves at Brézé, World Heritage List, is perfect for a cycling West of Tours, the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Chinon’s imposing fortress, famous châteaux holiday: cycling paths and roads take you Regional Park is characterised by vineyards, and beautiful vineyards. Accommodation on across forests, plains and vineyards on a flat farmland, hunting forests and limestone cliffs half-board basis in 3-star hotels in Saumur, terrain. Be captivated by the wonders of this into which astonishing troglodytic dwellings Fontevraud l’Abbaye and Chinon. Luggage enchanting area: the magic of Chambord, the have been carved. Crowning these beautiful transfer and bike hire included (electric bikes delicious Loire wines, the medieval town in landscapes are some of the Loire’s most available on request). Detailed route maps and Tours and the iconic chateau at Chenonceau. romantic and elegant châteaux: Azay-le- directions provided. Start any day from March This bike trip combines the beautiful Rideau, Ussé, Chinon, Villandry and Saumur. until October. landscapes of the valley with the importance With short, easy routes that are largely on the of the river, the unmissable chateaux de la flat, you have plenty of time to visit all of these Loire and the delicious French cuisine. during your holiday, along with vineyards and mushroom caves.

26 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE LOIRE OR GUIDED

Cycle Loire & Sologne: Cycling Breaks in the Cycling from Tours to The Land of Kings Loire Valley Saumur Offered by: Inntravel Offered by: Loire Life Cycling Holidays Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Phone number: +33 (0)6 25 81 98 51 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 6 nights Tour length: From 3 days Tour length: 8 days Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From £970 Price: From €325 per person Price: From €769 The beautiful Loire Valley is renowned for Stay on a bed and breakfast on a fixed basis Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Loire the grandeur and majesty of the magnificent basis and with help from your hosts choose Valley by riding on the Loire à Vélo route châteaux that line the banks of the river. from an extensive catalogue of circular cycling between Tours and Saumur. Meandering Slightly less well-known is the region just to the routes ranging from 25km to more than between the Loire valley and the Vienne valley, south of Orléans – the Sologne – where lakes 75km in length. Routes take in chateaux, the route goes on little country roads, passing and picturesque villages of timber-framed, red- vineyards and the banks of the Loire itself. Bike the most prestigious castles – such as brick houses nestle amid woodland. This trip hire and emergency backup included and free Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau and Ussé (the castle is a mix of roads-less-travelled as well as Loire wifi, pool, hot tub and laundry all available for of the Sleeping Beauty) – en route. Admire the highlights like the chateaux at Blois, Chaumont your use. Start any day from April to October. ever-changing colours along the river as the and Chambord. It’s an easy pedalling tour on This is your chance to create a memorable traditional boats bob up and down between riverside lanes, forest tracks and cycle paths, cycling break at an affordable price. the sand banks. There’s also a day set aside to staying in top-quality family-run hotels en route. take a canoe out on to the Loire. All accommodation, bike hire, route notes and maps, plus baggage transfer included.

Cycling the Chateaux Family Cycling Week From Orléans to Angers of the Loire from Blois to Amboise in the Loire Offered by: Cycling for Softies Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Cycle Breaks Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7760 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 72 15 55 Tour length: 3 or 7 night options Tour length: 8 days Tour length: 10 days/9 nights Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Very easy Level of difficulty: Moderate Price: From £585 Price: From €663 Price: £1269 Fancy a perfect long weekend, or maybe The Loire, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is The 10-day Orléans to Angers tour joins a longer break in the magical valley of ideal for mini-cyclists. The paths are flat, and Orléans-Tours and Tours-Angers tours the Loire river? Then why not spend your distances between towns are short. Discover together to make one complete Loire Valley days exploring the Chinon vineyards, the the Loire at your own pace along secure, experience. Take in three historic cities, magnificent gardens at the Château de Rivau, traffic-free cycling paths from beautiful Blois dozens of châteaux, and kilometre after the stunning Loire Valley châteaux with their to Amboise. Follow short itineraries leading kilometre of rivers and vineyards. This itinerary fairytale turrets, and beautiful medieval towns. you to the most prestigious castles, including highlights the very best of the Loire. Half-board Stop whenever you desire, perhaps for a Chambord, Cheverny and Amboise. Don’t 2- and 3-star accommodation in Orléans, wine-tasting session in small independent forget to see Cheverny castle – the inspiration Beaugency, Blois, Amboise, Tours, Azay-le- vineyards, the gardeners’ paradise at Villandry, for Moulinsart castle in Tintin. There’s also the Rideau, Chinon, Saumur and Angers. Luggage or the spectacular Son et Lumière show. Price chance for some great kids’ bonuses, such as transfer and bike hire included (electric bikes includes delicious restaurant meals each a donkey trek. Bike hire, route notes/maps, available for a surcharge). Detailed route night, bed and breakfast accommodation, accommodation and local advice all included in maps and directions provided. Start any day expert support, luggage carried between your the price. Suitable for kids as young as 1-year- March to October. hotels and fully serviced touring bikes. old in trailers or in bike seats.

27 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE LOIRE OR GUIDED

From Orléans to Tours From Tours to Angers Loire Family Discovery in the Loire in the Loire Offered by: Belle France Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Offered by: Cycle Breaks Offered by: Cycle Breaks Tour length: 2 nights Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 72 15 55 Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 72 15 55 Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 6 days/5 nights Tour length: 6 days/5 nights Price: £895 Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate Price: £712 Price: £769 With its quiet country lanes and shady woodland the Loire makes cycling safe and Follow the historical trails of heroines and Ride from Tours to Angers, winding your accessible for all ages and abilities. This tour hunting lodges as you meander along the way across and along the rivers Loire, Cher, winds through the famous chateaux (including Loire, cycling from one of the region’s most Indre, Vienne and Thouet. The route follows the birthplace of Tin Tin) and towns of the vibrant and interesting cities to another. flat riverside tracks, towpaths, quiet lanes and region, and is specifically tailored to allow Chateaux en route include the magical dedicated cycle paths, and crosses undulating plenty of time to visit the suggested family Chambord, Blois, Chaumont and Amboise. countryside to reveals the Loire’s sparkle attractions while leaving plenty of time to Accommodation on half-board basis in 2- and through its wines and its waters. Start any make it back to the hotel for a dip in the pool 3-star hotels in Orléans, Beaugency, Blois, day from March to October. Accommodation before dinner. The price includes 2 days’ easy Amboise and Tours (hotel upgrades possible). on half-board basis in 2- and 3-star hotels in cycling, 2 nights’ half-board at family friendly Luggage transfer and bike hire included Tours, Azay-le-Rideau, Chinon, Saumur and hotels with pools, luggage transfers between (electric bikes available for a surcharge). Angers (hotel upgrades possible). Luggage hotels, detailed route notes, bike hire, English- Detailed route maps and directions provided. transfer and bike hire included (electric bikes speaking local rep and station transfers. Start any day. on request). Route maps/directions provided.

Loire Highlights Loire Prestige en Vélo Loire Star: 4 days Short Break Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Cycle Breaks Offered by: Inntravel Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 72 15 55 Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617 003 Tour length: 6 nights Tour length: 4 days/3 nights Tour length: 4 nights Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From £1635 Price: £492 Price: £495 Enjoy this luxury cycling holiday staying in A fixed base self-guided tour of the beautiful Famed for its magnificent châteaux and elegant accommodation that reflects the Loire Valley. Ride at your own pace around wide, lazily flowing rivers, the Loire region is style of this classic region. Explore quiet back any one of the 7 suggested circular routes, a delight. With a gentle terrain and plenty roads and visit the fascinating old towns of each covering between 14-50km. Follow the of cultural interest, this is perhaps the best Amboise and Blois, not forgetting to leave Loire to Chaumont or Blois, or ride through corner of France for leisurely days on two time to discover the famous wines of the the Sologne forest, stopping en route at a wheels, so take your time, pausing at the region. All the big-name chateaux are on vineyard to test a glass of the local vin blanc. places of interest en route and enjoying your route, along with beautiful gardens and Don’t forget to factor in Chambord, Château long picnics on the riverbank. Visit chateaux lovingly restored manor houses. This is an de Beauregard and the château at Troussay. and gardens on backroad and river routes. elegant and relaxing way to experience one Fitting it all in will be half the challenge. Half- Accommodation and breakfasts, bikes, full of France’s most stunning and most popular board accommodation at the 3-star Auberge route notes and maps provided. cycling routes. du Centre in Chitenay, luggage transfer and bike hire all included (electric bike option). Detailed route maps and directions provided. Start any day of the week.

