Why to Go for Tour De France Bike Tours
Think of cycling in France, and the Tour de France bike tours inevitably spring to mind. While France is the home to world’s premier cycling race, it has something to offer cyclists of all disciplines and abilities, not just Lycra-clad racers. The country has some of the most varied terrains on the globe.
From rocky and rugged Breton coast in the north, to the sweeping sands of its southern reaches, France boasts vine-covered flatlands, quiet country roads, rolling hills, sleepy villages and romantic canals, all waiting to be explored by pedal power.
In addition, there are also some serious mountain ranges to pedal up. Throw in some of the best wine and food on the globe to quench your appetite and an ethnicity that certainly admires the bicycle, and you have a winning combination.
Road cycling in France
France offers abundant prospects for traveling around through road cycling. The country is prominently known to have more than half a million miles of non-motorway roads running nationwide. In addition, there is an extensive network of bike-friendly trails that facilitate cyclists to escape those of a more petrol-powered persuasion.
Fitness fanatics who fancy more of a challenge should head to the Pyrenees by taking up tour de France bike tours. The Pyrenees is littered with Tour legend just like the Alps, however, these peaks tend to be quieter than those of its larger cousin. The relative proximity of most of its climbs makes it easy to construct an itinerary that takes in the best of the tour’s torturous ascents.
Tackle the prominent Circle of Death by starting in the city of Pau and heading to the spa town of Bangneres-de-Luchon, nearly 200km away to the east, passing through four prominent Tour de France cols: the Peyresourde, Aspin, Tourmalet and Aubisque, which is more than 4,000m of climbing. The professionals often cover it within 5 ½ hours, however, for a pleasurable experience, break it into 2 or 3 days.
For cycling softies seeking a leisurely pedal, you cannot beat the Canal du Midi in the Languedoc-Roussillon. Since 1996, this 240km long canal built during the reign of Louis XIV has been a UNESCO World Heritage site. It runs from Toulouse to the Etang de Thau, a lagoon on the Mediterranean coast near the town of Sete.
Start searching for a bike tour today and explore the beauty of France at your own pace!
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