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France Bike Tours

Experience the heart of cycling culture, where every pedal stroke takes you through lush vineyards and iconic mountain passes on a france bike tour..

Experience a beautiful way of life on a cycling vacation in France. Discover the delightful towns and villages of Provence, cycle from castle to castle in the Loire, or conquer the iconic climbs of the Pyrenees or the Alps, featured in the Tour de France. Witness the excitement of professional races with VIP access and get up close and personal with the world's top cyclists.

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If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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France Bike Tours

Backroads hosted our first France bike tour in 1988 in the gorgeous Loire Valley. Since then, we’ve deepened our roots in the country. Let us show you why we love cycling France. We will take you past fairytale castles or through fields of lavender in Provence. Meet with local vintners and dine at Michelin-star restaurants after a day biking in the wine countries of Chablis and Burgundy, following the Route des Grands Crus or visiting famous towns like Chassagne-Montrachet.

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Bike tours in France

Explore france on the best guided cycling tours.

Few countries stir the imagination like France. You may have already pictured yourself bicycling through small villages composed of beautiful stone buildings, quaint cafés, and Romanesque churches that gaze across the valley at each other under the Provençal sun. Perhaps you’ve imagined yourself strolling through the lovely cobblestone streets, or enjoying the local specialties as you fill your senses with the pervading sights and scents of a traditional market. You may have always wanted to look out from atop an impenetrable medieval castle or a luxurious Renaissance château, the entire place resonating with centuries of history, romance and revenge.

Let us help you bring these images alive. At ExperiencePlus! we’ve been leading bicycle and walking tours all over the world since 1972, and we have a number of bicycle tours in France. Travel with us to visit Roman ruins and historic market towns in Provence, explore the royal castles of the Loire Valley, and discover Europe’s best rural cycling roads in the Dordogne River valley. Sample the world’s finest wines in Burgundy and the Côtes du Rhone, and trace Mediterranean history in Corsica. As you experience all of this on our bicycle tours, you’ll enjoy charming and comfortable lodging as well as the wonderful food that draws so many gourmet lovers to France.

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Cycling Corsica Plus! Beaches and Bonifacio

May 07, 2025 – May 17, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 10, 2025 – Sep 20, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Cycling the Dordogne Plus! the Vineyards of Bordeaux

Sep 03, 2024 – Sep 13, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!

Jun 02, 2025 – Jun 12, 2025 4 more to confirm the departure. Book now and save $200 per person. 

Sep 01, 2025 – Sep 11, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Cycling the Dordogne

Sep 03, 2024 – Sep 09, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!

Jun 02, 2025 – Jun 08, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 01, 2025 – Sep 07, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Bicycling the Best of Provence

Sep 13, 2024 – Sep 20, 2024 2 spaces remaining!

Sep 27, 2024 – Oct 04, 2024

May 02, 2025 – May 09, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

May 30, 2025 – Jun 06, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 12, 2025 – Sep 19, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 26, 2025 – Oct 03, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Best of Provence Plus! the Luberon and Aix-en-Provence

Sep 13, 2024 – Sep 23, 2024 2 spaces remaining!

Sep 27, 2024 – Oct 07, 2024

May 02, 2025 – May 12, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

May 30, 2025 – Jun 09, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 12, 2025 – Sep 22, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 26, 2025 – Oct 06, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Bicycling Provence to the Pyrenees Plus!

May 10, 2025 – May 20, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person

Aug 23, 2025 – Sep 02, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person

Bicycling Provence to the Pyrenees

May 10, 2025 – May 17, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person

Aug 23, 2025 – Aug 30, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person

Bicycling Brittany and Normandy

Jun 09, 2024 – Jun 15, 2024  Departure confirmed to go!

Aug 18, 2024 – Aug 24, 2024  One ReCycle credit spot available. Departure confirmed to go!

May 10, 2025 – May 16, 2025 Book Now and Save $200 per person.

Jun 17, 2025 – Jun 23, 2025 Book Now and Save $200 per person.

Aug 16, 2025 – Aug 22, 2025 Book Now and Save $200 per person.

Bicycling Brittany and Normandy Plus! Bayeux and the D-Day Beaches

Jun 09, 2024 – Jun 19, 2024  Departure confirmed to go!

Aug 18, 2024 – Aug 28, 2024  One ReCycle credit spot available. Departure confirmed to go!

May 10, 2025 – May 20, 2025 Book Now and Save $200 per person.

Jun 17, 2025 – Jun 27, 2025 Book Now and Save $200 per person.

Aug 16, 2025 – Aug 26, 2025 Book Now and Save $200 per person.

Cycling Corsica

May 07, 2025 – May 14, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 10, 2025 – Sep 17, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Cycling Champagne and Burgundy

Jun 10, 2024 – Jun 17, 2024  Departure confirmed to go!

Sep 16, 2024 – Sep 23, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!  

Jun 09, 2025 – Jun 16, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 15, 2025 – Sep 22, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Cycling Champagne, Burgundy Plus! the Côte d’Or

Jun 10, 2024 – Jun 20, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!

Sep 16, 2024 – Sep 26, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!  

Jun 09, 2025 – Jun 19, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 15, 2025 – Sep 25, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Bike and Barge: the Seine

Aug 24, 2024 – Aug 31, 2024 Sold out – waitlist available. 

Jun 01, 2025 – Jun 08, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Bike and Barge: the Seine Plus! Castles of the Loire

Aug 24, 2024 – Sep 03, 2024 Sold out – waitlist available. 

Jun 01, 2025 – Jun 11, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Cycling Lake Geneva to Chambéry Plus! Lyon

Sep 01, 2024 – Sep 11, 2024 Sold out. Wait list available.

Jun 22, 2025 – Jul 02, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person

Aug 31, 2025 – Sep 10, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person

Cycling Lake Geneva to Chambéry

Sep 01, 2024 – Sep 07, 2024 Sold out. Wait list available.

Jun 22, 2025 – Jun 28, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person

Aug 31, 2025 – Sep 06, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person

Grand Bicycling Tour of Alsace and the Black Forest

Jun 23, 2024 – Jul 06, 2024 Call for availability

Jul 28, 2024 – Aug 10, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!

Sep 08, 2024 – Sep 21, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!

Jun 22, 2025 – Jul 05, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Jul 27, 2025 – Aug 09, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 07, 2025 – Sep 20, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Bicycling the Vineyards of Alsace

Jun 23, 2024 – Jun 30, 2024 Call for availability

Jul 28, 2024 – Aug 04, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!

Sep 08, 2024 – Sep 15, 2024  Departure confirmed to go!

Jun 22, 2025 – Jun 29, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Jul 27, 2025 – Aug 03, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 07, 2025 – Sep 14, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Bicycling the Black Forest to Lake Constance

Jun 29, 2024 – Jul 06, 2024 Call for availability

Aug 03, 2024 – Aug 10, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!

Sep 14, 2024 – Sep 21, 2024 Departure confirmed to go!

Jun 28, 2025 – Jul 05, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Aug 02, 2025 – Aug 09, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

Sep 13, 2025 – Sep 20, 2025 Book now and save $200 per person.

May 07, 2025 – May 17, 2025

Sep 10, 2025 – sep 20, 2025, sep 03, 2024 – sep 13, 2024, jun 02, 2025 – jun 12, 2025, sep 01, 2025 – sep 11, 2025, sep 03, 2024 – sep 09, 2024, jun 02, 2025 – jun 08, 2025, sep 01, 2025 – sep 07, 2025, sep 13, 2024 – sep 20, 2024, may 02, 2025 – may 09, 2025, may 30, 2025 – jun 06, 2025, sep 12, 2025 – sep 19, 2025, sep 26, 2025 – oct 03, 2025, sep 13, 2024 – sep 23, 2024, may 02, 2025 – may 12, 2025, may 30, 2025 – jun 09, 2025, sep 12, 2025 – sep 22, 2025, sep 26, 2025 – oct 06, 2025, may 10, 2025 – may 20, 2025, aug 23, 2025 – sep 02, 2025, may 10, 2025 – may 17, 2025, aug 23, 2025 – aug 30, 2025, jun 09, 2024 – jun 15, 2024, aug 18, 2024 – aug 24, 2024, may 10, 2025 – may 16, 2025, jun 17, 2025 – jun 23, 2025, aug 16, 2025 – aug 22, 2025, jun 09, 2024 – jun 19, 2024, aug 18, 2024 – aug 28, 2024, jun 17, 2025 – jun 27, 2025, aug 16, 2025 – aug 26, 2025, may 07, 2025 – may 14, 2025, sep 10, 2025 – sep 17, 2025, jun 10, 2024 – jun 17, 2024, sep 16, 2024 – sep 23, 2024, jun 09, 2025 – jun 16, 2025, sep 15, 2025 – sep 22, 2025, jun 10, 2024 – jun 20, 2024, sep 16, 2024 – sep 26, 2024, jun 09, 2025 – jun 19, 2025, sep 15, 2025 – sep 25, 2025, aug 24, 2024 – aug 31, 2024, jun 01, 2025 – jun 08, 2025, aug 24, 2024 – sep 03, 2024, jun 01, 2025 – jun 11, 2025, sep 01, 2024 – sep 11, 2024, jun 22, 2025 – jul 02, 2025, aug 31, 2025 – sep 10, 2025, sep 01, 2024 – sep 07, 2024, jun 22, 2025 – jun 28, 2025, aug 31, 2025 – sep 06, 2025, jun 23, 2024 – jul 06, 2024, jul 28, 2024 – aug 10, 2024, sep 08, 2024 – sep 21, 2024, jun 22, 2025 – jul 05, 2025, jul 27, 2025 – aug 09, 2025, sep 07, 2025 – sep 20, 2025, jun 23, 2024 – jun 30, 2024, jul 28, 2024 – aug 04, 2024, sep 08, 2024 – sep 15, 2024, jun 22, 2025 – jun 29, 2025, jul 27, 2025 – aug 03, 2025, sep 07, 2025 – sep 14, 2025, jun 29, 2024 – jul 06, 2024, aug 03, 2024 – aug 10, 2024, sep 14, 2024 – sep 21, 2024, jun 28, 2025 – jul 05, 2025, aug 02, 2025 – aug 09, 2025, sep 13, 2025 – sep 20, 2025.

