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Tours: All France
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Search for tours:2024 Tour de France – Alps and Nice Adventure
Witness the thrill of the Tour de France up close and personal
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €5500
This guided VIP tour takes you through the Southern Alps and the French Riviera. You'll travel the roads and mountain passes just like the pro racers, before heading to the hustle and bustle of Nice for a unique experience in the VIP grandstands. Throughout your stay, your group of no more than a dozen people will be accompanied by guides who will always be on hand to help you get the most out of this incredible Alpine experience. You'll ride a total of 370km (230 miles) and climb 10,270m (33500 feet) and be fuelled by the local delicacies discovered on the route: tourtons, raclette, fondue, tartiflette, crozets, pissaladière, pan bagnat, olives and salade niçoise all washed down with wines from Provence and the Rhone valley. Price includes 7 nights' accommodation in premium hotels, breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches with fresh produce and local specialities, 4 dinners, snacks and drinks for cycling and 1 energy pack. Transfers, on-road van support and roadbook also included. You’ll also receive a Tour de France gift and a Discover France bike jersey.
2024 Tour de France Femmes – VIP Adventure
Follow the women's Tour de France, including a stage finish in the Alps
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
7 days / 6 nights
Price:
From €4900
This guided tour allows you to follow the 2024 Tour de France Femmes as a VIP, discovering famous roads from the shores of Lac de Chateauneuf to the 21 bends of Alpe d'Huez. You'll enjoy VIP experiences in the start village and VIP access at the finish line. Climb legendary Alpine passes including Alpe d'Huez, Galibier, Télégraphe, Croix de Fer and Glandon. Throughout your stay, your group will be no more than a dozen people and will be accompanied by guides who will be on hand to make this a memorable cycling holiday. Total distance cycled: 320km (200 miles) with a total elevation gain of 7250m (23,800 feet). Price includes 6 nights' accommodation in premium hotels, breakfasts, 4 picnic lunches that include fresh produce and local specialities, 6 dinners, snacks and drinks for cycling and an energy pack. Transfers are also included, as is support on the road from a certified guide and van. You’ll also receive a road book, Tour de France gift and a Discover France cycling jersey.
2024 VIP Tour de France Experience – Dolomites and Grand Depart
See the Grand Départ in Florence and conquer the Dolomites
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €5500
This VIP Tour to the Tour de France 2024 has two parts: the first in the renowned Dolomites, featuring challenging ascents like the iconic Stelvio pass. The second part takes you to Florence for the Grand Départ – the TDF's historic first start in Italy, a cycling nation with a rich heritage. Staying in Florence, you'll experience VIP starts, cross stage finish lines in Bologna, experience the official Tour de France podium, and explore Chianti's vineyards. Throughout your stay, your group of no more than 10 people will be accompanied by guides who will be on hand to ensure you enjoy your time on the bike, plus get you VIP access. Price includes 7 nights' accommodation in premium hotels, all breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches that include fresh produce and local specialities, 5 dinners, snacks and drinks for cycling and 1 energy pack. Transfers are included, as is support on the road from a certified guide, plus van assistance and a road book. You’ll also receive a Tour de France gift and a Discover France bike jersey.
A Grand Tour Chablais: Self-guided route and maps
Ride one of Georges Rossini's iconic cyclo-randonneur routes
Offered by:
Evergreen Cycling
Tour length:
Ride at your own pace over 2 to 4 days
Price:
Registration is £50 for affiliated club members or £55 for non-affiliated riders
The Grand Tour Chablais has the reputation of being a particularly demanding "Grand Tour". But, first and foremost, it is a superb mountainous route, which will take you through 371km of scenic roads consisting of 22 difficult passes. Created in 1978 by Georges Rossini – a well-known figure in the cyclo-randonneurs community – this itinerary is a real Alpine challenge for cyclists who dream of climbing the world-famous passes. The Col de Joux Plane (one of the most difficult in the Alps), Col de la Joux Verte and Col du Corbier are all here. The route follows winding roads with steep climbs and technical descents. It starts in Thonon-les-Bains, the capital of the great Chablais, and takes place over 2 days with two cycling loops of (a) 186.2km and (b) 185.2km or, if you prefer a longer break, the ride can be done over 4 days. The registration fee includes all the tools you need to customise your itinerary: road logbook, a sat nav track to download, a list of recommended equipment, recommended accommodation for you to book + restaurants and other stops en route. There is also local advice and support at the start of the ride and Whatsapp support throughout. The passes are generally clear for cycling June to mid-October.
A ladies' road cycling and yoga holiday in the Lot-et-Garonne
Guided cycling with luxury accommodation, pool and nutritious food
Offered by:
Lamamotte Gite Cycling Holidays – Promoting Women’s Cycling
Tour length:
4 to 7 nights with guided rides
Price:
From €300 per person
This is a ladies-only, guided road cycling holiday with stunning scenery, nutritious food, luxury accommodation and yoga. Sisters Jess and Penny will lead you on quiet country roads, visiting beautiful river valleys, chateaux, medieval hilltop Bastide towns – including two of the prettiest villages in France (Pujols and Monflanquin). You can take in French culture with a visit the Water Lily Gardens, local markets and a wine tour. Typical rides (tailored on request) range from 50km to 80km per day. This holiday is for groups of 4-8 staying in a beautiful, converted farmhouse. The price includes luxury accommodation. Yoga sessions, breakfast, delicious meals prepared with local ingredients, wine, guided rides, bike maintenance course, transfers and bike hire can all be arranged. Self catering option is available. You can find more on Facebook here.
