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 bike through the vineyards of the “Côtes du Rhône” to the Pont du Gard, the beautifully preserved Roman aqueduct, a “must see”.  On our way to popular and picturesque St-Rémy-de-Provence we’ll stop in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue with ample time to visit its remarkable Baroque church.  The next morning we’ll visit the impressive Roman treasures “Les Antiques” and St-Paul-de-Mausole, “Van Gogh’s sanitarium”, where he stayed and painted for one year.  You have time to explore St-Rémy or visit the Roman town of Glanum before our afternoon ride to the Abbey de St. Michel de Frigolet with its warmly decorated main church.

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. A wonderful glide down will bring us to Arles, another “must see” Provençal town with its Roman amphitheatre - still used for bullfighting today - and 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. A visit to a 1250 acre ranch with a chance to see the bulls ‘up close’ and learn more about Provençal style bull fighting is a totally unique experience.

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

2012 Tour dates: May 12 – 18 and Sept. 24 –30
Tour price: $2395  Single Supplement: $495
Bike Rental: $150
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

 2012 Tour Dates: May 21 – 27 and September 9 – 15
Tour price: $2355   Single Supplement: $455
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

2012 Tour Date: September 1 – 7
Tour Price: $2095   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 March 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.

2012 Tour price 8 day version: $2250
Single Supplement: $655
Bike Rental: $125

2012 Tour Price 5 day version $1350
Single Supplement: $350
Bike Rental: $85

Loire Valley Chateau Country
Gastronomic Cycling in the Loire Valley
The 7 day / 6 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”. You'll also visit the Chateau d'Amboise, Chambord, Chevery and some less well known chateaux such as Chateau Beauregard and Fougère.  You'll stay two lively nights in 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. 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.

2012 Tour price: $1170
Single Supplement: $375
Bike Rental: $115
 

Loire Valley Tour Chenonceau
The remarkable Chateau Chenonceau that stretches across the River Cher in “a perfect harmony of water, greenery, gardens and trees” is one of the most visited landmarks in all of France and the center of this tour.  The chateau is dedicated to the “Ladies of Chenonceau”, six women under whose influence this elegant chateau developed from a fortified mill.  The tour begins in peaceful Cheverny close to Blois and also includes a stay in picturesque, medieval Amboise.  Here you can visit the majestic Chateau d’Amboise located high above the banks of the River Loire and the fascinating Clos Lucé, a 15th century mansion that was the last home of Leonardo da Vinci and is now an incomparable  museum dedicated to the genius of this artist.  Models of da Vinci’s many incredibly diverse inventions are here on display.  On this delightful 5 day /4 night tour you will reside in two elegant, atmospheric, 4-star chateau hotels, both with attractive, peaceful gardens and each with a swimming pool for a refreshing dip. Truly a relaxed, royal vacation in this beautiful part of France. All rooms have private facilities with breakfast and dinner included each day.

2012 Tour Price: $1250
Single Supplement: $450
Bike Rental: $80

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 three-star hotels; all rooms with private shower and toilet. Daily breakfast and dinner are included in the tour price.

2012 Tour Price: $1370
Single Supplement: $355
Bike Rental: $99

  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 3-star hotels in rooms with private facilities.

2012 Tour Price: $1315
Single Supplement: $280
Bike Rental: $99
 

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: $2430
Single Supplement: $565
Bike Rental: $140

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.  

2012 Tour Price: $1235 
Single Supplement: $465
Bike Rental: $165
 

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.

2012 Tour Price: $1600
Single Supplement: $280
Bike Rental: $165

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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.

2012 Tour Price: $1125
Single Supplement: $295
Bike Rental: $165
 

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 in an area of exceptional natural beauty!  Provence’s characteristic relaxed rhythm of life and art of living will immediately win you over and there are many art and music festivals to be enjoyed during the summer. 

Cycling is on quiet country roads with little traffic chosen for the beauty of the landscape, historic cultural sites and the enchanting villages where you can stop along the way.  The changing topography can also mean gradients which are not always easy.  Steep hills  however are usually short and can be walked of course.  Temperatures are very high in July and August and more moderate in May, June and September. 

The tour starts and ends in  Cavaillon, easily reached by train from the Airport in Marseille or from Paris over Avignon.

2012 Tour Price: $1495       Single Supplement: $330

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: $1130 – $1220
2012 Departure Dates:
Every Saturday from 4/28 up to and including 9/22 except 7/21 & 7/28
 

  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

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. 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.

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.

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 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. 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).

