France Guided Bicycling Tours  

The “Van Gogh in Provence” Tour
“La Vie en Jaune” – “life in Yellow” as Van Gogh used to write when describing his beloved Provence. With 300 days of sunshine per year, fertile soil, fragrant herbs, a fascinating history and unusual clear light Provence extends an invitation to our senses! In its medieval villages each step reveals a small mystery, a massive old door, a noble dwelling or a small flower garden. Elsewhere time flies - here it remains suspended.

Our tour starts in fascinating, architecturally wonderful Avignon, once one of the most powerful cities in Europe with its own Pope and his grandiose Palace.

From Avignon we’ll cycle through the vineyards of the “Côtes du Rhône” to renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a must for wine lovers!  The next day we’ll pedal to the Pont du Gard, an exceptionally well-preserved, 2000 year old, three-tiered Roman aqueduct, a “must see”. Here you can also visit a wonderful multimedia museum, the “Grande Expo-du-Pont-du-Gard” that explains in detail the construction of this world wonder.  After your visit you’ll pedal over quiet and picturesque routes to the semicircular hill town of Uzès, a beautiful Provencal village with plane tree lined streets, where we’ll stay for the night.

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A wonderful ride past Beaucaire and Tarascon with its sturdy medieval castle, will bring us to Arles, another “must see” Provençal town with its Roman amphitheatre - still used for bullfighting today – and many other important Medieval monuments.  The next morning we’ll cycle to the Camarque, a wonderful wildlife preserve, to observe wild white horses, grazing black bulls and flocks of feeding flamingos in their unspoiled natural habitat. Bird lovers, bring your binoculars!  

Next is the beautiful village of Les Baux situated on a bare rock spur with dramatic vertical cliffs, a ruined castle on top and marvelous views on the adjacent mountains and valleys below.

Lastly we glide to popular and picturesque St-Rémy-de-Provence with its impressive Roman treasures “Les Antiques” near the Roman town of Glanum.   The tour appropriately ends with a visit to the former cloister St-Paul-de-Mausole, “Van Gogh’s sanitarium”, where he stayed and painted furiously for one year.  You have time to explore St-Rémy before your farewell dinner tonight.

Included:
Daily lodging in 3 and 4 star air-conditioned hotels, 6 breakfasts, 2 dinners and water and snacks during the rides

2010 Tour dates: June 13 – 19 & September 12 – 18
Tour price: $2495  Single Supplement: $575
Bike Rental: $155
Level of difficulty: Moderate

The Loire Valley Tour
“Leisurely Biking in the Garden of the Kings”
The soft light and enchanting views of the Loire Valley attracted history's kings and queens to the verdant area known as the "Garden of France". Even today grand châteaux, medieval towns and historic abbeys share a lush landscape with pastoral villages and picturesque vineyards. Traveling by bike we see them all as they were meant to be seen - leisurely! Cycling is an absolute joy on the smooth terrain along the Loire.

The Michelin guide "Châteaux of the Loire" gives the highest three star "must-see" rating to only six châteaux in this area. Our most popular, well-planned 7-day tour includes visits to five of these famous castles and their gardens. In addition you will stay and dine in authentic, historic, family-owned châteaux.

The tour starts in Tours, easily accessible from Paris by TGV. From there we'll transfer to our first château hotel, with its delightfully maintained grounds and nice view over Tours. Château de Villandry, with the most beautiful formal gardens in all the Loire Valley, and Château Azay-le-Rideau are close by. In Amboise we'll stay overnight in a beautifully furnished chateau along the River Loire. We'll visit the captivating Chateau de Chenonceau the next morning and returning to Amboise, we'll have ample time for some shopping or a visit to Clos Lucé, the museum dedicated to Leonardo da Vinci. In Cheverny we'll stay the last two days in the elegant Château du Breuil, built at the end of the 17th century. You'll be amazed by the exquisite food and enjoy the long ride through the 70 acres of grounds that lead up to the handsome castle!

Included:
Daily lodging in château hotels, 6 breakfasts and 5 dinners, entrance to five châteaux

2010 Tour dates: June 13-19 and Sept. 26 - Oct. 2
Tour price: $2255   Single Supplement: $435
Bike Rental: $150
Level of difficulty: Easy to Moderate

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The Brittany-Normandy Tour
“Along Brittany’s Emerald Coast and the Battlefields of Normandy”
Our Brittany-Normandy adventure begins with two nights in an elegant, 18th century château near Cancale - renowned for its oyster production. From there we bicycle beside the River Rance to visit medieval Dinan with its superb half-timbered houses, Gothic churches and picturesque winding streets. The next day we'll cycle via Cancale along the beautiful Emerald Coast to the fascinating walled city of St. Malo where we'll spend the night in the heart of the historic center.