Alps and Mont Ventoux Road Cycling Holiday
Experience some of the toughest cycle climbs in France
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €2785
Learn how the pro riders suffer on this self-guided road bike holiday that passes over some of the most spectacular mountain passes in the world. Ride to the top of Alpe d'Huez, touch the monument to Henri Desgranges at the summit of the Galibier, climb Les Deux Alpes, the Col de Lautaret and many more. If you are an experienced and passionate rider looking for the ultimate challenge, then come and experience the cols where cycling legends made their marks. Upon arrival to the charming village of Freney d'Oisans in the Alps, you'll get a detailed briefing about the cycling possibilities in the area, the best routes and other tips to make the most out of this great cycling holiday. After the rides, you can relax at comfortable mountain hotels and enjoy hearty Alpine dinners to fuel you for the next mountain challenge. Price includes 7 nights' accommodation in superior hotels with breakfasts and 7 evening meals. Road bike hire is included as well as a detailed road book, a meeting with a local guide and access to a 24/7 helpline. You’ll also receive a complimentary Discover France water bottle.
Alps Challenge: Geneva to Alpe d'Huez
6 famous cols en route to the Alpe – are you up for the challenge?
Offered by:
Cyclomundo
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 50 87 21 09
Tour length:
5 nights / 6 days
Price:
From €955
Voted Outside Magazine's 'Trip of the Year', this tour starting in Cyclomundo's own backyard in Geneva can be taken as a guided or self-guided option. From the shores of Lake Geneva you'll ride to the switchbacks of Alpe d'Huez, climbing some of France's most famous cols en route: the Colombiere, Aravis, Saisies, Madeleine, Telegraphe and the mighty Galibier are all here. This tour can be booked as a self-guided ride or organised for cycling clubs and private groups. Itineraries and support can be tailored to your fitness levels. This tour can be combined with cyclosportives such as La Marmotte, Etape du Tour and the Time-Megeve-Mont-Blanc. Price includes 5 nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, 4 dinners, luggage transfers, transfer from Geneva for start of day 1, marked maps and route notes, a GPS unit (subject to availability). Full carbon road bike hire available on request.
Alps on Gravel – Geneva to Geneva Loop
Discover some of the amazing gravel rides available in the Alps
Offered by:
Cyclomundo
Phone number:
+33 (0) 4 50 87 21 09
Tour length:
5 nights/6 days
Price:
From €720
Somewhere between road cycling and mountain biking, gravel cycling is the ultimate in flexible riding. It has really taken off over the past few years and the Savoie region has some brilliant routes. If you want to enjoy some of the best scenery the area has to offer, then this is the tour for you. Depending on the option you choose (A or A+), the route will either start in Geneva or from just outside Geneva in Gaillard. The route begins by heading south, skirting along the Swiss border and winding its way down to Annecy. Leaving the ‘Venice of the Alps’ the next day, the self-guided loop continues south along Lake Annecy, arriving into Montmélian. The following day, you’ll ride north-west towards the city of Aix-les-Bains, well known for its thermal baths which were immensely popular with aristocracy in the 18th and 19th centuries. Following this, you’ll go north back to Geneva or Gaillard, passing along the Salève mountain. The price of this tour includes accommodation, luggage transfers, marked maps and roadbook, GPX files or GPS pre-loaded with the itinerary and one-road assistance if needed. Daily mileage from 42km (26 miles) to 103km (64 miles).
An Epic Mont Ventoux Road Cycling Trip
Conquer the mighty Mont Ventoux with local experts
Offered by:
Ride And More Travel – Provence
Phone number:
+33 (0)6 76 35 50 96
Tour length:
5 days/4 nights
Price:
From €785
This is a cycling holiday for avid roadies looking for a challenge on arguably the most iconic of the Tour de France climbs. Three roads depart the plains to reach the lunar landscapes of the summit, from where the views extend to the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea. From your accommodation at the foot of mighty Ventoux, Christophe, a local cycling expert who grew up in the shadow of the Ventoux, has created no less than 10 rides, including a leisurely ride through the plains, to the coveted Cinglés du Ventoux challenge: an exclusive club for those who have completed all three climbs in a single day. Explore breathtaking roads, enjoy villages that are off the usual beaten Provence track, and restore your energy with delicious Provençal fare. Stay in carefully selected hotels and B&Bs – you can choose between 2/3* or 5* options. Each one is sourced personally by Christophe and the run by owners who are used to welcoming cyclists. The price of this tour includes 4 nights' accommodation with breakfast, 5 days of riding itineraries on a GPS app, a welcome briefing, all luggage transfers, private transfer to Avignon on the final day, on-call assistance, concierge service for restaurant and activities, 24/7 emergency assistance and a brand new helmet and water bottle. Bikes are not included but high-end road bikes can be rented if required. Each day you'll ride between 60km and 100km and climb between 675m and 4600m.
Anyone for Corsica? My bespoke cycling service
Let me help you sort your cycling holiday with this personal service
Located off the southern coast of France, the island of Corsica is a MAGIC place to cycle. It's diverse and beautiful and isolated, yet within reach. You can fly in or get the ferry across, you can ride guided or unguided, in the hills or along the coast. If you want to find out more about Corsica, or if you need a hand planning your cycling holiday there, then the my bespoke Freewheeling France service could be for you. I can help you tailor your trip to your budget, your time and your ability. Just check out the info in my blog here and drop me a line. Whether it's road riding or mountain biking, whether you're cycling solo or in a group – just email me through your requirements and I'll help take the hassle out of planning a super cycling holiday in one of France's most amazing corners. Lyn @ FWF.