The Taste of Burgundy Route: $1130
2012 Departure Dates:
Every Saturday from 4/28 up to and including 10/6 except 7/7 &7/14
 

Thinking of Burgundy what comes into your mind most likely are delicious wines, delectable French food, imposing castles, gently rolling vineyard landscapes, ancient monasteries and many more delightful cultural happenings to enjoy. Why not experience the Burgundy way of life?

From Burgundy’s captivating capital, Dijon, you follow the Canal of Burgundy and the River Sâone all the way to the wine town Macon.  The scenery changes from small villages and peaceful landscapes to the liveliness of attractive historic towns like Beaune and Chalon-sur-Sâone.  You’ll enjoy this unique cycle holiday in this quiet part of Burgundy 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 (12-30 miles).  

Daily Itinerary:

Saturday: Dijon
You’ll arrive in the afternoon at the barge in Dijon and will meet your cycling companions, guide, captain and crew and store your luggage in your cabin. Dinner on the boat will be followed by a preview of the cycling itinerary for the upcoming week.  

Sunday: Dijon Round Trip - 12 miles 
In the morning we’ll cycle in the scenic region North West of Dijon, along the Burgundy Canal and passing Lake Kir. In the late afternoon a guided walking tour of the lively capital of Burgundy is planned. Dijon combines the pageantry of the past with the bustling commerce of the present and is an exciting start for this tour.  

Monday: Dijon - Longecourt en Plaine - 27 miles
The day starts with a short cruise to and through the first two locks in the Burgundy Canal. Then we’ll pedal through the peaceful vineyards along a beautiful wine trail to reach the sleepy village of Longecourt en Plaine.

Tuesday: Longecourt en Plaine – St. Jean de Losne – 27 miles
Today we’ll cycle along quiet roads and through fragrant forests, passing some quaint
Burgundian villages, to the charming town of Auxonne on the River Sâone, famous for its
Artillery College, whose most renowned student was Napoléon Bonaparte. Later we’ll pedal
along the river to St. Jean de Losne where the Burgundy Canal joins the River Sâone.

Wednesday: St. Jean de Losne – Seurre - 27 miles
In the morning we’ll visit the interesting Musee de la Batallerie in St. Jean de Losne describing 200 years of boating on the River Sâone. Then we’ll bike through quiet woods to the historic Abbey of Cîteaux, founded in 1098. This is a nice stop for a picnic to enjoy some of the famous abbey cheese you can buy at the small abbey shop. After our visit we’ll pedal on to picturesque Seurre, a pleasant city with well preserved red brick houses on the peaceful River Sâone. Here you might also like to visit the beautiful gardens surrounding the Seurre Hospital established in 1688.

Thursday: Seurre – Chalon sur Sâone – 15 miles   
Today we’ll visit Beaune which once was the capital of Burgundy. You can still admire 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 or the beautiful church “ Collegiale Notre-Dame” and sample some wines at the Wine Museum. After our visit we’ll take the train to Chalon sur Sâone, a dynamic port town located at the union of the Sâone River and the Canal du Centre. Chalon sur Sâone is home to the 15th century Cathedral Saint Vincent with its attractive cloister and the Photography Museum named after Necéphore Niepce, the inventor of photography who was born in Chalon.  

Friday: Chalon sur Sâone – Tournus – 36 miles
We’ll leave Chalon sur Sâone and bike on a, old, flat rail trail converted to a cycle path. We’ll pass by Buxy where we’ll visit the local winery. We’ll cycle, following the banks of the River Sâone, on to Tournus where we’ll visit the Abbey of St. Philibert, dating from the 10th century and probably the most unusual church in Burgundy.

Saturday:
In the morning after breakfast you’ll be transported back to Dijon (included in the tour price).

Note: The next tour will be in reverse: starting with the transportation from Dijon to Tournus and ending in Dijon.

  Mosel Tour: France, Luxembourg and Germany: $1495
2012 Departure Date:
August 11, Metz to Cochem
 

  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: $1495
“Leisurely Biking in the Seine Valley”

2012 Departure Dates:
July 7 & 14

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 LuxuryTour: $2610 – $2830

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. 