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FOR EVERYONE

SELF-GUIDED CYCLING AND ACTIVE VACATIONS

Congratulations for choosing an active vacation! For the past 30 years, Discover France has perfected the art of European cycling vacations and French bike tours. We create itineraries with the spirit of independent travel in mind, offering cycling, hiking, and active vacation tours in France and Europe. We can customize your vacation according to your time, fitness level, and interests. Our European vacations are the ultimate adventure for couples, families, and friends.

With our self-guided active vacations, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace the historical landmarks and spectacular scenery of Europe and France. We are there for you with support whenever and wherever you need it along the way.

We love to share our passion for cycling, cycling trips, France, and it’s art of living…

Discover France was founded in the U.S. thirty years ago, based on a passion for sharing the wonders of France though cycling trips. Since then, we have helped 40.000 guests experience the best cycling in the world at their own pace.

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France bike tours

We’ve created a complete catalogue of France bike tours designing itineraries that share the outstanding historical landmarks, beautiful scenery, and interesting cultures of France.

Europe bike tours

Explore classic destinations like the Loire Valley , Ireland , Provence , Italy and Tuscany . Or try the newer hot spots like Croatia , Corsica , or Portugal .

We offer a complete catalogue of vacation destinations and bike tours , designing itineraries that share the outstanding historical landmarks, beautiful scenery and interesting cultures of Europe.

GUIDED OR SELF-GUIDED?

The only difference is that with self-guided tours…you are the guide!

Tailored specifically for active, independent and curious travelers who demand exceptional value with full flexibility, these tours are customizable and extremely affordable.

TESTIMONIALS

Family, couple, solo or friends vacations .

Looking for travel ideas for your family, as a couple or vacationing with friends ? From romantic getaways to family trips , there is always the right trip for you with Discover France.

Enjoy a romantic visit of the Loire Valley castles with your beloved one. Discover the secrets of the Mont Saint Michel with your kids. Have fun with your group of friends while cycling along the Canal du Midi .

Different types of bikes are available : e-bikes, road bikes, touring hybrids and mountain bikes. If you are a sport addict of looking for a family vacation, there’s a tour for you!

VACATION EXPERIENCES

Discover France is a specialist of self-guided and guided biking tours in France and Europe. And a whole lot more! We offer a wide selection of vacation experiences: such as walking or multi-activity tours in different European destinations. We offer theme-based tours: culinary vacations , wine tours , or cultural interest tours . Our vacations are a perfect occasion to explore a destination and live a new experience.

You’ve decided to see Europe, France, or any of our overseas destinations up close and off the beaten path with an active vacation. Whether biking, hiking, or on one of our multisport tours, you have the opportunity to discover Europe at your own pace with self-guided travel. Explore the European favorites: the castles of the Loire Valley, the scenic natural beauty of Ireland , or the Mediterranean sunshine of Provence or Tuscany, Italy.

We even design special training camps with coaching and advice from our professional guides. Adventure seekers! Let us design your experience. If you are looking for a new or off the beaten path experience – join us!

WHAT IS SELF-GUIDED ?

Our self-guided cycling, multi-sport and hiking tours offer the same quality, style, service and comforts of our guided trips. The only difference is that with self-guided… you are the guide! Tailored specifically for active, independent and curious travelers who demand exceptional value and flexibility, these tours are customizable and extremely affordable.

Discover France pioneered and perfected the art of self-guided travel. Each of our self-guided cycling and multi-sport tours is a complete and affordable vacation, tailored specifically for active, independent and curious travelers who demand exceptional value and flexibility.

OFFICIAL TOUR DE FRANCE TOUR OPERATOR

Come with us to experience first-hand the blood, sweat, tears-and of course-fantastic landscapes and delicious food and wine along the Tour’s route.

As an Official Tour de France Tour Operator, we are able to offer exclusive, VIP access along the race course. Imagine mingling with the pros as the Departure Village, following the Caravan, flying in a helicopter to get a bird’s eye view of the cyclists, taking on the same alpine summits racing across the same finish lines-just before the pros do, popping open a celebratory bootle of bubbly on the Champs-Elysées.

BIKE TOURS FOR EVERYONE SINCE 1994

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La Belle France

France bike tours.

Bordeaux  ·  Chambord  ·  Champagne  ·  Loire Valley  ·  Marseille  ·  Medoc  ·  Paris  ·  Saint-Emilion

Spectacular culture, unrivaled cuisine, and picture-perfect countryside make France the perfect setting for a bike tour. As home to one of the most famous cycling races in the world, the Tour de France, the country enjoys a strong cycling culture, whether you’re pedaling along the backstreets of Paris, biking amongst the best vineyards in Europe, or cruising the coastline of the south.

There’s no better way to discover Paris, France’s chic capital, than by cycling. Take a city tour to discover the glittering icons of the 'City of Lights' in one day: the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Or, venture to Versailles, palatial court of the Sun King, to discover the country’s royal and revolutionary history.

Marseille is France’s second city, occupying an enviable position on the country’s southern coast. Historically a crossroads of trade and immigration, the city jostles with a rich cultural tapestry that melds European and African influences. Take a city tour to discover the Cathedral and the Old Port that lend Marseille its historic charm. For a different kind of day tour, pedal out to the Calanques, a national park of white cliffs and turquoise water, for a captivating coastal ride.

For those traveling to France to savor a culinary adventure, there’s no better destination than Lyon. Regarded by some as the gastronomic capital of the world, there are more restaurants per head here than in any other city in France. Take an e-bike tour with food tastings in Lyon to combine cultural sightseeing with a taste of local delicacies.

Venture into the low mountains of the Alpilles or pedal through Provence for a family-friendly tour of sun-baked Southern France. Just a stone’s throw from Bordeaux, meander through Medoc or cycle through Saint-Emilion on a guided tour of some of France’s most prominent viticultural hubs. Learn about the long history of winemaking in these regions and stop at some of the century-old chateaux for wine tasting flights and lunch.

“I had come to the conclusion that I must really be French, only no one had ever informed me of this fact. I loved the people, the food, the lay of the land, the civilized atmosphere, and the generous pace of life.”

Learn more:

• Your First Cycling Day Tour: What to Expect & How to Maximize Your Experience

France Bike Tours · 1 to 13 of 13

Marseille Highlights Bike Tour

Marseille · from €55 EUR

Description: Never miss a moment on this spectacular sightseeing tour of Marseille, with the added benefit of bike rental! The Marseille Highlights Bike Tour takes in the Panier district, Major Cathedral, Mucem Esplanade, Old Port, Pharo Palace, Malmousque, Auffes…

Paris Highlights Bike Tour

Paris · from €45 EUR

Description: Prepare to be dazzled by the City of Light’s most iconic landmarks on the Paris Highlights Bike Tour. Ride in style through Europe’s cultural capital, with stops at the Eiffel Tower, Tsar Alexander III Bridge, Les Invalides, the Louvre…

Marseille Seaside E-Bike Tour

Marseille · from €35 EUR

Description: A sublime cycle through Marseille’s seaside districts awaits you on the Marseilles Seaside E-Bike Tour, including the Vallon des Auffes, Palais du Pharo, and Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. With the added benefit of electric bike rental, this…

Palace of Versailles Paris Full Day Bike Tour with Picnic

Paris · from €145 EUR

Description: If you’ve come to Paris to discover vivacious Versailles, this is your ultimate bike tour, taking you to the Palace, Gardens, Fountains, Royal Grounds, Open Air Food Market (for an extra special Parisian picnic), and even Marie Antoinette’s private…

Paris Evening Bike & Boat Tour

Paris · from €69 EUR

Description: There’s no more atmospheric way to experience Paris than an evening bike tour. Glide through the City of Light on the Paris Evening Bike and Boat Tour, with bike rental included. As the sun sets, you’ll make stops at the Louvre Pyramid, Tsar Alexander…

Marseille to the Calanques E-Bike Tour

Marseille · from €79 EUR

Description: Take a guided day tour from magnificent Marseille to the captivating Calanques, soaking up the best of the city, sensational seaside views, and captivating cliff-faces along the way! This breathtaking bicycle tour is family-friendly, with the added…

Monet's Gardens & Giverny Private Paris E-Bike Tour

Paris · from €399 EUR

Description: Follow in the footsteps of the Father of Impressionism on the Monet's Gardens & Giverny Private Paris E-Bike Tour. Cycle through the village and countryside that inspired the impressionist painter and walk in the gardens that he declared his…

Saint-Emilion E-Bike Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting

Saint-Emilion · from €189 EUR

Description: Pedal through picturesque countryside and verdant vineyards on the Saint-Émilion E-Bike Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting. Over the course of this e-bike day tour you'll visit two renowned chateaux, including a family-run estate and a Grand Cru…

Medoc E-Bike Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting

Medoc · from €191 EUR

Description: Take an immersive ride into the viticulture of one of Bordeaux's finest wine regions on the Medoc E-Bike Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting. Experience Médoc's viticulture firsthand, from vine to bottle, combined with a scenic cycle through some of the…

Champagne E-Bike Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting

Champagne · from €190 EUR

Description: For a stylish bicycle tour bubbling with surprises, look no further than the Champagne E-Bike Tour with Lunch & Wine Tasting! This guided glide weaves you through the UNESCO World Heritage vineyards of Champagne, taking in the Avenue de Champagne…

Loire Valley & Chambord E-Bike Tour with Food Tasting from Tours

Chambord · from €185 EUR

Description: If you’re looking for a guided tour of the Loire Valley that takes in the famous Chambord forest and châteauxs, this is the bicycle tour for you! The Loire Valley & Chambord E-Bike Tour with Food Tasting takes you on a leisurely journey through the…

Loire Valley & Chambord E-Bike Tour with Food Tasting from Blois

Private Paris Bike Tour

Paris · from €110 EUR

Description: Whether you want a family-friendly afternoon activity, a romantic evening ride, or a city tour with a twist, the Paris Private Bike Tour is the perfect way to see the City of Light. The tour is completely customizable to your interests, so whether you…

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Cycling Holidays France

Cycling tours in france.

Tour de France Cycling Tour

Loire Valley Cycling Holidays

French Alps Cycling Tour

Pyrenees Grand Tour

Provence Bike Tour

Classic Alps Climbing Tour

About Cycling Holidays France

France is the go-to destination for cycling aficionados eager to traverse the beauty of this iconic nation. Our tours guide you through France’s most scenic landscapes, allowing you to immerse in its deep-rooted history and vibrant culture from the seat of your bike.