Bastia to Ajaccio along the West Coast of Corsica
Follow the stunning coast between the Corsica's main cities
Offered by:
Europe Active
Phone number:
France: +33 (0)4 95 44 4 9 67; UK: +44 (0)20 3239 4967
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €1370
Follow Corsica's most beautiful coastal roads from Bastia to Ajaccio. This superb self-guided trip allows you to enjoy the best that Corsica has to offer – and by following the route of the third stage of the Tour de France in 2013. From the northern capital of Bastia, will cycle to Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon. Keep your eyes on the road and off the stunning and varied western coastline – you'll need to allow lots of time for photo stops! Also stop to visit the Balagne region, which has wonderful beaches and picturesque mountain villages, and the area around Porto, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The price includes B&B accommodation in 2-star and 3-star hotels, road book and maps, mobile app, luggage transfers between hotels. Stages of between 26km and 52km each day with up to 800m of climbing. On some days there is a choice of 2 routes – one longer and one shorter. Choice of regular touring bikes, e-bikes or road bikes.
Bastia to Calvi – Cycling Northern Corsica
Cycle on the most beautiful roads in Corsica
Offered by:
Le Velo Voyageur
Phone number:
+33 (0)1 80 91 98 18
Tour length:
7 days
Price:
From €1349
Corsica really is a dream cycling destination. This is your chance to see it under your own steam. Start your journey in Bastia and cycle along the Cap Corse, discovering its varied coastal landscapes, more developed and accessible on the east coast and more wild and rugged on the west. Visit Macinaggio and its marina, Centuri and its lobster fishing port, and Nonza and its black pebble beach before reaching the seaside resort of Saint-Florent. After a well-deserved rest day, take the road through the majestic Desert des Agriates to reach the hilltop village of Monticello for a breathtaking view of Ile Rousse. Finally, after visiting some typical Corsican villages, cycle down to the sea and Calvi. The price includes baggage transfers, accommodation, route notes and maps, and bike hire. Electric bikes are available to take the bite out of the hills. Please note that this tour is not available in July and August, when it can get too hot and too busy to make the most of a cycling holiday here.
Bespoke Provence Cycling Holidays
My bespoke service to help you plan your Provence cycling holiday
Provence is one of the most popular regions for cycling in France, but deciding where exactly where to ride can be hard (there's so much to see and do). So I've set up this special reader service to help you find the right guided or self-guided ride for your ability and budget. If you can't find the right tour for you on these pages, I can hook you up with experts on the ground to help you arrange luggage transfers, bike hire and accommodation, or to recommend routes and provide maps. It may help take the stress and worry out of your trip, as well as save you some pennies on booking each element separately. (I have a similar service for Corsica and one for Ventoux – for other French cycling destinations, just email me at lyn@freewheelingfrance.com).
Bordeaux to the Dordogne and Lot by Road Bike
Cycle through stunning vineyards and along the Dordogne and Lot rivers
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33 (0)2 55 99 92 92
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €1285
This self-guided cycling getaway from Bordeaux to the Dordogne and Lot Valley is designed for experienced solo road riders, groups and clubs, allowing you to discover spectacular and authentic landscapes of one of the most beautiful regions of France. The itinerary includes daily mileages of between 72km to 102km a day, making this the perfect cycling holiday for serious road riders. The roads of Bordeaux, Dordogne and Quercy can be hilly – and you may be surprised by the daily elevation changes (the stage between Sainte-Radegonde and Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil has 1300 metres of elevation). Leaving Bordeaux, the wine capital, explore the vineyards that make the region famous including those of Saint-Emilion. Then, it’s on to the Périgord Noir and its forests and history. Along the river, hilltop castles, fortified towns and caves tell the story of the region. The Lot region draws its character from its plateaux cut by its rivers – the Lot, the Dordogne, the Vézère and the Célé. Stop for rest or coffee in some of the most beautiful villages in France, such as Rocamadour, Cahors, Figeac and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. This is also a land of gastronomy – truffles, foie gras, lamb, Quercy melon and, of course, wines. The price of this self-guided tour includes 7 nights' accommodation, breakfasts, 1 dinner, luggage transfers, phone assistance 24/7, access to an exclusive app for your route, and lots of local knowledge and advice.
Burgundy Bike and Wine Tour - 1-Day Tour
A gentle guided bike ride through Burgundy's beautiful vineyards
Offered by:
Active Tours
Phone number:
+33 (0)3 80 26 17 12
Tour length:
1 day
Price:
€155 adults (ask about discounts for kids aged 6-16)
Enjoy a gentle guided bike ride through Burgundy's beautiful vineyards with Florian and his team of local cycling experts. Take in the vineyards south-west of regional capital Beaune, including a stop at a local chateau, with the winemaker himself opening his doors just for you. This is a great chance to try local wines and learn more about viticulture in Burgundy (and, yes, you can have any bottles you buy sent to your hotel or shipped home). This is an easy circular route between St Romain and Pommard via Volnay, Meursault, and Puligny Montrachet, with a minivan transfer from Beaune. It's suitable for all abilities, including kids. Private and custom tours are available on request. Price includes bike hire, all wine tastings, lunch in a local restaurant plus a local guide.