28 guided Self-guided Self-guided THE LOIRE OR GUIDED

Loire Star: 5 days Loire Valley from Blois to Loire World Offered by: Cycle Breaks Angers for active riders Heritage Ride Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 7215 55 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Abicyclette Tour length: 5 days/4 nights Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +33 (0)2 30 96 18 22 Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 8 days Tour length: 11 days/10 nights Price: £596 Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Easy or moderate Choose one of 7 carefully selected routes Price: €769 Price: From €1120 from 14-50km to help you explore the Discover the secrets of the Loire Valley on Experience the World Heritage corridor Loire valley, its chateaux and river. Visit bike paths and small country roads as you along the Loire as you ride from Orléans to Blois and Chambord, take in Chateau de ride pass the most prestigious renaissance Angers taking in more than 20 castles en Beauregard with its English-inspired gardens castles of the Loire, including Villandry, Azay-le- route, including Chambord, Chenonceaux, and famous portrait gallery, or step back to Rideau and Ussé, the castle that inspired the Amboise, Rigny-Ussé and, Saumur. Pedal the Renaissance by visiting the chateau at fairytale Sleeping Beauty. This part of the Loire through national parks and vineyards, and Troussay. Half-board accommodation at the Valley is also home to the abbey of Fontevraud sample the vintages of Touraine and Anjou 3-star Auberge du Centre in Chitenay includes and beautiful medieval castles and fortresses wines (red, white, rosé, sparkling). This is a special evening menus prepared so that you like Langeais, Chinon and Angers, which self-guided itinerary for all abilities along the can savour the tastes of the region. Luggage houses an impressive tapestry. Don’t forget well-established Loire à Vélo bike route. The transfers and bike hire included (electric bike to stop at the vineyards around Chinon and price includes bike rental, luggage transfers, option). Detailed route maps and directions Saumur. Troglodyte dwellings and picturesque GPX tracks, and lots of personal service and provided. Start any day of the week. villages will be a constant throughout this ride local knowledge. with daily distances of 50-60km.

The Royal Châteaux of The Royal Châteaux the Loire - 6 days of the Loire: 8 days Offered by: Cycle Breaks Offered by: Cycle Breaks Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 72 15 55 Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 72 15 55 Tour length: 6 days / 5 nights Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Price: £689 Price: £898 Try not to fall off your bike as you gawp at the A circular tour that gives you enough time to magnificence of the châteaux on this circular appreciate the full splendour of some of the self-guided tour of the Loire Valley. Visit the most majestic châteaux in France. Spend ever-popular Amboise, Blois, Chenonceau two nights at Blois, Amboise and Chitenay, and Chambord, plus discover some lesser and another night at Chenonceaux so that known treats. The route, which can be ridden you can explore these Loire treasures at in either direction, also features worthy your own pace. Half-board 2- and 3-star detours – pick and choose how many of accommodation included. Luggage transfer the 11 châteaux you want to tick off during and bike hire included (electric bike option your tour. Half-board accommodation 2- and for a surcharge). Detailed route maps and 3-star accommodation in Blois, Amboise, directions provided. Start any day March- Chenonceaux and Chitenay included. Luggage October. transfer and bike hire included (electric bike option). Detailed route maps and directions provided. Start any day March-October.

29 PARIS SOUTH OF FRANCE

Provence

A Royal Ride to Versailles A week in the Alpes de Avignon to Nice: Offered by: Belle France Haute Provence Visually Stunning Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Offered by: Cycle the Alps of Provence Offered by: Cyclomundo Tour length: 4 days/5 nights Phone number: +33 (0)6 78 11 91 85 Tour length: 7 nights/8 days Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 7 nights Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: £1499 Level of difficulty: Varies Price: From €1290 Price: From £290/week; group discounts On the doorstep of Paris are two beautiful Ride through low-lying vineyards and across forests and some of the finest châteaux in Spend a week in La Mure-Argens, a small mountain passes to the Mediterranean France, including Château of Vaux le Vicomte, hamlet north-west of Nice, and the perfect on this self-guided tour aimed at fit riders Château Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World base for exploring the Provence Alps. Ride accustomed to long distances on road bikes. Heritage listed site, the medieval Château of cols, through gorges and lavender fields, Average distances are around 100km a Blandy and more. On this tour you will cycle past rivers, and around lakes. That this area day, with 1500m of climbing. Follow the through gentle countryside and picturesque is rugged, with vertical gains on some rides Rhone River as you head from Avignon into villages, finishing in the gardens of Louis XIV’s ranging from 600m-2000m, with a number Languedoc to see the famous Pont du masterpiece, the Palace of Versailles. You can of cols well over the 2000m mark. With Roman aqueduct before cycling on to the wine also extend this ride with a guided bike tour of a bit of planning, however, it’s possible to regions of Tavel and Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Paris or with a cycling trip to Giverny to visit tailor itineraries in different abilities. Includes and to the foot of Ventoux. From here, it’s up Monet’s gardens. Includes accommodation, transfers from Nice and on-ground support. to hilltop villages and through lavender fields luggage transfers, bike hire, detailed ride British Cycling Level 3 coaching available to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, near Nice and the notes, gourmet meals and a local agent to to help you master cornering, climbing/ Mediterranean coast. Top-quality full carbon help along the way. descending and group riding techniques etc. road bikes available on request.

National Forest of Provence and the Côtes du Rhône Rambouillet and Vallée of Camargue in Provence Chevreuse Nature Park Offered by: Cycle Breaks Offered by: BSpoke Cycling and Walking Offered by: Adventure Tours Paris Phone number: +44 (0)14 49 72 15 55 Holidays Phone number: +33 (0)7 88 37 42 38 Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7750 Tour length: 1 day Level of difficulty: Moderate-challenging Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate, with the Price: From £697 Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate option of more challenging terrain You’ll see some of the most enchanting vistas Price: From £935 Price: From €90/person; group discounts in the south of France on this self-guided tour After arriving in France you will spend the This really varied and interesting tour along river paths and quiet backroads. Cycle first day of your tour in Mazan, a pretty village starts just 30 minutes away from Paris in past wild horses and flocks of flamingos in of narrow streets and stone houses perfect Rambouillet, a village with a cobbled main the Camargue, take in the ancient views at for exploring. From Mazan you will ride street, a King Louis XVI medieval towered Arles, the cafe culture in Avignon and the to Chateauneuf-du-Pape, cycling past riverside château with English gardens that mimic famous Pont du Gard aqueduct as you cross towns and vineyards with the sun on your back Versailles, and Marie-Antoinette’s dairy the River Gardon. Don’t forget to stop for before hitting the town itself and its famous hamlet. Local guide to take you into the heart a glass of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in its own wine. The route also takes in Gigondas, of Forêt de Rambouillet, Paris’ regional forest backyard. B&B accommodation. Luggage one of the loveliest villages in the Côtes du – a stunning blend of wildlife and fauna, quaint transfer and bike hire included (electric bike Rhône. Includes B&B hotel accommodation, villages, farmland, rolling hills, valleys and option for a surcharge). Detailed route maps flights from the UK (discounts if you’re not waterways. Price includes mini picnic of local and directions provided. Start any Saturday flying from the UK), luggage transfers, bikes, farm products, and bike rental. A great way to or Monday from March 31 to June 25 and route maps and instructions, GPS trackers. escape the hustle and bustle of Paris. August 4 to October 20. Tandems and electric bikes on request.

