The Vélo voyageur blog

Here we are! After the first two parts, discover the last part of our tour of Flanders by bike. Day 8 We leave Kortrijk on an old train track, converted into a cycling path. We continue along the canal and reach the river Scheldt towards Oudenaarde. The road is flatter than flat for those who start feeling a little tired after a few days on the bicycle. Oudenaarde is only 37 km away. However, some of us do feel the need to get the true “Flandrien” feel. We have reached the Flemish Ardennes. So called, because they are almost as hilly as the Walloon Ardennes. This is the country where Eddy Merckx, Louison Bobet, Mathieu and his father Adrie van der Poel, Jacky Durand, Tadej Pogacar and many others won the most beautiful road race in the world. At which point we decide to do part of the race trail… Paterberg We put the chain on the smallest gear, because when we leave the Scheldt we cycle towards Kwaremont, a household name among bicycle enthusiasts. As the Paterberg is nearby, we obviously include it in the ride. In Belgium it is legally forbidden to have two without three. So we also add the mythical Koppenberg to the route. This alternative route is only for hardcore crazy people. With slopes of up to 22% on cobblestones that feel as if they were thrown on the road from a distance, you can count on a tough challenge. Approach the Flemish hills with fear and respect, as they will crush your hopes and dreams if you don’t. Yet again, we reach a beautiful small city. If you have any interest in cycling, you can visit the Tour of Flanders museum. Day 9 There is only one thing that separates us from Brussels : the Flemish Ardennes region. Cobblestones, steep hills, wind, pouring rain, hail, and cyclists lying in a fetal position on the side of the road calling for their mother. The next three days consist of finding a way that is acceptable for normal people who don’t cycle 1000 km per week, and yet thrilling enough to show a hint of this truely amazing part of the world. We part ways and leave Oudenaarde along the river and beautiful country roads, with little to no traffic, to check the many possibilities. We reach the mythical town of Geraardsbergen almost at the same time. Geraardsbergen, Manneken pis Geraardsbergen is the lifelong competitor of Brussels. In Geraardsbergen, they also have a Manneken Pis, which is allegedly a lot older than his Brussels’ nephew. Two more things they are proud of are mattentaart (you will want to taste a few of those, it’s a cake made with buttermilk) and the world famous Wall of Geraardsbergen. Not a wall in the real sense of the word, but a steep cobblestoned hill right in the middle of town. We decide to climb the hill, because on the top there is a restaurant and we are hungry. I have climbed it many times before, but that was many kilos ago. Aurélie enjoys my little help and swiftly climbs to the chapel on the top. We are stunned by the magnificent view and an excellent dinner at the top. Day 10 An extra day to find some alternative ways in this region. We feel that the thousands of meters we have climbed in the past days have crept into our legs. We cycle to Zwalm and Ninove. Along the way, we discover a lot of steep hills, cobblestone roads and even a very busy road, unsuitable for cycling. This is clearly not the way we want to present to our customers. After another 65 km we have a meeting to pick one of the several ways we have cycled the past two days. Plus, we have a well deserved beer on a terrace overlooking the Wall of Geraardsbergen. It was yet again a hard but rewarding day. Wall of Geraardsbergen, chapel Day 11 Today is our last day of cycling : we are cycling back to Brussels again. The roads are excellent, but hilly. We have discovered, the past three days, that Jacques Brel has clearly never cycled in his “Flat land”. The countryside is beautiful and we notice more and more that we are reaching the capital. Traffic gets busier, roads are congested and suddenly we find ourselves in the Brussels traffic infarct. This is clearly not the way to go. Turning back to one of our last reference points at the outskirts of Brussels, we let fate decide which way to turn. A brilliant move as fate shows us the way through a park and over a wonderful boulevard where cyclists have gotten their own cycling lane in the middle. With hardly any interference from cars, we reach the canal and find our way back to the bicycle rental agency. And a beer, obviously ! Grand-Place, Brussels It was a wonderful tour of Flanders by bike ! Contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t rain all the time in Belgium. During our 10 day bicycle tour, we had about 3 hours of rain. The Belgian art cities and the Flemish countryside are wonderful. The food is amazing and the people are genuinely welcoming. From our litlle adventure, we have created two new bike trips which, we hope, you will like! From our litlle adventure, we have created two new bike trips which, we hope, you will like! The Tour of Flanders on a bicycle in 7 days A long cycling weekend in and around Brussels Welkom in Vlaanderen ! (Welcome to Flanders!)