In charming Dol-de-Bretagne we'll enjoy lunch before easy biking to Mont St. Michel, the mountain on which Benedictine monks built their astonishing abbey in the middle ages. Every room in our hotel looks out onto this world wonder, still one of the most visited pilgrimage centers in Europe. It's an experience you won't soon forget!

The next morning we'll transfer to St. Isigny near the coast of Normandy, for a scenic bike ride to the emotionally moving W.W.II memorials. We'll visit Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery at Colleville. Bayeux, our final destination was miraculously untouched by the W.W.II bombardments. Here we'll visit the famous Queen Mathilde Tapestry, an amazing, hand made, 230 feet long tapestry that retraces the Norman conquest of England in1066 and bears a unique depiction of life in the XI th century. Our delightful, centrally located hotel affords time to wander through Bayeux' narrow streets, visit its cathedral or do some last minute shopping.

Included:
Daily lodging in 3 and 4 star hotels, 6 breakfasts and 5 dinners, entrance to Mt. St. Michel and the Reine Mathilde Museum

2010 Tour date: June 20-26 and Sept. 19-25
Tour Price: $1995   Single Supplement: $375
Bike Rental: $150
Level of diffuculty: Moderate

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France Self-Guided Bicycling Tours

The Loire Valley Self-Guided Tours allow you to explore the incredible "Garden of France" at your own pace, stopping to admire the stately elegance of centuries-old châteaux, always assured that your room is waiting for you at the end of the day. Daily distances are between 20 and 30 miles. You can cycle more if you choose. Tours are offered from April 1 to November 1, daily.  Your luggage is transported from hotel to hotel. 21-speed bicycles are available for rental.

The Loire Valley De Luxe Tour
The tour comes in an 8 day / 7 night and a 5 day / 4 night version. Accommodations are in elegant 3 and 4 star chateaux and manors, and the food is superb. Daily breakfast and dinner are included.  This bike vacation begins near Tours, easily accessible from Paris by TGV.  You'll have opportunities to visit Azay le Rideau, Chenonceau, Cheverny, Montrésor, Chambord, Beauregard and Amboise, the most famous chateaux in the Loire region.  In the royal city of Amboise you will have time to stroll through the medieval market square and visit the Chateau d’Amboise or the fascinating Clos Lucé, a 15th century mansion that was the last home of Leonardo da Vinci and is now a museum dedicated to the genius of this artist.  Intriguing models of the many drawings of his inventions are on display here.

2010 Tour price 8 day version: $2025
Single Supplement: $495
Bike Rental: $120

2010 Tour price 5 day version: $1255
Single Supplement: $350
Bike Rental: $85

  Loire Valley Chateau Country
Gastronomic Cycling in the Loire Valley
The 6 day / 5 night tour starts and ends in Blois, a historic city with typical narrow streets and a wonderful chateau. You'll cycle through vineyards and forests surrounding Blois and visit the “must-see”, exquisite Chateau de Chenonceau built over the River Cher in a perfect harmony of “water, greenery, gardens and trees”. Also the Chateau d'Amboise and some less well known chateaux such as Gué Péan, Montrésor and Montpoupon.  You'll stay in lively Amboise and can visit the Chateau d'Amboise or the fascinating Clos Lucé, a 15th century mansion that was the last home of Leonardo da Vinci and is now a museum dedicated to the genius of this artist. You will also pass by some troglodyte caves near the River Cher.  Accommodations are in very nice 3 star hotels in rooms with private facilities. The hotels are especially chosen for their fine restaurants and charming French ambiance.  Daily breakfast and dinner are included.

2010 Tour price: $1235
Single Supplement: $320
Bike Rental: $90

Loire Valley Sologne Chateaux
This tour is the 5 days /4 nights equivalent of the tour above. You'll have opportunities to visit the chateaux of Blois, Beauregard, Cheverny and Chambord and smaller chateaux such as Villesavin and Beauregard with its wonderful portrait gallery.  In Blois you'll stay in the comfortable, centrally located Anne de Bretagne Hotel (2 star).  You'll spend one night each in Saint Dye sur Loire and Chateau du Breuil, in Cour Cheverny, both atmospheric 3 star hotels.  All rooms have private facilities and Chateau du Breuil has a refreshing outdoor pool. Daily breakfast and dinner are included.