30 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH OF FRANCE OR GUIDED

SOProvenceUTH OF FRANCE

A Bed by the Med Provence Prestige 4 days in the heart Cycling Holiday en Vélo of Provence Offered by: Fellow Velo Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Phone number: +44 (0)7811 285 021 Phone number: +44(0)1580 848685 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 +44 (0)1788 568 371 Tour length: 4 nights Tour length: 4 days Tour length: 7 nights Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Easy Price: £1999 Price: From €339 Price: From £795 (self-guided) or £915 Absorb the essence of Provence – sleepy This 4-night break is the perfect way to (guided) villages, sun soaked vineyards – and even dip explore Provence. The trip starts in Avignon – This relaxed tour explores a beautiful stretch into Languedoc to cycle by Roman ruins and the majestic ‘city of Popes’ with its history of of the Provencal coast allowing you partake in the magnificent Pont du Gard. This holiday art and architecture. You’ll then ride through the glamour of the Côte d’Azur with the option features easy cycling along quiet lanes and the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape (leave of escaping it all via quiet, secluded roads. canal paths, the air fragrant with wild thyme. pannier space for a sample of Provence’s With rides limited to between 20-30km each You can be sure of being welcomed at finest wine!), and visit Orange and its historic day (plus a couple of rest days), the pace of your destination each day by a comfortable theatre. From here it’s on to one of France’s this itinerary allows you to enjoy the region’s room and delicious food in 4- and 5-star most beautiful villages, Séguret, before varied landscape, its flora and fauna. It takes in accommodation. Other highlights include the reaching Mazan and the foot of Ventoux. The lovely Mediterranean towns and lesser known vineyards of Costières de Nîmes, the bull-ring last stage takes you to Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, beaches along the way, even allowing for a in Redessan and crossing the mighty River renowned today for its antique shops. Includes dip at the end of each ride before dining and Rhône into Tarascon. End your ride in St bike hire and accommodation. Daily distance falling asleep to the sound of the sea. Rémy, famous for its links to Van Gogh. 25-42km a day.

5 Nights on the Wine A 4-day cycling 7 Days Southern Roads of Provence tour in Provence Cols Cycle Tour Offered by: Walk Inn Provence Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: Cycle the Alps of Provence Phone number: +33 (0)4 86 65 00 20 Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +33 (0)6 78 11 91 85 Tour length: 5 nights Tour length: 4 days Tour length: 7 nights Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Difficult Price: From €990 per person Price: From €335 Price: €900 This tour is a perfect blend of cycling, old This 4-day self-guided biking trip in the heart Starting in Nice, head inland and upward towns, lively local markets and, of course, fine of the Provence lets you first discover the old towards the mighty Col de la Bonette. After wine. You’ll have a day to explore the cobbled town of Orange and its ancient theatre, before scaling all 2860m of it, it’s on to and over streets of medieval Avignon before winding taking you through lavender fields and olive the border into via the Col de Maddalena your way through cherry orchards, forests, trees in the idyllic Provencal countryside. It’s (1991m) and then back into France via the vineyards and canyons. Your luggage will be a slower pace of life here in southern France. Lombarde (2350m). On the way, tackle one transferred between accommodation, so all Visit the fortified town of Grignan at your own or two other cols such as Castillon (707m), you need to do is ride. Experience Ventoux pace to explore its impressive castle, plus take Turini (1607m), St Martin (1500m), and from its forested slopes, before continuing in the Roman ruins of Vaison-la-Romaine, the Couillole (1678m). End the week with a ride to prestigious winemaking villages in the town of Nyons, and all the charming villages around the gorges of the Verdon. That’s a southern Rhône Valley: Gigondas, Vacqueyras en route. You’ll cycle by vineyards, plus ride total of around 600km with 13,021m of and Beaumes de Venise. You hit the plains through sunny villages where you can linger, climbing. This is a fully supported, guided ride, before climbing slightly to Chateauneuf du relax over a local rosé, and enjoy some fresh with a support car never far away carrying Pape and then the Rhône River, leading back goat’s cheese, honey, olives, tapenade and your luggage, spares, snacks, and hot and to Avignon. sun-dried tomatoes. cold drinks.

31 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH OF FRANCE OR GUIDED

Provence

Biking Tour through Classic Provence Mont Ventoux Provence Gems Offered by: Cycle Breaks Breakaway Phone number: +44 (0)1449 7215 55 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Offered by: 44|5 Cycling Tours Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Phone number: +33 (0)6 4573 0604 Level of difficulty: Moderate to challenging Tour length: 8 days Tour length: 2 days/2 nights; 3-day option Price: £723 off peak; £751 peak Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: From €849 Explore Provence’s Roman past and Italian Price: From €395 influences on this self-guided tour that takes Starting Avignon, bike through the vineyards The Ventoux Breakaway is ideal for time- in Orange, Châteauneuf du Pape, Avignon and of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to Orange and its crunched climbers who want to bag an ascent Carpentras. Romance, rich colours and lots ancient theatre. Ride on further to Séguret, of Mont Ventoux, plus enjoy one more day of of Mediterranean sun – not to mention wine! one of the most beautiful villages in France riding – and make it back to work on Monday. Circular tour using small country roads and – your base for a day-trip to the old city of There is a basic 2-day option, plus a 3-day bike paths. B&B accommodation. Luggage Vaison-la-Romaine. From here, it’s on to the option that sees a Ventoux climb sandwiched transfer and bike hire included (electric bike foot of the Giant of Provence, Ventoux, to ride between two guided rides in the heart of option for a surcharge). Detailed route maps around Bédoin and Mazan. This is an area of Provence. This is a great introduction to this and directions provided. Start any Saturday quiet country roads lined with olive trees and beautiful part of France. Even if you aren’t from March 31 to June 23 and from August cypresses, and beautiful stone villages. From a fan of cycle sport, Ventoux presents an 4 to October 20. the shadow of Ventoux it’s on to the former awesome challenge and, unlike the big cols of capital of the region, Pernes-les-Fontaines, the Alps and Pyrenees, it’s smack bang in the before arriving in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue to middle of ‘civilisation’. This makes it simple to explore its canals and waterways. access and within easy reach of Avignon.

Cycle Through Lavender Cycling in Provence: Cycling jaunt through Offered by: Cyclomundo Petit Luberon Upper Provence and Tour length: 5 nights/6 days Offered by: La Ligne Verte Luberon Level of difficulty: Moderate Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Offered by: Cyclomundo Price: From €695 Tour length: 5-9 days Tour length: 4 days Level of difficulty: Light to medium Celebrate lavender in all its forms on this Level of difficulty: Moderate Price: Varies with tour length self-guided cycling holiday through France’s Price: From €995 famous lavender fields. Experience the colours Starting in Avignon, the cultural capital of From the sharp peaks of the Dentelles-de- and the aromas as you cycle through both Provence, explore the Vaucluse department, Montmirail to the summit of Mont Ventoux, natural fields and lovingly cultivated farmers’ home to Mont Ventoux – the giant of this self-guided holiday takes in Upper fields. Combine calming perfumes and fresh Provence. From the shadow of Ventoux to Provence’s hill-top villages, vineyards and alpine air as you pass the spectacular Gorges the surging waters of the river Fontaine-de- flower fields, and ends among the rolling of Verdon (France’s own ‘Grand Canyon’), Vaucluse and the Roman city of Vaison-la- hills of the Luberon. Finish each day on the climb to the hilltop village of Valensole to Romaine, this gentle cycling tour takes in the open road in 3- and 4-star B&B and hotel see its stunning lavender-covered plateau, best that Luberon has to offer. Start any day accommodation. Either way, there will be and meander through hills and valleys of the week from April to November. Baggage somewhere comfortable for you to relax and bordering the Luberon. Daily distance transfers, accommodation and most meals unwind. Includes all dinners, luggage transfers between 38-57km. Includes transfers to included. Group discounts available. and from Manosque on the first and last between hotels, detailed route notes and days, accommodation, breakfasts, 2 dinners, maps, and transfers to and from Avignon. Bike luggage transfers, maps and route notes, a rental can be arranged on request. Garmin GPS unit (subject to availability). Bike rentals available on request.