Moreover, France’s temperate climate makes it a year-round cycling haven. While many European regions brace for winter chills, France remains a perfect getaway for those wishing to keep pedaling throughout the seasons.

We recognize that orchestrating a cycling journey can be daunting. Thus, we offer 24/7 support, ensuring a smooth and memorable expedition from beginning to end.

All our cycling tours in France come equipped with comprehensive maps, tailor-made itineraries , and precise GPS routes. Our intuitive mapping offers all you need to navigate each route with ease. In essence, we’ve got everything in place to craft an indelible mark on your travel memories.

We handle the logistics so that you can solely focus on relishing every pedal stroke of your French cycling escapade.

Book your tour with us now and set forth on a unique voyage, uncovering France’s hidden gems on two wheels!

What are the Best Bike Tours France Has to Offer?

France is celebrated for its varied terrains, from the majestic Alps and the Pyrenees to the tranquil coastal pathways and rolling vineyards of Burgundy. Allow us to assist you in choosing the perfect tour for your next cycling excursion in France.

1. Pyrenees: Incredible views and challenging roads

For an exhilarating cycling challenge, the Pyrenees Grand Tour awaits !

2. Loire Valley: Riverside Charm and Picturesque Hillsides

The Loire Valley Cycling Holidays is tailor-made for those in search of a rejuvenating escape.

3. The French Alps: Epic Ascents and Infinite Vistas.

Conquer the highest peaks of the French Alps with our Classic Alps Climbing Tour

4. Provence and Riviera: Mediterranean Air and Stunning Views

Escape to the idyllic South of France with the Provence Bike Tour .

World-class Cycling Destination

France is ideal for cycling tours. The country flaunts a temperate climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Throughout the cycling season, from late spring to early autumn, anticipate agreeable temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The peak summer months can be warmer, especially in southern regions, with temperatures occasionally reaching between 25°C and 35°C (77°F to 95°F).

This inviting weather ensures delightful rides, enabling you to immerse in the splendid beauty of the French countryside. This makes bicycle tours in France a delight. And of course, a tour in France is incomplete without savoring its world-class cuisine . From sumptuous croissants to delicate escargots, French gastronomy is a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions.

On your travels, you’ll be enticed to try iconic dishes like coq au vin, bouillabaisse, tarte tatin, and an array of regional specialties . Don’t miss the exquisite French wines and cheeses, as they effortlessly enhance the culinary delights and offer the perfect relaxation after a fulfilling cycling day.

Hassle-Free

Completely customizable, book with confidence, unbeatable support, things to know.

Self-led bike adventures provide a tailor-made and flexible approach to cycling holidays, allowing you to discover at your leisure and modify your schedule or route whenever necessary. Our crew takes care of every detail, from accommodations and detailed plans to GPS guidance and ongoing assistance, ensuring a serene and immersive trip that offers independence, individuality, and authentic cultural encounters.

Our tours are grouped into three difficulty tiers: Leisurely , Moderate , and Challenging . The categorization is based on the typical day of the tour, even though there might be fluctuations in difficulty over the course of the trip.

Leisurely tours cater to those seeking a laid-back journey through breathtaking scenery, without the demand of traversing great distances or navigating tough terrains. These excursions usually span 30-50 km daily, with an altitude climb of up to 500m. This ensures ample opportunities to pause and soak in panoramas, savor regional dishes, and wander through picturesque towns and hamlets en route.

Moderate bike tours suit those seeking a harmonious blend of picturesque routes and a touch of challenge. Usually spanning 50-80 km daily with an altitude ascent of up to 1000m, these tours take you across captivating landscapes and delightful hamlets, offering a combination of level and undulating terrains. While providing ample opportunities to halt and delve deeper, they also ensure a rewarding cycling exercise.

Challenging bike tours cater to seasoned cyclists keen on testing their boundaries. Ranging from 80-120 km daily with an altitude rise of up to 2000m, these journeys involve navigating rigorous inclines and demanding terrains. However, the breathtaking vistas make the effort worthwhile. While these tours demand top-notch fitness and stamina, the euphoria of achievement felt at day’s end is unparalleled.

We’re committed to finding the perfect fit for you. We partner with several accommodation providers that align with our standards, though their availability can vary, particularly in high-demand periods. Additionally, we can tailor your holiday according to your tastes and financial plan, ensuring we pinpoint the most suitable option for your requirements.

We recommend securing your tour at the earliest convenience, particularly for sought-after tourist spots with limited accommodation availability. Top options frequently get reserved for the summer before the onset of spring.

Catering to dietary needs can fluctuate based on their complexity. In France, vegetarian choices are generally accessible, but sourcing vegan meals might be a challenge in countryside locales or smaller towns. Notably, lunch halts are often at conventional eateries that might not accommodate special dietary preferences beyond their regular offerings. Bear this in mind as you map out your journey.

The prime cycling season spans from mid-April to mid-October. In higher regions like the Alps, it’s best from mid-May to September to avoid snow.

Tours can proceed in light rain with suitable attire. Summer often brings afternoon thunderstorms, so starting tours early is advisable. If adverse weather is anticipated, we’ll aim to modify the tour in advance.

Ready for the time of your life?

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Guided cycling tours in France's most beautiful regions

All you have to do is pedal!

At French Cycling Holidays, we love France and we love cycling.

Our cycling tours in France combine these two passions into an experience that you will never forget.

We specialise in guided, supported cycling tours in France’s most beautiful areas, staying at charming , individual and very comfortable hotels and sampling the finest regional cuisine and wine.

French Cycling Holidays is here to ensure that you enjoy the best of France — the scenery, the sights, and the cuisine — and to make sure that you have a hassle-free vacation. From the moment we collect you from the airport or train station, everything is taken care of. All you have to do is pedal...

Featured guided cycling tours

Mediterranean coast and canal du midi tour.

5th May 2024

From £2675.00

Provence – Roman Heritage & Wine

12th May 2024

From £2725.00

Bordeaux & Bergerac Wine

14th Jul 2024

From £2775.00

“Another excellent holiday –the guides, Alan and Marie were brilliant!”

-- Mike & Liz Roberts, West Sussex UK

“Hotel choices are very good, lots of character, the meals were superb! Henry and David, the guides, were great – key to the great experience.”

-- Diane and Tom Rosfjord, Connecticut, USA

“Truly enjoyable – an ideal mix of sightseeing and cycling, every hotel was excellent, Alan and Roger were caring and helpful.”

-- Al and Karen Henkelman, Ontario, Canada.

Private Cycling Tours

If you have a group of 6 people or more and want to take any of our cycling tours as a private tour, we can normally arrange any tour for any date.

New Zealand Cycling Tours

A guided cycling tour of New Zealand's South Island

• Way of Saint James
• Atlantic coast
• Bordeaux area
• Dordogne /Périgord
• Loire valley
• Provence - French riviera
• Rhône Alpes
• Round trips
• Family Cycling
• Centre Based
• Custom tours
• Linear cycle routes
• Easy cycling
• Why France?
• Self guided trips
• Information
• Rental bikes
• Travel terms and conditions
• Environmental Policy
• Company history

France : the place to be for cycling holidays !

Bienvenue en france: the place to be for cycling holidays.

French Bike Tours is proudly part of European Bike Tours , which has  local offices in the countries where we operate ( The Netherlands , Belgium , France, Italy , Spain and the UK ). Our dedicated local experts are specialists in organising self-guided cycling tours. 

We offer you a multitude of possibilities: discovering Burgundy and its medieval villages; cycling in the Loire Valley with its magnificent castles; exploring Provence and the history of Van Gogh; experiencing the wonderful sea views on Brittany’s famous coast. 

Would you like to add a personal touch to your cycling holiday, customising it for your needs? Please let us know: our team is at your service to answer all your requests, feel free to contact us. We can be reached by phone from Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 17:30 on: +33 (0)5 53 24 22 10 or send us an email: [email protected]

A bientôt,

Team French Bike Tours

Where do you want to explore?

The Loire Valley is an outstanding cultural landscape of great beauty , containing historic towns and villages. The most well-kown trip is the iconic ‘Loire à Vélo’ which follows Europe's most beautiful river from the inland city of Nevers, through the indescribable 'Pays des Châteaux' , to St. Nazaire at sea.

The Provence, 'Land of Light' , source of inspiration of Van Gogh and Cézanne . Here you can cycle along quiet backroads through fabulous countryside with lavender fields, vineyards and olive orchards . Here, you can explore the historic towns, the amazing 'perched' hill-top villages and admire the outstanding natural beauty.

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and its exceptional natural heritage are a haven foreveryone who loves protected, unspoilt countryside. The region also boasts a remarkable built heritage . Its castle forts, Romanesque churches and typical villages and towns of great architectural and cultural importance. 

On the coast or in the countryside, Brittany offers a real taste of freedom! Brittany or Breizh, surrounded by the Channel and the Atlantic Ocean , counts more than 1.700 km of wonderful cycle routes. This enchanted land of the Bretons will make you discover an unspoiled nature, along characteristic towns and villages.

Discover our best selling trips

Expert team

We are local experts who offer self-guided cycling holidays in France covering all levels of ability and all ages from 8-88 years old. We will take care of everything: accommodation, bike rental, itineraries and luggage transport. 

Trip notes & Maps

All of our trips are carefully designed by our team to provide you with the best cycling routes . We offer easy-to-use, up-to-date route notes and maps. Enjoy cycling on comfortable and peaceful routes! 

Sustainability

Cycling is amongst the lowest-impact way to travel. As you explore off-the-beaten-track, you help support local communities and minimise the damage that mass-tourism can make.

We know that taking a self-guided trip for the first time can generate insecurity, but with our app you can follow from your mobile and in an intuitive way the daily routes of your cycling trip. Our mobile app will also show you points of interest along your route. 

Cycling in France

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France Vélo Tourisme Discover France By bike

All cycle routes in france .

"France Vélo Tourisme" is the official website to discover France by bike. An enjoyable and ecological way to discover France while cycling : planning your holidays, biking trips or cycling tours and weekends on bicycle paths, greenways and other bicycle routes in France.

Cycle just as you wish

Find my accueil vélo.