2010 Tour Price: $920
Single Supplement: $195
Bike Rental: $85

Loire Valley Orleans to Tours

 On this fascinating 6 day/ 5 night tour you’ll discover the incredible "Garden of France” as you cycle at your own pace, stopping to admire the stately elegance of centuries-old chateaux or to visit a museum, church or wine cave, always assured that your charming room is waiting for you at the end of the day. The tour starts in Orléans, home of  Joan of Arc, the patron saint of  France and well known for the awe inspiring Sainte Croix Cathedral. On day 2 you’ll pedal along the Loire to the flower filled medieval village of  Beaugency, a charming place for a coffee stop.  Here you’ll find an   imposing 11th century dungeon and a 14th century bridge and some pleasing architectural historic buildings. Next is the impressive Chateau de Chambord, the largest of the Loire Valley chateaux. With 440 rooms it is one of the most extravagant commissions of its age.  A second highlight today will be your visit to the Chateau de Cheverny, still privately owned and beautifully furnished. It was built between 1604 and 1634 and never altered, an immaculate picture of symmetry and harmony.  You might also observe the famous hounds used for fox hunting by the descendant of the original owner.  You’ll spend the night in Blois, a royal city with an eclectic history and its famous chateau which features four distinct architectural styles and houses the Musées des Beaux Arts and Archeologie.

After Blois you’ll pass by the Chateau Chaumont and its splendid park and then reach Amboise and its royal chateau and the Clos de Lucé, last home of Leonardo da Vinci and well worth a visit. Via the vineyards of Montlouis you pedal into Tours to discover its fascinating medieval quarters and its half timbered houses on Place Pumerau.  Daily stages are 21–35 miles over flat and slightly hilly terrain. Accommodations are in small, family owned mostly two-star hotels; all rooms with private shower and toilet. Daily breakfast and dinner are included in the tour price.

2010 Tour Price: $900
Single Supplement: $195
Bike Rental: $95

  Loire Valley Tours to Angers
On this 6 day / 5 night tour you'll cycle through the scenic vineyards and fragrant forests west of Tours and visit the “must-see” castles of Azay le Rideau, Angers and the Villandry Gardens as well as the delightful, though less well known, Saumur and Chinon châteaux. The tour starts in Tours with time to visit this lively, flower-filled, university city on the River Loire with its fascinating medieval quarters, the famous “Place Pumereau” and its amazingly well preserved half timbered houses. Along the River Loire you'll bike to the beautiful gardens of Villandry, the last of the large châteaux built on the banks of the river during the Renaissance. Saché is the next château on the itinerary. It was the writer Honoré de Balzac's home during his most productive years. Then pedal on to Château Azay le Rideau, a 16th-century masterpiece, situated in an elegant waterside setting, and one of this region's architectural gems. It was built between1518 and 1523 during the reign of King François I and houses a lovely collection of Renaissance portraits and tapestries.  Later you'll cycle to Langlais and then you'll follow our route through Ussé, home of the brilliant white stone castle that inspired the great fairy tale writer, Perrault, to create Sleeping Beauty.  From Ussé, you pedal away from the river through meadows and woodland to pick up the “Route des Vignobles”, which meanders through scenic vineyards. Later you cycle along the River Loire again to medieval Chinon, situated on the banks of the River Vienne. This historic town, with its narrow streets and gabled houses, is famous for its feudal dungeon and most revered guest, Joan of Arc. Your final ride on this intriguing tour takes you to the lovely city of Angers and its towering medieval château, “King Rene's Castle of Love" which houses the renowned Apocalypse Tapestry and is well worth a visit. This tour includes all breakfasts and dinners.  Accommodations are in very nice 2 star hotels in rooms with private facilities.

2010 Tour Price: $875
Single Supplement: $185
Bike Rental: $95

It is also possible to combine the Orléans to Tours and Tours to Angers tour with just one night in Tours.