32 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH OF FRANCE OR GUIDED

Provence

Fixed base rides in the Hidden Provence Hilltop to Harbours Alps of Provence Cycling Holiday Offered by: Fellow Velo Phone number: +44 (0)7811 285 021 Offered by: Cycle the Alps of Provence Offered by: Fellow Velo +44 (0)1788 568 371 Phone number: +33 (0)6 78 11 91 85 Phone number: +44 (0)7811 285 021 Tour length: 14 nights Tour length: Tailored for you +44 (0)1788 568 371 Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Can be tailored for you Tour length: 6 nights Price: From £1455 (self-guided), £1645 Price: Tailored for your itinerary Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate (guided) Price: From £750 (self-guided), £870 Ray has created something of a niche (guided) This tour crosses the length of Provence, for himself in the southern Alps, offering giving you an opportunity to get to know the affordable, fixed base guided and self-guided Tucked behind the glamour of the Riviera is a region and its people. Gaze over Azure blue rides from his base in Saint-André-les- slightly wilder and remote Provence where the seas and wild gorges while pedalling at a Alpes, 100km north-west of Nice. From lower mountains of the Alps seem within easy steady pace, and ending the day by diving into here, he plans routes through mountains reach. The north of Provence contains some refreshing waters – choose from rivers, lakes, and lavender fields, and along lakes. Local dramatic landscapes: gorges, wooded slopes the sea or your hotel pool. This tour features rides as well as routes to the Bonette, and an intricate network of valleys connecting short riding days and a varied itinerary to give Ventoux, Galibier, Lautaret, l’Izoard and the towns and villages. This tour allows you to you time to explore the landscapes, towns and Telegraph are possible. Accommodation is visit this area with carefully prepared routes, villages, and to take time out to enjoy activities in a homely, converted barn with bunk-style starting from a high vantage point at Verdon such as boat trips or visits to chateaux. The accommodation for groups. This is a popular with fantastic vistas in all directions and itinerary is mainly along easy, quiet lanes, base for cycling clubs and triathletes looking opportunities to splash about in cooling blue including an old coastal railway line, but there for no-nonsense, reliable, supported rides. waters of the Med. are a couple of more adventurous days too. Impression of the Impressions of the Rhône Perfumes of Provence Camargue: The Rhône Offered by: Inntravel Offered by: BSpoke Cycling and to the Mediterranean Phone number: +44 (0)1653617001 Walking Holidays Tour length: 3 days/4 nights Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7750 Offered by: Inntravel Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Price: From £428 Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 6 nights Price: From £1315 Level of difficulty: Easy The Roman amphitheatre and catacombs of Price: From £835 Arles and the remains of the Roman town of This self-guided tour starting in Saint-Rémy-de- Glanum near St-Rémy-de-Provence combine Provence – a beautiful town of narrow streets From Roman monuments such as Arles’ with the medieval castle at Tarascon and and old houses set in a lush green valleys full amphitheatre to scenery that inspired Van the stunning façade of the 12th-century St of wildflowers – really showcases the best Gogh, Avignon’s papal palace and the pink Gilles Abbey in Fontvieille to make this gentle this area has to offer. It is made even more flamingos of the Camargue natural park – three-day self-guided ride a real treat for attractive as it can be enjoyed by cyclists of all you’ll find all this and more near the mighty lovers of history and architecture. As you abilities (electrics bikes are available). Make Rhône as it nears the Mediterranean. This cycle from Tarascon and around Arles, you’ll your way along the Luberon valley, crossing cycling holiday promises a variety of cultural also recognise the landscapes that inspired rivers and passing fields of sunflowers and experiences, as well as quintessential Van Gogh. From Provençal landscapes to the lavender. There are plenty of pretty villages for Provençal landscapes, such as olive groves fringes of the Rhône’s delta, these flexible coffee stops. The tour includes hotels along and sunflower fields framed by the dramatic routes allow you explore at your own pace, the route, flights from the UK (discount applies hills of the Alpilles, and into the Rhône’s saving time and energy to enjoy the region’s for self-drivers and independent travellers), luxuriant delta. The itinerary is made up of excellent cuisine and its fine, fruity Costières plus fully equipped bikes, maps and local short, gentle, flexible routes. de Nîmes wines. assistance. Just don’t forget your camera!

33 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH OF FRANCE OR GUIDED

Provence

Picture Postcard The Wonders of the Upper Provence, Provence Luberon Ventoux, and Luberon Offered by: Cycling for Softies Offered by: France Bike Trips Offered by: Cyclomundo Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7760 Phone number: +33 (0)4 58 14 04 35 Tour length: 5 nights/6 days Tour length: 3 to 7 night options Tour length: 6 days Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Easy and moderate Price: From €995 Price: From £665 Price: From €575 This bike tour allows you to explore the heart There is something special about Provence, Discover the charms of the Grand and Petit of Provence at a more challenging level. with the azure blue skies, bustling stone Luberon. This ride starts in Cavaillon, and Beginning in Bédoin and ending in Gargas, the towns and wonderful light. This tour starts in tours along the long limestone spine of the itinerary features relatively short daily rides, the art-filled town of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Luberon. To the west, you’ll see the ‘Gardens allowing you to fully experience Provence. With before taking you through vineyards, lavender of the Pope’, some of the best orchards in the options to climb legendary Ventoux, or snake fields and orchards into the heart of the area. To the north, there are Romanesque through the Gorges de la Nesque, your efforts Luberon. Along the way you can choose to abbeys and churches, symbolising the historic will be rewarded with spectacular views. canoe from Fontaine-de-Vacluse to L’Isle-sur- importance of religion in the area. To the Highlights include visits to some of Provence’s la-Sorgue and sample some fine rosé wine south, there’s the Durance River, with its most acclaimed wine-making towns in Côtes de Provence. The price includes villages dotted with chateaux. All the most (Vacqueyas, Gigondas, Beaumes de Venise), delicious restaurant meals, bed and breakfast beautiful villages in the Luberon are on the stops in several of France’s “most beautiful” accommodation, luggage carried between itinerary: Sénanque, Gordes, Bonnieux, Buoux villages (Séguret, Gordes, and Roussillon), and your hotels, and fully serviced touring bikes. and Lourmarin. Discover pine forests, fields of options to climb legendary Mont Ventoux or E-bikes can be supplied if you prefer. lavender, vines and orchards. snake through the Gorges de la Nesque.