After the Part 1, here is the rest of our cycling adventures in Flanders. Day 4 Today, the real deal starts : we are planning an eight day cycling holiday, the Tour of Flanders! On paper, the plan looks magnificent. We hope the rest of Flanders is going to welcome us like the Brussels region did the past two days. The first stage doesn’t start yet, as we have appointments with a few potential partners. One of the most evocative is a visit to the last real Brussel’s gueuze brewery. Gueuze is a beer that spontaneously ferments. It can only be brewed in the Zenne valley, for it is the only place in the world where a certain strain of yeast lives. Unfortunately it is too early for a tasting session, we’ll have to come back later! Today’s journey is somewhat shorter. We travel to Aalst (Alost), through the countryside. Starting slightly hilly, it changes into the flatlands Jacques Brel sang about. We reach Aalst without any trouble, the Belgian cycling paths are among the best in the world. Aalst is a small town in Belgium that once a year, for a few days, turns into a witch’s cauldron. The carnival of Aalst is world famous in Belgium. It consists of several days with parades and people getting slightly drunk. The rest of the year it’s a small provincial town with a beautiful and lively town center. Countryside Day 5 Today is a special day for me, as we are traveling to Gent (Ghent), the city in which I lived for 20 years, before moving to France. It’s also the day the weather gods decided that we have had enough sun. The heavenly locks open and don’t stop throwing buckets of water at us until we reach Gent. After 57 km, soaked, starving and hypothermic (we are no strangers to some sense of exaggeration), we reach the hotel. A hot shower and a culinary treat revive our bodies. For the first time in her life, Aurélie tastes the Belgian version of the “boule de berlin”. If you don’t know what that is, don’t google it when you are hungry, as you’ll want to travel to Belgium right away. Gent On top of that, the sun comes out! Gent is Europe’s most spectacular hidden gem. Most have never heard of this city, but it is amazing. It’s not too big, not too small, has a wonderful historic center, beautiful people, excellent bars and restaurants. We visit Confiserie Temmerman, a tiny candy shop, owned by a family of women for 4 generations. They only sell their candy, most of it recipes that are hundreds of years old. At dinner we have the local speciality : waterzooi. A sort of soup with chicken or fish and a load of vegetables. Excellent and delicious food for cyclists! Day 6 The cycle path from Gent to Bruges can be described in a short sentence : along the canal. 56 km of flat, well paved, wide cycling roads lead us from the capital of East Flanders to the capital of West Flanders. Both of them are gorgeous, amazing, wonderful cities and yet totally different. When we arrive in Bruges, we immediately notice we are not alone. Millions of tourists visit the old town every year. It is so busy, we can hardly cycle. But we have a secret tip for you : at 6 p.m., all tourists get on their buses and go back to their hotel outside the city. From that moment on, you have the whole of Bruges to yourself. Bruges at night is entirely different from Bruges during the day. Bruges Day 7 The first day of October and the weather is still smashing! Nobody has arrived in Bruges yet. The coffeeshops are open, the terraces empty, we enjoy a bit of Bruges. We take the opportunity to take some pictures before leaving, which we mustn’t postpone as we have a big day ahead : 60 km to Kortrijk (Courtrai). At the end of the day it turns out to be 75 km, as we have had to find our way on the Flemish countryside. This is rural Flanders, a region where more pigs than humans live. Here the frites factories are planted next to the potato fields. We see all kinds of vegetables on the fields along the way : beets, carrots, maize, Brussels sprouts, cabbages, potatoes, more cabbages, spinach and yet another Flemish specialty : the square hedge. This time we cycle along deserted country roads. Every so often we cross a gigantic tractor as it is the high season for harvesting the vegetables. We notice that Flemish drivers are usually very well behaved and sometimes stay behind us driving at the same pace we do. It’s a long day with quite a bit of headwind. When we arrive in Kortrijk, we feel the need for a small local beverage. As it clearly hardly ever rains in Belgium, the terraces on the main square are packed. It’s Sunday afternoon and the Belgians are preparing for a long cold winter by sitting in the sun as much as possible. Kortrijk Kortrijk is a beautiful town with a bustling center. You can admire the beguinage and the church tower which can be visited for free. The squares and buildings reflect the rich history of 19th century Kortrijk, when flax was grown in this region. The river Lys, cutting the city in half, was once called the Golden River, as the water composition was ideal for retting the flax (yes, we had to look that up). Coming soon, the last part of our adventure…

Aurélie and I left for Flanders (Belgium) last October on a bike scouting trip for our new production. At Le Vélo voyageur, we’ve been thinking about the tour of Flanders by bike for some time now, so we left France to Belgium. This is the log of our journey… Day 1 It’s 10 in the morning when we arrive fully packed at the train station of Montpellier. We have packed all of our lives in two bicycle bags and feel a bit like mules. To travel to Europe’s capital, we have decided to take the TGV. It’s as fast as a plane (all connections and waiting times considered) and you travel from one city center to another. The commute in Paris is obviously hectic, but from Paris to Brussels it’s less than 1,5 hours by train and at a quarter past 5, we disembark in the heart of Brussels, walk to the hotel and have our first encounter with a true resident from Brussels : Manneken Pis. Being in Belgium also means we taste our first Belgian beer and we have a typical dish : meatballs in Liège sauce. A real treat! Manneken Pis, Brussels Day 2 We need to get up early, as we have a meeting with a local partner for the bicycle rental. Aurélie has chosen an E-bike for the next 10 days, I picked the travel bike, without any assistance. We want to test both types to discover the Flanders by bike. Leaving the city center on a bicycle sounded tempting, but we discover that Brussels has become a true cycling destination. Cycling lanes everywhere! Our first stop is the world famous Atomium, built for the World Expo of 1958. Then, we discover the so-called “cycling streets” : streets in which cyclists have absolute priority over cars. A car cannot take you over, even if there is enough space to do so. They must stay behind and are not allowed to annoy you in any way. Why hasn’t every country in the world installed this? Then, the scenery changes drastically when we leave the agglomeration. We’re cycling along canals and on the countryside, always on secure cycling lanes until we reach Mechelen (Malines). This would normally be the first stop, but as hardcore bicycle travelers we have decided to add the itinerary to Leuven (Louvain) and we continue along the canal on amazingly comfortable and wide bicycle paths. Six cyclists could cycle side by side. It’s the end of the school day and we see hundreds of kids getting home on their steel steeds. Finally, we arrive in Leuven after only 86 km, mostly flat, and generally fantastic bicycle paths. In Leuven we must taste the local speciality : Stella Artois, brewed in Leuven in one of the biggest breweries worldwide. We find out that you can visit the brewery (and have a tasting session!) every weekend. Leuven Town Hall Day 3 Today, we’re cycling back from Leuven to Brussels. Most people don’t know this, but Brussels has been built on 7 hills. That means when you leave Brussels, it’s downhill, when you go back however… Leaving Leuven is – again – a real treat for a cyclist. Wide and comfortable cycling lanes, and we even discover another cycling invention : the “bicycle highway”. Wide cycling lanes with hardly any intersections or interference with motorized traffic, where commuters are allowed to cycle on their high speed E-bikes (speed-pedelecs, up to 45 km/h). After a short while, we reach the Zoniënwoud (Sonian forest), one of Flanders oldest forests with trees up to 300 years old. Cycling in the Zoniënwoud is fantastic. We have picked the best day : the weather is smashing and we cruise on small roads, over cobblestones and even a few short gravel sections. It’s not for the faint-hearted when you are traveling at high speed over a single track dirt road, but my traveler bike (derived from a gravel bike) was built for this work and I behave like a small child in a candy shop : thrilled! Zoniënwoud (Sonian forest) Getting into Brussel on a bicycle. It sounds like the title of a B-rated horror movie. In reality we discover that one of the huge boulevards has been turned into a pedestrian and cycling zone. The last few kilometers, we are cycling in the middle of a 4 lane road, joined by hundreds of others. Without any effort, we reach our hotel. With 53 km on the counter, we still have some time to visit the city center and end up in exactly the same restaurant as the first night, where we eat gratinated “chicons” and “moules marinières”. We have been able to track an amazing short cycling holiday in and around Brussels and we feel very chuffed. So far we’re having a blast discover the Flanders by bike! To be continued…

