Cycling holidays in France with UTracks
The 2011 Tour de France starts this weekend and if you get inspired to explore France on two wheels, European activity holidays’ specialist UTracks offers a selection of cycling holidays to discover the very best of our charming neighbour by bike – and at your own pace...
NEW TRIP FOR 2011 Gardens of the Loire by Bike 8 days
From the chateau of Chenonceau where the rival gardens of Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici are proudly displayed, this cycle tour is designed to inspire gardening and cycling enthusiasts. Whilst the focus is on the gardens the many other attractions of the area compliment the experience, including the Sunday markets in Amboise, the inventions of Leonardo da Vinci at Close de Luce and the vineyards of Montlouis known for their sweet white wines.
Departs: Daily until October
Price: £890
Wine Lovers Burgundy 8 days
The Côte d’ Or is where Burgundy’s most exclusive wines are found – and to get you started, a private cellar tour and lunch with tasting is included in a small winery as an introduction to the region. Whilst the focus is firmly on wine, the trip offers the full smorgasbord, including fine French cuisine, classic scenery of vine covered rolling hills, rambling chateaux and peaceful villages coupled with a lively cultural heritage to explore.
Departs: Daily until October
Price: £1,190
From Toulouse to the Mediterranean: Canal du Midi Cycle 7 days
The Canal du Midi was built in the 17th Century, overcoming great obstacles to connect the Mediterranean with the Atlantic... The best way to experience all facets of the canal is by bike. Stretching 240kms from Toulouse to Sete, the tree-lined canal travels through a landscape rich in architectural and cultural treasures, including impressive medieval cities and picturesque small villages.
Departs: Daily until 31 October
Price: £890
FAMILY FRIENDLY ITINERARY Loire Valley Castles 5 days
The Loire River was once the highway between the Atlantic and the heart of France. Explore the impressive chateaux, medieval towns and forests of the valley known as the ‘playground of the kings’. Based in a charming family run hotel in the picturesque village of Chitenay, cycling is the perfect way to experience this world famous region. In the evenings, soak up the atmosphere in the hotel’s gardens and dine on local cuisine and wine.
Departs: Daily until November
Price: £495
Bordeaux Cycle Adventure 7 days
An enticing combination of activity and indulgence, enjoy a weeklong ride through rolling vine-covered hills in a region renowned for its fine eating and living. As you cycle past medieval chateaux, you can sample the world-renowned local wines, which have been produced in the region since the 8th century. Evenings are spent in charming family run hotels where local cuisine is served.
Departs: Daily except Sundays until October
Price: £1,170
Provence Backroads 8 days
Cycle through beautiful vineyards and olive groves, deserted hilltop passes and tiny villages and gain a unique insight into rural French life. On this journey you get to sample the gastronomic delights and wines from both the Provence and Côtes du Rhône regions, explore relics from prehistoric to Roman times and visit the town where Van Gogh spent his last years painting some of his best works.
Departs: Daily until 8 October
Price: £790
Quoted prices are inclusive of accommodation, most meals, equipment rental, experienced guides, luggage transfers between hotels (where applicable) and clear maps with images. Flights from the UK are not included but can be booked on request.
For more information, visit: UTracks.com
