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Walking/Cycling

France is one of the most popular destinations in the world for cycling and walking tours. This is understandable as the country offers a large diversity of regions and terrains to suit everything from the beginner to the advanced.

There are some 28,000km (17,500 miles) of marked cycling paths throughout the country. The French are passionate about their cycling and almost every town hosts some form of cycling event during the summer months. The biggest event on the calendar is of course the Tour de France. Gentle rolling lanes provide ideal conditions for family cycling holidays whilst mountains abound for the cycling enthusiast. The French Alps offer some of the worlds most spectacular cycling routes, with climbs like the world famous Col de la Croix der Fer, the Col du Galibier and Alpe d'Huez in the Alps. Whilst the rolling countryside of Northern France will ensure a relaxing but at the same time rewarding tour of one of the worlds most popular cycling holiday locations. 

Many regions of France are good for walking with thousands of miles of carefully marked trails. Brittany’s coastal region and interior is fascinating to explore, especially on foot. It boasts more marked paths than any other region in France and circular routes are numerous. Burgundy is also up there amongst the best. The scenery is beautiful and it offers some of France’s best food and wine.


The Secrets of an Artist’s Garden

In 1993, Françoise Radet-Mannerkorpi, a painter, having lived in Finland for 20 years, created this garden, situated at the foot of a 13th Century church in a small village in the Marne Valley, and turned it into a romantic garden with a remarkable, flower bedecked kitchen garden.


Mountain Views in Lorraine

Lorraine has two impressive mountain ranges; Argonne in Meuse and the Vosges. The region also boasts areas of lower hills, namely the Côtes de Meuse and Côtes de Toul which overlook a delightful landscape of vineyards and Mirabelle plum orchards.


Walking in Auvergne

Auvergne's immense greenland is peppered with trecks for all ages and experience. All kinds of hiking trails are to be found through the landscape taht has been sculpted through the ages by volcanic eruptions.

The Parc Naturel Regional de la Montagne de Reims

The Parc Naturel Regional de la Montagne de Reims is very famous as it encompasses the greater part of the vineyards of Champagne.  There are great trails for horseriders, hikers, ramblers and cyclists, along the River Marne and the ‘Faux de Verzy’ trail is known for the twisted beech trees along its course.

Cycling in Auvergne

The Volcanic nature of Auvergne has shaped the region in a way that seems perfect for cyclists. Nature parks with remarkable scenic views like the Livradois-Forez park are perfect for a family cycling trip. Cyclists, from the most experienced of riders and downhillers to the family outing, will find that Auvergne has endless options.

Bike Riding in Picardy

A bike ride in the country or along the coastline of Picardy is a great way to get back into the saddle and take in the views, at your own pace! The Picardy coast and its changing landscapes, the Somme and its green riverbanks, l'Aisne's enclosure pathways and the forests of l'Oise promise a wide variety of bike trails.

Walking in Poitou-Charentes

Poitou-Charentes has many varied and beautiful excursions for walkers scattered all over the region. There are walks for all ages, guided and also trails marked out for the more independent explorers.


Guided Cycling Tours in Picardy

What could be more enjoyable than discovering Picardy through the eyes of a guide who is a cycling enthusiast and who will take you out to discover the region? There are various associations that organise cycling excursions.


What to see on your Tour

Depending on your route, you can pedal away in the heart of Picardy's highly varied forests and countryside; cycle alongside ponds that attract bird life, discover the dunes of Marquenterre, adventure along the tops of cliffs and go through picturesque villages.

Cycling in Languedoc-Roussillon

Languedoc-Roussillon has a feast of cycling choices for visitors. From steep winding mountain roads to coastline trails, forest riding to canal banks and vineyards, the choice is fantastic.

Cycling in Paris / Ile-de-France

If you prefer to cycle, no problem: hiring a bike is child's play, and for the last few years the capital has been making cycling a priority. Some of Paris Il de France parks allow bikes so that you can enjoy a cycle while still in the city. Outside there are multiple routs that take you through the beautiful countryside.