Electric bikes have become more and more popular over the past decade. Not only do they attract a much wider range of users but they also provide access to more difficult routes. Let’s discover our 5 best destinations in France by electric bike. Basque Country The first destination is the Basque Country, located in the western Pyrenees next to the Spanish border. The region’s geography is mountainous. Cycling here can quickly prove to be a challenge. That is the reason why electric bikes turn to be the perfect option for this cycling destination. The Basque hinterland offers hilly landscapes where cows and sheeps graze peacefully. You ride along traditionnal Basque villages with their fronton squares. You can discover Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port and its medieval streets or Espelette and its houses decorated with dried peper. If you want to admire a breathtaking panoramic view over the Atlantic coast and the Pyrenees, you can ride up the Saint-Ignace pass and then take a vintage rack railway train to reach the summit of La Rhune. The Basque country is a must-do cycling destination and electric bikes are the perfect way to discover it. Discover our cycling trips in the Basque country here. Dordogne Valley Let’s discover now the beautiful Dordogne valley! Located in the southwest of France, the region is crossed by the Dordogne river. The valley has an exceptionnal heritage : caves, castles, bastides, medieval cities, churches and abbeys… You can go back centuries of history here since the region was a privileged witness to the Hundred Years’ War which opposed the kingdoms of France and England. The numerous castles of the Dordogne bear witness to this time such as the castles of Beynac or Castelnaud. You can ride along the Dordogne river or ride up to the castles and uphill villages. From there, you will have stunning views over the valley and its surroundings. It’s definitely worth it, especially on an electric bike! After that, you can exchange your electic bike for a canoe and discover the region from a different view. Discover our cycling trips in the Dordogne valley here. Alsace The third destination to introduce is Alsace, located in the east of France. Geographically, the region is located between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine river, which gives it a variable relief composed of hills, plains and mountains, as well as a favorable weather for the development of wine production. A fantastic cycling route goes through charming winegrowing villages and vineyard hills : the Alsace Wine Route. The route crosses lovely typical Alsatian vilages such as Obernai, Bergheim, Riquewihr, Kaseyrsberg… Using the electric bike will give you the opportunity not only to climb the hills easily but also to have more time to visit all these little gems. More, Strasbourg and Colmar are great cities to start and end your trip. You can admire the splendid cathedral of the former and relax in the picturesque streets of the latter. Discover our cycling trips in Alsace here. Provence Provence is another popular cycling destination. Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea, the region has a very rich history dating back to the prehistoric times. Nowadays, some of the first known human habitation sites can still be found on the Provençal coast. The region is crossed by numerous rivers but also characterized by its hills and mountains such as Mont Ventoux, Saint-Victoire mountain or the Massif des Alpilles. You enjoy beautiful landscapes as you ride through the olive groves, vineyards and lavender fields. Moreover, many charming villages are located high up in the hills such as Séguret, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, les Baux-de-Provence… You may have understood, it is better to have good calves to cycle Provence… or a good electric bike! Discover our cycling trips in Provence here. Pink Granite Coast Last but not least, the Pink Granite Coast, a coastal area located in northern Brittany. The 12 miles long coastline stretches from Trébeurden, to the west, to Perros-Guirec, to the east and as its name suggests, its rocks are made of pink granite. The Pink Granite Coast offers breathtaking landscapes with its unusual shaped pink rocks. A fabulous cycle route, the Vélomaritime, makes you discover the coast and connects charming towns such as Lannion, Perros-Guriec or Trégiuer. You ride on small country road and along the cliffs of the coast. The itinerary is quite hilly and can be windy, so the electric bike can be a good option! You even can leave your bike for a day to walk along the beautiful sentier des Douaniers and enjoy scenic views over the sea. Discover our cycling trips along the Pink Granite Coast here. Don’t let the difficulty of the route be an obstacle to completing your cycling trip. With an electric bike, a wider world opens up to you! Take the leap!

Today we would like to introduce you to the 5 most beautiful French vineyards to discover by bike. As one of the important parts of French culture, discovering the wine culture during your bike trip should be an unforgettable experience.  Alsace Alsace vineyards The first destination is Alsace. Located at the northeast of the country, the region is famous for its special cultural atmosphere influenced by France and Germany.  Alsace vineyard is between the Vosges mountains and the Rhine plain and stretches across the entire region. The history of this vineyard could be dated from ancient times and until today, it is considered as one of the pillars of the region’s economy. The region’s special product is “Alsace Grand Cru”, a type of white or red wine. Due to the location of the vineyard, the Alsace wine route is the best way to discover the region’s wine culture by bike. This wine route is one of the oldest wine routes in France and goes through the region from north to south with a distance of 170 km. The road is quite easy to pedal and along it you can find 67 wine-producing towns (119 in total), more than 800 wine estates and 48 of the 51 grands crus. Besides this, the villages along the road also organize festivals where you can have a chance to discover the secrets of Alsace wine culture. Our cycling trips from Strasbourg to Colmar are the perfect way to discover Alsace vineyards!  (Take a look at our cycling holidays in Alsace here) Burgundy Burgundy vineyards The second destination is Burgundy. Located in the center-east of the country, the region is famous for its gourmet and wine culture. Different from Alsace, the Burgundy vineyard is constituted by many parts from the nearby region. Stretching from the north of Chablis to the south of Mâconnais with a distance of 250 km and a surface of 29 500 hectares. White wine is mainly produced in the vineyard. “The Climats, terroirs of Burgundy” were listed as UNESCO heritage in 2015. The “Climats” are precisely demarcated parcels of vines on the slopes of the Côte-de-Nuits and Beaune. They differ from each other due to their specific natural conditions (geology, exposure, grape variety…) which have been shaped by human labor and gradually identified in relation to the wine they produce. You can cycle on the Wine Route through the Côtes de Nuits and Côte de Beaune vineyards. Cross some renowned villages : Cluny, Meursault or Nuits-Saint-Georges. Burgundy has many cycle paths. You can explore the area at your own pace and make some stops at one of the many wine estates to enjoy a wine tasting. (Take a look at our cycling holidays in Burgundy here) Médoc Médoc vineyards High place of wine tourism, the Médoc vineyard is very renowned for its prestigious appellations : Margaux, Pauillac, Saint-Estèphe… The vineyard belongs to the vineyard of Bordeaux which produces exclusively the red wine. You can find there many crus