Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
WHAT ARE THE TOP CYCLING TOURS IN FRANCE?
France is a cyclist's dream, offering iconic climbs, scenic coastlines, and historic routes that blend challenge with beauty. This guide covers the top cycling tours across regions like the Alps, Pyrenees, Provence, Loire Valley, and Normandy. Whether you’re chasing Tour de France climbs or rolling through lavender fields, these routes deliver unforgettable riding experiences for amateurs and seasoned cyclists alike.
Why France is a cycling paradise
France consistently ranks as one of the top cycling destinations in the world for good reason. The country's varied terrain—from the jagged peaks of the Alps to the rolling vineyards of Bordeaux—caters to every rider type. Add to that a deep cycling culture, Tour de France legacy, smooth tarmac, and well-marked routes, and it's clear why cyclists flock here year-round.
What makes it ideal for cycling?
From the infrastructure to the ambiance, France offers cyclists unmatched support. You'll find dedicated bike lanes in cities, endless countryside routes, and iconic cols featured in professional races. The country also boasts an abundance of cycling tours tailored to different skill levels, with many offering vehicle support, guides, luggage transfers, and gourmet meals.
Extensive road and mountain networks suitable for all cyclists
Well-preserved nature and historic landmarks along routes
Strong cycling heritage with frequent local races and events
French hospitality, food, and wine culture integrated into tours
Climate variety allowing near year-round riding
Whether you’re training for an endurance event or planning a leisure ride with vineyard stops, France’s cycling ecosystem provides the ultimate balance of challenge and relaxation.
Top cycling tours in the Alps and Pyrenees
No list of France’s top cycling experiences would be complete without its two legendary mountain ranges: the Alps and the Pyrenees. Both offer dramatic climbs, awe-inspiring descents, and the kind of bucket-list rides that define a cycling career.
Alps: Conquer Tour de France legends
The French Alps are home to the most revered climbs in the sport—Col du Galibier, Alpe d’Huez, Col de la Madeleine, and Col d’Izoard. Many cycling tours focus on these famous ascents, offering weeklong itineraries with full van support and rest-day activities in towns like Annecy and Bourg d’Oisans.
Classic Alps Tour: Includes climbs like Alpe d’Huez, Galibier, and Croix de Fer over 7 days
Haute Route Alps: Competitive amateur event that spans key climbs from Geneva to Nice
Lake Annecy Loop: Scenic route combining lakeside views with mountain passes
Pyrenees: Wild and rugged rides
Often more remote and less commercial than the Alps, the Pyrenees offer raw, authentic cycling. Here, you’ll find climbs like Col du Tourmalet, Aubisque, and Aspin—each with steep gradients and fewer crowds. Towns like Luz-Saint-Sauveur serve as great bases for multi-day cycling adventures.
Trans-Pyrenees Tour: A coast-to-coast challenge from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean
Tourmalet Trilogy: 3-day loop including Col du Tourmalet, Luz Ardiden, and Hautacam
French Basque Routes: Hilly rides with rich culture and incredible coastal scenery
If you're looking for dramatic elevation gains with a side of rustic charm, the Pyrenees offer fewer distractions and a deeper immersion into pure mountain riding.
Best scenic and cultural tours
For cyclists who prefer rolling terrain, historical villages, and vineyard stops over lung-busting ascents, France offers a wealth of scenic and cultural tours. These routes blend moderate riding with rich heritage, making them ideal for cycling couples, families, or leisure groups.
Loire Valley: Castles and countryside
The Loire Valley, known as the “Garden of France,” offers flat to gently rolling terrain dotted with Renaissance châteaux, sunflower fields, and wine estates. Many self-guided and guided tours follow the Loire à Vélo route, with daily rides ranging from 30–70 km.
Loire à Vélo: A 900+ km marked route stretching from Nevers to the Atlantic coast
Amboise Loop: Day rides based around the town of Amboise and nearby Château de Chenonceau
Vineyard to Castle Tour: Weeklong itinerary featuring wine tastings and castle visits
Provence: Lavender and limestone
In Provence, scenic rides wind through lavender fields, Roman ruins, and perched hilltop villages. The region also offers access to Mont Ventoux for those wanting to combine leisure with challenge.
Luberon Loop: Ride through Gordes, Roussillon, and other medieval towns
Mont Ventoux Challenge: A day ride to the iconic summit for thrill-seekers
Avignon to Arles Tour: Explore Roman history and Provençal markets by bike
Normandy and Brittany: Coastal escapes
Northern France offers cooler climates and rich historical context. Normandy features D-Day beaches and apple cider routes, while Brittany presents rugged coastlines and quiet farm roads.
Mont Saint-Michel Ride: Cycle to France’s most photographed landmark
Normandy Apple Route: A culinary tour with cider tastings and farm visits
Brittany Coastal Loops: Windy, dramatic rides along the Atlantic
These tours prioritize experience over elevation. Ideal for those who want cultural immersion at a pedal-friendly pace.
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