Price for the combined 10 day/9 night tour: $1575
Single Supplement: $315
Bike Rental: $135

Normandy Coast, from Bayeux to Honfleur
Normandy, land of cows, green pastures, soft hills, half timbered manor houses and apple orchards; land of Calvados and Camembert and of course the famous WW II beaches.   This 6 day / 5 night tour starts in beautiful Bayeux, the first French town to be liberated on June 7, 1944 and miraculously untouched by bombs.   On your first day you’ll have time to visit the “Queen Mathilde Tapestry”, a remarkable embroidery and wonderful representation of life in the 11th century and a pictorial account of the events leading up to the military invasion of England by William the Conqueror.   From Bayeux you bike to the Omaha landing beach and possibly on to Pointe du Hoc, where many American soldiers lost their lives while capturing this strategic German fortification in 1944. You can also visit the Colleville Cemetery with its perfectly aligned white crosses and Stars of David, marking the final resting place of over 9,000 Americans who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.   You’ll bike along the coast to Arromanches and Courseulles sur Mer and then inland to Caen, a town of historic importance.   William the Conqueror built his castle here before he departed for England.   You’ll then follow the Orne River and reach the Pegasus Bridge, the site of a strategic battle in the Second World War.   Here you can visit the original bridge and the new museum.   Continue along the “ Côte Fleurie”, (Flower Coast) to the peaceful and beautiful resort of Cabourg and picture perfect Honfleur, with its colorful harbor, an inspiration for innumerable artists.   All hotels are 3-star with private facilities and include daily breakfast and dinner.   Daily cycling distances range from 21 to 35 miles.  

2010 Tour Price: $1115 
Single Supplement: $405
Bike Rental: $150

Burgundy Journey

Burgundy is home to some of France’s most prestigious vineyards, beautiful, hilly landscape punctuated with picturesque villages, remarkable chateaux and of course exquisite French food!  On this 8 day / 7 night self guided tour you’ll discover why Burgundy is so beloved by tourists and especially bicyclists.  The tour starts in the charming walled city of Beaune once the capital of Burgundy. You can admire surviving sections of the ramparts that surrounded the city in the middle ages and visit the famous Hôtel-Dieu (Hospices de Beaune), a stunning building with its colorful tiled roof.  The interesting Wine Museum of Burgundy in Beaune is also worth a visit.  

Around Beane you’ll cycle through the region Côte-de-Nuits, known for its fine red wines.  From here you pedal on to medieval Chateauneuf-en-Auxois with its 12th century chateau, perched high over the valley.  This little village proudly carries the title, “Un des Plus Beaux Villages de France”, one of the nicest villages in France.   Next is the charming village of Epoisses, home to the famous goat cheese that gives it its name and a perfect stop for a coffee.  Then cycle through rolling French farmland and small villages on tiny roads to Vézelay , the wonderful Roman town under UNESCO protection.  Your hotel is on the bottom of the town and you will walk up the cobblestones through the narrow, winding, shop-lined streets up to the most important Romanesque cathedral in France.  From here you’ll have a magnificent view over the surrounding country side.  Through peaceful countryside you’ll bike to the Regional Park Morvan where there is a chance for a swim in one of the small lakes and an opportunity for a picnic.

Next is Autun, an atmospheric town with 2000 years of history founded by the Roman Emperor Augustus.  Napoleon Bonaparte dreamt of imperial glory when he stood here in front of the Roman Theatre and the Roman entrance gates of the city. As you bike into Autun you’ll be impressed by the imposing Cathedral St. Lazare, built in the 12th century to shelter pilgrims who came to pray on St Lazarus’ relics. From here you’ll bike by the beautiful Renaissance Chateau of Sully and its remarkable gardens on your way to Nolay, a charming town with a beautiful 15th century covered market and surrounded by the “Haute Côte de Beaune” vineyards, known for its white wines.  On the final day of biking back to Beaune you can visit the Château de La Rochepot, standing on its rocky peak since the 13th century. The castle which had been destroyed during the French Revolution was carefully restored at the end of the 19th century and is delightful to visit.  Enjoy some fragrant and tasty “Burgundy Delight” tonight with your farewell dinner.  This tour includes all breakfasts and dinners.  Accommodations are in very nice 2 and 3 star hotels in rooms with private facilities.