with an acceptable quality-price ratio. The vineyard is planted on a strip of land between the Jalle de Blanquefort (north of the Bordeaux conurbation) and the Pointe de Grave, from the Gironde estuary to the Landes forest. A wine route goes through the most prestigious vineyard parts. The relief of the vineyard is rather flat which is ideal for cycling. In addition to this, the Médoc is punctuated by sumptuous Châteaux. Even though the vineyard is quite old, most of the Châteaux date from the 19th century. In many cases, a manor house was built during the 18th century. Then, in the 19th century, with the growing wealth of the owners, a tower cone pointed rooftop or even an entire wing was added making it a brand new château. Cycling through the vineyard is therefore the best way to admire these beautiful places. (Take a look at our cycling holidays in Bordeaux region here) Rhône Valley Rhône Valley vineyards © A. Hocquel/Vaucluse Provence The fourth one is the Rhône Valley vineyard. It covers about 1317 towns from Vienne to Avignon on both banks of the Rhône river. As one of the most important French AOC wine production regions, the Rhône Valley vineyard produces mostly red wine. Second French vineyard, it produces some of the most prestigious appellations in the world : Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie, Beaumes-de-Venise… The diversity of the terroirs is explained by the complex soils and the variations of the Mediterranean climate. Therefore, it gives the wine of the Rhône Valley their marked character. Wine tourism is highly developed in the region. It offers not only local wine tastings but also presentation of the vine trade, production technique and the opportunity to exchange with the owners. Moreover, the valley also reveals a rich architectural heritage : Lyon, Vienne, Orange, Avignon, Nîmes… Thanks to the cycling route of the Viarhôna, you can cycle along the valley in complete safety and enjoy many stops at the winegrowers. (Take a look at our cycling holidays in the Rhone Valley here) Champagne Champagne vineyards The last vineyard to recommend is the Champagne vineyard, located in the former province of Champagne. It mainly extends in the Grand Est region but the departments of Aisne and Seine-et-Marne are also parts of this vineyard. When we talk about this region, the first thing we think about is champagne, the famous sparkling wine. But in fact, this is not the only product of the region. Its wine production is as rich as the other four vineyards introduced previously. The Champagne vineyard covers four production areas (la Montagne de Reims, la vallée de la Marne, la Côte des Blancs, la Côte des Bar) cultivated by 16,000 winegrowers. The vineyard is located on a territory crossed by rivers and with multiple hills. Visiting this vineyard by bike is a fantastic way to discover its 302 crus. The biggest champagne cellars are located in Epernay and in Reims. Since 2015, Champagne Hillsides, Houses and Cellars are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, which makes it a unique region. On top of that, the Champagne is a 100% French product. You cannot produce champagne anywhere other than in the region. So you have no choice but to come here! (Take a look at our cycling holidays in Champagne here) Here are the five most beautiful vineyards in France to visit by bike! Come and cycle in these amazing regions and above all learn more about the famous French wine culture!

The Loire Valley is one of the most famous cycling destinations in France, with its various tourist attractions. In order to inspire your next bike trip, we choose to introduce our Top 5 of the most beautiful Loire castles. 1. Château de Chambord © D. Darrault – CRT Centre-Val de Loire After the war of Marignan, King François I decided to build the Chambord Castle in order to commemorate his victory. The construction of the castle began in 1519 and finished under Louis XIV’s regime. It was really influenced by the works of Leonardo da Vinci and characterized by the gothic style. The famous double-revolution staircase extends from the first floor of the castle until the terrace, where the fireplaces and several sculpted capitals could be found. The castle’s surroundings also deserve a visit. You may have the chance to see wild animals, to visit the vegetable gardens and to discover the local wine. A itinerary is also suggested for the cyclists around the castle. Moreover, there is a bike parking near to the principal entrance. A castle with more than 500 years of history, one of the most majestic representations of the Renaissance, a monument in the list of UNESCO… Come and discover the secret of this miracle! More information about the visit here. 2. Château de Chenonceau © A. Verger_CRT Centre-Val de Loire Chenonceau Castle is famous for its history characterized by an almost uninterrupted succession of women, which is why it is also called “The castle of Ladies”. The castle is not only special for its history but also for its structure. Spanning the river of Cher, the castle is constituted by 3 parts : the main castle,  the gallery over the bridge and the Tour of Marques, the only vestige of the old castle form. The current form was built between 1513 and 1517 by Thomas Bohier and his wife Catherine Briçonnet. During the first World War, the gallery was used as a temporary hopital. Today the castle is opened to the public and became the second important castle in the Loire valley. Inside the castle we can discover several rooms with classical furniture and a rich art collection. Outside the castle there are flower gardens and farms to visit. Chenonceau Castle has an area for picnic and many other infrastructures. All you need is just enjoy a stop there during your bike trip! More information about the visit here.   3. Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire © F. Charel – CRT Centre-Val de Loire Located between Amboise and Blois, Chaumont Castle was first built around the year 1000 in order to supervise the border of Blois and to protect the city from the attack of Counts of Anjou. Now as one of the most visited castles in the Loire Valley, Chaumont Castle profits from the project of the region which gathers the modern arts, garden arts and cultural heritage to develop many cultural activities. The most important is the International Garden Festival, which welcomes each year landscapers and garden designers from all over the world to let their creative imaginations run wild. Chaumont Castle worth definitively a visit during your biking trip. Every year it is enriched by new art collections thanks to its International festival. More information about the visit here.   4. Château d’Azay-le-Rideau © A. Verger_CRT Centre-Val de Loire The castle of Azay-le-Rideau was built by Gilles Berthelot during the regime of François Ier. It is considered as one of the masterpieces of the Loire Valley. The famous French writer Balzac described it as “A faceted diamond that is embedded in the Indre river”.  Today the castle has become one of the properties of the French state and welcomes many international tourists every year. While visiting this castle, you can admire the magnificent mirror image of the castle in the water and also visit the medieval style rooms. The exotic park with many different green plants is a part of the trip which should not be missed. After the castle visit, take your bike and wander through the beautiful roads to discover the stone houses and the local products of the region. This wonderful castle awaits just your visit! More information about the visit here.   5. Château de Villandry © V. Treney – CRT Centre-Val de Loire The Castle of Villandry is one of the last castles built in the Loire Valley in the 16th century. First medieval fortress, the castle was transformed into this magnificent work that we know today by Jean Breton, the finance secretary of François Ier. Its open view thanks of its U-shaped architecture lets the castle have a nice view of the Cher and the Loire rivers. Don’t forget to visit the garden of Villandry built at the same time as the castle. After many years of work, now this organic garden is full of different kinds of plants. Today many cultural activities are held in the castle, for example the vegetable garden day and European heritage day. Not far from the city of Tours, the cycling route between Villandry and Tours is one of the trips recommended by the Loire region. More information about the visit here. As you will have understood, the Loire Valley is full of fantastic treasures! The best way to discover them is by bike, so don’t waste any more time and check out all of our cycling trips in the Loire Valley.