"Accueil Velo" is a national accreditation scheme guaranteeing a high quality of welcome and services for cyclists using French cycle routes

The latest reviews published online

Reviews and comments of bike travellers on our routes. Don't hesitate to leave yours on the paths you've already ridden!

Beaucoup de choses à voir et faire à Étretat et Le Havre mais des montées assez dures.

Très belles vues mais des montées très dures partagées avec des voitures.

Go cycling in France !

Preparing Your Cycle Trip in France

Cycle route planner in France

La Vélo Francette

Train and bicycle in France

Mediterranean Cycle Route

The best cycle routes reachable by boat from England

The French Châteaux

Go on a trip, they organize everything for you.

French travel agencies, specialized in bicycle travel, offer you tailor-made stays. Leave serene and with a free mind.

Cycling holidays along the Loire by bike - Rando Vélo

Cycling trips on La Vélodyssée - Rando Vélo

From Mont-Saint-Michel to Roscoff

Bike trips on ViaRhôna with Safrantours

Loire Valley Trips - Rando Vélo

The Vélo Francette with La Bicyclette Verte

4 days to discover Paris with Le Vélo Voyageur

The great bike tour around Bordeaux with Evazio

Regions in France

France bike tours.

From the mighty Alps to the lush Loire Valley and the sunflower-strewn fields of Provence, the pleasures of France grow greater the deeper you delve into its distinctive regions. When wine lovers talk about the defining traits of a bottle or glass, there is one word they use above all: terroir. It refers to the precise combination of geography, climate, soil, and other place-specific characteristics that set one wine apart from another produced just a few miles away.

The notion of terroir also captures the very essence of France: a certain joie de vivre is present everywhere, but so much else changes from province to province (and often just between towns). From briny oysters in Bordeaux to decadent foie gras in Burgundy, an effervescent bottle of Crémant to an earthy Grand Cru, the notion of terroir is present in every aspect of French food and culture. It is a life’s work to explore it all, and our trips to France are a great way to start—or continue.

Let’s talk bike travel: tell us how we can help! Contact Us

Alps Journey Bike Tour

2024 tour dates.

• Jun 9 – 15
• Aug 18 – 24

Any scheduled tour can be made private. Your group, your dates. Go Private

Bordeaux Bike Tour

• May 5 – 10
• May 19 – 24
• May 26 – 31
• Jun 2 – 7
• Jun 9 – 14
• Jun 16 – 21
• Jun 23 – 28
• Jun 30 – Jul 5
• Jul 7 – 12
• Jul 14 – 19
• Jul 21 – 26
• Jul 28 – Aug 2
• Aug 18 – 23
• Aug 25 – 30
• Sep 1 – 6
• Sep 8 – 13
• Sep 15 – 20
• Sep 22 – 27
• Sep 29 – Oct 4
• Oct 6 – 11
• Oct 13 – 18
• Oct 20 – 25

2025 Tour Dates

• Apr 20 – 25
• May 11 – 16
• May 18 – 23
• Jun 1 – 6
• Jun 15 – 20
• Jun 22 – 27
• Jun 29 – Jul 4
• Jul 6 – 11
• Jul 13 – 18
• Jul 20 – 25
• Jul 27 – Aug 1
• Aug 10 – 15
• Aug 17 – 22
• Aug 24 – 29
• Aug 31 – Sep 5
• Sep 7 – 12
• Sep 14 – 19
• Sep 21 – 26
• Sep 28 – Oct 3
• Oct 5 – 10
• Oct 12 – 17
• Oct 19 – 24

Burgundy 4-Day Bike Tour

This tour is for private groups only. There are no scheduled dates. Go Private

Burgundy Bike Tour

• May 12 – 17
• Aug 4 – 9
• Aug 11 – 16

Corsica Bike Tour

• Jun 24 – 29
• Sep 2 – 7

Dordogne + Bordeaux Bike Tour

• Jul 2 – 7
• May 25 – 30

Dordogne Bike Tour

Loire Valley Bike Tour

• Jun 8 – 13

Loire Valley Family Bike + Adventure Tour

Normandy Bike Tour

• Sep 9 – 14

Provence 4-Day Bike Tour

• May 14 – 17
• Jun 18 – 21
• Jul 2 – 5
• Jul 9 – 12
• Jul 21 – 24
• Aug 18 – 21
• Sep 3 – 6
• Sep 10 – 13
• Sep 17 – 20
• Sep 22 – 25
• Oct 1 – 4
• Oct 8 – 11

Provence Bike Tour

Provence Family Bike + Adventure Tour

Provence Insider Bike Tour

Provence Villa Bike Tour

Pyrenees Journey Bike Tour

• Jul 7 – 14
• Aug 4 – 11

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• Customized biking tour

Loire Valley : 23 cycling tour(s)

4-day family holiday in the heart of the loire valley castles.

• The variety of landscapes at each stage
• Chenonceaux, Amboise, Chaumont sur Loire ... the most elegant castles!
• The possibility to choose between short and long stages

Bike loop around Tours: between castles and "Loire à Vélo" cycling paths

• Stay 2 nights in the heart of the medieval city of Chinon
• Alternate between vineyards and waterways
• The historic treasures of Touraine

Loire à vélo: cycle tour from Saumur to the Atlantic sea

• The Loire wildest landscapes
• Discovery of the nice and peacefull city of Nantes
• After the “sweet Loire Valley”, the nice beaches of Le Croisic !
• Go back up the Loire to the Ocean

« Indre » and « Cher à Vélo »: between hidden treasures and essentials

• 2 nights in Loches to enjoy the superb medieval city
• Cycling routes along the Indre and Cher rivers
• The mix between essential sites and more confidential sites

Cycle tour around Blois and Chambord

• Your hotel located in the heart of the Blois
• The prestigious chateau of Chambord and Cheverny
• The ‘Pack-chateaux ‘BikingFrance’ in option

Family tour on Loire à Vélo: from Tours to Saumur

• Cycling paths appropriate for families
• Rigny-Ussé, the « sleeping-Beauty » chateau
• The medieval town of Chinon
• The château of Langeais with its air of fortified castle

2 days cycling tour: from Blois to Chenonceaux

• The elegancy of the château de Chenonceau spanning the Cher river
• A great range of scenery: Loire river, vineyards and forest
• Immerse yourself in the medieval time discovering the historic cities of Blois and Amboise

From Saumur to Chinon, bike escape off the beaten track

• The discovery of Fontevraud Abbaye and the astonishing chateau of Brézé
• The troglodyte discovery
• A cycling itinerary leading you off the beaten track
• In the heart of the prestigious Chinon and Saumur-Champigny vineyards

Loire à Vélo: cycle tour from Orléans to Tours

• Cycling itineraries on the « Loire à Vélo »
• Magic arrival facing the Château of Chambord
• A route on François 1st and Leonard Da Vinci’s traces

3 days biking in the heart of the greatest Loire Valley castles

• The main châteaux of the Loire Valley: Chambord, Chenonceaux, Chaumont, etc...
• The landscapes’ alternation: the Loire river banks, forest paths and vineyards
• The city of Amboise

3 days biking on Loire a Velo trail from Tours to Saumur

• The chateau of Azay-le-Rideau in its water and greenery setting
• The abbatial church of Candes-Saint-Martin
• Troglodytes and Chinon and Saumur vineyards
• Chinon and Saumur vineyards

Loire à Vélo: bike tour from Nevers to Orléans

• The Canal de Briare and its canal-Bridge, World Heritage Site by UNESCO
• The beautiful landscapes offered by « Loire Natural reserve »
• The Sancerre wine
• Discover the « Kilometre Zero » of the « Loire à Vélo »

A family cycle tour in the Loire Valley

• The loire river banks and the Villandry Renaissance gardens
• An easy route accessible to everyone

Loire à Vélo: cycle tour from Blois to Tours along the great chateaux

• Discovery of the Loire Valley greatest chateaux: Chambord, Cheverny, Chenonceau, Amboise!
• A bit of shopping in Tours … while visiting the old town!
• Loire à Vélo cycling paths!

Deluxe bike tour in the Loire Valley chateaux region

• Stay in the greastest charming chateaux-hotels
• The unmissable chateaux of Chambord and Chenonceau
• The wealth of the local gastronomy and Chefs’ talents

5 days on Loire a Velo trails from Blois to Saumur

• The architecturale wealth in every stopover town
• The variety of the Loire wines: Vouvray, Montlouis, Saumur-Champigny, etc...

Family cycling trip from Blois to Amboise

• The easy bike stages, between cycle paths and marked out itineraries
• The visit of chateaux de Chambord, Cheverny and the last home of Leonardo Da Vinci.
• Remember Tintin world at the château de Cheverny
• Enjoy the “natural bathing spot”, entirely environmental

The Loire Valley's greatest chateaux by bike

• Discovery of the most prestigious chateaux: Chambord, Chenonceau and Cheverny
• Varied landscapes between the ‘Loire by bike’, forest and vineyards
• Possibility of canoeing on the Loire and Cher rivers

Family cycling tour in the Loire Chateaux country

• ‘The secrets of Marlinspike’ exhibition in Cheverny
• An easy and accessible to all itinerary
• Discover the chateaux of Chambord and Cheverny

Bike stay between Chambord and Cheverny

• 3 days in the heart of Sologne, between forest and chateaux
• Short stages to Chambord and Cheverny
• For the gourmand: The handmade chocolate factory Max Vauché, nearby your hotel

Bike escapade in the heart of Chambord country

• The elegance and tranquility of your acccommodation, in the heart of a beautiful countryside
• Taste the Cheveny's wines !
• About 3 or 4 bike excursions in varied landscapes: Chambord forest, vineyards and Loire banks

Cycle tour around Amboise

• 4 bike excursions from Amboise, including the unmissable château of Chenonceau !
• Plunge back into the fabulous world of Leonardo Da Vinci
• The outstanding Vouvray vineyards

The hidden treasures of the Loire à Vélo routes, from Tours to Saumur

• A mix between cycling paths and outstanding sideroads
• Montsoreau and Crissay-sur-Manse : ones of the « Most Beautiful Villages of France »
• The elegant chateau d'Azay le Rideau and the surprising château de Brézé
• Français ( French )

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Self-Guided Cycling Tours & Trips in France

Find the right self-guided cycling tour for you in France. There are 46 trips to choose from, that range from 4 days in length, up to 16 days. The month with the most departures is May, making it the most popular time to visit France.