2010 Tour Price: $1465
Single Supplement: $280
Bike Rental: $150

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Burgundy Vineyards and Voie Verte

This attractive 6 day / 5 night self guided tour also starts in Beaune, the uncontested wine capital of Burgundy but explores the more southern part of Burgundy and ends in the medieval center of Cluny. Biking is partly on the “Voie Verte”, the special Green Bike Way, accessible to bikers only. Around Beaune you'll pedal to the picturesque vineyards of the Côte de Beaune, known for the “Grands Vins de Bourgogne”. Visit historic Meursault, Puligny Montrachet and Chassagne Montrachet. On the way to Chagny you'll find the exquisite Chateau de Rochepot, a 13th and 15th century fortress with multicolored, glazed tile roofs. A visit to this splendid fortress-castle offers a fascinating trip through the history of the Middle Ages. Visit Nolay, a charming village with a covered market.  Then cycle on the “Voie Verte” to reach Chagny before riding through the Côte Chalonnaise vineyards.  On the way you can visit the Chateau de Rully for more tasty wine sampling.   Since 1986, the Antonin Rodet Wine Company has managed the vineyard here under the Château de Rully label. Next you'll reach the quaint town of Buxy with its interesting medieval center.

On the last two days of biking you'll be impressed by the beautiful landscapes of Southern Burgundy as you ride further along the “Voie Verte”. You'll reach the magnificent Chateau de Cormatin with its famous gardens dating from the time of Louis XIII (1628). Then continue on to beautiful Cluny. Here you’ll have time to  visit the Romanesque Abbey (founded in 910) and the medieval center as you’ll overnight in Cluny.  You'll conclude this wonderful bike vacation with a delightful ride to Tournus.   You’ll pass by picturesque Berzé-le-Chatel and its medieval chateau overlooking the vineyards and the beautiful landscapes that the French poet Lamartine used to admire.  Then leave the “Voie Verte” to pedal over small country roads to the delightful Romanesque city of Tournus on the River Saône with its wealth of old buildings, alleyways, antique shops, cafes and restaurants. Tournus is one of the oldest and most important monastic centers in Burgundy with a superb abbey, St-Philibert, classed as one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture. 

This tour includes all breakfasts and four dinners.  Accommodations are in very nice 3 star (4 nights) and 2 star (1 night) hotels in rooms with private facilities.

2010 Tour Price: $1100
Single Supplement: $295
Bike Rental: $150

Burgundy, A Luxurious Stay in the Heart of the Burgundy Vineyards
Burgundy is home to some of France’s most prestigious vineyards. Its minimal traffic and hilly landscape punctuated with picturesque villages and remarkable chateaux make it a delight for fit and experienced cyclists. On this 4 day / 3 night self guided tour you’ll discover why Burgundy is so beloved by tourists and especially bicyclists. In the heart of Burgundy’s Grands Cru, between Dijon and Beaune, you’ll find the beautiful 4-star chateau-hotel, Chateau de Gilly, once the residence of the Abbots of Citeaux. The estate includes several historic buildings displaying centuries of superb craftsmanship. One of these is the stone-vaulted cellar, now the restaurant. The cuisine and the wines are a gastronomic experience and the luxurious, handsomely decorated chateau will be your “home” for your 4 day cycling vacation.  Daily stages are about 60 km or 36 miles. The terrain has rolling hills with many short climbs and sweet “up and downs”.

Day 1:  Bike Ride to the “Côte-de-Nuits” and Ouche Valley – 61 km or 36.5 miles

Today you’ll bike along the rustic and peaceful Ouche River and its canal passing through many small, charming villages such as Clos Vougeot and Nuits St. George. The wine lovers among you can look forward to cycling in the famous vineyards of the area called “Côte-de-Nuits” where the “Grands Vins de Bourgogne” especially the delectable Gevrey-Chambertin and Chambolle Musigny are produced. Imagine enjoying one of these classics each night at dinner.



Day 2: Roundtrip to Beaune – 53 km or 32 miles

Today your biking route takes you more south to the famous vineyards of the area called Côte-de-Beaune. The Côte-de-Beaune appellation is given to wines coming from the city of Beaune but also from 16 villages around Beaune. You’ll have time to visit Beaune considered one of France’s prettiest towns. You can admire surviving sections of the ramparts that surrounded the city in the middle ages and visit the famous Hôtel-Dieu (Hospices de Beaune), a stunning building with its colorful tiled roof. The interesting Wine Museum of Burgundy in Beaune is also worth a visit.  

Day 3: Visit to Citeaux Abbey and the Burgundy Canal – 59 km or 36 miles

Today you’ll leave the vineyards behind as you discover the splendid Citeaux Abbey which was the cradle of the Cistercian order of monks. The abbey was founded in 1098 by Saint Robert who became the first abbot under the rule of Saint Benedict. There are about 35 members living at the abbey today. Later you’ll pedal through lovely landscape, partly along the Burgundy Canal, back to Chateau de Gilly for your last gourmet dinner. Make a toast to “God’s Gift to Man”, the Grands Cru of Burgundy.

