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You can even hire your cycle en route from one of many
locations-velos that line the major cycling
routes.
You can still find areas in France that are so peaceful, it is rare to see a car, yet you
may be passed by a few very passionate cyclists! Stopping for lunch and experiencing
the local cuisine and of course the local wine is
must and you can often find fortified villages scattered along the hill-tops and valleys
for the most pleasant of stops. They still have their historical charm in tact and
are great places for a rest break before cycling on to your next destination.
Or if you prefer to have your trip organised then why not let the hoteliers transport your
luggage by finding establishments that offer an "accueil velo" which are hotels and bed
and breakfasts that cater specifically for cycling
holidays throughout France.
With a French Alps cycling holiday you cannot go wrong, as you will be able to discover
some of the Worlds most spectacular cycling routes, with climbs like the world famous Col
de la Croix der Fer and Alpe d'Huez around Grenoble. But as well as the Alps,
cycling in the Pyrenees with its mountain climbs such as the Col de Portet d'Aspet and the
Col d'Aspin will provide you with the opportunity to see some of Europe's most beautiful
locations. Although these are not for the feint hearted! If you have ever
watched the Tour de France, you will have seen some of those mean mountainous routes and
the suffering these cyclists go through, yet perhaps this could be just the type of
holiday you are looking for!
The Midi-Pyrenees offers a wealth of art and history from
prehistoric cave paintings to Renaissance mansions and is also famous throughout France
for its cuisine which is rich with foies gras, Roquefort cheese, Gaillac wines, and
Armagnac brandy. But to make the most of this region, it is often advisable to plan
your cycling holiday very carefully, so that you can enjoy the many different places en
route.
Yet if mountain biking and going on strenuous cycling routes through the mountains is not
you, then do not worry, there are plenty of other areas in France that will cater for the
novice or the family cycling holiday.
The Brittany area is ideal for a family cycling holiday, as
the coastal routes along the bays are reasonably flat, making the trip easier, whereas the
Loire is more undulating, yet fabulous chateaux
and riverside towns will enthral you and the family on your travels.
The Poitou-Charentes area is an excellent choice for
those who love wildlife and bird watching, as the area is still extremely rural, even
compared to some of the other areas in France and Burgundy is
a great place to cycle along the many canal paths.
And the Dordogne is extremely picturesque, from the rivers and gorges through to forests
and vineyards, this area provides such a diversity you will enjoy the whole experience
from the start to finish of your holiday.
Mind you, with a cycling holiday organised for you, there is no need to worry about where
you will stop for a break or lunch or where you will be staying, which means you do not
have to have your panniers full to the brim. All your belongings are transported on
for you, ready and waiting for when you arrive at your next stop. Plus if you decide
to add in other activities, such as canoeing and horse riding as well, then your bikes
will be transported to your next stop and you will be picked up at a specified
location. You will then be ready for an evening of relaxation whilst experiencing
the traditional French food and wine.
And you will easily find tour operators that do specific cycling holidays and organise
everything for you, catering exactly to your needs. So whether you are a cycling
enthusiast or a novice with a family, France is a fantastic destination to explore on your
bike.
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