Canal de Garonne loop ride to to Nérac
Get off the beaten track to explore the rural France away from the canal
Offered by:
Cycles Sud Ouest
Phone number:
+33 (0) 7 52 05 90 48
Tour length:
2 days/1 night
Price:
€170
This is a locally planned and run tour from Clare and her team at Cycles Sud Ouest. It's a self-guided overnight tour is designed for people who are cycling the Canal de Garonne from Bordeaux to Toulouse, but who want to see a little more of the area rather than just pass through. It's also a perfect overnight or weekend ride out of Bordeaux or Toulouse – both are accessible by local trains to the starting points at either Buzet-sur-Baise or Agen. From there, ride to the charming town of Nérac – in the footsteps of Henri IV. En route, visit bastides and wineries and enjoy authentic south-west gastronomy, and stay overnight at a charming locally run hotel. This self-guided ride is a loop around the Albret region, passing through Vianne, Barbaste and Nérac and providing you with a real off-the-beaten itinerary not usually experienced by Bordeauix-Toulouse cyclists. The price includes overnight accommodation, bike hire (ebikes or regular bikes), route maps and notes and full local support and guidance from Clare and her team, who live locally.
Photos: Office of Tourisme Albret
Centre-based trip – Magical Valleys of the Périgord (Dordogne)
The heart of Périgord, along the Dordogne and Vézère rivers
Offered by:
France Bike Trips
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 58 14 04 35
Tour length:
8 days
Price:
From €715
Riding along the Dordogne and Vézère rivers, discover the exceptional heritage and beautiful countryside of the Périgord Noir. Quiet back roads and tracks take you through majestic forests and meadows, leading time and again to exceptional monuments and buildings, most notably the castles of Commarque, Puymartin and Beynac. Each village is as pretty as the last, inviting us to explore the winding streets that take us on a journey back in time. The famous Dordogne gastronomy adds a welcome ingredient to this rich and wonderful circuit. This is a relaxing fixed-base stay in a 3* hotel with a swimming pool. No need to move hotels every day - just settle in and enjoy the cycling. Two difficulty levels – 25-35km per day or 35-50km per day, plus options to explore further on your own. Ebike upgrade available.
Classic Provence Cycling Holiday
A self-guided tour through the history and colours of Provence
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €1630
This self-guided Provence bike tour starts in Avignon, home of the famous Palais des Papes, and takes you on to Uzes and St Remy de Provence. Cycle on quiet roads to the heart of Provence and its picturesque villages: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Tarascon… See the stunning Pont du Gard, the famous UNESCO-listed Roman aqueduct, and explore the Provencal market towns. You might even get inspired like Van Gogh did by the beauty of St Remy and Les Baux. This is a popular Provence tour for one reason: it combines the very best of what Provence has to offer. Cycling is on quiet routes that are accessible for everyone. Price includes 7 nights' accommodation in superior hotels, plus breakfasts. Hybrid bike hire is included (with an option to upgrade to road bikes or electric bikes). Detailed road book, meeting with a local guide and a 24/7 helpline all included, plus a Discover France waterbottle.
Cross Northern Brittany by Road Bike
A multi-stage cycle tour for solo road riders, clubs and groups
Offered by:
Abicyclette Voyages
Phone number:
+33 (0)2 55 99 92 92
Tour length:
8 days / 7 nights
Price:
From €1290
This self-guided cycling tour is designed for road bikers looking to get a little off the beaten track. This is a challenging 8-day itinerary with daily mileages from 75km to 136km – it's ideal for serious road riders, cycling clubs and friends looking for an adventure in France. Follow in the footsteps of one of the greatest TDF cyclists of them all – Brittany's own Bernard Hinault. From the Breton capital of Rennes, head to the sea for beautiful panoramas along this magnificent coastal route. Take in Mont-Saint-Michel, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site; Saint-Malo, an intramural city that sometimes seems straight out of an adventure novel; Dinan, a beautifully preserved medieval city; Erquy and Paimpol, the charming little ports specialising in scallops; Perros-Guirec, a seaside resort on the famous Pink Granite Coast. Weave around small hilly roads between the land and sea of the Emerald Coast. At Cap Fréhel, where on the circuit of the cliffs in Plouha, enjoy beautiful roads 70 metres above the sea. The cliffs are impressive and offer a unique French cycling experience. The price of this self-guided tour includes 7 nights' accommodation, breakfasts, 1 dinner, luggage transfers, phone assistance 24/7, access to an exclusive app for your route, and local knowledge and advice from the Abicyclette team based in Rennes.
Cross the French Pyrenees by Bike – Guided
Ride the great cols of the Pyrenees from the Med Sea to the Atlantic
During the Tour de France, the riders cross the two biggest mountain ranges in France: the Alps and the Pyrenees. This fully supported tour offers the chance to ride the length of the Pyrenees from the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean. The route alternates between mythical Tour de France cols and lesser-known passes so that you can discover the many facets of the Pyrenees – from dense forests and jagged peaks to the lush green mountains of the Basque country. The price of this tour includes the assistance of a trip leader in a support vehicle (breakdown assistance, daily luggage transport and catering), 7 nights in 2* and 3* hotels in double/twin rooms with en-suite facilities, 7 hearty breakfasts, 7 picnic lunches prepared daily with fresh, regional products: high-energy salad (pasta, rice, lentil), cheese, cold cuts, fruit and muesli/cereal bars, 7 dinners (3 or 4-course menus), carefully designed itineraries on 2 levels of difficulty (80-110km per day or 100-150km per day), navigation app, detailed road book with maps (digital format) and GPS tracks. See here for the regular departure dates.