Day 4: Departure after breakfast

2010 Tour Price: $1010
Single Supplement: $220
Bike Rental: $90

Classic Provence
Olive groves ...quiet roads... vineyards... fields of lavender and sunflowers... French country cuisine... Welcome to Provence! Experience the landscapes and culture described in Peter Mayle's best seller “A Year in Provence” and discover the region's Roman heritage on a scenic cycling adventure! Our 7 day / 6 night tour includes visits to charming Uzès, a town of narrow streets and many attractive shops, and one of the world wonders, the Roman Pont du Gard. You'll experience wonderful Saint-Rémy where Vincent van Gogh stayed for a year and Les Baux de Provence, spectacularly set atop a rocky outcrop and crowned with a ruined castle. You'll stay two nights in Arles and explore its Gallo-Roman treasures and sample the ambiance that attracted Van Gogh and Gauguin to its cobblestones and cafés. You'll visit the Camargue National Park where you'll find flamingos, wild bulls and horses in the expanses of marshland. Many art and music festivals also take place in the Provence during the summer months.

This delightful cycling vacation includes the best bike routes of the region which you can enjoy at your own pace. On arrival you meet our representative and get a detailed briefing on the itineraries with maps, tourist and cultural information, all the necessities for a successful cycling holiday. You'll reside in cozy hotels that allow you to enjoy the region in a pleasant and comfortable way. It is also possible to upgrade to luxury hotels.

The terrain has rolling hills with short climbs and sweet “up and downs”. There are shorter and longer options on most days. Moderate Difficulty. Temperatures are very high in July and August. Contact us for the detailed itinerary of this tour!

2010 Tour Price: $1595
Single Supplement: $545
Bike Rental: $150

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France Bike and Barge Tours

Spend seven days of cycling and barge cruising in a sunny and delightful region of France! A well-maintained 21-speed hybrid bike with hand brakes is included in the tour price.  You decide whether you prefer to cycle on your own - equipped with clear route instructions - or to join the guide who provides all the necessary information.

The barge - your "floating" hotel - is a snug little vessel, which can accommodate up to 28 travelers in its cabins.  The boat motors quietly each day via a scenic route and if ever you do not fancy cycling, you are welcome to spend the day on board.  Late each afternoon the bikers rendezvous with the boat at the next landing place for afternoon tea, dinner and overnight stop.  On board you will meet an international group whose members have at least one thing in common: the pleasure they share from cycling.  Accommodations on board the barge are basic with 2 and 3 berth cabins containing bunk beds or twin beds and a wash basin. Almost all cabins have a private shower and toilet.  The barge has a cozy dining room and a sun deck.  Children under 12 room with their parents or in groups of two.  All tours depart on Saturday afternoon and end the next Saturday after breakfast.

Loire Valley Route: $1080-$1170
2010 Departure Dates:
Every Saturday from 5/1 up to and including 9/25
except 7/24 & 7/31

Can you imagine a cycling vacation while being warmed by oodles of French sunshine? Between Nevers and Montargis is a wonderful section of the Loire Valley that matches those imaginings! In this small region (just over 100 kilometers) in Burgundy you'll find history, culture and splendid scenery. Cycling the quiet roads you enjoy the charms of delightful rolling countryside. The locale is famous for the delicious white wines from Sancerre & Pouilly Fumé, several picturesque castles, well preserved ancient towns and tranquil villages all ensuring that you'll have a unique cycle holiday. All of this with an interesting mix of international bicycling enthusiasts!  Please note that the rating for this tour is moderate with hilly terrain but relatively short distances each day. Bus Transfer from and to Paris (Gard du Nord) is included in the tour price.

Daily Itinerary:
Saturday: Transfer from Paris Gare du Nord by coach to Cours-les-Barres

In mid afternoon you’ll depart from Gare du Nord in Paris by coach to  Cours-les-Barres. You arrive early in the evening, meet your tour leader, the crew and then settle into your cozy berth for the week.  After dinner on board, your guide provides a preview of the week’s cycling, a bicycle fitting and short warm-up ride.