Cycling in Provence/Cote D'Azur

For some, two wheels are the only way to get around.

Mountain bike acrobats out for thrills and soft-pedalling touring cyclists will find that the region offers plenty for all. In the Hautes-Alpes, where several "cols" have been made famous by the Tour de France, cycling enthusiasts can follow the tracks of champions.


Walking and Hiking in Corsica

Walking is the best way to explore the true Corsica. Wonder at the fortified granite houses and shepherds’ dry-stone shelters, bathe in the pure water pools that have formed in the rocks from waterfalls, and enjoy the magnificent landscapes in the forests where you may see one of the island’s semi-wild pigs, the bearded vulture or the moufflon.


Cycling in Lorraine

Whatever your level of experience, a dense network of sign-posted paths along the hilltops of Vosges provides an easy way of getting close to a well-preserved natural environment full of flowers such as lilies, orchids, digitalis, arnica and sundew or unexpected wildlife such as mountain goats.


Walking and Cycling in Rhône-Alpes

Tourists are spoilt for choice, whether it is hiking or mountain biking.

Hiking

A simple walk, a great hike or a ramble can be specifically chosen to explore some of the area’s natural riches, its heritage or traditions.


Cycling Routes in Loire (Western)

Exploring the Poitou Marshes

There are 50 miles of cycling trails running from Maillezais to L’Aiguillon-sur-Mer, alongside the canals in the heart of the Poitou Marshes. As you take in the views, you’ll be transported to another world of pure tranquillity and relaxation.


Cycling in Poitou-Charantes

There are over a 1000 km of trails for cyclists and hundreds of mountain biking routes marked out for your enjoyment in Poitou-Charentes. Gentle quiet relaxed excursions through the stunning scenery of back road routes in the countryside are enjoyable for everyone.


On Your Bike in Normandy

Quiet country roads, forest tracks and dedicated cycle paths make cycling an absolute pleasure in Normandy. If you prefer not to take your own bikes with you there are many cycle hire centres throughout the region, and in some cases hotels and Chambres d’Hôtes will lend you bikes and helmets so that you can explore the local area.


Cycle Trips for the Whole Family in Alsace

With almost 2000 km of cycle trails and cycle routes, Alsace offers cyclists an extremely dense network. Whether you're looking for endurance or simply a leisurely ride with the family, Alsace will meet your needs, with mountain biking in the Vosges or down in the valleys, and cycle trails criss-crossing the Alsatian plain.

Walking in Franche-Comté


The Franche-Comté region has marked out thousands of kilometres of paths for walking. There are many options from tracks abounding with flower beds, the stony paths of the Jurassic heights to the flowing waters of Haut-Doubs. Take your time to discover the local flora and fauna and landscapes, from lakes to forests to peaks and valleys.


Hiking & Rambling in Alsace


Whether you're a sports fanatic or simply looking for a change, why not discover Alsace on foot! The region offers many hiking and rambling trails, from the Vosges hills to the banks of the Rhine, and throughout the Alsatian plain.


Walking and Cycling in Champagne

With over 5,000 km of paths, tracks, and trails, Champagne-Ardenne has plenty for those who want to get out and about. Discover the countryside at your own pace on foot, horseback or by bike.


Hiking Heaven in Normandy

Rambling and hiking are popular pastimes as Normandy provides hundreds of miles of hiking and recreational trails for people to explore the countryside at leisure.


Cycling in Limousin

Limousin offers a multitude of cycling opportunities. The variety of the landscapes allows new riders to develop their endurance and discover the area without ever encountering insurmountable challenges.

Discovery Walks

Leaving the towns, there are 343,000 hectares of forests! Through the forests of Chantilly, Compiègne, Retz, Saint-Gobain, Halatte, Crécy or Ermenonville, with a walkers' map, the official hiking trails are obvious, leading to royal boundary markers, a mysterious cross, menhir or a spinning stone are just some of the legends that please children.


