France is one of those countries which attracts visitors in a compelling way. An infinite wealth of historical monuments, an unending variety of landscapes and traditions and - of course - the sublime cuisine. Add to this a string of delights for the active traveller – an endless maze of peaceful cycling routes and limitless footpaths traversing the idyllic countryside – and you have all the ingredients for a perfect holiday!
In addition, the country has a growing network of beautifully expanded cycling routes. There are good bikes, excellent roads, even the smallest ones are asphalted, and cycling paths, often called 'voies vertes'. You can take your two-wheeler on the train so you can easily return to your starting point.
Five unarguable reasons to cycle in France
Check out our video to discover five unarguable reasons to cycle in France:
Cycle breath-taking Burgundy with its medieval villages, discover historic castles, quiet cloisters and the city of Beaune. Delight in culinary specialties made from local products and sample world-famous wines.
Paris (CDG/ORY) or Lyon (LYS)
Discover inland Provence on quiet back roads. Marvel at historic relics from prehistory to Roman times and cycle among vineyards and tiny villages. Of course you'll taste excellent wines of the Cotes du Rhône.
Marseille (MRS)
Cycle the first section of the Via Podiensis, from Puy to Cahors. Spend evenings in symbolic towns such as Saugues, Estaing, Figeac and Cahors, and sample the region's culinary delights.
Lyon (LYS)