French cycling destinations

France is one of the most popular destinations in the world to choose to go on a cycling holiday. Whether you are planning to ride the high mountain passes of the Tour de France, or prefer to be pedaling from one winery to the next, there is a destination and cycle route to suit everyone. To help you decide where to go for your French cycling holiday we have put together destination guides showcasing each of the different regions. In our guides, you will find practical information such as transport links, bike hire, where to base yourself, the gastronomy of the region as well as popular activities and attractions. In addition to this, we have also mapped out cycling routes that are accessible from each area. Discover the regions below.

We now offer a travel advisory service with a range of options to suit your needs and budget. Since our first trip in 2013 we have learned a lot about visiting France and are happy to share that knowledge to help others plan their own holidays. We are lucky to now call the Hautes Pyrenees home and love getting out and exploring the region and country regularly.

If you are on Facebook, consider joining our Cycling in France group. It is a space to ask questions about any aspects of cycling in France regardless of the type of bike you ride or how often you ride it. We will be available to answer any questions as will other group members.

The Pyrenees

With five regions in the Pyrenees to explore this section covers everything about how to travel there, the best places to stay, eating and drinking as well as popular activities and local attractions.

Whether you want to conquer the Col du Tourmalet, Col d’Aubisque, or the lesser-known Route des Lacs, we have 39 detailed riding routes for you to explore in detail across 5 distinct riding areas in the French Pyrenees

A view of the mountains from Cirque du Troumouse
A road in France with the snow-capped peaks of the French Alps in the background

The French Alps

Here you will find practical information on five regions in the French Alps. This includes how to travel there, the best places to stay, eating and drinking as well as top activities and local attractions.

From Alpe d’Huez, Col du Galibier, Col d’Izoard, or a lap of Lake of Annecy, Our French Alps ride guide contains 29 cycling routes for you to explore across 5 areas in the French Alps.

Nice & the Alpes Maritimes

All you need to know to plan your holiday in the Nice and Alpes Maritimes Region. the best places to stay, eating and drinking as well as popular activities and local attractions.

Details of several riding routes taking in stunning coastal roads as well as alpine climbs such as the Col de la Madone, Col de Vence, and Col d’Eze.

People at the counter in a French cafe with bikes in the background
View of farm fields in Provence

Luberon & Provence

All you need to know about how to get here, the best places to stay, eating and drinking, and local attractions.

Explore the fantastic cycling routes of this region. Mont Ventoux, the perched villages, wineries, lavender fields & the Gorges de la Nesque.

The French Jura

All you need to know about how to get here, the best places to stay, eating and drinking as well as popular activities and local attractions.

In the Jura, you can choose to cycle the steep climbs of Grand Colombier and Mont du Chat or take in a scenic lap of Lac du Bourget.

VIew of Lac du Bourget looking towards Aix les Bains
Miroir d'Eau, Bordeaux

Bordeaux Region

All you need to know about how to get here, the best places to stay, eating and drinking, and local attractions.

Details of several riding routes taking in stunning coastal roads as well as tours of the wineries. Something for everyone.