2012 Departure Dates:
Bruges to Paris: August 19, Sept. 16
Paris to Bruges: April 14, July 1, Sept. 2 & 30, Oct. 13

Provence Bike & Barge Tours - $1295

2012 Departure dates  Avignon to Aigues Mortes Route:
April 7 & 21, May 19, June 2, 16 & 30, July 14 & 28,
August 11 & 25, Sept. 8 & 22, Oct. 6

2012 Departure dates Aigues Mortes to Avignon Route:
April  14 & 28, May 12 & 26, June 9 & 23,
July 7 & 7/21, August 4 & 18, Sept. 1, 15 & 29 

 Bike Rental: $90, Electric Bike Rental: $215

Along the rice fields and Mediterranean waterways of the Camargue and the landscapes that were so dear to Vincent van Gogh you’ll cycle through quaint Provençal villages, vineyards and lavender.  Olive groves …quiet roads… vineyards… fields of lavender and sunflowers in July and August ….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 this scenic cycling adventure!  Our tour includes visits to one of the 7 world wonders, the Roman Pont du Gard. You’ll experience wonderful Saint-Rémy where 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 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 wading flamingos, wild bulls and white horses in the expanses of marshland.  Many art and music festivals also take place in 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 or with the helpful, multilingual guide.  You can also skip biking any day to cruise on board the barge, our cozy “floating hotel” for the week.  

The tour is rated Easy to Moderate.  Temperatures are very high in July and August so if possible come earlier or later.    

Day 1: Arrival in Villeneuve- lès -Avignon!
Our barge is moored in Villeneuve-les-Avignon, a historical village 3 km from famous Avignon, the City of the Popes.  Your cabin is available at 6:00 PM.  You will have time to explore Villeneuve in the afternoon before dinner.  We recommend that you arrive a day or two early to enjoy Avignon, an UNESCO’s World Heritage site.  Here you’ll find the 12th century St-Bénézet-Bridge of the famous children’s song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon”, the remarkable Palace des Papes, one of the largest buildings created in the Middle Ages, plus the beautiful town hall, impressive churches, city walls and many intimate squares Avignon is known for.  

Day 2:  Villeneuve - Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Villeneuve
We'll cycle today among the most renowned Cote du Rhône vineyards to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, situated in the heart of the Rhône Valley with opportunities to taste some of the exquisite wines produced in this area.  

Day 3:  Villeneuve-lès-Avignon – Vallabreguès
Today we’ll leave Villeneuve and bike to the Pont du Gard, an exceptionally well-preserved, 2000 year old, three-tiered Roman aqueduct.  After your visit we’ll pedal over quiet and picturesque routes to Vallabreguès, a lovely Provençal village on the banks of the Rhone.

Day 4: Vallabreguès – St Rémy – Les Baux – Arles
Today the ride is particularly beautiful via Tarascon to Saint- Rémy-de-Provence.  St. Rémy is the birthplace of Nostradamus but better known as the place where Vincent Van Gogh stayed for more than a year producing an incredible 150 of his most important paintings.  You can visit the sanatorium where he stayed before our climb up through the Alpilles hills to the unique, haunting, medieval village of Les Baux de Provence – one of the most visited tourist sites in all France – and justifiably so.  Definitely visit the Chateaux de Baux for a spectacular view on the surrounding Alpilles Mountains.  After a well deserved glide down to Arles where you’ll find an extraordinarily well-preserved Roman arena and theatre and a number of interesting museums.  Vincent van Gogh lived here between 1888-1890. .

Day 5: Arles – Gallician
The morning is reserved for visiting the exciting city center of Arles, important as a Roman capital in the time of Julius Caesar and as a major religious center in the Middle Ages.  You can visit the quite well preserved Roman Amphitheatre, dating from the end of the first century.  On the Place du Forum inside the old city walls you’ll find Van Gogh’s famous “Night Café”.  Van Gogh came to Arles in 1888 and rented a small house on the Place Lamartin that unfortunately has been destroyed.  The Provençal countryside and the peculiar light inspired Van Gogh and he painted here non-stop.  We’ll make a very short afternoon bike ride to the wooden bridge that Van Gogh painted in Arles and then board the barge and sail to Gallician, a quiet. small village.

Day 6: Gallician – Aigues Mortes
Today we’ll glide through flat sugar cane fields, rice fields and salt lakes also seeing white horses, black bulls and pink flamingos before we arrive at Saintes Maries de la Mer, originally a fishing village but now a festive seaside resort.  Then we bike on to the historic, fortified city, Aigues-Mortes in the middle of the Camargue., a wonderful Mediterranean town.

Day 7: Aigues Mortes – round trip
Today we offer a scenic bike tour in the Natural Reserve of Camargue, another one of UNESCO’s World heritage sites.  The Camargue is a huge area (about 350.000 acres) of wetlands, pastures and salt flats formed by the delta of the Rhône River. The region has a unique ecological balance and is home to many pink flamingoes, the famous white Camargue horses and wild bulls used for the exciting, though less brutal, Provençal style bull fighting popular in this area .  

Day 8: Departure in the morning after breakfast.

Note: High and low water issues can modify some of the daily stretches or embarkation points.  These decisions are made by the boat captain when necessary.

Note: The following week’s tour will have a reverse itinerary: starting in Aigues Mortes and ending in Avignon.

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