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46 self-guided cycling tour packages in france with 18 reviews.

• Self-Guided Cycling

Loire Cycle Path: Wild-romantic all the way to the sea (from Orleans to St-Nazaire)

Fantastic trip. Hotels were tremendous, especially the meal in the hotel in Saint Florent-le-Vieil. Maps were good though I used my app Bikemap.net, to act as a Sat Nav. A couple of hiccups with luggaeew but minor in comparison with holiday organisation. Would certainly recommend.

Loire Cycle Path: Wild-romantic all the way to the sea (from Tours to St-Nazaire)

The luggage was always on site, the hotels so O.k. and the description was good. For the navigation I was glad about the Garmin Navi.

Hilltop Villages of Provence Cycling

• Wine tasting

Cotes Du Ventoux Cycling

Loire Valley Cycle

I travelled solo on the self guided Loire Valley Cycle. This was my first experience self guiding and it was a great introduction. The cycle routes mainly along cycle paths and country roads were usually well marked and the route notes & overview maps provided helped me to find my way – a few wrong turns here and there when I wasn’t paying attention, all part of the experience! Locals were always welcoming and went out of their way to help. The mix of 2 and 3 star hotels were well chosen for their charm with good locations, simple & plentiful continental breakfasts, delicious 3-4 course dinners if you choose the half board option for all nights (I was fit to bursting by the last day) and staff were always courteous. One of the highlights was the hotel in Chitenay which had a peaceful outdoor courtyard where dinner was served as we had good weather and a pool to make the most of the last of summer in September. The bikes were sturdy and suitable to the mostly flat terrain with rolling hills, typical for a wine growing region where you also have the opportunity for wine tasting and visiting the many chateaux along the way. The standout chateau was in Chambord – impressive just from the outside alone, well worth a look inside. Luggage transfers worked smoothly. Thanks UTracks for a great first experience self guiding and in the Loire!

Cycle the Loire - Nevers to Orléans

Bike was good. Holtels were good. First half of the route (Nevers to Sancerre) was good. Second half (Sancerre to Orleans) not so good (power station, often away from the river, uninteresting countryside).

Côte d'Azur Sternfahrt: Nice & Gold Islands with Caribbean Feeling

• Food & Culinary

Dordogne Valleys and Villages Cycling

Self guided cycle tour. The gps app was easy to use and kept us on track. The route was certainly hilly but we two 70+ coped without problems. The dinners were very good with a preponderance of duck and foie gras.

Castles on the River Loire: La Route Royal

Cycle Bordeaux to Biarritz

• Self Guided Walking Holidays

Alsace Mountains & Vineyards

Medoc Vineyard Cycle

Corsica Cycle

Via Rhôna Cycle Path: Haute-Savoie to Lyon

What people love about self-guided cycling tours in france, regions in france.

• Northern France (24)
• Southern France (22)
• Loire Valley (14)
• Pays de la Loire (14)
• Provence (10)
• Aquitaine & Midi Pyrenees (8)

Travel Styles

• France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 7 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Bicycle Tours in France

If you're looking for an adventure in France that combines the thrill of biking with stunning scenery and exciting activities, then our list of the best cycling tours will have the perfect cycling trip for you. We've carefully analyzed a variety of bike tours based on price, activities, routes, destinations, guest ratings, and service, all so that we could find the absolute best bicycle tours available in France. All of these tours are well-planned, and many of them are fully all-inclusive, provide terrific guides, and even accommodation, too. Great for museums & attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches, France is a terrific destination. Whether you're seeking a leisurely ride or a challenging expedition, there's an option for everyone here in our list of the best cycling tours, so let's take a look.

• Paris to Bruges (Brugge), Bike & Barge in France and Belgium 15 Days, $2453.30
• Loire Cycle Path: Wild-romantic all the way to the sea (from Orleans to St-Nazaire) 10 Days, $1387.96
• Bruges (Brugge) to Paris, Bike & Barge in Belgium and France 15 Days, $2453.30

What are cycling tours like in France?

Here are the important factors:

• 35 trip options analyzed
• $332 average price per day (USD)
• 3 to 15 days in length
• 4.57 of 5 average rating
• 19 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of biking and cycling tours? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.57 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 19 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 3 days, while the longest is 15 days. As for physical activity options, the tours are thoughtfully categorized as moderate, easy, and serious, with the most being moderate. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 35 biking and cycling tours, you can rest assured that France has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Bike Tours in France

Paris to bruges (brugge), bike & barge in france and belgium.

• On Sale: 30% Off See Prices
• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for biking and cycling tours.

This exceptional trip offering by Feniks Charter has received a 4 out of 5 rating. On this 15-day journey, visiting France and Belgium, you can unwind while also making new memories. Along the way, this journey encompasses 17 destinations, including Oudenaarde, Ghent, Bougival, and Conflans-Sainte-Honorine. Paris will mark the start of your journey, while Bruges will serve as its final destination. With a group size of 14 people, it's suitable for travelers from 10 to 90 years old. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around cycling and family-friendly activities. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $114 per day.

• Bike and Barge

Loire Cycle Path: Wild-romantic all the way to the sea (from Orleans to St-Nazaire)

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Check out this adventure that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating. This itinerary covers 9 captivating destinations, with stops in Blois, Tours, Chinon, and Saumur, among others. Orleans marks the starting point, while St-Nazaire stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. This terrific trip also highights cycling and family-friendly activities. Spanning across 10 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 10 participants, and it's great for travelers of any age. Brought to you by the renowned Eurobike , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $139 per day - an unbeatable value.

• Self-Guided Cycling

Bruges (Brugge) to Paris, Bike & Barge in Belgium and France

This 15-day adventure, visiting Belgium and France, is ideal for travelers from 10 to 90 years old. And priced at only $164 per day, it's a great value, too. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on cycling and family-friendly activities. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 14 destinations, featuring Bouchain, Arleux, Moislains, and Peronne. Beginning in beautiful Bruges, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Paris. It's offered by Feniks Charter , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

Loire Valley Cycle

Priced at just $174 per day, this terrific 8-day journey is ideal for travelers from 2 and up. Uncover the beauty of 5 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Amboise, Chenonceaux, and Chitenay. Blois will be the beginning and end of your trip. Organized by the reputable UTracks , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Rhine cycle path III

Check out this incredible journey that has received a 4 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting France and Germany. With an emphasis on cycling and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. With a duration of 8 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 10 people, and is good for travelers of any age. Traverse through 7 enchanting destinations, with Heidelberg, Worms, Nierstein, and Rastatt among the must-see stops along the route. Strasbourg marks the starting point, while Mainz stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. This fantastic option, organized by Eurobike , presents an unbeatable value at just $147 per day.

Bike & barge tour Provence and Camargue: from Aigues-Mortes to Avignon

Spanning over 8 days, this bicycle tour has a maximum size of 21 individuals. Welcoming travelers of any age, it is organized by Girolibero - Cycling holidays , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. This trip visits 8 destinations, including Arles, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Vallabregues, and Barbentane along the way. Beginning in beautiful Aigues-Mortes, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Avignon. And since the priority is on cycling and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. Available at an unbeatable price of only $213 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

Loire Cycle Path: Wild-romantic all the way to the sea (from Tours to St-Nazaire)

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional cycling trip that has garnered a 3.5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 8 days, this jouney will have 10 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers of any age. Rest assured, this trip is all about cycling and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. Expertly organized by Eurobike , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $136 per day.

Cycle Provence

• On Sale: 15% Off See Prices

This memorable cycling trip is offered by Explore! which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $179 per day. Explore 5 incredible locations on this trip, including Carpentras, Gordes, and Cavaillon. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Marseille. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around cycling and wine tasting. The maximum group size is 16 people, welcoming travelers from 16 to 85 years old. It's currently on a special discounted offer.

• Sightseeing
• Wine tasting

Loire Valley Castles

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. This terrific trip also highights cycling and family-friendly activities. With a duration of 5 days, this cycling trip offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 15 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers from 2 and up. Blois will be both the start and end of your journey. Brought to you by UTracks , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $190 per day.

Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi

With this option you can experience an unparalleled cycling trip for 8 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 16 participants at most. This trip takes you on an adventure to 5 destinations, including Montpellier, Beziers, and Narbonne. Your adventure starts and ends in Toulouse. Explore! , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers from 16 to 85 years old. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $171 per day. Hurry and secure your spot while this incredible sale lasts!

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France , The Best Historical Tours in France , The Best 10-Day Tours in France , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France , The Best 2-Week Tours in France , The Best River Cruises in France , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in France , The Best Christmas Market Tours in France , The Best Coach Bus Tours in France , The Best Adventure Tours to France , The Best Eco Tours in France , The Best Sightseeing Tours in France , The Best Cultural Tours in France , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France , The Best Music Tours in France , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France , The Best Walking Tours in France , The Best Tours Under $1000 in France , The Best Luxury Tours to France , The Best Budget Tours to France , The Best Tours for Seniors to France , The Best Contiki Tours to France , or The Best G Adventures Tours to France for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Strasbourg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Lyon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bordeaux , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Arles , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Avignon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Nice , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chamonix , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Strasbourg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Blois , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chalon sur Saone , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Marseille , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dijon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tours , The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris , The Best 10-Day Tours from Arles , The Best 10-Day Tours from Nice , The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris , The Best 2-Week Tours from Arles , The Best 2-Week Tours from Chamonix , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Nice for more package tour options.

How much do Biking Tours in France cost?

After analyzing 35 biking and cycling tours in France, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $332 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for biking and cycling tours with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in France .

And for more information on France, see France Travel Costs and France Hotel Costs .

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

• Guided Wine Tours
• Customization

Biking in France with us

If you have never cycled in France, you are in for a real treat. Each region has a super infrastructure of small, paved, little-trafficked roads. Toss in spectacular countryside: fields of flowers and orchards, vibrant green vineyards, castles and crumbling stone villages, and towns with winding streets lined by cafes and restaurants.

What exactly is a self-guided tour?

We provide all the structure for a great trip: the right places to stay, beautiful routes to follow, with detailed, step-by-step route notes and highlighted maps as well as GPS tracks, and a few well-chosen meals. And we transfer your luggage while you enjoy the sites and scenery. If you need any help, we are always an easy phone call away.

