20 August 2024 | Transport, Nature , UNESCO , Sports and leisure
A Guide to the Best French Bicycle Trails
France is a country that entices travellers with its rich culture, picturesque landscapes and exquisite cuisine. While many choose to explore this captivating nation by car or train, many holiday makers are discovering the joys of cycling through its diverse regions.
Why Cycle in France?
France is a paradise for cyclists, thanks to its extensive network of well-maintained bike paths, quiet country roads and varied terrain. From the flat, leisurely rides along the Loire Valley to the challenging climbs in the Alps, there’s something for every type of cyclist.
Whether you’re visiting a vineyard for a wine tasting, exploring a medieval French castle, or simply enjoying a picnic by a river, cycling offers a unique and intimate way to see France whilst on holiday.
The Loire Valley: Cycling Through the Garden of France
The Loire Valley, often referred to as the "Garden of France," is one of the most popular cycling destinations in the country. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its stunning châteaux, lush vineyards and charming villages, all of which can be explored and enjoyed by bike.
Must visit places
The Loire à Vélo Route: This 800-kilometer trail follows the course of the Loire River from Cuffy near Nevers to Saint-Brevin-les-Pins on the Atlantic coast. The route is mostly flat, making it ideal for families and leisure cyclists. Along the way, you’ll pass through historic towns like Amboise and Blois, visit majestic castles such as Château de Chambord and sample the region’s famous wines.
Château de Chambord: One of the most iconic landmarks along the Loire à Vélo route, this Renaissance masterpiece is surrounded by extensive gardens and forests, perfect for a leisurely ride.
Saumur: Known for its sparkling wines and troglodyte dwellings, Saumur is a delightful stop on your Loire Valley cycling adventure.
The Loire Valley’s gentle terrain, coupled with its wealth of cultural and historical landmarks, makes it a perfect destination for cyclists seeking a balance between relaxed riding and enriching exploration. What truly sets the Loire Valley apart, however, is its rich tapestry of cultural and historical sites, which transforms every ride into a journey through time. As you cycle through this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll encounter an array of magnificent châteaux, each with a story to tell. The grand Château de Chambord, with its elaborate Renaissance architecture and the elegant Château de Chenonceau, stretching across the River Cher are just a few of the iconic landmarks that dot the French landscape.
Provence: Pedaling Through Lavender Fields and Hilltop Villages
Provence, in Southeastern France, is synonymous with fragrant lavender fields, olive groves and charming hilltop villages. Cycling in Provence offers a sensory feast, with the scents of herbs and flowers filling the air and the many vibrant colours of the landscape providing a stunning backdrop for an unforgettable bike ride.
Must visit places
Luberon Regional Park: This area is crisscrossed with cycling routes that take you through some of Provence’s most beautiful villages, including Gordes, Roussillon and Bonnieux. The trails vary in difficulty, with options for both beginners and experienced cyclists.
Mont Ventoux: Known as the "Giant of Provence," Mont Ventoux is a legendary climb in the world of cycling. While it's a challenging ascent, the panoramic views from the summit are well worth the effort. For those not keen on the climb, the surrounding countryside offers plenty of gentler routes.
Lavender Routes: If you visit during the summer months, don't miss the opportunity to cycle through the blooming lavender fields. The routes around Sault and Valensole are particularly stunning.
The region’s cultural richness, reflected in its vibrant markets, ancient ruins and world-renowned cuisine, offers cyclists a unique blend of natural beauty and deep cultural immersion. Whether you're navigating the picturesque routes of the Luberon, taking on the legendary climb of Mont Ventoux, or meandering through the sun-soaked vineyards, Provence promises an unforgettable journey that should be on every cyclist's bucket list.
Brittany: Exploring the Wild Beauty of France’s Northwest
Brittany, with its rugged coastline, ancient forests and Celtic heritage, offers a unique kind of cycling experience. The region is known for its dramatic landscapes, from windswept cliffs to tranquil inland waterways.
Must visit places
The Nantes-Brest Canal: This 365-kilometer route follows the course of the canal through the heart of Brittany. It’s a relatively flat and easy ride, passing through picturesque towns and lush countryside. The towpath is perfect for a leisurely cycle, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.
Pink Granite Coast: For those who prefer coastal cycling, the Pink Granite Coast offers stunning views of the sea and unique rock formations. The route from Perros-Guirec to Ploumanac’h is particularly beautiful, with its pink-hued cliffs and turquoise waters.
Quimper and Concarneau: These historic towns are great stops on your Brittany cycling tour, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
Brittany’s wild beauty and distinct cultural identity make it a fascinating destination for cyclists looking to explore a less-travelled region of France.
The French Alps: A Cyclist’s Paradise
For those seeking the ultimate cycling challenge, the French Alps offer some of the most iconic and demanding climbs in the world. This region is a playground for serious cyclists, with routes that have been made world famous by the Tour de France.
Must visit places
Alpe d’Huez: One of the most legendary climbs in the world of cycling, Alpe d’Huez is known for its 21 hairpin bends and breathtaking views. While the climb is tough, the sense of achievement at the summit is unparalleled.
Col du Galibier: Another iconic climb, the Col du Galibier is one of the highest paved roads in Europe. The ascent is challenging, but the stunning alpine scenery makes it a must-do for any serious cyclist.
