Holidays are best spent on outdoor events, for instance, you may consider going beyond your usual vacation activities and try out road cycling holidays. If you regularly engage in road cycling, consider options such as bike races, climbs and mountain bike treks.
There are several exciting cycling adventures in Europe such as pleasure cycling in Italy; mountain biking in Spain and Germany; winter cycling in Andalucía, Spain; and bike tours in Alps and Pyrenees, France. However, the most thrilling experience is the cycling holidays in France.
If you are a bike tourist and would like a superb place to tour, consider France as it has many bike-friendly hotels and guesthouses. The accreditation termed as Accueil Vélo that the France Tourist Board offers, guarantees bike-friendly places. You only need to carry a special symbol and get bike storage, tips on where to ride, and other services for those with bicycles.
Best cycling region
France has some of the best cycling routes in Europe. Among them is the Loire â Vélo, an 800 km cycle trail from Bateau Sur le Canal lateral â la Loire to Saint-Nazaire. This route offers several fascinating sights such as ancient castles, bird sanctuaries, spots for fine wine tasting and cuisine, a fine beach, modern bridge, beautiful botanical gardens, the magnificent Loire Valley and caves, and ferries, boats and yachts. All these features combined make the cycling experience a memorable one. Along the route, there are also various shops for bicycle hire particularly for tourists with no bicycles. The shops are placed strategically along the route making it easy to access bicycles. The bicycles are well maintained. There is also a variety of bicycles to choose from depending on your age, sex and height. The hiring process is also fast and easy, and some shops offer delivery and pick-up services to your residential hotel.
Cycling tips
For the bike:
Make sure your bike is in good condition
Ensure your bicycle has a map and holder to guide you
Ensure you have trailers or “extra wheel” if you are traveling with children
Carry a small emergency repair kit
For you:
Wear waterproof clothing
Carry sunglasses and sunscreen
Pack plenty of drinks
For the highway:
Watch for junctions and bridges
Give pedestrians right of way on green-ways and alert them when approaching
Wear a properly fitted helmet
At night, wear a fluorescent safety bib with reflective bands
Ensure you have bright lights
Cycle in the spirit of fair-play
If you are planning a cycling vacation in France, you can find more information at Cycling Loire. You will not only enjoy the bike hiking experience but also get a chance to interact with some of the best tourist sights in Europe.
Leave a Reply