Cycling is a great way to stay active and you don’t have to be a seasoned biker to go on a cycling holiday. It can be as easy or as challenging as you want and there are so many amazing destinations just waiting to be discovered on bike. Here are 5 of the best places for cycling holidays around the world, tried and tested by us. Burgundy, France We love cycling in Burgundy because many of our Burgundy cycling routes are designed for foodies and wine connoisseurs who are in search of an unforgettable gastronomical experience. For instance, a 3 day route from Dijon to Chagny will give you the perfect taster of the region’s vineyards and restaurants. Starting in Dijon, “the city of 100 bell towers”, you will get to kick start your journey with some fantastic tasting opportunities; be sure to try specialities such as the local mustard, the gingerbread and the Nonette pastries. Catalonia, Spain Home to beautiful Barcelona and Dali’s birth-town Figueres is the region of Catalonia, one of the most distinct and unique destinations in Spain. Cycle to the heart of Catalonia to find the spectacular wine region of Emporda, visit the birthplace of Dali and discover The Dali Theatre and Museum, see the Gallo-Roman remains near Sant Mari de Empuries, or head further north to see the 3,000 metre peaks of the Pyrenees. Wherever your journey takes you, there’s plenty to see and do. Siem Reap, Cambodia The resort town of Siem Reap makes a great base for family holidays to Cambodia. Here, you will find plenty of fantastic hotels with top facilities to make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible – and you will be at close proximity to the breath-taking Angkor Wat temples. Cycling is the best way to see the temples for sure and we would recommend a few days in this area to really experience its magic and history. If you’re after an extended cycling challenge, spend 10 days cycling from Angkor to Cambodia’s bustling capital, Phnom Penh (suitable for 16+), riding through Phnom Kulen’s countryside and jungle area. Loire Valley, France The whole of France is well known for its chateaux but we particularly love spending time cycling in the Loire Valley and we believe that you’ll fall head over heels with this region too. The ‘Loire a Velo’ cycling route is around 800 kilometres in length, going through 6 departements and will literally take you from chateau to chateau. It’s been cited as the best cycling trail in France by so many travel writers and bloggers and if you love history and romance, this is highly recommended. Konstanz, Germany The stunning city of Konstanz is just the start in this cycling adventure. Take our 12 day cycling tour around Lake Constance and explore the sights, sounds and smells of Germany, Austria and Switzerland in one roundtrip. This cycling route is very easy, making it perfect for beginners and you’ll get to enjoy the most spectacular scenery, from flawless lake views to the striking Swiss Alps as a backdrop.

Provence is a place of beauty; it boasts the glamorous Côte d’Azur, it’s dotted with little French villages and painted with endless lavender fields, it has countless beaches as well as hidden bays and coves, and it’s got a certain kind of charm that is coveted by luxury seekers and the fashionable alike. If you’re looking for a beautiful French region with rolling countryside backdrops and a beautiful coast, Provence is the place to be. Here are 6 things to see and do while cycling in Provence. 1| Visit the Palais des Papes Spend a day exploring the Palais des Papes and see the famous bridge, Pont d’Avignon. This famous palace is an incredible example of 14th Century architecture. After walking around the Palais des Papes, a tour around the city of Avignon is highly recommended; be sure to visit the Musee du Petit Palais for renaissance art from the 1300s, Musee Requien to learn more about the city’s rich history, and the Avignon Cathedral for some fantastic photo opportunities. 2| See the Ruins in Saint-Remy-de-Provence Explore the stunning ruins in Saint-Remy-de-Provence. This quaint little Provençal village is like a step back in time and it’s as beautiful as it is sleepy. Take a relaxing stroll around the weekly Wednesday morning market to rub shoulders with locals, take the Van Gogh Walk and head to the Site Archeologique de Glanum to see the spectacular Roman ruins. 3| Cycle the Wine Route of Provence There are several wine making regions within Provence and the Côte d’Azur so it really is a wino’s paradise. Go from Toulon to the Massif des Maures (via Saint Tropez) by bike and you will get to soak up the views from one of the country’s most scenic routes with many vineyard pit stops and B&Bs lining your way. This is the perfect place for a cycling tour. 4| Aix-en-Provence Farmers’ Markets If you want the true foodie experience, you have to start your holiday with a visit to the markets of Aix-en-Provence. Here, you can get a little taste of local life, see the beautiful colours of the region’s freshest produce, taste the local cheeses and a variety of homemade jams, preserves and pastries, and grab a coffee to watch the world go by. The markets are open every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. 5| See the Lavender Fields of Digne les Bains A visit to Digne les Bains is a great day out on foot or on bike; this beautiful commune is home to the beautiful lavender fields which paint a picture of bright purple reaching all the way to the horizon (make sure you pack a decent camera) and most visitors to this area also like to spend an afternoon relaxing at the thermal pools. 6| Sunbathe at Paloma Beach Set on the peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat sits one of the most famous beaches in the French Riviera; Paloma Beach has long been a traveller’s favourite and it has attracted many celebrities over the years too. A magnet for the rich and famous (and luxury seekers alike), this glamorous destination is the ideal place to hop of your bike and kick back on the sandy with a glass of