Mont Ventoux to A Provence & Mont Cévennes HighRoad Luberon Cycling Holiday Ventoux Weekend Offered by: 44|5 Cycling Tours Offered by: La Ligne Verte Offered by: Bike Weekender Phone number: +33 (0)6 45 73 06 04 Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Phone number: +44 (0)845 557 5983 Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Tour length: 5-7 days Tour length: 4 days/4 nights Level of difficulty: Challenging Level of difficulty: Active Level of difficulty: Challenging Price: €2575 Price: Varies with length Price: From £395 per person Get off the beaten track in the mountains Discover the splendid places that hide in the Spend a weekend cruising past olive groves of the Cévennes, following Robert Louis enormous shadows of Mont Ventoux. Cycle and through vineyards in Provence. Clear Stevenson’s trail through an area of the through Provencal villages, along Cote du sunny days, quiet smooth roads, stunning Massif Central that rarely appears on cycle Rhone wine routes, through the canyon of the views and scenery with just the right amount tour itineraries. Climb 8000 metres in 6 days Gorges de la Nesque, explore the 2000-year- of climbing and descending. This weekend can of riding as you scale Tour de France cols and old village of Vaison-la-Romaine, visit Abbaye be whatever you want it to be: ride through retrace rides depicted in Tim Krabbé’s The de Senanque, and watch in awe as the rolling hills in the morning before relaxing by Rider, widely viewed as the best work of fiction river Fontaine de Vaucluse surges by in the the swimming pool in the afternoon, or spend ever written about cycling. Gerry and John call Luberon. This is an active self-guided cycling the whole day out on the bike. Then there’s the the roads around here home. Price includes holiday, with the option of climbing Ventoux. opportunity to conquer Ventoux and ride the all accommodation, main meals, maps, Baggage transfer, accommodation and some Luberon wine region. This short break offers support van and baggage transfers, and it’s meals included. Group discounts available. a convenient, hassle-free road cycling holiday. fully guided.

34 guided Self-guided Self-guided SOUTH OF FRANCE OR GUIDED

Corsica Languedoc

7-day Tour of Corsica Languedoc: Vineyards, 1 Day in the Languedoc Offered by: Cycle The Alps of Provence Markets and Offered by: VéloRoo Phone number: +33(0)6 78 11 91 85 Roman Ruins Phone number: +33 (0)6 65 95 30 97 or +61 (0)4 11 047 828 Tour length: 7 days Offered by: Vie et Vélo Tour length: Half day or full day Level of difficulty: Moderate to challenging Phone number: +33 (0)4 48 08 42 00 Level of difficulty: Moderate to challenging Price: €1250 Tour length: 7 days/6 nights Price: From €130 including road bike hire Level of difficulty: Moderate This itour that starts and finishes in (discounts for groups and multi-day rides) Price: From €1050 Bastia, although this can be adjusted to The perfect solution if you only have one or A fully supported, point-to-point cycling tour accommodate different arrival points. The two days to ride on your holiday in the south through the vineyards and historic towns of route includes Cap Corse which is the island’s of France. VéloRoo’s guided day rides take all the Languedoc region – an area full of quiet sparsely populated and stunning northern the stress out of planning – all you have to do back roads that wind through the rolling peninsula, the mountainous Desert des it turn up with your shoes and pedals and ride. countryside and small vineyards. In addition to Agriates, the famous Route des Artisans with Routes vary from 50-60km over a half day of some magical scenery (and largely traffic- stunning views of the West coast and the Col undulating countryside through to hillier 100- free roads), you’ll visit the UNESCO World Vergio, the highest road pass on the island. 120km itineraries with elevation gains of up Heritage sites of St Guilham le Desert and the The adventure is fully guided with vehicle to 1500m, but these can be tailored for you. Pont de Gard, plus you’ll have time to explore support and the price also includes includes All rides are fully guided, with optional vehicle the market towns of Uzes and Pezenas. 7 nights’ half-board accommodation support. Includes performance road bike hire Price includes B&B accommodation, airport and airport transfers. and helmet, and souvenir water bottle. This is transfers, bike hire if you need it, and guided a great way to explore the stunning scenery of rides with vehicle support. the Languedoc region.

Corsica Northern Tour A Taste of Languedoc 3 Days in the Languedoc: Offered by: Forever Cycle Tours Offered by: VéloRoo Come ride with me Phone number: +44 (0)20 3289 6100 Phone number: +33 (0)6 65 95 30 97 Offered by: Vie et Vélo Tour length: 7 nights +61 (0)411 047 828 Phone number: +33 (0)4 48 08 42 00 Level of difficulty: Moderate Tour length: 3-day or week-long packages Tour length: 3 days/2 nights Price: £1550 Level of difficulty: Moderate or challenging Level of difficulty: Can be tailored Price: From €1450 Follow the spectacular road along the Price: €255-€495 coast of northern Corsica before heading VéloRoo’s approach to a cycling holiday is This is a lovely little package for all abilities. inland to explore the unspoiled forests and simple: they take care of the logistics so ‘Come ride with me’ is a perfect introduction rustic mountain villages of the interior, you can spend quality time in the saddle to the Languedoc – an often overlooked region cutting through the beautiful Balagne and immersing yourselves in the rural villages and in the south of France that’s magnificent for Castagniccia regions. This relaxed itinerary countryside of ‘the real South of France’. Ride cycling, offering the beauty, landscapes and is best enjoyed in the milder pre-summer on hand-picked routes taking in quiet country history of Provence but without the crowds. temperatures of May, when you can expect roads on a performance road bike, and with (Think quiet back roads, vineyards, and plenty near-deserted roads, warm sunny days and the comfort and security of vehicle support. of sunshine – great for year-round riding, with postcard vistas around every corner. In the Enjoy delicious lunches and dinners with fresh winter temperatures rarely dipping below 10 evenings, sample the local food and wines, local produce and great local wine at Steve degrees). Local cyclists Denise and Bruce indulge in Corsica’s chestnut beer, and take in and Julia’s favourite eating spots. Daily rides are keen to introduce more people to this the sunset views. 480km, 6,500m of climbing are 50-70km, with longer itineraries available. super area. Their price includes 2 nights’ B&B – all fully supported. Price includes half-board Fxed base accommodation; if you have your accommodation, airport transfers for you and accommodation and transfers. Bike hire an own accommodation, VéloRoo can provide a your bike (or help with rental if you need it), optional extra. standalone cycling package. and personalised guided rides based on your riding level and interests.

35 guided Self-guided Self-guided MULTI ACTIVITY TRIPS OR GUIDED

Cycling + French Activity Holiday Foodie Break: Lessons in the Alps in the Dordogne Gourmet & Grottes Offered by: Alpine French School Offered by: Cycle the Dordogne Offered by: Cycle the Dordogne Phone number: +33 (0)4 50 79 08 38 Phone number: +33 (0)5 53 30 23 20 Phone number: +33 (0)5 53 30 23 20 Tour length: 6 nights (5 half-days and one +44 (0)77 7455 1647 +44 (0)77 7455 1647 full day free for cycling, 5 half-day French Tour length: You decide! Tour length: 10 days classes – longer courses available) Level of difficulty: You decide! Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Challenging but flexible Price: Varies Price: €1630 Price: From €745 Make the most of your time in the outdoors The Gourmet & Grottes tour offers super Learn French while indulging in a cycling in the Dordogne. This multi activity tour cycling combined with the two other highlights holiday in the Alps. This French language combines freedom with flexibility. Decide how of the Dordogne: food and caves. Annie and course – tailored especially for cyclists – many activities you’d like to incorporate into Cliff have carefully chosen hotels that offer includes three hours a day of intensive French your tour and Annie and Cliff will weave them excellent cuisine, with five gourmet evening lessons over five days. When you’re not in into your holiday for you. The Dordogne offers meals included in the tour cost along with the classroom you’ll be out on the bike in the a swathe of outdoor activities, from cycling scrumptious breakfasts. The tour menu Morzine area climbing Joux Plane or Avoriaz, (obviously!) to walking, canoeing and horse also features visits to four stunning cave Ramaz. The cycling is unguided, so ride as riding. Each tour is tailored to suit you in terms systems: Pech Merle, the Gouffre de Padirac, much or as little as you like. Local route of activities and length. B&B accommodation the Grottes de Presque and the Grottes de advice and maps provided. The price includes included, along with high-spec bike hire and Cougnac. Price includes full route notes and self-catered accommodation in a shared basic activity costs. maps, plus luggage transfers and high-spec apartment or lodgings with a local host family. bike hire.