Sunday: Cours-les-Barres –  Aprémont – Nevers - Cours-les-Barres

From Cours-les-Barres you’ll cycle to delightful Aprémont, often called “one of the most beautiful villages of France”, where you can visit the well preserved 12th century castle and its impressive gardens. The castle became a fortress in the Middle Ages to defend a strategic position on the Allier River and to collect fares from travelers crossing the river.   The medieval fortress still maintains five of its 12 original towers. After your visit the bike ride continues to Nevers on the River Loire, a town with a rich and varied heritage famous for its “Faience” pottery.  Highlights in Nevers include the Duke’s Palace and the Cathedral.  From here you return to the barge for dinner on board.

Monday: La Chapelle-Montinard – Ménétreol

You’ll cruise this morning to the village of Beffres and then start cycling to La Charité-sur-Loire, an ancient Roman town. Crossing the 16th century stone bridge to the center, you have a splendid view over the town and its Notre Dame Church.  UNESCO includes this church on its World Heritage List as it was an obligatory stopping point in the Middle Ages on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostella in Spain.  After savoring La Charité’s pleasing atmosphere you cycle through Pouilly Fumé vineyards where you can sample some very fine local wines.  Later bike on to Ménétreol, located at the lower end of the Sancerre vineyards where you'll rendezvous with the barge for the evening.

Tuesday: Ménétreol – Beaulieu

Today you’ll visit Sancerre, a lovely small town, situated on a hill and surrounded by vineyards.  You’ll pedal right  through the scenic Sancerre Vineyards, passing several picturesque villages along the way. The day’s biking ends in Beaulieu-sur-Loire.

Wednesday: Beaulieu - Briare

On today’s bike ride, the shortest of the week, you pass the historic locks of Châtillon-sur-Loire and the aqueduct that will take you over the River Loire. After St. Brisson you’ll pass the handsome medieval castle of St. Brisson.  In the evening you’ll cruise across the River Loire over the magnificent Pont Canal Aqueduct into Briare, the stop for the night.

Thursday: Briare – Rogny-Les-Sept-Ecluses

In the morning there is some time to explore Briare. Today’s cycling route leads to the Castle “Pont Chevron” which is picturesquely situated on a small lake. Tonight’s destination is the village Rogny-les-Sept-Ecluses known for its seven antique locks.

Friday: Rogny-Les-Sept-Ecluses Round Trip

Today’s itinerary includes a visit to the charming market in Châtillon-Coligny; then a ride on to the interesting castle in La Bussière. After more lovely cycling you pass by Escrignelles before your bicycle holiday concludes at the barge back in Rogny-Les-Sept-Ecluses.

Saturday:

In the morning there is time for a stroll around lovely Rogny. At 11:00 AM your guide & crew will say good-bye and you’ll return by private coach  to Paris Gare du Nord (arrival about 1:30 PM).

Note: The next tour will be in reverse: starting with transportation from Paris to Rogny and ending in Cours-les-Barres. On this tour you will return to Paris Gare du Nord later (arrival about 3:00 PM).

  Mosel Tour: France, Luxembourg and Germany: $1415
2010 Departure Dates:
July 24 & 31, August 21, October 17

  The countryside on both banks of the River Mosel is splendid and the cool wines of the region are famously delicious!   Picturesque little towns have rich histories and the conditions for cycling are nearly ideal.   Here you find a delightful mix of ingredients for a terrific bike and barge vacation.   The tour takes you through a wonderful, varying landscape along the River Mosel with sections in France, Luxembourg and Germany.   The tour begins in Metz, France.    Its splendid cathedral is an architectural and cultural highlight.   We’ll pedal through charming French countryside with welcoming villages, where the inhabitants are proud of their sweet, smooth wines and golden “Mirabellen” liqueur (plum liqueur).   Another highlight is a visit to Fort Hackenberg, an important part of the Maginot line, the line of concrete fortifications used as a defense against attacks from Germany in World War II. The cycling itinerary continues into Luxembourg where we’ll enjoy a night in interesting Remich. In Germany you’ll follow the River Saar to charming Saarburg, with its unusual, stunning waterfalls in the city center. Later we’ll reach Trier, the oldest city of Germany with the Porta Nigra Gate dating from the first century AD. After Trier we follow the Mosel downstream along the bountiful vineyards and the enchanting old cities Bernkastel and Cochem. It goes without saying that we’ll sample the local vintage whenever possible.   The cycling itinerary follows the river valleys so the tour rating is easy , with no difficult hills.

On this route, a luxury boat will be available with daily room service, air conditioning, 3-course dinner and buffet breakfast.