The Loire Valley is quite possibly the most romantic place in the world. Not only is it the luxury seeker’s playground and heaven on earth for foodies and culture vultures, but it’s also a fantastic region for outdoor activities. If you’re anything like us here at Le Velo Voyageur, you’ll fall head over heels in love with both the adventure and romance of the beautiful Loire Valley. If this sounds like your dream destination, here are 6 awesome things you can do during your stay…   1 – Wine Tasting The Loire Valley is well known for a huge array of wines, including crisp dry whites (such as Melon de Bourgogne and Sauvignon Blanc), its deliciously fruity reds (Pineau d’Aunis or Pinot Noir) and earthy red varieties (such as Malbec) to its fabulous sparkling wines (Grolleau and Chenin Blanc). And the region’s wine districts include Pays Nantais, Anjou, Saumur, Touraine and Centre-Loire – each one boasting their own unique sense of charm and all worth a visit. 2 – Canoeing The Loire River is one of the most fantastic places for canoeing and kayaking and the river’s many tributaries (including the Cher) will provide some of the most spectacular backdrops, with stunning chateaux lining the riverbanks. Some of the best canoeing clubs are Loire Velo Nature in Bréhémont, and Canoe Kayak Club Descartes in Descartes. 3 – Cycling This glorious region is definitely the place to be for outdoorsy types and one of the best ways to explore its wonderful towns and villages or its many castles and cathedrals is on two wheels! That’s right – we recommend discovering the stunning Loire Valley on bike and we have some great cycling tours suitable for couples, groups or families. 4 – Chateaux You simply cannot visit this romantic region without checking out the many chateaux of the Loire Valley. The castles here are truly diverse and there are more than 300 in total! Just a handful of our favourites include the medieval Cité Royale de Loches, the 10th Century Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire, Meung Castle in the commune of Meung-sur-Loire, and the fairytale-like Château de Chenonceau which hangs over the River Cher. 5 – Abbeys and Cathedrals If you haven’t quite had your fix of Loire’s dreamy architecture from touring the many Chateaux in the region, there are also plenty of abbeys and cathedrals to fill your time. If you decide to hop from town to town during your visit, you’ll likely come across some of the region’s most spectacular cathedral buildings. We recommend visiting Bourges Cathedral, Orleans Cathedral, Chartres Cathedral and Pontlevoy Abbey. 6 – Hiking The next best thing to cycling, we think, is definitely exploring France on foot. The Loire Valley is blessed with beautiful countryside and some of the most charming towns and cities to break up your hikes. There are countless hiking trails, some of which start at as little as just 3km. Some of the longer walks are 13km+ (such as the Cléré-les-Pins route around the Château de Champchevrier) but well worth the time and effort.

A cycling tour of beautiful Bourgogne will take your journey to hidden corners of the spectacular French countryside; places you could only dream up in a French fairytale. And no doubt your days will be complemented with the most wonderful food and drink. Because this eastern-central region is far from philistine when it comes to matters of the appetite. If views and gastronomy isn’t enough to lure you in, here at 6 brilliant things to do during your bike tour in Burgundy. 1| Visit Dijon You simply can’t tour the Burgundy region without visiting the food capital, Dijon. It’s the perfect place to visit if you fancy a vineyard tour or if you want to explore the gastronomic delights of the city. And those who take a special interest in history and architecture will be in for a special treat; the buildings range from Gothic to Renaissance to 1920s art deco. 2| Cycle the Canal Routes Some of the best cycling routes can be found along the canals of the region. These waterways not only offer a remote peace and quiet for romantic escapes but they boast some truly magical views and access to the quaint towns and villages which line them. Don’t miss Laroche Migennes, Saint Florentin and Pouilly en Auxois. 3| A Day in Beaune It’s impossible to cover the entire region in one short visit. But if you’re not staying long, we would definitely recommend visiting Beaune. It’s typically Burgundian in every way; grand, affluent and brimming to the edges with quality wine. This is the wine capital of the Burgundy region and it’s a great place to eat out with friends or travelling companions, with the cobbled streets and breath-taking 15th Century architecture providing a magical backdrop. 4| The Hilltop Town of Vezelay Vezelay is a beautiful hilltop village and sits right on the edge of Morvan National Park. So if you’re after amazing natural surroundings, it doesn’t get any better than this. Visit Vezelay for a day and you will feel like you’ve taken a step back in time. Visit the Basilica and then go searching the narrow backstreets for a local restaurant. Great food guaranteed. 5| Take a Tour of Ancy-le-Franc Ancy-le-France is a spectacular castle located towards the Northern area of Burgundy and it was built back in the 1500s. Designed by Sebastiano Serlio, Château d’Ancy-le-Franc is representative of the Italian Renaissance and is one of the sites where the Renaissance was introduced to France. The building’s exterior is of a classical design but whilst the outer architecture is considered simple, the interiors are quite the opposite. 6| Visit Château de Tanlay Just a few miles away from Ancy-le-France is Château de Tanlay; a castle which is a complete contrast to its neighbour. Built during the 16th and 17th centuries, Château de Tanlay is of truly remarkable design and is famed for its beautiful towers and turrets. It’s very much the French fairytale castle that most visitors dream of. Make sure you head inside and visit the Grand Gallery to see the beautiful frescoes.