French Classes + French Alps Multi Activity Holiday Mountain Biking Multi-activity Breaks Offered by: Bonkersfrog Cycling Holidays Offered by: Alpine French School Offered by: Zenith Holidays Phone number: +44 (0)16 22 37 11 31 Phone number: +33 (0)4 50 79 08 38 Phone number: +44 (0)20 3137 7678 Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 6 nights’ accommodation (4 Tour length: Short breaks or week-long Level of difficulty: Flexible half-day biking sessions, 5 half-day French Level of difficulty: Tailored to your interests Price: From £599 classes – longer courses available) Price: Tailored for you Level of difficulty: You decide! Mix your cycling up with a range of other Enjoy on and off-road riding plus hiking, Price: €745 for course + self-guided rides, activities on offer in the High Alps. This trip is swimming and the chance to take on a €870 for course + guided rides ideal for families or groups with people with a ropes and adventure course on this multi- Combine mountain biking in the Alps with range of interests and ideas. Mix and match activity holiday in central France. Based in intensive French lessons. This course – from road riding and MTB to canyoning, horse the Limousin, this fully guided and supported tailored for mountain bikers new and old – riding, climbing, fishing, golf, walking, hot air tour features a varied week of activities includes three hours a day of intensive French ballooning, hydro speeding, Nordic walking both on and off the bike. Spend your days lessons over five days. When you’re not in the and many more. Itineraries and activities can whistling along quiet backroads and off-road classroom you’ll be out on the bike, exploring be tailored to your preferences, as well as to tracks, winding through forests and along the Morzine, Châtel and Les Gets trails in the all ages and abilities. There is also a range country lanes. Stop off at market towns and High Alps. This is prime mountain bike country of bases to choose from, including Serre chateaux, cooling off with lake swims en with a plethora of cross-country and downhill Chevalier, Chamonix, Alpe d’Huez, Annecy route to top-up on your tan. All transfers, routes (more than 650km of marked trails in and Morzine. accommodation and meals are provided. total). Your mountain biking can be guided or unguided, and routes be tailored for you.

36 guided Self-guided Self-guided AND ON THE WATER … OR GUIDED

A Bike & Barge Holiday A 4-day escape between Bike & Barge: in the Loire Valley Tours and Saumur A Taste of Burgundy Offered by: HAT Tours (canoe+bike) Offered by: HAT Tours Phone number: +31 (0)8 58 88 08 80 Phone number: +31 (0)8 58 88 08 80 Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Phone number: +33 (0)1 80 91 98 18 Level of difficulty: Easy Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: 4 days Price: From €865 Price: €895 Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From €354 The area of the Loire between Nevers and Who wouldn’t like to taste the Burgundy way of life in France? Delicious wines, castles, Montargis is perfect for a relaxing cycling Encounter the breathtaking beauty of the rolling landscapes, monasteries and a lot and sailing holiday. This area, approximately Loire by riding between Tours and Saumur. more. Starting in the regional capital, Dijon, 100km in length, offers a landscape with Meandering between the Loire and the this guided cycling and sailing holiday follows slightly rolling hills and a mild climate. During Vienne, the bike route follows little country the Canal of Burgundy and the river Saône the summer, it’s dry but never too warm. roads passing by the most prestigious until you reach the provincial town of Tournus. Here, you’ll find a wonderful combination castles, the chateaux de la Loire such as The scenery changes from small villages of castles and villages to explore. This tour Chateau de Villandry, Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau and slightly rolling hills to lively and attractive includes accommodation in a double cabin or Chateau d’Ussé, the castle of the Sleeping historic towns like Beaune and Chalon-sur- in a barge, full board, bike rental, tour guide, Beauty. You will not only admire the changing Saône. Includes a double cabin in the barge, city walks and a castle visit, wine tastings, colours of the Loire and the traditional boats full board, bike rental, tour guide, city walks and transfers from Paris. Cycling distances floating between the sand banks, but also the and excursions, wine tastings, and transfers. approximately 50km a day. vineyards of Chinon and Saumur. Cycling distances approximately 45km a day.

Bike & Barge:Paris & Beyond Offered by: HAT Tours Phone number: +31 (0)8 5 88 80 880 Tour length: 8 days/7 nights Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From €895 Paris, the City of Light, is at the centre of this guided cycling and sailing holiday. Visit the castle at Fontainebleau and pedal along the winding rivers Seine and Oise. You’ll also cycle through the forests at Compiègne, experience an evening canal cruise across 19th century Paris, and see why Van Gogh and Sisley were so inspired by Auvers-sur-Oise and Moret-sur-Loing. Take in all the sights of Paris: the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, Arc de Triomphe, Versailles palace and much more. The tour includes a double cabin at hotel barge, full board, bike rental, tour guide, a visit to Fontainebleau, and wine and cheese tastings. Cycling distances are approximately 45km a day. Mixed nationalities, maximum group size of 19 – this is a fun way to meet other travellers and enjoy the pleasures of cycling in France.

37 guided Self-guided Self-guided OFF THE BEATEN TRACK OFF THE BEATEN TRACK OR GUIDED

Limousin Drome Valley Cycling Holiday in the Cycling Holiday in the Drome River Limousin (fixed-base) Limousin (hotel to hotel) Valley Cycling Offered by: Bonkersfrog Cycling Offered by: Bonkersfrog Cycling Offered by: France Bike Trips Holidays Holiday Phone number: +33 (0)4 58 14 04 35 Phone number: +44 (0)16 22 37 11 31 Phone number: +44 (0)16 22 37 11 31 Tour length: 7 days Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 7 nights Level of difficulty: Easy, moderate and Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Moderate challenging options Price: From £599 Price: From £599 Price: From €575 This guided or self-guided trip is the perfect Described by Monet as the ‘land of the Ride the backroads of the beautiful Diois way to get to know the region. It takes in green and blue’, it’s a good time to visit the area of the Drôme Provençale. The area is all the highlights: Chateau de Villemonteix, Limousin– before the quiet backroads start a superb mix of the Alps and Provence, full woodlands and lake-side picnic spots, the teeming with visitors. This is a hotel to hotel of orchards, vineyards and sunflower fields, nature reserve at the Etang de Landes, tiny tour, but it includes two nights at every stop. plus rolling hills of boxwood, pine and lavender. villages, market towns, hill-top vistas, rock Routes are 60km each day, which you can You’ll ride along rivers and streams, and can formations and much more. Price includes all take at your own pace. Visit the Creuse Valley stop for picnics and swims, or for coffee in a B&B accommodation, most meals, luggage and the ancient village of Moutier d’Ahun, sleepy hamlet. The Diois is a wine producing transfer and bespoke routes, plus bike hire if the 12th century L’Abbaye du Palais, Lac de area famous for the sparkling Clairette de Die. you need it. Vassiviere, forest, and labyrinths. Starting and Includes B&B accommodation, most evening ending in Limoges, the tour includes train/ meals, baggage transfer, road book, maps airport transfers, bike hire, baggage transfers, and GPS tracks. accommodation, route notes and maps.

