Cycling
in France is the perfect activity holiday
France
is the perfect destination for any keen cyclist, with so many gorgeous
locations to choose from. Spring and summer are the perfect seasons for
cycling in France, although the practice can be enjoyable all year round
and a bonus is that bikes are allowed to travel free of charge on trains,
so deciding on your cycling location is made just that much easier.
You just need to reserve the extra space for your bicycle when purchasing
your ticket.
While
there are not always dedicated cycling lanes available, the French tend
to love the sport themselves. For this reason drivers are always just that
much more aware of cyclists on the road, especially over the weekends.
Rules
and regulations
There
are a few rules and regulations to bear in mind when taking cycling
breaks in France. Many cyclists prefer to take their own bicycles on
holiday with them, but there are several regulations to bear in mind. Your
bike must be equipped with fully-functioning brakes and a bell, and if
cycling after dark must be fitted with front and rear lights, as well as
reflectors.
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when it comes to France, it is not essential to take your own bicycle,
as there are rental outlets all over the country where bikes can be hired
for a reasonable fee.
Another
thing to bear in mind is that while crash helmets are not compulsory in
France, it is still a good idea to wear a helmet, especially when cycling
after dark is busy regions, as well as a high-visibility reflective waistcoat
for safety.
When
there are cycle lanes available, bear in mind that cyclists must stick
to those and not head into the car lanes. It is also imperative that cyclists
obey the normal traffic signs and signals, including one way, no entry
and stop signs.
Also
cyclists should always ensure they keep a safe distance between themselves
and other vehicles and while in the daytime it is OK to cycle two-abreast,
at night cyclists must ride in single file. |
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Photo:
cycling2 CC BY-NC 2.0 Simon
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Don’t
drink and cycle. While you may be tempted to partake of some of the delicious
French wine on your travels, always bear in mind that you are subject to
the same limits as other road users when traveling in France and you could
be hit with a heavy fine and have your bicycle impounded if found to be
under the influence of alcohol while cycling.
Where
to go?
There
are many great destinations for cycling breaks in France, and the following
are just a few suggestions, suitable for all levels of cyclist. from the
tougher mountain rides to the easier cycling routes through the wine areas
and along the coast.
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For
those ready for riding in the mountains, the French Alps are perfect and
this area is popular with cyclists from all over the world.
While
grueling in parts, the rather slower cycling speed offers the cyclist the
opportunity to enjoy the best, spectacular mountain vistas on all sides.
It also allows cyclists to experience some of the more trying stages of
the Tour de France, but at a more leisurely pace than that of the entrants.
It
is important to note, however, that the period from June to September tends
to be very busy, with many other cyclists having the same idea as you,
which can tend to spoil the adventure.
Another
excellent choice is the route from La Baule at the mouth of the Loire,
cycling all the way to lovely Biarritz. Taking this route offers a mostly
tarred cycle lane through the lovely Aquitaine region and is, in fact,
the most complete long-distance cycle route (or “velo route” as they are
known locally) in France, perfect for those with that extra kick of stamina.
Another
option is to head from the Atlantic coast through to the Mediterranean
coast, leaving from Lacanau or Arcachon, peddling all the way through the
partly tarred canal towpath near Sète, on the Mediterranean coast. |
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Photo:
CC BY-NC 2.0 will_cyclist
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Enjoy
the adventure of the open road in France, but take care. Stick to the rules
and regulations, but also relax, enjoy the fresh air and lovely scenery
as you tour the roads of France.
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