At the start of the trip, our Bike Manager will meet with you to go over any questions, and to check your bike fitting. If you need any help, we are always an easy phone call away.

The joy is you do it at your own pace, with no schedule, and no waiting around for other people in a group of strangers. Stop when you want, however often you want, wherever you want.

Are there fixed departure dates?

NO. Just tell us your preferred arrival date, and we will confirm availability back to you. If for some reason that specific date doesn’t work (which is rare), we will propose a solution, either in dates or in alternate hotel accommodation.

Will we be with other people?

No. We do not group people together on the tours – it will be your own, private tour, to do at the pace you like.

Do you offer group tours?

If  YOU  have a group of friends or family looking to travel together, we will be more than happy to help you organize your holiday. For a larger gang, we recommend and include special activities, guided visits and tastings, and as many of the meals as you like (so you are not stranded as a group looking for dinner).

We do NOT offer set dates for people to sign up on, to join another group of people, except on some of our Guided Wine Tours, where you can choose to join a small group (generally up to 8 participants max) on the same tour.

I am traveling on my own; can I do your tour by myself?

Yes. We have many travelers who are keen on exploring France, and are travelling on their own. We provide just the right amount of structure to help you along the way. The places we have you explore are friendly and safe, and you will find your hosts at the hotels and restaurants warm and accommodating. Our published prices are based on double occupancy, so contact us and we can give you a quote with the single supplement included.

What do the three different hotel levels mean?

All of the hotels we use have been chosen with great service and ideal location in mind. We offer 3 different levels of accommodation on our tours:

CLASSIC: Comfortable and clean 2 and 3 star hotels, all of course with private, en-suite bath. Many of our CLASSIC hotels are family-run.

CLASSIC+: A selection of charming 3 and 4 star hotels – we try to find places with great personality that reflect the region, and are not too large.

DELUXE: The best hotels the itinerary can offer; luxury accommodation: 4 and 5 star hotels

To help you choose, we tell you exactly which hotels we use in each category for each tour; if because of availability, we cannot offer the hotel listed, you will know this and be given other options to choose from before booking.

You can also mix and match levels – perhaps you feel like spoiling yourselves for the final evening, or perhaps there are specific hotels that appeal that you would like to include – just let us know.

How do the included meals work?

The French are passionate eaters, and we believe that meals are a big part of your travelling experience. The dinners we include, either at your hotel’s restaurant, or in our favourite local spots, make delicious meals with fresh ingredients, which reflect the region’s local culture. We also do everything we can to let you eat with a ton of choice (usually à la carte), so you won’t be locked into a set menu.

This doesn’t mean you’ll be eating at Michelin-starred restaurants every night; it means you’ll be eating at places with great ambiance, loved by locals as well, sometimes relaxed, sometimes more gourmet, but always with fabulous, fresh food.

Can you accommodate my dietary restrictions?

Absolutely. Once you have booked, we will check with you to see if you have any dietary restrictions we should know about, and we communicate them to the restaurants we work with for your tour. Restaurants in France are much better now than they were in the past about accommodating these in a satisfactory and delicious manner.

I like your tour, but don't have enough time. Can you help?

Of course. The tours on our website are a great starting place, but we can customize by taking out a night (or adding rest days, too). Let us know the time frame available, and we’ll suggest a great itinerary to fit!

What type of bikes/equipment are included?

Except for our Challenge level bike tours, each of our tours includes the use of a high quality touring bike. This is a flat-handlebar bike, with lightweight frame and a large range of gears – perfect for relaxed cycling with many starts and stops for siteseeing along the way.

They come equipped with everything you will need: lock, water bottle, front removable handlebar bag, and a set of back panniers. We have slightly different bikes in each region; we are happy to provide the specs for the specific bikes in the region you choose.

On our Challenge Bike Trips, the included bikes are high quality, very lightweight, carbon road bikes. Again, the exact specs vary from region to region – ask and we will provide more detail.

We have the whole range of frame sizes available, and will ask your size details after you have booked in order to ensure the best possible fit while you are on trip. We will also find out if you would like our helmets and toe cages on the pedals, both complimentary during the trip.

We can also offer pedal-assist e-bikes and road bikes on all our tours for a supplement.

I am not a great biker; will I be able to do your trip?

Other than our Challenge Bike Trips, our bike holidays are meant for people who enjoy being active, not super- athletes . We offer several different levels of trips to suit your riding ability, including several in the “easy” category. Our routes are designed to allow you to explore at a relaxed pace, with lots of time for stopping and site-seeing along the way, rather than to be pedaling against the clock to get in to your destination before sunset!

And don’t forget, you can always opt for an e-bike – allowing you to get some exercise, but have a bit of a “boost” to help you along the way!

Having said that, you will not be physically at ease if you are not familiar with cycling ahead of time. And your behind will be happier on trip if you get out and practice ahead of time, with a few outings at least, before you arrive for your trip in France.

What happens if there is a problem with the bike?

We expect you to be able to manage a basic flat tire, which very occasionally happens while on trip. We provide you of course, with the new inner tube and tools needed for this, and if it has been several years (decades??) since you have changed a bike tire, you’ll find the French quite bike savvy and happy to help!

However, if something trickier comes up during the trip, you can contact us at any time, and we will do what is necessary to help you out quickly, in order for you to continue enjoying your holiday.

What happens if it rains?

The weather is one thing we cannot control, and so it could rain while you are on your trip. Generally if it rains, it doesn’t rain all day, nor so hard that you can’t walk anyway, perhaps getting a little wet. We always recommend you bring rain gear of course, just in case.

If the weather is really unpleasant, or you simply don’t feel like cycling, we are happy to help organize a transfer for you to the next hotel along with your bikes – there may be a supplement charge for this.

Ok, I'm ready to book. How does that work?

We will send you a booking contract to fill out and send back to us. We require a 30% deposit to confirm your tour, with a credit card (Visa or Mastercard), or by wire transfer. This deposit is fully refundable up to 1 month before your tour, less a 50€ per person admin fee. We charge final payment 1 month before your trip date, which then becomes non-refundable. All our (very straightforward) booking details are outlined on the booking contract.

We do not sell Travel Insurance; there are many companies specialized in this service that we recommend you look into, for your country of origin. Also, it is a good idea to check with your credit card company to see if there is travel insurance included when you pay for your holiday with their card.

We do all the hard work for you, providing fantastic well-researched routes and great regional information. Then we leave you to enjoy it all at your own pace. So take a deep breath – now you just have to decide which of all the great regions you want for your Detours in France cycling tour!

Experience Alsace

4 nights - 5 days

Alsace Bike Tour - Taste Of

Alsace Bike Tour - Short Challenge

6 nights - 7 days

Alsace Bike Tour - Best Of

Alsace Bike Tour - Challenge - Best Of

Experience bordeaux.

Bordeaux Bike Tour - Taste Of

Bordeaux & the Dordogne River Bike

7 nights - 8 days

Bordeaux Bike Tour - Best Of

9 nights - 10 days

Bordeaux - Dordogne I Want it All Bike Tour

Experience brittany.

Brittany Bike Tour - Taste Of

Brittany Bike Tour - Best Of

Experience burgundy.

Burgundy Bike Tour - Beaune Based

5 nights - 6 days

Burgundy Bike Tour - Best Of - "The Wine Legends"

Burgundy Bike Tour - 5-night Challenge

Burgundy Bike Tour - Abbeys & Vineyards

8 nights - 9 days

Burgundy Bike Tour - 8-night Challenge

Experience canal du midi.

Canal du Midi Bike Tour - Taste Of

Carcassonne to Sete Bike Tour - Best Of

Experience normandy.

Normandy Bike Tour - Taste Of

Normandy Bike Tour - Best Of

Experience provence.

Provence Bike Tour - Roman Vestiges

Provence Bike Tour - Winelover's

Provence Bike Tour - Rhone & Luberon

Provence Bike Tour - 5 night Challenge

Provence Bike Tour - Arles to St Remy

Provence Bike Tour - I Want it All

Provence Bike Tour - 8 night Challenge

Experience the dordogne.

Dordogne Bike Tour - Taste Of

Dordogne Bike Tour - Challenge

Dordogne Bike Tour - Best Of

Experience the loire valley.

Loire Bike Tour - Taste Of - East

Loire Bike Tour - Taste Of - West

Loire Bike Tour - Abbeys & Vineyards

Loire Bike Tour - Grands Chateaux

Loire Valley Bike Tour - I want it all

Privacy overview.

What Does a Pro’s Rest Day Look Like During the Tour de France?

We take a detailed look at pros’ methods for maintaining stamina during a stage race like the Tour.

So, we dug into how top cyclists get through those long weeks of racing by picking the brains of pro team staff members and pro cyclists themselves. Even if you don’t have a stage race on the schedule, you can learn from the Tour de France rest day tactics—plus, it’s fun to find out what exactly happens after a stage finish.

Rehydrate and Refuel

If you watch the finish line of any stage, you’ll notice that soigneurs (those team staffers at the finish line) are quick to pass bottles to the riders as they cross the line. Often, they’re filled with a carb-based sports drink that includes protein in it, though some may contain straight water or just electrolytes , depending on the rider’s preference (and how nauseous they are post-sprint).

When the next race is less than 24 hours away, immediately getting hydration and fuel back in the tank is vitally important, says Human Powered Health’s dietitian Mathis Fluit. Because races like the Tour require switching hotels almost every stage—meaning the riders won’t have immediate access to their rooms—riders will often have another meal or hefty snack , like rice and chicken or granola and yogurt , on the team bus heading back to the hotel.

Spin the Legs Out Immediately

You may have seen riders get back onto their bikes after finishing a stage—on stationary trainers or rollers , that is. And you might be wondering why the heck riders are finishing 100-plus mile stages and then riding some more. It seems like they’ve already cycled enough, right?

But as Human Powered Health’s pro rider, Marjolein van’t Geloof, who’s a physiotherapist in addition to being a WorldTour bike racer, explains, often riders finish with a sprint , so they actually need a few minutes to cool down and prep their legs for another day of racing—an easy session on the trainer will do that.

“It’s really important to get on rollers and spin out your legs , just for 10 to 15 minutes,” she says. “You’re helping your legs flush the lactate out and set yourself up to feel better the next day.”

Team buses are often equipped with a shower, so riders are able to quickly clean up and get changed after a stage—important for hygiene and avoiding saddle sores , which is critical for getting through a multi-week race.