Cycle Provence: The Rhone Valley and Mont Ventoux
Cycle like a local among the vines and lavender fields of Provence
Offered by:
Ride And More Travel – Provence
Phone number:
+33 (0)6 76 35 50 96
Tour length:
6 days/5 nights or 8 days/7 nights, but can be adapted for you
Price:
From €1275
This is a self-guided cycling holiday thoughtfully created by Christophe and his team at Ride And More Travel. Designed to appeal to all cyclists, it can be adapted for all abilities and budgets. Begin your journey in Pernes-les-Fontaines, a picturesque village filled with beautiful stone architecture, and bustling with cafés. Follow former railway lines that have been converted into cycle paths and through the heart of the vineyards to Châteauneuf du Pape – king of the Rhone Valley wines. Stay in Orange, with its Roman theatre, before cycling on to the wine-making villages of Vacqueyras and Beaumes de Venise en route to the mighty Mont Ventoux, an icon of the Tour de France. Climb it if you dare or admire it from a distance before riding towards the stunning Gorges de la Nesque, taking a break in the café square of a hilltop village en route. The price of this tour includes accommodation and breakfast in carefully selected, charming hotels and B&Bs, regular bikes or e-bikes, plus panniers, itineraries on a GPS app, a welcome briefing, luggage transfers, and private transfers to Avignon on the final day. You'll also benefit from a concierge service for restaurants and activities, 24/7 emergency assistance and a brand-new helmet and water bottle. Each day you'll ride between 35km and 47km and climb between 320m and 520m.
Cycle Through the Upper French Alps
Conquer cols with Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc as your backdrop
Offered by:
Cyclomundo
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 50 87 21 09
Tour length:
6 nights / 7 days
Price:
From €995
One of Cyclomundo's best-selling trips has been revamped for 2022 to take-in even more of this stunning area. With Lake Geneva, Lake Annecy and Mont Blanc as picture perfect backdrops. Ride between 50 and 100km a day through the Chablais mountain area and skirt the southern shore of Lake Geneva. En route, conquer the area's best climbs, including Col de la Forclaz, Col de la Croix-Fry, the Colombiere, Col de Joux-Plane, Col de l'Encrenaz, Col de la Ramaz, Col de la Faucille, Col de la Givrine and Col du Marchairuz. On your last day, cross the Lake in Yvoire – an impossibly photogenic Medieval village – and ride through the Swiss Jura. Price includes transfer between Geneva airport and your first/last place of stay, 6 nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, 3 dinners, luggage transfer between hotels, a GPS device (subject to availability) and detailed route maps and notes. Bike rental can be arranged on request.
Cycling + French Lessons in the Alps (Morzine)
Learn French while riding in the Alps – a perfect combination
Offered by:
Alpine French School
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 50 79 08 38
Tour length:
6 nights (5 half-days and one full day free for cycling, 5 half-day French classes – longer courses available)
Price:
Packages and prices can be tailored for you
Learn French while indulging in a French cycling holiday in the Alps. This French language course – tailored especially for cyclists – includes three hours a day of intensive French lessons over five days. When you're not in the classroom you'll be out on the bike in the Morzine area climbing Joux Plane, Avoriaz, Ramaz and much more. The cycling – over five half-days and one full day – is unguided, so ride as much or as little as you like. Helen (an avid rider herself) and her team will be on hand to help with local route advice and maps. The price includes self-catered accommodation in a shared apartment or lodgings with a local host family. Ask Helen about options if you'd like to take a longer package of French lessons, or if you need more time on the bike.
Cycling from Mont Ventoux to Alpe d'Huez
A guided or self-guided ride conquering two of France's icons
Offered by:
Cyclomundo
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 50 87 21 09
Tour length:
5 nights/ 6 days
Price:
From €1235
Forget watching the Tour de France on television – experience some of the most famous climbs in south-western France for yourself on this 6-day journey from Mont Ventoux to Alpe d’Huez. Cycle up the 'Giant of Provence' – twice if you want! – and follow Cyclomundo's tried-and-tested Alps itinerary. Encounter mind-boggling vistas, gorgeous gorges, and the charming towns of Sault, Orpierre, Guillestre, and Briançon, among others. This is a challenging self-guided tour passing over such legendary cols as the Izoard and climbing the famous 21 hairpin bends to Alpe d’Huez. The amazing views are an added bonus. Available self-guided or fully guided with on-road vehicle support. Price includes 5 nights' accommodation, daily breakfast, 2 dinners, luggage transfers, marked maps and route notes, a GPS device (subject to availability). Bike rentals available on request.
Cycling Holidays in the Lot et Garonne – Fixed base holidays for small groups
Discover the Lot Valley on a guided bespoke cycling holiday
Offered by:
Lamamotte Gite Cycling Holidays
Tour length:
4 to 7 nights (with guided rides)
Price:
From €300 per person
Jess and Mark are keen road cyclists and offer unguided, or fully guided, road cycling holidays from their luxurious, fixed base accommodation complete with pool. The Lot et Garonne has quiet country roads and rolling hills, making it ideal for intermediate cyclists in particular. Ride distances and difficulty can be tailored for you. The area has superb scenery, including river valleys, chateaux and castles, medieval hilltop Bastide towns and rural landscapes. All rides are organised to stop at scenic destinations for photos and refreshments. Local destinations include Monflanquin, Pujols, Penne d’Agenais and Nerac. These holidays are for groups of between 4 and 10 people staying in a beautifully converted farmhouse with a pool in a rural setting. There are 5 bedrooms, a mix of doubles and twins, some with ensuite. The price includes luxury accommodation. Continental breakfast, 3-course evening meal with wine, guided rides and transfers from Bergerac Airport can be arranged. Self-catering is an option available on request. Hire of quality carbon road bikes can easily be arranged or you can bring your own. You can also see Jess and Mark's Facebook page here.
