Cycling Destinations in France

From calm country lanes to some of the most impressive mountains in Europe, our French cycling tours have it all. It is also a haven for cyclists and that is why the cycle tours we offer at epico are the best in class.

There are several ambitious Tour de France tours that offer a week’s worth of spectacular cycling, such as the French Alps Traverse: Legendary Climbs Cycling Tour. Or watch the peloton come through after you have cycled the stage itself, if you time your cycling holiday right! Or, how about the Provence & Ventoux Discovery: Heritage Cycling Tour where you’ll make lifelong memories and face daily challenges on this fantastic seven-day tour, with a new series of quiet cols to climb each day before taking on the mighty Mont Ventoux.

Like many of its Mediterranean neighbours, France is not only a wonderful holiday destination, it also offers cyclists the perfect conditions for pretty much year-round riding.

What is it like Cycling in France?

Known around the world as the home of the Tour de France, it is not surprising that this country has embraced cycling as if it were a national sport. Drivers are very respectful towards cyclists on country roads, especially those featured in or near the Tour, and many hotels and guesthouses are equipped for visitors who bring their bikes.

Aside from its love of cycling, France’s gastronomy, artistic culture and architectural heritage also constitute some of the country’s most interesting attractions. From ancient mediaeval castles to vast vineyards that produce world-class wines, touring the countryside by bike is an incredible way to get up close and personal with so many of these cultural treasures.

French cuisine, rich in carbohydrates and fats, offers all the ingredients you need to refuel after a long day in the saddle. Riding from town to town is an opportunity to sample many dishes, snacks and local restaurants. You might even be lucky enough to ride into a local market selling fresh produce from the area.

Cycling in Provence

Epico cycling holidays in provence in the south of France explore one of the country’s most beautiful backdrops for cycling. The landscape is generally flat or hilly, with the odd impressive mountain punctuating the landscape, such as Mont Ventoux or Les Alpilles (captured magnificently by Van Gogh in his day). This Epic Climbs: Ventoux Discovery Bike Tour is an opportunity to get up close and personal with the mighty mountain itself. This challenging adventure is best suited to experienced road cyclists looking to test their skill and fitness level, with over 1,000 m of climbing and an average of 100 km in distance each day.

In general, it is as if the region were designed for cyclists, with long Roman roads surrounded by fields of lavender, cherry trees and olive groves, winding rivers and romantic age-old villages. A trip here in the height of summer is not recommended unless you are prepared to head out very early in the day to avoid the midday heat. However, both spring and autumn can offer the ideal conditions for the perfect cycling holiday in the south of France.

Cycling in the French Alps

If you are looking for a more challenging experience, these French Alps cycling holidays will be exactly what you’re after. With mighty cols and dramatic gorges, the French Alps offer the perfect terrain for some seriously memorable riding. This French Massif Central Cycling Tour is a wholehearted, no-excuses introduction into the Western Alps. Participants will need to be prepared to tackle over 800 km of distance and some 13,500 m of positive elevation over the course of eight days of full-on road cycling adventure.

Cycling holidays on Corsica

When we think of France we often just think of the mainland, but it is important not to rule out islands such as Corsica. This mountainous island about 150 km off the southern coast of France is often overlooked as a destination for cycling tours, but this Corsica Cycling Tour is an ideal opportunity to explore the land on two wheels, and really see it from all angles. With a total elevation gain of over 17,000 m, anyone signing up will want to get in some serious training before arriving. This article on choosing your next cycling holiday will give you an idea of what you should be looking for depending on your interests and fitness level.

French Riviera Cycling Camp & L’Etape de Tour