Canyon//SRAM’s Alice Towers says that once racers get to the hotel postrace, the team staff will have already checked in for riders and put suitcases in their respective rooms. That often means riders head straight to their rooms to relax, snack , take a longer shower, or have a nap .

Eat All the Carbs

Riders need to be eating steadily throughout the day, on and off the bike, says Fluit. Most of their calories will come from simple carbs , typically in the form of white rice, pasta, and oatmeal.

Riders limit fiber , and because of that, vegetables like broccoli will only appear in small quantities at night. Typically, both right after the race and dinner later on include rice- or pasta-based meals, often with chicken or red meat as the protein source . “It’s not necessarily even tomorrow that riders need to worry about when it comes to eating. They’re thinking about seven stages from now,” says Fluit. “If you’re low on calories or carbohydrates for one day, that’s going to catch up with you after a few days.”

Get in Protein, Too

Cyclists push their muscles to their absolute limit in a race like the Tour de France, and that means recovery requires protein in order to repair that damaged tissue. There’s an endurance athlete cliché of chicken breasts and rice for every meal, and it’s surprisingly accurate if you look at how Tour racers eat the night after a stage. They’ll also be drinking protein in their recovery shakes —usually between 20 and 30 grams in a bottle, along with carbohydrates and electrolytes—says Fluit.

Plan on Early Bedtimes

“The main thing for recovery is just getting as much sleep as you can possibly get,” says Phil Gaimon, former WorldTour pro and host of his new podcast, Watch the Tour de France with Phil Gaimon. “Nothing is better than an extra 15 minutes of sleep. Racers know that and so they’re focused on getting to bed as early as possible.” Because of this, many riders travel with their own pillows, eye masks, and ear plugs—and are also just great sleepers!

Limit Social Media

Some riders are fine scrolling the Twitter comments (*shudder*). Others prefer to keep their phones on airplane mode. But for the most part, riders have a routine with how they treat newsfeeds and social media during these races.

“I avoid checking any news about the race,” says Canyon//SRAM’s Kasia Niewiadoma. “I like to be as minimally distracted as possible, because I know that the more I read, the more stories that are created in my head and the more I’m thinking about it. And that just keeps me awake at night. We talk about the race at the team meeting, of course, but I don't want to do any extra investigation around it.”

Take an Ice Bath

Tadej Pogačar made headlines this year with his speedy postrace ice baths, but he’s not the only one who relies on them.

“I was always a big fan of the ice baths , which the team didn’t enable at all back then,” Gaimon says. “I’d have to make eight laps of taking the ice bucket from the hotel to my bathtub. And eventually, my teammates would also want to use the bathtub after me! It definitely helps after a hot stage. It reduces your inflammation and relaxes your central nervous system. I would always sleep better if I did the ice bath. And I see a lot of racers doing it now.” (Gaimon later created IceLegs in order to make cooling off easier for riders.)

Get a Massage

The WorldTour teams all have team physiotherapists, massage therapists, or soigneurs on staff to help riders recover faster with daily massage after each stage. “It’s the best part of the day!” says Canyon//SRAM’s Elise Chabbey, who’s also an M.D. “Most riders will get a massage, but the type of massage depends on what’s happening the next day. If the next day’s stage is not so important, the therapist can really push on the legs to try to release the muscles. But if the next day is really important, they’ll be a bit more gentle. It’s a really nice time during the hectic week: It’s a moment where you can really relax and think about something else and talk about something else.”

Set Yourself Up at Night to Ride in the Morning

Remember how Gaimon mentioned getting as much sleep as possible? That means having everything ready to roll for the next morning: Kit laid out, knowing exactly what you’re having in terms of coffee and breakfast —anything that buys you a few more minutes of sleep in the morning.

“If we had to have bags out of the room and be at breakfast at 8 a.m., I would have all my stuff packed and ready to go with my alarm set for 7:55 and literally roll out of bed and into the breakfast room,” he says.

Spin on Rest Days

You’d think on a rest day , riders really, really wouldn’t want to pedal their bikes. And yes, some will skip the ride in order to allow minor irritations, like saddle sores or road rash from a crash to heal, but many will opt for a very relaxed-paced spin to flush out the legs. These rides are short and social—and as Gaimon notes, many teams will use them as a chance to do events with sponsors.

Otherwise, riders will spend most of their rest days with legs up, relaxing and (no surprise here) eating.

Find a Way to Mentally Bounce Back

The top-level pros don’t get where they are by bemoaning a race gone wrong. As any pro cyclist will tell you, you lose many, many more races than you win. That means if a stage doesn’t go according to plan, you discuss it with the team at the evening team meeting, then you move on.

“To be honest, all the bad days make me more motivated and stronger,” says Niewiadoma. “You learn from races, and when you make a mistake, you really don’t want to find yourself in that position again. So that makes you want to be better the next day.”

Get Comfortable With Monotony

Imagine you just rode more than 100 miles up a bunch of mountains, then sprinted your heart out at the finish line. And that you’d been doing that for two weeks straight. Sure, that massage, quick spin to flush out the legs, and a healthy meal made by the team chef while chatting with your teammates and/or loved ones via FaceTime sounds great. But the reality?

“Typically for most riders, it’s rice and chicken post race, back to the hotel for a massage and then dinner,” says Derek Gee , the young Canadian who became one of the most talked-about riders of the Giro d’Italia in 2023. “For me, I was completely cracked on eating rice every day so I finished every stage with yogurt and cereal and I never really enjoy massage or find it helpful. So my postrace was just lying in bed and relaxing, eating more cereal.”

Molly writes about cycling, nutrition and training, with an emphasis on women in sport. Her new middle-grade series, Shred Girls, debuts with Rodale Kids/Random House in 2019 with "Lindsay's Joyride." Her other books include "Mud, Snow and Cyclocross," "Saddle, Sore" and "Fuel Your Ride." Her work has been published in magazines like Bicycling, Outside and Nylon. She co-hosts The Consummate Athlete Podcast.

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Lotte Kopecky to skip Tour de France Femmes after Olympics, SD Worx confirm

World Champion will finish Omnium one day before start in Rotterdam

SD Worx manager Danny Stam confirmed that World Champion Lotte Kopecky will not take part in the Tour de France Femmes this year.

Kopecky was unsure whether she could race the Tour this year because the Olympic Games in Paris finish one day before the Tour de France Femmes Grand Départ in Rotterdam. Winning a medal at the Olympic Games is one of Kopecky's top priorities this season.

"The omnium ends on Sunday afternoon, the Tour starts on Monday morning. It is almost impossible to do that properly," Stam told Sporza .

"Combining those two events would also be a very difficult task mentally."

Kopecky won the opening stage of the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift in 2023 and held the maillot jaune until the penultimate stage to the Col du Tourmalet when she lost touch on the final climb and the overall lead passed to teammate Demi Vollering.

Lotte Kopecky names Paris-Roubaix and Olympics as main 2024 targets Lotte Kopecky to ride Giro d'Italia Women ahead of Paris Olympics World champion Lotte Kopecky aims high in 2024 with Paris-Roubaix, Olympic goals

At the Tour de France route presentation, Kopecky said she wanted to race the Tour because it has two stages that run on Belgian roads - stage 3 uses part of the Liège-Bastogne-Liège course and stage 4 departs from Bastogne.

"When I see the course, I definitely want to ride. The fact that it goes through Belgium is also a very nice thing. On the other hand, the Tour is every year while the Olympic Games are only once every four years. There are also very nice goals coming up after the Tour, so it is very unclear at the moment," said Kopecky.

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"The switch from track to road is not a problem in itself, that is not my biggest fear. The Tour in itself is simply very tough and after such an omnium you have not only been physically very deep, but also mentally."

Kopecky put an emphasis on the Spring Classics this year knowing the decision on whether to race the Tour or not would come after. She won Strade Bianche, Nokere Koerse and Paris-Roubaix this year as well as the UAE Tour Women in February.

Her schedule includes the Tour of Britain Women (6-9 June) and Giro d'Italia Women (7-14 July) before the Olympics in Paris. She will set her sights on the World Championships in Zurich in the latter part of the season.

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Laura Weislo has been with Cyclingnews since 2006 after making a switch from a career in science. As Managing Editor, she coordinates coverage for North American events and global news. As former elite-level road racer who dabbled in cyclo-cross and track, Laura has a passion for all three disciplines. When not working she likes to go camping and explore lesser traveled roads, paths and gravel tracks. Laura specialises in covering doping, anti-doping, UCI governance and performing data analysis.

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Sources confirm Evenepoel will train at altitude next month, while the future for Van Aert is less clear with no hints of a return to the Tour this summer.

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Wout van Aert and Remco Evenepoel are both on the road to recovery after their devastating crashes, but the paths forward are not similarly clear for these two “Bigs” of Belgian bike racing.

Van Aert posted to Strava on Wednesday his first outdoor ride since he broke his sternum, collarbone, and several ribs three weeks ago at Dwars door Vlaanderen, a 30km ride on a specially adapted MTB.

“Sorry to all the colleagues I’ve ever given shit to because they have spacers under their stem,” he joked in the title of his file, referencing the extra-elevated front-end of his Cervélo ZFS.

Van Aert’s ride outside of his Herentals hometown comes just one week after he was forced to concede that he would not make his debut at the Giro d’Italia next month.

“At this point I cannot train at all. I’m trying to do my first pedal strokes on the bike, but not enough to be able to train,” he said in a video statement last week.

The shape of the 29-year-old’s summer is uncertain as his Olympic ambitions and Visma-Lease a Bike’s Tour de France title defense come into tension.

Evenepoel back on track for the Tour de France

Meanwhile, team sources told Velo on Thursday that Evenepoel will be back on his track toward the Tour de France next month.

Soudal Quick-Step representatives confirmed Evenepoel will be on altitude camp in Sierra Nevada in early May ahead of the Critérium du Dauphiné on June 2 and his hugely hyped Tour debut a few weeks later.

Evenepoel has kept any training off-grid since he broke his collarbone and shoulder blade two weeks ago at the Itzulia Basque Country in a horrific crash that also involved Tour contenders Jonas Vingegaard and Primož Roglič.