Cycling Holidays in Western France (Self-Guided)
Local cycling at its best on quiet back roads of NE of La Rochelle
Offered by:
Moulin Holidays
Phone number:
+33 (0)5 49 95 94 87
Tour length:
6 nights (shorter or longer breaks possible – please ask)
Price:
€850 for holidays taken before the end of April; €1450 the rest of the year
Enjoy a flexible, fixed base self-guided cycling holiday through the idyllic countryside of the Deux-Sèvres department in western France. Le Moulin is located in Scillé, just 80km north-east of La Rochelle – a stunning corner of France and a real off-the-beaten-track delight. Wake up to the sound of birdsong before heading out to explore the quiet backroads. Detailed maps and routes are provided on arrival, with easy or moderate rides to choose from. Bike hire is also available (regular + electrics), as well as pick-ups from Niort, La Rochelle or Poitiers. The Le Moulin bike trailer can also be used to take you and your wheels further afield to enjoy the history of the Marais Poitevin (Green Venice), Mervent Forest, the walled town of Vouvant, Pathenay, Niort or the theme parks of Puy du Fou or Futuroscope – great for families or the non-cyclists in your group. Relax in the swimming pool at the end of your day's riding. This is a really 'local' cycling holiday – become a member of Le Moulin family during your stay and enjoy top-class cuisine made using local meats and vegetables direct from farmers and matched with regional wines and beer. Le Moulin is a fully inclusive auberge set at the end of a verdant valley within 15 acres of pasture and ancient woodland. Enjoy sustainable and regenerative farming at its best, with recycling and a lack of plastic at the heart of its ethos. This holiday can be as relaxing or as busy as you choose!
Cycling in the Drome River Valley
Ride the quiet backroads of the undiscovered Diois
Offered by:
France Bike Trips
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 58 14 04 35
Tour length:
6 days
Price:
From €575
Water is a major feature in this self-guided tour as it follows the Drome River as it winds its way between the plateau of the Vercors and the small mountains of the Diois. It's a delicious mix of the Alps and Provence. Ride through quiet valleys full of orchards, vineyards and sunflower fields, and through rolling hills of boxwood, pine and lavender. Imposing mountains and cliffs loom overhead, in an alpine decor of beech and spruce forests. Crystal-clear rivers and streams abound, offering plenty of opportunities to stop for a swim. Cross numerous sleepy hamlets and villages full of traditional stone-built houses and pretty squares and fountains. Small, shaded café terraces offer a welcome break from riding. The Diois is a major wine-producing area (famous for the Clairette de Die), and you will see plenty of "caves" offering wine-tasting opportunities. Price includes B&B accommodation, most evening meals, baggage transfer, detailed road book, maps and GPS tracks. Two difficulty levels are offered: 25-35km per day with an altitude gain of around 500 metres; or 35-50km per day with altitude gains of 800 metres.
Cycling the Route des Grandes Alpes - Supported Road Biking
Lake Geneva to the Côte d'Azur via the big cols of the Tour de France
Cross the French Alps from Lake Geneva to the Côte d'Azur on this fantastic 8-day tour. Ride from the Northern Alps and the Mont Blanc range right to the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea via some of the most mythical cols in road biking: L'Iseran, Le Galibier, Le Lautaret, L'lzoard and many more. Road biking doesn't get any better than this! The price of this tour includes the assistance of a trip leader in a support vehicle (breakdown assistance, daily luggage transport and catering), accommodation in 2* and 3* hotels, hearty breakfasts, picnic lunches prepared daily with fresh, regional products: high-energy salad (pasta, rice, lentil), cheese, cold cuts, fruit and muesli/cereal bars, dinners (3 or 4-course menus), carefully designed itineraries on 2 levels of difficulty, navigation app, a detailed road book with maps (digital format) and GPS tracks.
Epic Provence Road Cycling Holiday
Locally designed road biking itinerary taking in the best of Provence
Offered by:
Ride And More Travel – Provence
Phone number:
+33 (0)6 76 35 50 96
Tour length:
7 days/6 nights
Price:
From €1265
Local cycling expert and guide Christophe, who was born in the Vaucluse, has personally designed this itinerary to take in Provence's best landscapes. Discover a rich and varied region, accompanied by the sound of cicadas and the scents of the garrigue. Provence is a land of poetry and gastronomy but also a true cycling paradise. Visit some of the prettiest villages in France, ride through vineyards and fields of lavender and enjoy fascinating stops along the way. On your own or with a guide, experience a handcrafted trip designed by locals to take you off the beaten path. For self-guided riders, routes are provided on a GPS, with lots of great insider information on the dedicated Ride And More app. There are several ride options each day, so you can easily adjust what you decide to do on a daily basis. Stay in carefully selected hotels and B&Bs – choose between 2 or 3-star or 5-star. The price includes 6 nights' accommodation and breakfasts, 5 days of riding with itineraries/GPS, a welcome briefing, luggage transfers, private transfers to Avignon on the final day, a concierge service for restaurants and activities, 24/7 emergency assistance and a new helmet and water bottle. Bikes are not included but high-end road bikes are available for rent. Each day you'll ride between 60km and 100km and climb between 650m and 2000m.
Geneva-Annecy-Geneva: Rivers, Lakes and Mountains
A self-guided tour in the shadow of the beautiful Swiss Alps
Offered by:
Cyclomundo
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 50 87 21 09
Tour length:
2 nights / 3 days
Price:
From €390
Ride from the Swiss Alps, across the border and into France (and back again), experiencing two great cycling countries in the one trip. Ride from Switzerland's global city, Geneva, along the waterways of the Rhone, across farmlands and through vineyards. This trip can be tailored to your ability – you can tackle more mountains and longer distances, or take easier and shorter routes at your own pace. Distances a day range from 38km to 90km (you decide). On the French side of the border, you'll pass through Seyssel, a picturesque village by the banks of Rhône River, en route to the Fier River and its gorges. Explore medieval Annecy's cobbled streets and canals (it's not called 'the Venice of the Alps' for nothing) before taking in sweeping views of Lake Geneva on your way back to Switzerland. Price includes 2 nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, 1 dinner, luggage transfers, marked maps and route notes, a GPS device (subject to availability). Bike rentals available on request.
