Best Places To Cycle In France
France is a beautiful country that features rolling hills, majestic Alps, serene lakes, and picturesque countryside. It’s no wonder many cyclists choose this famous cycling destination to test their metal.
The country has much to offer, with hundreds of bike trails stretching through beautiful rural surroundings. From the city of love, the south coast, to the mountains and highlands. France is a country that caters for all cycling disciplines, whether you want to jump off the ferry in Calais and ride to the South of France, or pack up your downhill mountain bike and drive/fly over to the Alps for some serious downhill riding.
Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is an attractive region in the northern part of France, famous for its historic chateaux and vineyards. This region is rich in culture, making it a must-visit destination for many cyclists. Its bike-friendly terrain and flat roads make it a good option for all levels of cycling enthusiasts. You can pedal through the valley while enjoying the beautiful scenery and experience the rich culture and history of the region.
French Riviera
The French Riviera is known for its luxurious lifestyle and beaches, but it's also a cyclist's dream. The coast is full of winding roads that snake through breathtaking mountain scenery, quaint seaside towns and picturesque cliffs. The French Riviera offers both relaxed coastal cycling and challenging hill cycling. Therefore, it offers something for everyone, regardless of their fitness level.
Mont Ventoux
Mont Ventoux is a monolithic peak that dominates Provence and is popular among cyclists and Tour de France enthusiasts. It's a legendary peak that has featured in most Tour de France routes and demands respect from any cyclist who wants to conquer it. The climb to the summit offers a real challenge that attracts seasoned cyclists from around the world.
Vercors Regional Nature Park
The Vercors Regional Nature Park is known for its breathtaking and diverse landscapes, making it the perfect location for all types of cycling enthusiasts. It's an ideal location for both road cycling and mountain biking. The park features winding mountain roads, challenging hills, and smooth roads that will challenge or relax your cycling abilities depending on your preference.
Bordeaux and Saint Emilion
Bordeaux and Saint Emilion are popular destinations for wine enthusiasts, but they're also ideal for cyclists. Saint Emilion is a charming medieval village that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The surrounding vineyards make it the perfect location for relaxed cycle rides. The Bordeaux region, on the other hand, is famous for wine production and has some of the most beautiful bike trails that run through vineyards beside the Garonne River.
At Westbrook cycles, we stock everything needed for your cycling trip to France to be a huge success - from the right bikes, to the right cycling touring gear - including luggage, and racks so you can carry everything you need. We also stock a wide range of essential tools & spare components to allow you to keep on the move if there are any issues.