The best regions for cycling in France

France is a paradise for cycling enthusiasts, offering varied landscapes, marked routes and entire regions to discover. Whether you are a passionate cyclist or a beginner looking for a ride, here are the top 5 regions in France where it will be pleasant to cycle for a stroll and discover the beautiful French regions.

1) Dordogne, between nature and heritage

The Dordogne is a perfect region for lovers of nature and heritage with its roads that wind through hilly landscapes, forests but also medieval villages. You can cycle along rivers, discover famous castles and even take breaks to explore prehistoric caves.

Recommended route: The loop between Sarlat, Beynac and La Roque-Gageac offers you a breathtaking view of the cliffs and castles of the region. This route is punctuated by charming villages, perfect for a gourmet break.

Where to stay? Pure France offers a large choice of properties to rent in Dordogne, let's discover them on Pure France.

2) Provence: Between lavender and vineyards

Provence is popular with its lavender fields, vineyards and small hilltop villages, it is a fantastic region for cyclists. Its sunny roads are lined with olive trees and cypresses, offering picturesque panoramas.

Recommended route: The Luberon cycling route takes you through picturesque villages like Gordes, Roussillon and Bonnieux. The landscape is punctuated with vineyards, historic abbeys and lavender fields in summer.

Where to stay: For an authentic stay, choose a stone house or villa near Apt or Gordes, offered by Pure France. Book your seasonal rental with Pure France in Provence.

3) Brittany: the sea air by bike

With its jagged coastlines, wild beaches and hilly landscapes, Brittany is a fascinating region to discover by bike. Cyclists will be able to enjoy a mix of sea air, nature and cultural heritage. The region's numerous greenways and cycle paths offer a wide variety of routes.

Recommended route: Route 4, also called the “Vélodyssée”, follows the Breton coast and offers magnificent panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean. From Roscoff to Concarneau, you will pass through picturesque ports and white sandy beaches.

Where to stay? Opt for a house by the sea or a Breton farmhouse close to the coast, available on Pure France, for a rejuvenating stay after your cycling excursions.

4) The Loire, along the castles and vineyards

The Loire Valley is an ideal region for cyclists of all levels, with its relatively flat cycle paths and enchanting landscapes. You will follow the famous Loire à Vélo, a marked route of more than 900 km, which allows you to discover majestic castles, famous vineyards and picturesque villages.

Recommended route: The stretch between Amboise and Saumur is particularly appreciated for its magnificent castles, notably Château de Chenonceau and Château de Villandry, as well as for its vineyards producing renowned wines.

Where to stay in the Loire? Rent a gîte or country house in the heart of the Loire Valley, near the castles, to combine relaxation and discovery by bike. Pure France offers several properties in the region.

5) The Périgord Noir: Walks between forests and rivers

The Périgord Noir, in Dordogne, is an ideal region for cyclists who love nature and heritage. The roads are lined with dense forests, tranquil rivers and well-preserved medieval villages. It is a perfect destination for bike rides combining history and natural landscapes.

Recommended route: The loop around Sarlat-la-Canéda is ideal for discovering this region. You will pass through classified villages such as Domme and La Roque-Gageac, while following the Dordogne, offering picturesque landscapes with every pedal stroke.