France Mountain France Road Cycling Bike Holiday Offered by: Bonkersfrog Cycling Offered by: Bonkersfrog Cycling Holidays Holidays Phone number: +44 (0)16 22 37 11 31 Phone number: +44 (0)16 22 37 11 31 Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: 3-14 nights Level of difficulty: Flexible to suit all abilities Level of difficulty: Flexible Price: From £699 Price: From £300 There are hundreds of kilometres of graded Follow experienced guides or a tailored MTB trails (green, blue, red and black) in the self-guided riding plan through along the Limousin area. All are easy to follow and can backroads of south-weat France. While be tailored for riders of all abilities – ride Bonkersfrog are based in the Limousin and gravel tracks wide forest paths, technical specialise in that area, they also know the rocky tracks or, for the more experienced Loire and the Bordeaux-Toulouse areas off-roader, steep descents and ascents, well (among others). Price includes maps stream crossings and singletrack traverses. and guides, plus GPS downloads. There’s This trip can be tailored for you and includes a mechanic on hand, plus a fully equipped all transfers, accommodation and meals are workshop available for you to use if you choose provided (though you can opt just for B&B if a fixed base option. All dietary needs can be you prefer). catered for. You’ll also be set up each day with a hearty breakfast – and there will always be cake at the end of the ride!

38 guided Self-guided Self-guided OFF THE BEATEN TRACK OR GUIDED

Mayenne Haute-Vienne Auvergne A Meander Through Cycling Holidays in Auvergne’s Mayenne Haute-Vienne Mountain Areas Offered by: Cycling for Softies Offered by: Haute-Vienne Cycling Offered by: Les Camélias Cycling Phone number: +44 (0)20 7471 7760 Holidays Accommodation Tour length: 4 to 6 nights Phone number: +33 (0)5 55 39 16 95 Phone number: +33 (0)4 73 65 04 67 Level of difficulty: Easy Tour length: Tailored for you Tour length: 7 days Price: From £595 Level of difficulty: Tailored for you Level of difficulty: You decide This family-friendly Mayenne tour is the Price: Tailored for your budget Price: From €500 perfect introduction to cycling in France. As If you’re looking for a cycling holiday away Choose from one of 5 different routes one of France’s hidden gems, you won’t have from the crowds and in an area of France covering varying levels of difficulty and to battle the crowds to enjoy the fortified you may not otherwise have found, then this distances (50, 60, 69 and 78 miles). In six castles, medieval quarters, Roman ruins could be for you. This trip is based near the stages, you can cycle through three middle and traditional markets of the Mayenne. Haute-Vienne and Dordogne border south mountain areas of Auvergne: the Massif du Cycling is a doddle with few hills, quiet roads of Limoges airport, and tailored to individual Sancy, the Livradois-Forez and the Cantal. and sparkling river paths. Starting with two groups and riders. There are hundreds The climbs reach up to 1589m with on nights at a 3-star château hotel with pool of kilometres of on and off-road tracks and average 300 to 400 metres of climbing per and spa just outside Mayenne, you’ll move roads in this area. In particular, it’s a hugely climb (700m maximum). Climbs within reach to a new 3- or 4-star hotel every other day. under-explored mountain bike area. Make your include the Col de la Croix Saint-Robert, the Includes gourmet meals, breakfasts, bike and way from the door, or be dropped off at the Col de la Croix-Morand, the Col de Guéry, the equipment hire, maps and tour suggestions, start of a route farther afield. Airport pickups Puy de Dôme and Col du Chevalard. This trip plus luggage transfers. and hire bikes can be arranged. can be tailored for groups of varying sizes.

Black Mountains Charente, Cognac & Deux-Sevres Black Mountains Chateaux of the Classic Cognac Cycling Cycling Holiday Charente Offered by: Belle France Offered by: Bonkersfrog Cycling Holidays Offered by: Belle France Phone number: +44 (0)1580 214 010 Phone number: +44 (0)16 22 37 11 31 Phone number: +44 (0)1580 848 582 Tour length: 6 nights Tour length: 6 nights Tour length: 4 nights Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Moderate to Challenging Level of difficulty: Easy-moderate Price: £929 Price: From £599 Price: £1335 Ride along the banks of the meandering river The ‘Montagnes Noire’ range is located within This tour explores a stunning countryside Charente, one of France’s most picturesque the Haut-Languedoc regional park at the of vineyards, lolling sunflowers and forests but least explored waterways. En route, pass south-western end of the Massif Central and of high shady oaks with turreted châteaux through the prestigious brandy vineyards of its highest point is the Pic de Nore at 1210 commanding views above winding rivers. the Cognac region, taking the time to stop metres. The tour itself starts in Toulouse, This is a lesser-explored area of south-west and sample some of the world’s most famous with the route following the Canal du Midi France. Your trip takes you and your bike on brands. Other highlights include Dorgeville’s towards Castelnaudary. You’ll tackle a number charming quiet lanes to chateaux and bustling impressive Roman amphitheatre and the of relatively unknown but challenging climbs, towns, such as Confolens, with plenty of cafes Abbey de Fontdouce. There is the option to including the Pic de Montaud (1031m), the and restaurants. The tour price includes add an extra night at Château de Mesnac, a Col de la Prades (925m) and the Pic de accommodation, luggage transfers, route Cognac-producing chambre d’hôte. Nore before descending into Carcassonne notes, bike hire, station transfers. for a well-earned dinner. The last day passes through the Trèbes and the Minervois vineyards.

39 guided Self-guided Self-guided OFF THE BEATEN TRACK OR GUIDED

The Charente, Cognac & Deux-Sevres The Aude Cycling Holidays in Cycling Holidays Aude and Pyrenees Poitou-Charentes for Vegetarians Cycling Holidays Offered by: Moulin Holidays Offered by: Moulin Holidays Offered by: Cycle Aude Phone number: +33 (0)5 49 95 94 87 Phone number: +33 (0)5 49 95 94 87 Phone number: +33 (0)4 68 20 66 08 Tour length: 6 nights Tour length: 6 days +33 (0)7 86 70 43 15 Level of difficulty: Moderate and challenging, Level of difficulty: You decide! Tour length: You decide plus some exhilarating hill routes Price: From €938/£713 Level of difficulty: You decide Price: €879/£668 Mix delicious vegetarian food with some of Price: From €50 per night Hit the road to explore the beautifully-surfaced western France’s most idyllic cycling routes From his base at the foothills of the Pyrenees, roads and country lanes that wind through on this flexible, self-guided holiday based at Le local cyclist Martyn runs guided and self- the rolling hills of Poitou-Charentes. Your base Moulin du Chemin, a small private auberge guided rides in the Aude, as well as rides into will be Le Moulin du Chemin, a small private in the Poitou-Charentes region. There are the Pyrenees themselves. Take a gentle family auberge in the Deux-Sèvres department. Road hundreds of miles of little-used country lanes ride or head off into the hills to challenge bike routes can be tailored for you. Route- beside pastures, woods and orchards. Choose yourself against the cols of the Tour de cards and highlighted maps are supplied, a route to suit your own ability, with different France. Martyn can help tailor your stay to plus there’s friendly support, advice and destinations each day. Finish the day with your ability, and provide local maps and route information. The recommended routes are aperitifs-at-seven, followed by a four-course notes. Prices on a per night basis to keep different for each day. Apart from the cycling, evening meal with wonderful vegetarian things simple. holidays here are notable for their excellent cuisine, prepared in line with your own dietary food and wine, lovely accommodation, great preferences and accompanied by generous bonhomie and reasonable prices. supplies of excellent wine.

Cycle tour from Poitevin A Fixed Base Marshes to Ile de Ré Cycling Holiday in Offered by: Le Vélo Voyageur Poitou-Charentes Phone number: +33 (0) 1 80 91 98 18 Tour length: 8 days Offered by: Moulin Holidays Level of difficulty: Easy Phone number: +33 (0)5 49 95 94 87 Price: From €795 Tour length: 6 nights Level of difficulty: Easy and moderate routes, Start your bike trip in Niort and discover the plus a few challenging ones (you decide!) small roads and narrow canals of the Poitevin Price: €938/£713 marshes. Cross small villages, discover the fauna and flora of the marshes with a guide on Flexible, self-guided cycling holidays based a boat, and visit the abbey of Maillezais. Stop at Le Moulin du Chemin, a small private in the city of art and history that is Fontenay-le- auberge in the Poitou-Charentes region Comte before leaving the wild Marais Poitevin of western France. Everything is included: to reach the port city of La Rochelle. The next accommodation, all meals and drinks, the hire day you’ll ride to the island Ile de Ré where of well-maintained, fully-equipped touring bikes, you’ll discover the long fine-sand beaches, the plus the use of the pool and other amenities. salt evaporation ponds of Loix and Ars-en-Ré, To guide you, clear route-notes and highlighted the fortified city of Saint-Martin-de-Ré or the maps are provided in a personalised dossier, producers of Pineau wine before crossing the with friendly advice and information. bridge back to La Rochelle.