Paris to Montargis: $1415
“Leisurely Biking in the Seine Valley”

2010 Departure Dates:
May 1, June 12 & 19, July 17 & 24, August 7 & 14, Oct. 2

A wonderful journey from incomparable Paris to charming Montargis!  On Saturday evening you’ll have time for an enchanting guided walk in Paris.  Sunday morning we spend on board, enjoying Paris pass by from our seats on our comfortable “floating hotel”.   After lunch on board we begin biking in Evry.  We’ll cycle along pleasant river banks to our evening destination, Melun, known as “Le Domaine des Reines Blanches”, because in former years it was a retreat for the widows of the French kings.   On Monday we’ll cycle through the wonderful forests of Fontainebleau.  Our first destination is the quaint and artistically famous village of Barbizon, where many painters have found inspiration since the first half of the 19th century.  Later we’ll pedal on to the Chateau de Fontainebleau, greatly enjoyed by the French kings because of the extensive hunting in the surrounding forests.  The castle itself contains the Museum of Napoleon among other “period” furnishings and antiques.  Later we’ll cycle through the charming medieval fortified town of Moret-sur-Loing and another lovely wooded area to Nemours.  From Nemours we continue our route to Chateau Landon where we’ll visit the 13th century Abbey of Saint Severin with a local guide.  Next is the medieval town of Ferrieres, a beautiful well preserved town where you’ll find a splendid monastery amid the town’s narrow streets.  We’ll conclude our delightful tour in Montargis, a picturesque town with beautiful flower filled canals.

Note: The next tour will be in reverse: starting in Montargis and ending Paris.

Bruges to Paris and Paris to Bruges 14 day Tour

This delightful bike-barge vacation will take you from Bruges to Paris or from Paris to Bruges in two weeks.  The average cycling distance is about 26 miles a day.  Most roads are flat and paved. In Belgium we will pedal through relatively flat country and a large part of the tour will take place along tow paths away from traffic, offering “some of the best” cycling in the world.   In the French countryside we’ll cycle along quiet country roads and an occasional bike path. Near Paris the terrain becomes more hilly.

Each day you’re welcome to join our cycle-guide, pedal on your own or relax on the boat enjoying the sights as they glide past.  In the evenings you’re invited to join our guide for an invigorating, after dinner city-walk.  While you’re “aboard” the skipper and crew make every effort to provide a warm and cosy atmosphere where your stay will be comfortable and relaxed.

Bruges is the capital of the province of West Flanders and is a giant open-air museum.  Bruges is famous for its lace work, chocolates and many fine museums and we’ll have two nights to enjoy this charming city.  Next is Ghent, the capital of the province of East Flanders, a university city with a great atmosphere and many surprisingly well preserved patrician mansions.  We pedal to Oudenaarde, the capital of the Flemish Ardennes, famous for its breweries and wall tapestries. Then we enter Wallonia, the French speaking part of Belgium where the difference in culture will be immediately noticeable.  Tournai is the oldest city in Belgium and is a World heritage Site.  Picardie, as the northern province of France is called, once was the cradle of the Gothic Art Period which can be seen in the various places we will visit. Picardie and especially the area around the River Somme carries the scars of World War I. In almost every little town we pass there are Memorial statues that commemorate the soldiers and civilians that died in the “Great War” and you’ll have the opportunity to visit the War Museum at Peronne and the Rethondes Armistace Clearing. We’ll cycle to Auvers sur l’Oise where it is possible to visit the graves of Vincent and Theo van Gogh.  We’ll gaze in wonderment at the elaborate Chateau de Versailles before we enter incomparable Paris, the City of Light.   Cycling in Paris has been made possible by the effort of the Parisians to make (separate) cycle paths right in and around the center of the city.

On June 20, September 18 and October 10 the tour will run in reverse, starting in Paris and ending in Bruges.  Single use of a cabin is possible.  The surcharge is 50% of the tour price.  Note also that the Luxury Barge tours start on Sundays and give you an extra day in Paris at the end.  The second day Roundtrip around Bruges is skipped; on Monday you’ll also bike from Bruges to Ghent and on Day 14 you have a free day to explore Paris. 

Bruges to Paris: 4-18 September - $ 2250 p.p.
Paris to Bruges: September 18 - October 2

On a Luxury Barge: $ 2525
(Sunday start):
Bruges to Paris: June 6 - 20 and Sept. 26 - Oct. 10
Paris to Bruges: June 20 - July 4 and October 10-24

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