France is one of the most visited countries in the world, with good reason. It has amazing food and drink, incredible art and architecture, and a wonderful joie-de-vivre. But above all of these things, France has some simply stunning landscapes. All of this combines to make France one of the best cycling destinations in the world. You can spend your days whizzing around the varied terrain, from rocky, rugged coastline to sweeping sands, fertile vine-covered flatlands, rolling hills, and romantic canals, stopping off to explore some of the beautiful towns and villages en route. Then you can kick back in the evening and indulge in the French passion for eating and drinking. But with so many places to explore how do you decide where to stop off? Fortunately, we have a useful guide to 23 of the most beautiful places to stop and explore on your French cycling tour. 1. Ars-en-Ré, Atlantic Coast The tiny village of Ars-en-Ré on the Island of Ré on France’s west coast has been described as a ‘charming town of bicycles’. This simple, elegant village houses the main harbour for the island, with 500 moorings. Modern travellers are drawn here to wander around the harbour and the maze of enchanting streets, and sample the many cafés and restaurants. Surrounded by sea, saltmarshes, vineyards and market gardens, it’s the perfect spot to experience some laid-back French charm and simplicity. 2. Annecy, French Alps The French Alps are known for their upmarket ski resorts, but the region is also home to some stunning villages. Cream of the crop is Annecy, otherwise known as ‘Little Venice’, due to the flower-edged canals surrounding the terraces. The 14th century turreted chateau provides a stunning central focus against the backdrop of snowy mountains. It’s little wonder that visitors spend most of their time outdoors, cycling, hanging out in pavement cafés and gazing at the mountains from the shores of Lake Annecy. 3. Amboise, Loire Valley The entire Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its architectural history and unspoilt nature, and the historic town of Amboise is one of its jewels. The most Italianesque of the towns on the banks of the Loire River, Amboise is home to two spectacular monuments from the Renaissance period: the Royal Amboise Castle and Clos-Lucé, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his last days. Stop here to wander along the esplanades and drink in views of the river. 4. Étretat, Normandy A popular tourist spot in Upper Normandy, Étretat is famous for its three natural arches and the white chalk cliffs that tower over the Atlantic Ocean. Stop to wander along the cliff edge, once a renowned painting spot for Claude Monet and other Impressionists, and climb down to the white pebble beach. The town itself is worth visiting too, to explore the markets and hike to the scenic church of Notre Dame de la Garde for dramatic views over the cliffs. 5. Locronan, Brittany The exquisite village of Locronan wowed all the judges of Le Plus Beaux Villages de France (the most beautiful villages in France), making it worthy of a stop. Its charm stems from its grand merchant houses, built with the proceeds of the local weavers and merchants who supplied fine sails to the French Navy, and British and Spanish ships. It’s also famous for its pilgrimage, Tromenie, which occurs every six years. 6. Colmar, Alsace The wine capital of the Alsace region, bordering Germany, Colmar is a colourful town, also regarded as one of France’s Little Venices. The town has a fairytale atmosphere, with brightly coloured half-timbered houses backing the flower-lined canals. Explore the vibrant streets, take a tour along one of the canals, or simply sit and enjoy a crisp Alsatian Riesling at a waterfront café. There’s plenty for culture vultures too, with the houses of Bartholdi, the sculptor responsible for the Statue of Liberty and Hansi, a local artist, to explore. 7. Lourmarin, Provence Nestled amongst vineyards, almond groves and olive trees is the beautiful village of Lourmarin. The winding narrow streets are filled with numerous cafés and restaurants, old restored properties, and fountains, while the lavender-scented air leaves you in little doubt that you’re in the heart of Provence. The castle is worth exploring, and the road to Lourmarin is worth the trip itself, as it winds through cliffs and forests, with the odd hairpin bend thrown in for good measure. 8. Rochefort-en-Terre, Brittany Another village on the Le Plus Beaux Villages de France list, Rochefort-en-Terre, is one of the most popular tourist stopping points in Brittany. The popularity of this village is thanks to French-born American artist Alfred Klotz, who bought a chateau here in 1907 and encouraged all residents to dress their homes with geraniums. This tradition has continued to the present day, resulting in Rochefort being a blooming beautiful place to spend an afternoon. While wandering round this arty town, look out for the unusual, colourful shop signs. 9. Mont Saint Michel, Normandy Second only to the Eiffel Tower as France’s best-loved landmark, Mont Saint Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage site, rising 600 metres off the coast of Normandy. This rocky, peaked island, connected by a causeway to the mainland, is an imposing sight amongst sandbanks and powerful tides, which regularly cut the island off from the mainland. The highlight is the impressive Gothic-style monastery perched on top, while below visitors lose themselves wandering around the winding medieval streets. 10. Gordes, Provence Provence has more than its fair share of charming villages, but Gordes is without doubt the most magical. Perched on the southern edge of the high Plateau de Vaucluse, the stone buildings are snug against the side of the cliff and built from the same warm beige stone as the 12th century castle. If you’re lucky enough to visit in the morning, the entire village glows warmly in the early sun and the views over the rocky, forested landscape are superb. 11. Domfront, Normandy The medieval fortified town of Domfront in Normandy enjoys a stunning location, with sweeping vistas over the Varenne River valley. Wander the old town, with its cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses, and stop for refreshments in one of the open squares. If you fancy a little culture you can explore the church of Notre Dame sur L’Eau, once part of an important pilgrimage route, to marvel at the impressive frescoes and carvings. If nature’s more your thing, enjoy the surrounding rolling hills, forests and streams. 12. Eguisheim A colourful town on the Alsatian wine route, Eguisheim is unique for its concentric-circle street layout, which runs around the central castle. The winding cobbled streets are backed with vividly painted houses, decorated with plants and flowers, giving the town a fairytale atmosphere. If you’re keen to sample the wines of the region, Eguisheim is a top spot to stop, with plenty of vineyards, wine bars and cellars representing local wine producers. 13. Le Chateau de Chambord, Loire Valley The largest, grandest and most visited chateau in the Loire Valley, Le Chateau de Chambord sits at the heart of Europe’s largest enclosed wooded park. Originally conceived as a hunting lodge for King Francis I, it soon turned into an immense architectural creation, earning Francis the title of ‘architect prince’. The unique castle boasts 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces, 84 staircases, including the double-helix staircase reportedly designed by Leonardo da Vinci, and a cityscape of turrets and chimneys on the roof. 14. The Gardens of Giverny, Normandy A rural riverside idyll on the border of Normandy, Giverny is famous for being the birthplace of Impressionism. Claude Monet has his country retreat in this small village, and he personally planted the walled water garden here, featuring water lilies, weeping willows, bamboo, purple and white wisteria, and that iconic green Japanese bridge. His beautiful pink-shuttered house and gardens have been preserved to reflect the Monet years, and are well worth a visit. 