40 guided Self-guided Self-guided OFF THE BEATEN TRACK OR GUIDED

Aveyron & the Down in the and the Tarn Grands Causses Gorges du Tarn From Rodez via Albi Tour in Aveyron Offered by: La Ligne Verte Offered by: La Ligne Verte Offered by: La Ligne Verte Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Tour length: 5-8 days Tour length: 7-10 days Tour length: 5-8 days Level of difficulty: Light Level of difficulty: Active Level of difficulty: Light Price: 7 days: €652 Price: 8 days: €954 Price: 7 days: €652 Starting in , cycle through the Cycle on the quiet roads of the Lévezou Starting in Millau, cycle through the spectacular Dourbie canyon and the Gorges plateau south of Rodez through rolling spectacular Dourbie canyon and the Gorges du Trevezel before continuing on to traverse countryside, past lakes and into the Tarn du Trevezel before continuing on to traverse the Causse du Larzac, a limestone plateau valley. Discover unspoilt countryside and the Causse du Larzac, a limestone plateau from where the Templars started their Medieval towns as you journey to UNESCO- from where the Templars started their crusades to Jerusalem in the 12th and listed Albi. Heading north from Albi, you’ll crusades to Jerusalem in the 12th and 13th century. Sample the cheese caves of pass preserved fortified villages (bastides), 13th century. Sample the cheese caves of Roquefort and explore the beautiful valleys the most famous of which is the hill-top Roquefort and explore the beautiful valleys of the Sorgue, the Dourdou and the Tarn Cordes-sur-Ciel. Even further north, you’ll visit of the Sorgue, the Dourdou and the Tarn (passing under the new viaduct, which is the fortress at Najac, before riding on to the (passing under the new viaduct, which is higher than the Eiffel tower. The tour ends ancient village of Villefranche-de-Rouergue. higher than the Eiffel tower. The tour ends back in Millau. Baggage transfer, hotel This is an active self-guided cycling holiday back in Millau. Baggage transfer, hotel accommodation and most meals included. covering upto 60km a day. Baggage transfer, accommodation and most meals included. Group discounts available. accommodation and some meals included. Group discounts available.

Land of the Templars Pays de Bastides and Roquefort Tour, Albi Offered by: La Ligne Verte Offered by: La Ligne Verte Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Tour length: 5-9 days Tour length: 5-10 days Level of difficulty: Active Level of difficulty: Light Price: 7 days: €885 Price: 7 days: €897 Cycling from the picturesque commune of Starting on the quiet roads of the Gaillac Saint-Affrique, you’ll ride through the river vineyards west of Albi, you’ll cycle north valley of the Sorgues and Cernon, up and through rolling countryside, visiting fortified down the hills of the Monts de l’Hérault to the villages (bastides) along the way, including the caves of Roquefort (still in use today to ripen wonderful hill-top Cordes-sur-Ciel. These walled the king of cheeses). Time still moves slowly settlements, with grid-pattern streets and in this area, with its centuries-old villages and handsome squares, are beautiful reminders of the Templars’ fortresses of Ste Eulalie-de- the great conflicts of the Middle Ages. Further Cernon and La Couvertoirade. Cycle 30-98km north, you’ll head to Najac, Aveyron’s famous each day - you decide! Some hilly stages with fortress. This is a light cycling holiday which small climbs of 100-400m 3 to 5 times a day. will see you riding 28-48km a day. Departures Includes baggage transfers, accommodation every day from March 15-October 31. in family-run hotels and all meals. Start any day Baggage transfer, accommodation, and most between March 15 and October 24. Group meals included. Group discounts available. discounts available.

41 guided Self-guided Self-guided OFF THE BEATEN TRACK OR GUIDED

Aveyron & the Tarn Cycling Breaks in Aveyron Gorge: A Week Exploring Aveyron Custom Breaks the Tarn Offered by: Saint Antonin Noble Velo Offered by: Saint Antonin Noble Velo Offered by: Inntravel Phone number: +33 (0)5 63 02 23 88 Phone number: +33 (0)5 63 02 23 88 Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 +33 (0)6 65 97 61 81 +33 (0)6 65 97 61 81 Tour length: 7 nights Tour length: Tailored to your stay Tour length: 2 nights minimum Level of difficulty: Moderate Level of difficulty: Tailored to your stay Level of difficulty: Tailored to your stay Price: From £778 Price: Tailored to your stay Price: Tailored to your stay Starting and finishing in the small, red-brick A custom fixed base holiday tailored to your St Antonin Noble Velo specialises in bespoke city of Albi, this holiday is wonderfully varied. ability and budget in the Aveyron gorge in fixed base self-guided holidays. You’ll Three days of cycling – featuring many SW France. Peter will put a package of rides stay in their award-winning 16th century riverside sections – alternate with ‘free’ days together based around your fitness levels and auberge in the medieval heart of St Antonin on which you have the chance to sightsee or interests. Groups welcome. Discover dramatic Noble Val, deep in the Aveyron gorge, SW simply relax. There’s even the opportunity on gorges, oak forests, vineyards and limestone France. Explore gorges, forests, austere one day to take to the water in a canoe. plateaux, all on very quiet roads. Guided or limestone plateaux, vineyards and rolling self-guided. countryside. This is ideal for riders who want to stretch their legs without reaching the heights of the Pyrénées – 60–120km at a moderate pace with coffee and cake stops.

Albi and Tarn Valley Cycling through Discover The Offered by: La Ligne Verte Gorges du Tarn Timeless Tarn Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Offered by: La Ligne Verte Offered by: Inntravel Tour length: 5-9 days Phone number: +33 (0)6 74 92 63 14 Phone number: +44 (0)1653 617001 Level of difficulty: Light Tour length: 5-10 days Tour length: 7 nights Price: 7 days: €664 Level of difficulty: Active Level of difficulty: Easy Price: From £798 Starting and ending in Albi, this is a self- Price: 7 days: €814 guided cycling holiday suitable for families, Stretch your legs with this active self-guided You explore both banks of the river on quiet or for anyone wanting a scenic but flat cycling tour of the spectacular gorges and lanes, with many riverside stretches, and bike tour. Averaging just 25km a day, you’ll canyons of the Tarn. Bike up the plateau, plenty of time to explore. Here, you stay cycle alongside the river Tarn, on converted covering 60 to 90km and 1 to 4 climbs per in welcoming country inns offering the full railway lines and through old railway tunnels, day. The itinerary takes in the three main flavours of the south-west: duck, cassoulet taking time out for swimming or canoeing areas of Tarn basin: Tarn valley, Pays de and fresh trout and perch from the rivers. as you go. Departures every day from Roquefort and the Gorges and Causses. Cycle The region’s wines are gaining a deserved March 15 to October 31. Baggage transfer, the Cirque de Navacelles, and see the abysses reputation too - the flinty Gaillac whites are accommodation and some meals included. of the Larzac Méridional in the Hérault especially refreshing after cycling on the quiet Electric bike hire also available. department, plus Templars towns and the lanes. Roquefort cheese caves. Includes baggage transfers, accommodation and some meals. You can start any day between March 15 and October 24. Group discounts available.

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