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France is a place beloved not only by romantic souls, but also by cyclists across the globe. After all, it’s the home of the Tour de France, one of the most prestigious cycling races in the world. The country offers plenty of scenic views, charming towns and thrilling slopes for all types of cyclists. Grab your bike and prepare yourself for an adventure on two wheels with a list of the best cycling hotspots in France.
Nice
Nice offers some of the most scenic and exhilarating cycling adventures. Experience temperate climates, azure coasts and excellent cycling routes in this Côte d’Azur commune. Cycling pros can look forward to the challenge of Col de la Madone. This famous training climb starts at the coast of Menton and slopes uphill to above sea level. The Col d’Eze is another route that travellers can try. This route takes you up to 10 kilometres and guarantees a thrilling experience after appearing in the Paris-Nice stage race.
Haute-Alpes
With its history in cycling, the Hautes-Alpes is a biking wonderland for adventurous cyclists. It’s the turf of many Tour de France ascents offering hundreds of roads to climb. In the South, you have the Le Bourg-d’Oisans, a popular stopover in the Tour de France. It takes you to the most well-known cycling roads such as the Col du Galibier, Alpe d’Huez and Col de la Croix de Fer. Meanwhile, the Bourg-Saint-Maurice rests in the heart of this region and serves as a gateway for alpine paths in Col l’Iseran and Col de Madeleine.
Pyrenees
If the French Alps are too crowded for you, the Pyrenees Mountains are a great alternative when cycling in France. It features short and steep climbs with tranquil paths for cyclists who want less urbanised and less populated routes. This region is home to the Col du Tourmalet, the most used mountain pass in the Tour de France. It has a staggering 2,115 metres of elevation, making it the highest pass in the area. There are two ways to take on this mountain range: from Luz at the western point and from Sainte-Marie-de-Campan at the eastern end.
Loire Valley
Long-distance bikers will have the time of their lives exploring the Loire Valley. The renowned Garden of France boasts a vast expense of biking trails in the heart of France. La Lore à Vélo is a favourite among cycling enthusiasts who visit the area. It covers over 900 kilometres of surfaced roads connecting the centre of France to the Atlantic Ocean. Meanwhile, riders wanting to reach greater distances can attempt the 1,000-kilometre endurance route following the Loire River.
Provence
Spend time away from the crowds and savour quiet moments while pedalling across its quaint roads in Provence. You can’t miss the Giant of Provence, Mont Ventoux, when cycling in Provence. Climbing up this mountain seems like an uphill battle, for it reaches over 22 kilometres with a 7.6 per cent average gradient. But the breathtaking views at its summit make the extra effort worthwhile. Take a leisurely pedal on its country roads for your cycling holiday in France. Its most popular route, the Circuit de la Dordogne, reaches up to 80 kilometres in length. Quaint towns and villages fill the path along the way.
Saint-Emilon
History buffs will be delighted once they visit the heritage-rich Saint-Emilion. This city houses over 15 cycling roads alongside quaint towns, country roads and lush vineyards. You can tour UNESCO-listed mediaeval towns, sprawling gardens and wineries at your own pace with a two-wheeled ride. Drop by one of the vineyards around the area and taste their finest wine selections.
Carcassonne
The final destination is the beautiful city of Carcassonne. It is one of the best cycling routes in France for both history lovers and thrill-seekers. This city features idyllic villages tucked in a fortress reminiscent of the Middle Ages. History enthusiasts can follow along the Canal du Midi à Vélo, among the most remarkable canals in Europe. The trail has flat roads, perfect for an easy and laidback cycling trip.
If you’re looking for a fun and relaxing activity, add cycling to your French holiday bucket list! Contact your local Travellers Choice agent today and experience a romantic getaway like no other in the country of love.