15. Carcassonne, Languedoc Perched on a rocky hilltop, the fortified citadel of Carcassonne looks like something from a children’s storybook, with its zigzag battlements, spiky turrets and stout walls. Indeed, this UNESCO World Heritage site was reputedly the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty, with its atmospheric cobbled streets, drawbridges and towers. It’s an impressive sight to behold. 16. Beynac-et-Cazenac, Dordogne The site of Beynac-et-Cazenac on the banks of the Dordogne has been occupied since the Bronze Age, thanks to its strategic location. Today, the village is easily recognisable due to the impressive castle, once besieged by Richard the Lion Heart. The village, nestled in the cliffs of the Dordogne, along with the castle and river are at the heart of what make this spot such a special location. 17. Strasbourg Sitting on the border of France and Germany, the heritage city of Strasbourg has characteristics of both countries, and walks an equally fine tightrope between its medieval past and progressive future. This picturesque city has a magnificent Gothic cathedral, twisting alleyways with crooked, half-timbered houses, and an obvious fondness for flowers, and is also home to a glittering EU quarter. It’s worth cycling by in the run-up to Christmas to roam the famous Christmas markets and try the fabulous gingerbread. 18. Dinan, Brittany Regarded by many as Brittany’s prettiest town, Dinan is definitely a worthy stopping point on a cycling tour of the region. Featuring Tudor-style timbered houses, cobbled streets, and numerous arts and crafts shops, the highlight of this town is arguably its port. Lined with old stone houses, it’s home to some wonderful waterside restaurants – just the spot to refuel – and is the starting point of a charming walk along the old towpath. 19. Nice’s Colline du Château The Côte d’Azur has numerous heart-stopping views of the Mediterranean, but few are more dramatic than the sight of the coastline as the lift doors open at the Colline du Chateau. The shaded hill and park were once home to a 12th century chateau that Louis XIV burned in a fit of anger. Today it’s a maze of greenery with mesmerising views over the old town and the Baie des Anges. It’s quintessential Riviera – palm trees, promenades and that sparkling blue sea. 20. Île Vierge, Brittany If you fancy swapping the saddle for a climb, then the Île Vierge lighthouse in Brittany will reward you with a superb view. Located on an island in the Channel waters, cursed with some treacherous tides, you can pop over by boat (pre-booking is required) and climb the dizzying 397 steps to reach the summit. At the top of the tallest lighthouse in Europe, you can see the entire rocky Breton coast and look down at the churning white sea foam. 21. Millau Viaduct France has its fair share of manmade wonders, with chateaus and cathedrals gracing many a landscape, but there’s little more awe-inspiring than the Millau Viaduct, the tallest bridge in the world. Designed by Sir Norman Foster, this cable-stayed vehicular bridge crosses the valley of the River Tarn. The bridge is so high that on cloudy days it appears suspended above the clouds. 22. Pont du Gard Another bridge in the south of France, this couldn’t be more different to the Millau Viaduct. The Pont du Gard is a massive Roman aqueduct built at the end of the pre-Christian era to cross the Gard River. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a technical and artistic masterpiece, standing 50 metres high and arranged into three levels. Set in an area of stunning natural beauty, it’s one of the most visited sites in France. 23. Dune du Pilat, Atlantic Coast Located at the entrance to the famous Arcachon Bay in the Landes of Gascony, the Dune du Pilat is the highest sand dune in Europe. This itinerant sandy formation is a triumph of the shifting winds from the Atlantic Ocean, and has reached heights of 110 metres. Climb to the summit and you’ll be rewarded with stonking views of the ocean coastline, Arcachon Bay, the deep shoreline pine forest, the Banc d’Arguin nature reserve and, on a clear day, the distant Pyrenees. If you’re planning a cycling trip to France and wish to incorporate some of these beautiful places, contact Le Velo Voyager to discuss our range of tours.

Burgundy; the beautiful region of France famed for its award winning wines, gastronomical excellence, historical significance and unbelievable landscapes. With its world-famous vineyards and impressive constellation of Michelin star restaurants, a bike tour of Burgundy isn’t looking too shabby for the luxury-seeking cyclist. But on top of culinary brilliance, you will also unlock a world of French castles, medieval abbeys and untouched countryside. Here are 7 things not to miss on a bike tour of Burgundy…    1| Dijon The city of Dijon was the ancient capital of the region and is also famed for the globally loved Dijon Mustard. With a special Gastronomic Fair taking place every autumn, it really is the hub of fine French cooking. The city itself is adorned with the most spectacular medieval architecture, making it a wonderful pit stop during your bike tour of Burgundy. Copyright Velotour 2| Beaune  For wine lovers, this really is not to be missed; known as the wine capital of Burgundy, you can take a break from your bike and enjoy some award winning tipple overlooking the city’s amazing medieval and pre-Roman buildings. 3| Yonne River  The banks of Yonne are dotted with some of Burgundy’s most magnificent country mansions and Renaissance châteaux. Take your route along this tributary of La Seine and you may come across some architectural gems. Along the Yonne, you will also see some of the region’s best kept secrets; the pretty village of Villiers-Sur-Yonne, the flower lined streets of Migennes, the beautiful views of Mailly-le-Château, or the sleepy town of Chevroches. 4| Chablis The quaint village of Chablis is home to the country’s finest white wines. Even better, the whites of Burgundy are notoriously under-priced; you can drink like a King at a bargain cost. Known as the “Golden Gate of Burgundy”, Chablis is accessed through the turreted towers of Porte Noel and the architecture through the gateway dates all the way back to the 14th Century. 5| Châteauneuf-en-Auxois For something resembling a fairy-tale, it doesn’t get much more enchanting than Châteauneuf-en-Auxois. This charming little hilltop commune features a turreted 12th Century castle, all set with the Morvan Woodlands and Bourgogne Canal as its backdrop. 6| Château de Rochepot This is without a doubt one of the most beautiful châteaux in the region. A classic French castle with outstanding 13th Century castle features, Château de Rochepot is set in the little commune of La Rochepot in Cote d’Or. 7| Abbey at Fontenay The Abbey at Fontenay is a Cistercian monastery which has been built in a Romanesque style; simple, elegant, and fuss-free. After the French Revolution, the building was restored and is now one of the most iconic remaining medieval monasteries in the world. To book a cycling tour of Burgundy, take a look at our 7 Day Tour Package online.