The 24-year-old broke some of his social media silence Wednesday when he shared images from his ambassadorial appearance with the Tous à Bord charitable project. He was not wearing a sling or showing any visible signs of his injuries.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by R.EV (@r.ev1703)

Evenepoel’s return to altitude training next month suggests Soudal Quick-Step’s Tour de France project rattles forward as planned.

The 24-year-old superstar was forced to skip his Liège-Bastogne-Liège defense this weekend, but his calendar appears to have been otherwise mostly unaltered.

Should all go to plan, Evenepoel will face off in a popcorn-worthy clash at the Tour de France with Roglič and Tadej Pogačar on June 29 at the Grand Départ .

Whether two-time champion Vingegaard will be there to defend his crown is uncertain.

The Danish dominator was cleared to leave hospital this week after he suffered a broken collarbone and ribs and damaged his lungs in the calendar-shaping Basque crash.

It has already been confirmed that, unlike Evenepoel, Vingegaard will not be attending a previously-scheduled altitude camp next month.

What next for Wout? Olympics, Tour, Vuelta calendar complications

Visma-Lease a Bike is at the drawing board while it waits on the progress of Van Aert and Vingegaard’s injuries, and each of their calendars could impact on the other.

The squad has not yet hinted at what it might have in mind for Van Aert, who originally opted out of riding his sixth-straight Tour in favor of taking a taste of the Giro d’Italia.

That original plan freed Van Aert to go 100 percent for the Paris Olympics, which arrive just days after the conclusion of the Tour.

Should the team stick to the script and keep Van Aert out of the Tour de France, there’s every possibility he’ll return to grand tour racing for a debut at the Vuelta a España in August.

Visma-Lease a Bike director Merijn Zeeman recently told Het Nieuwsblad the team is contemplating every possibility for Van Aert and Vingegaard.

The coming weeks could see the squad making some crucial decisions for both.

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'High-speed criterium racing' returning to Greenville, Tour De France's Hincapie riding

Bike alongside Tour de France veterans at ONE City Plaza on April 25 as the Greenville Cycling Classic , presented by Prisma Health, will allow attendees to take a 20-minute ride alongside George Hincapie, Bobby Julich and Christian Vande Velde.

Beginning at 3 p.m., men's and women's professional and amateur cycling will occur along Main and Coffee Street. Bike races will continue through 9 p.m. to determine a winner in nine divisions, ranging from 30-minute rides to a 70-lap competition.

This race is part of the Speed Week race series, with nine races in South Carolina and Georgia.

"We're thrilled to bring high-speed criterium racing back to Greenville," Hincapie said. "This event will be a fantastic spring highlight for the entire community to enjoy."

Tour de France legends Julich, Vande Velde and Hincapie are offering the first 200 registered riders to a casual, one-kilometer speed criterium loop race that travels around downtown for 20 minutes beginning at 5:15 p.m.

Who is George Hincapie and the other Tour de France legends?

Hincapie is a former professional racing cyclist who competed alongside Lance Armstrong as his domestique or assisting rider on the U.S. PostalPro Cycling Team. He is also known for helping Alberto Contador and Cadel Evans to their first Tour de France victories in 2007 and 2011.

During Hincapie's 27-year professional cycling career, he won three U.S. Professional Road Race championships and finished second in the 2005 Paris-Roubaix, which still stands as the highest-placing American ranking for that specific race.

In October 2012, Hincapie admitted to using banned substances during his career and received a six-month ban and loss of race results between May 2004 and July 2006.

The New York native, now a Greenville resident, has had the Hincapie name in Greenville pro and amateur cycling since the Michelin Cycling Classic in 1994. His footprint in the Upstate also includes a stake in Hotel Domestique and Restaurant 17, which has an on-site vineyard and pathways for cycling lessons. He has brought various international cyclists to the area to train and compete in Traveler's Rest and downtown Greenville.

Hincapie will host the Gran Fondo Hincape in Greenville on October 19, 2024.

How do I attend the Greenville Cycling Classic?

This is a free event; however, amateur and professional cyclists looking to compete still have time to register. Fees to participate in the races range between $40 and $60. Winners can win cash prizes up to $6,000.

Ages 12 and up can join the ride with Tour de France legends, and the pool limit is 200 people. The registration deadline for all events is April 24 at 5 p.m.

The racing path will expand between East North Street, East McBee Avenue, and South Laurens Street and South Brown Street.

What roads will be closed during the race?

Road closures for the event will be in place from noon to 11 p.m. on April 25. They will include:- Main Street, from McBee Avenue to East North Street- East North Street, from North Main to Brown Streets- Brown Street, from East North Street to McBee Avenue- McBee Avenue, from South Brown Street to South Laurens Street- South Laurens Street, from West McBee Avenue to West Washington Street- Washington Street, from South Laurens to Brown streets

For more information, visit greenvillecyclingclassic.com

– A.J. Jackson covers the food & dining scene, along with arts, entertainment and downtown culture for The Greenville News. Contact him by email at [email protected], and follow him on X (formally Twitter) @ajhappened. This coverage is only possible with support from our readers. Sign up today for a digital subscription .  

Pogacar wins Liege with epic solo break, launching bid for Giro d’Italia and Tour de France

Tadej Pogacar won the Liege-Bastogne-Liege bike race on Sunday thanks to a solo break 30km from home launched on a steep climb and sustained to the finish line.

Issued on: 21/04/2024 - 17:07

Ahead of Pogacar 's Giro d'Italia and Tour de France double bid the 25-year-old Slovenian blew the opposition away with a maverick acceleration that none could answer on the 254km race in the Ardennes forests that marks the end of the spring classics.

Billed as a duel between Pogacar and winner of Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders Mathieu van der Poel, the Dutchman came in a commendable third but was far from going shoulder-to-shoulder for the title.

Frenchman Romain Bardet was second, also solo 1min 39sec off the pace with Van der Poel leading a bunch home at 2min 02sec.

Another pre-race favourite was Briton Tom Pidcock, who was 10th on the day after a mechanical problem at a key moment hindered his day.

The win puts to bed Pogacar's fall here last season that broke his wrist and blighted his Tour de France bid.

"It was an emotional day of riding for me," a drained-looking Pogacar said.

"Not just because of my hand but also because two years ago just before the race Urska's mother died, so I was riding for her today," Pogacar said referring to his professional cyclist partner Urska Zigart.

Pogacar also won here in 2021 and this was his sixth one-day Monument win with three wins at the Tour of Lombardy and his 2023 Tour of Flanders triumph.

Champion Remco Evenepoel, former winner Primoz Roglic and Tour de France champion Jonas Vingegaard would all have been suited to this course but are injured after a mass fall at the Tour of the Basque Country.

Pogacar came into the race fresh from altitude training and at the start line said he had "no regrets about not racing la Fleche", referring to the frozen and drenched midweek race in the same region.

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2024 Could Be a Make-Or-Break Year for the Tour de France Femmes

I f there’s one depressing fact I’ve learned in nearly two decades of covering women’s cycling, it’s that, sadly, there’s rarely a moment to rest on one’s laurels in this sport—and that’s particularly true for race organizers, and team owners.

Just because a race does fantastically well one year in terms of unprecedented levels of viewership and media coverage or because a team is arguably the absolute best in the world doesn’t guarantee anything. It’s all easy come, easy go. That’s why I’m nervous about the Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift and why I believe that this year could be the most pivotal year for the race.

But why am I worried about the Tour de France Femmes in year three? After all, viewership numbers have been high, enthusiasm hasn’t waned, and sports bars are full of fans screaming for Demi Vollering and Kasia Niewiadoma. And yet... There are a few important factors to consider.

Last year, Zwift’s Kate Verroneau told me that the second year of the TDFF was scary for her: The first year, you’re riding a wave of hype. In the second year, the race has to stand as a great race, not just a “first.” What about the third year?

“There’s no kind of resting on the fact that last year was really successful,” Veronneau said then. “I look at it and think, ‘Last year was pretty easy sell: It was the first women’s Tour de France in over 30 years. That was easy to get the media on board, easy to get sponsors on board. It was the first time that that huge of an audience watched women’s racing.”

Year two was hugely successful, but what about year three?

The sponsorship dynamics at play

First, there’s the simple fact that this is year three of Zwift’s four-year commitment to the Tour de France Femmes in partnership with ASO. That means if Zwift isn’t planning to continue its support or is going to cut back its sponsorship budget, this is the year the race needs to look for a new sponsor.

Leaving it entirely to next year, the final year in their contract, is foolhardy. So I have to imagine that there’s some buzz happening behind the scenes already. I haven’t heard any scuttlebutt about them giving up their title sponsorship position, to be clear, but considering Zwift just had a round of layoffs and a shuffle in their C-suite , who knows where they’re heading? Hopefully into another lengthy contract, but it’s unclear. My fingers are crossed.

Viewership challenges

Viewership this year will also be more important than ever. High viewership numbers mean a better chance of securing new or renewed sponsorship dollars, and TdFF viewership has been undeniably impressive. But this year is going to make that tricky. The men’s Tour de France and the Tour de France Femmes are separated this year by the Olympics. That means three weeks between the races, rather than the men’s race ending on the day the women’s race began.

In the past two years, it was easy to just continue tuning in if you’d been watching the men’s race. This year, viewers will have to actively seek it out starting August 12—the day after the Olympics finish. That is a lot of TV watching for cycling/sports fans to contend with. While serious fans will still tune in, those ‘medium’ fans may not.

The state of the cycling industry

Then, there’s the cycling industry landscape. Brands like Trek and Specialized are slashing budgets , and Shimano is reporting quarter after quarter of losses . To blithely assume that there’s a cycling company capable of taking Zwift’s place as title sponsor in the current landscape is a mistake.

I say all this not to be discouraging. It’s meant to be a rallying cry. What does this all mean for you, the person reading this?

I want to believe that this race will survive and thrive in the same way that Le Tour has for over a century. But I also know that it takes more than love to keep a race of this magnitude running. It takes cold, hard cash. It takes commitment from big businesses that often see women’s cycling as a line item that they can scrap when it’s time to tighten up their belts. It took decades to get back to a point where we have this race. It’s happened before, it’s been lost before. Let’s not let it happen again.

It’s time to get fired up and ensure that the Tour de France Femmes isn’t just a blip in the cycling history books. Mark your calendars, set a Google alert for the Tour de France Femmes, follow racers on social media, and plan watch parties—let’s make this the loudest Tour de France Femmes yet.