Giants of the Alps - Road Cycling
Ride the iconic cols of the Tour de France between Savoie and Dauphiné
For over 100 years, images of the mythical climbs of the Tour de France and their heroes have fed our imagination. And these legendary mountain roads of the Savoie and Dauphiné regions have lost none of their fascination. This is a 7-day loop to discover these giants of the Alps. Set off for the Cormet de Roselend and the Iseran, Galibier, Glandon, Croix de Fer and Madeleine passes. Tackle the mythical climb of Alpe d'Huez and its 21 bends, that of La Toussuire and finally the famous Montvernier laces, magnificently clinging to the cliffs of the Maurienne Valley. A day's ride around Bourg d'Oisans allows you to fully enjoy the wild roads of this Alpine cycling paradise. This fully supported tour is for seasoned col-baggers as well as newer climbers. The price includes the assistance of a trip leader in a support vehicle (breakdown assistance, daily luggage transport and catering), accommodation in 2* and 3* hotels, breakfasts, picnic lunches prepared daily with fresh, regional products: high-energy salad (pasta, rice, lentil), cheese, cold cuts, fruit and muesli/cereal bars, dinners (3 or 4-course menus), carefully designed itineraries on 2 levels of difficulty, navigation app, a detailed road book with maps (digital format) and GPS tracks.
Grand Tour Leman (Lake Geneva): Self-guided route and maps
A spectacular route around Lake Geneva and the surrounding area
This is a self-guided itinerary that takes you around Lac Léman, better known as Lake Geneva. Ride between lake and mountains and discover Medieval castles, the vineyards of Savoie and dip into Switzerland, including the famous wine terraces of Lavaux. Visit the famous spa towns of Evian and Thonon, as well as Montreux – the 'Swiss Riviera'. This self-guided itinerary – developed by Georges Rossini, a well-known figure in the cyclo-randonneurs community – is rich in encounters and discoveries. It allows you to appreciate all the tranquillity of the banks of the Rhône, the beauty of the many marinas and the small beaches that border Lake Geneva. This is a 230km do-it-yourself adventure with an elevation gain of 1080m. For the registration fee, you get a SatNav route to download, as well as a list of recommended accommodation for you to book, a log book, and detailed information on what to see and do en route. Available April to mid-October. Start and finish in Thonon-les-Bains. Can be completed in one day as a challenging road biking ride or over 2 to 3 days of more relaxed touring. Route suitable for road bikes or ebikes.
Lannemezan to Buzet: V82 route (SW France)
Ride from the foothills of the Pyrenees to the Canal de Garonne
Offered by:
Cycles Sud Ouest
Phone number:
+ 33 (0)7 52 05 90 48
Tour length:
4 days, 3 nights
Price:
From 472€ per person based on 6 people in 3 bedrooms, including e-bike hire
Discover rural south-west France on this completely localised self-guided route. Run by Clare and her Franco-Anglo small team at Cycles Sud Ouest, it follows the V82 bike route from Lannemezan – the gateway to the Pyrenees – to their base in Buzet-sur-Baïse on the Canal de Garonne. The point of this ride is to really discover this area by bike. Many people ride the Canal de Garonne without taking time to explore the area around it. Gascony is famous for its great food and drink – including duck and Armagnac. Meander along small country roads, pop into small villages and visit local producers. The starting price includes bike hire (regular bikes or e-bikes), a road book with suggestions of places to visit and where to eat, B&B or hotel accommodation, and 24/7 emergency phone support. Luggage transfers available as an option. Clare and her team will be there to support you all the way – they are passionate about showcasing this part of France. Minimum 2 people.
Photos: Tourisme Gers
Luberon, Alpilles and Cotes-du-Rhone
Sail through the Provence countryside under your own steam
Offered by:
Cyclomundo
Phone number:
+33 (0)450 87 21 09
Tour length:
7 nights/8 days
Price:
From €1225
This self-guided tour starts and ends in Avignon, which is convenient to get to from all over France. It's a moderate-level Provence cycling tour that showcases the best of this unforgettable region, making it a perfect fit for those who’ve never been to Provence before — and also for those who want to return. Discover this wonderful region at your own pace on a bicycle, away from traffic and on quiet roads. The itinerary includes some of the best-known places in Provence, such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Saint-Remy, Les Baux, Tarascon, Arles, Gordes, and Roussillon. They're scattered in different corners – the Luberon, the Alpilles, and the Côtes-du-Rhône – but your route joins them all up on quiet roads through quintessentially Provençal scenery. You’ll ride over rolling hills up to fortresses offering panoramic views, through lush vineyards surrounding world-famous châteaux, and even back in time – the fascinating history of Provence is ever-present in the exceptional monuments of the past. Daily mileage is from 46km (30 miles) to 62km (39 miles) on hilly terrain.
Mont Ventoux Challenge
A challenging weekend of road riding in Provence
Offered by:
BSpoke Cycling Tours
Phone number:
+44 (0)20 3918 7846
Tour length:
4 nights
Price:
From £1210 per person
Climb one of France's showpiece peaks, the iconic Mont Ventoux, on the classic Tour de France Bedoin route. This self-guided holiday is based in Mazan, a short ride from Bedoin, helping to make a hassle-free ascent. The route starts with 10 mostly flat kilometres into Bedoin, which serves as the perfect warmup. As well as tackling the giant of Provence, enjoy additional handcrafted routes taking in the Gorges de la Nesque and the charming towns of this stunning part of France. The price of this tour includes meals, transport and accommodation in Mazan. Flights from the UK and airport transfers can also be arranged.
