Top 5 Destinations for Cycling France
Loire Valley: The Loire Valley is renowned for its fairytale castles, lush vineyards and scenic riverside cycling paths. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to over 800 castles, each with its own unique charm and fascinating history to uncover. As you ride along the Loire River, explore the charming villages, rolling hills and historic towns that pepper the landscape. Stop off at the famous Château de Chambord or the romantic Château de Chenonceau to delve into France’s royal past. The Loire Valley also boasts world-class wineries where you can sample the region’s famous wines, such as Sancerre and Vouvray.
Corsica: The island of Corsica is home to a rugged and wild landscape that provides a thrilling backdrop for cycling in France. With its dramatic cliffs, emerald waters and winding mountain roads, Corsica is a paradise for anyone seeking a challenge. The island’s diverse terrain includes everything from challenging mountain climbs to gentler coastal routes, making it suitable for riders of all levels. Explore the historic town of Bonifacio perched on limestone cliffs, pedal through the dense forests of the interior or enjoy a leisurely ride along the sandy beaches of Porto-Vecchio.
Dordogne: The Dordogne region in southwestern France boasts the most beautiful countryside, strewn with charming villages and prehistoric caves. Cycling through the Dordogne Valley, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of green rolling hills, meandering rivers and lush forests. Visit the medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda with its cobblestone streets and imposing architecture or pedal along the Dordogne River past fairytale castles and vineyards. The region is also a paradise for foodies, with its famous foie gras, truffles and walnuts. Don’t miss a visit to the Lascaux caves to see ancient cave paintings dating back thousands of years.
Provence: Provence is one of the most scenic regions for cycling France, known for its sublime landscapes, colourful markets and sleepy hilltop villages. Riding through Provence, you’ll encounter fields of lavender in full bloom, olive groves stretching to the horizon and vineyards that produce world-class wines. Explore the quaint villages of Fontaine-de- Vaucluse and Roussillon perched on rocky outcrops or explore the ruined castle of Lacoste. Provence’s sun-drenched countryside, delicious cuisine and vibrant culture give you a true taste of the authentic French way of life.
Burgundy: Located in eastern France, Burgundy is renowned for its vineyards, historic sites and pretty canals. As you ride through Burgundy, you’ll pass through charming villages such as Beaune, famous for its hospices and fine wines. Explore the vine-covered hills of the Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits, where some of the world’s most prestigious wines are produced. Pedal among the wine villages of Oeuilly and Fleury la Rivière en route to Hautvillers, where the Benedictine monk, Dom Pérignon, once worked. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to sample the famous red wines, such as Burgundy, Chambolle Musigny and Vosne Romanée.