Annecy: For those who prefer a more relaxed ride, the area around Lake Annecy offers beautiful, flat cycling paths with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Cycling in the French Alps is a test of endurance and determination, not suited for the faint-hearted. However, for those willing to take on the steep climbs and breathtaking descents, the rewards are immense. The stunning alpine vistas, the sense of achievement at conquering legendary routes and the exhilarating rush of riding through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world make it an experience that will stay with you long after the ride is over.
Burgundy: A Journey Through Vineyards and History
Burgundy, located in central-eastern France, is another top destination for wine lovers and cyclists alike. This region is renowned for its world-class wines, historic towns and beautiful countryside.
Must visit places
The Voie des Vignes: This 74-kilometer trail takes you through some of Burgundy’s most famous vineyards, including those around Beaune and Nuits-Saint-Georges. The route is mostly flat, making it accessible to all levels of cyclists.
Dijon: The capital of Burgundy, Dijon, is a city rich in history and culture. Its well-preserved medieval architecture and excellent museums make it a great place to start or end your cycling tour.
Canal de Bourgogne: For a more leisurely ride, the Canal de Bourgogne offers a flat and scenic route through the heart of Burgundy. The towpath is perfect for a relaxed day of cycling, with plenty of opportunities to stop and sample the local wines.
Burgundy’s captivating mix of rolling vineyards, charming villages and rich historical sites, combined with its world-renowned wines, creates an unparalleled experience for cyclists. As you ride through this picturesque region, each route offers not only breathtaking scenery but also a deep dive into the cultural and culinary richness that makes Burgundy a must-visit destination for any cycling enthusiast. Whether you’re exploring ancient abbeys, stopping for a wine tasting at a local vineyard, or simply soaking in the tranquil beauty of the countryside, Burgundy provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable cycling holiday.
The Dordogne: A Ride Through History
The Dordogne’s rich tapestry of history, combined with its natural beauty, makes it an enchanting region to explore by bike. As you pedal through its valleys and along its rivers, you’ll find that every turn in the road offers a new discovery.
Must visit places
The Dordogne River: Following the course of the Dordogne River offers a scenic and relatively flat ride, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the region’s historic towns and villages. The route takes you past charming riverside towns like La Roque-Gageac and Beynac-et-Cazenac, both of which are classified among "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France" (The Most Beautiful Villages of France).
Castles and Châteaux: The Dordogne is dotted with impressive castles and châteaux, many of which can be visited along your cycling route. Château de Castelnaud and Château de Beynac are two of the most famous, both offering stunning views over the surrounding countryside.
Culinary Delights: Dordogne is also renowned for its gastronomy. As you cycle through the region, be sure to indulge in local specialties like foie gras, truffles and walnut cakes. The weekly markets in towns like Sarlat-la-Canéda are great places to sample and purchase these delicacies.
Cycling through the Dordogne is like embarking on a journey through time, where every turn of the pedals uncovers layers of history, from ancient cave dwellings to medieval castles. Along the way, you’ll also immerse yourself in the region’s renowned culinary heritage, savoring local specialties that have been crafted over centuries. Each mile traveled deepens your connection to the Dordogne’s timeless landscapes and rich cultural traditions
The Pyrenees: A Journey Through Mountains and Villages
The Pyrenees, a mountain range that forms a natural border between France and Spain, is a dream destination for cyclists seeking both challenge and adventure. This region offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in France, with routes that take you through remote villages, deep valleys and rugged mountain passes.
Must visit places
Col du Tourmalet: One of the most famous climbs in the Tour de France, the Col du Tourmalet is a must-do for any serious cyclist. The ascent is challenging, but the panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular.
Lourdes: This famous pilgrimage site is also a great base for exploring the surrounding Pyrenees by bike. The town itself is steeped in history and the nearby cycling routes offer a mix of challenging climbs and scenic rides.
The Cirque de Gavarnie: This natural amphitheater, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most stunning landscapes in the Pyrenees. The ride to Gavarnie is both challenging and rewarding, with the dramatic scenery providing a fitting backdrop.
Cycling in the Pyrenees is an unforgettable experience, offering a mix of demanding climbs and breathtaking vistas that are sure to challenge and inspire.
The Canal du Midi: A Tranquil Ride Through Southern France
The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most popular cycling routes in southern France. This 240-kilometer canal connects the Mediterranean Sea to the Garonne River and is lined with plane trees, historic locks and charming French villages.
Must visit places
Toulouse to Sète: The most popular cycling route along the Canal du Midi stretches from the vibrant city of Toulouse to the port town of Sète on the Mediterranean coast. The path is mostly flat, making it ideal for leisurely rides. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque towns like Castelnaudary, known for its cassoulet and Carcassonne, with its medieval fortress.
Carcassonne: One of the highlights of the Canal du Midi is the fortified city of Carcassonne. Cycling around its impressive walls and exploring its narrow streets is like stepping back into medieval times.
Wine Tasting: The Canal du Midi passes through some of the best wine regions in southern France, including Minervois and Corbières. Stopping at a local vineyard for a tasting is a great way to break up your ride.
The Canal du Midi offers a peaceful and scenic cycling experience, perfect for those looking to explore the beauty and history of southern France at a leisurely pace.
Cycling in France is an immersive experience allowing you to connect with the country's landscapes, culture and history in a unique and meaningful way.
From pedalling through the lavender fields of Provence, climbing the legendary cols of the Alps or cruising along the tranquil waters of the Canal du Midi, each region of France offers its own unique charm, ambience and character.