Need planning help? Use our bespoke service
Let Freewheeling France help you plan your French cycling adventures
If you want to cycle in France but you're not sure where to go or how to sort it – maybe you're strugglng to find accommodation or the right self-guided or guided ride for you – then this service is for you. It's my own bespoke service that matches your holiday wishlist to the right tour operator or accommodation option for you. This is for riders who need a little support on the road – anything and everything from accommodation advice and route planning to hiring bikes and luggage transfers. I'm working with a network of cycling specialists across France to offer you the best cycling holidays possible – and tailored just for you, your dates and your cycling ability. Hit the brown button below or see this link for details.
Official 2024 Tour de France Pyrenees Adventure
Ride iconic Pyrenean passes with this VIP Tour de France experience
Offered by:
Discover France
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 67 15 82 04 (US/Canada: 1-800-929-0152 or Australia: 1-800-823-710)
Tour length:
7 days / 6 nights
Price:
From €4900
On this VIP guided tour, you'll be totally immersed in the mountain atmosphere of the Tour de France. From Loudenvielle in the central Pyrenees to Couizain in the eastern Pyrenees, this itinerary is ideal for discovering this region in all its richness and beauty. You'll climb the most famous passes in the Pyrenees: Tourmalet, Aspin, Peyresourde, Port de Bales, Menté, Portet d'Aspet and the Col de Pailheres. Soak up the excitement at the heart of the Tour de France, with VIP access where you can cross the finish line before the pros, watch a stage finish with a glass of champagne in a VIP area, or chat with former pro riders. Throughout your stay, your group of no more than a dozen people will be accompanied by guides, who will be there to arrange VIP access and share their local knowledge and experience. Price includes 6 nights' accommodation in premium hotels, breakfasts, 5 picnic lunches that include fresh produce and local specialities, 4 dinners, snacks and drinks for cycling and an energy pack. Transfers are also included, as is support on the road from a certified guide and support van. You’ll also receive a Tour de France gift, a road book and a Discover France cycling jersey.
Road biking - Le Tour de La Provence
Explore the ups and downs of the beautifully varied Provence region
Offered by:
BSpoke Cycling Tours
Phone number:
+44 (0)20 3411 0632
Tour length:
6 nights
Price:
From £1360 per person
Provence is one of France’s cycling heartlands. The landscape is a mix of wide valleys, small mountain ranges, such as the Alpilles, and dramatic gorges. The landscape’s majesty is matched by the charm and beauty of the towns and villages that sit within it, where French café culture is at its finest and the cuisine is built on the region’s excellent local produce, served alongside refreshing local wines. Whilst soaking all of this in, the silhouette of Mont Ventoux is never far from view. Will you go for the summit? Highlights include the twisting climb up the Val d’Enfer and the views from Baux-de-Provence at the top, the picturesque hilltop villages of Provence and the climb of Mont Ventoux (or at least a visit to Bedoin!) The price of this tour includes fully serviced aluminium road bikes (carbon fibre upgrade available), water bottle and accessories, 3 and 4-star B&B/hotel accommodation, tour information pack upon arrival, detailed navigational material, often including GPS maps, local support whenever needed. Flights and transfers from the UK are available on request. Full financial protection through ABTA and ATOL.
Upper Provence, Ventoux, and Luberon
Get right to the heart of beautiful Provence on this self-guided holiday
Offered by:
Cyclomundo
Phone number:
+33 (0)4 50 87 21 09
Tour length:
5 nights / 6 days
Price:
From €995
This six-day, self-guided bike tour allows you to explore the heart of Provence at a more challenging level than other tours of the region. Beginning in Bédoin and ending in Gargas, the itinerary features relatively short daily rides, allowing you to fully experience Provence rather than just see it as you pass by. With options to climb the legendary Mont Ventoux, or snake through the Gorges de la Nesque, your efforts will be rewarded with numerous spectacular views. Highlights include visits to some of Provence’s most acclaimed wine-making towns (Vacqueyas, Gigondas, Beaumes de Venise), stops in several of France’s “most beautiful” villages (Séguret, Gordes, and Roussillon), and options to climb legendary Mont Ventoux or snake through the Gorges de la Nesque. Each night, you’ll stay in comfortable, character-filled hotels set in utterly charming towns. Price includes 5 nights of accommodation, daily breakfast, 1 dinner, luggage transfer, detailed maps and route notes, a GPS device (subject to availability), and transfers to and from Avignon. Bike rental can be arranged on request.
Ventoux Cycling Holidays
My bespoke service to help you plan your Mont Ventoux cycling holiday
It's the icon of Provence, a Tour de France legend. I get loads of enquiries each year about Ventoux cycling holidays and accommodation – to help give you the info you need, I've set up this bespoke service to help you find the right tour for your ability (and budget). Just send me your wishlist and I'll suggest some local options to help take the stress and worry out of your trip. I'll point you to guided or self-guided rides, plus accommodation and support services such as bike hire and transfer services. (I have a similar service for Corsica – for other French cycling holidays, just email me at lyn@freewheelingfrance.com). Photo thanks to Adam Bird.
All accommodation has been checked to ensure it meets our cycle-friendly criteria. We also deal with tour operators personally before adding them to the site. To recommend a great French cycling holiday or a nice bike-friendly place to stay, please email lyn@freewheelingfrance.com
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