Footsteps of the Customs Officers in Brittany

Brittany has 1300 kilometres of coastal paths. These footpaths, suitable for both energetic hiking and gentle strolls, cover almost the entire perimeter of the coast, from the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel to Saint-Nazaire.

Cycling in Franche-Comté

Relaxed Touring

Marked circuits will guide you through this remarkable region. Not a well known region, so much is waiting to be explored and adored. Go at your own rate – bike rental is not hard to find and well worth it.


A Taste of Adventure

Here people like to live in groups and give themselves room all around to express themselves. Rambling is an important part of this large rural region with its 1,600 bell-towers.

Biking in Loire (Western)


Pedalling along with the wind in your hair


Between the ocean and the salt marshes, the rocky outcrops and the salt marsh plains, the blue of the sea and the green landscape, more than 50 km of cycle track awaits you from Piriac-sur-Mer to Moutiers-en-Retz. These itineraries are safely designed and connect the coastal towns to one another.


Cycling through the Vendée Bocage


Now you can tour the unspoiled countryside and historical sites from atop your own bike! Take any of the well-marked routes that lead you down quiet back roads and country lanes with little traffic.


Discover Lorraine

The natural environment is Lorraine’s trump card but the variety of landscapes is just one ingredient. Even more important is the quality and sheer density of natural beauty spots. There are three regional country parks lying wholly or partly within Lorraine.


Cycling in Loire (Western)

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a leisure rider, the Western Loire has plenty of surprises in store for you. All along the sign-posted bike trail, you can marvel at the stunning Loire countryside, visit chateaux and abbeys, stroll through quaint little towns and cycle through vineyards.


Cycling in Corsica

Accessible to all, country tracks will take you to the Alta-Rocca, close to the fabulous Bavella peaks. In the Bozio area your walk will take you to explore ancient Roman chapels decorated with frescos.

Walking in Limousin

In the Limousin, take to the fields for the great escape. Discover the ways of this part of the world by following the paths taken by walkers for centuries. As you go, you’ll discover wild corners, remarkable villages, imposing sites and well kept mysteries.

Cycle Routes

The French are mad about cycling and France, with its wide open spaces, is the ideal place to enjoy the sport. Look no further than Nord-Pas-de-Calais where 60 sign-posted cycle routes wend their way through pretty towns and villages on peaceful roads.


Walking in Picardy

Picardy holds many surprises. “An urban explorer walk changes the way that people look at the streets they may sometimes go down every day" the Picardy regional hiking committee explains. Amiens, Abbeville, Soissons, Beauvais, Laon, Saint-Quentin, Compiègne, Noyon, Péronne, Vervins, Château-Thierry etc. all have a character, museums, old districts, rare collections, pleasant terraces and enthusiastic guides.

Walking in Languedoc-Roussillon

Walks and trekking is a pastime that is very important to French people. You can always expect numerous walks in all types of areas. Languedoc Roussillon is no different with thousands of trails marked out. They range from short hourly rambles to treks that last days, even weeks.

Walking in Loire (Western)


The Val de Loire: Come and see this World Heritage Site

                       

The Loire River is a natural and free guide for discovering the biggest UNESCO World Heritage site in France: 280 km between Sully-sur-Loire, in the Loiret, and Chalonnes-sur-Loire, in Anjou.


Walking in Provence/Cote D'Azur

For long-distance hikers, the region has several walks forming part of the "Grande Randonnée" (GR) network. Through the Verdon, the Massif d'Estérel, the Ubaye, the Lure Mountain and the Ecrins the network is immense.

Walking and Cycling in Midi-Pyrénées

The Great Valleys -
The Midi-Pyrénées boasts numerous valleys, which are appreciated for their natural resources and cultural diversity. Five valleys stand out among the rest: those of the Dordogne, the Aveyron, the Tarn, the Lot, and the Garonne. These are the settings of ancient adventures with villages, fortified towns and châteaux nestled within their hospitable hollows. New adventures include a great many walks, hikes and cycling. The valleys are key-points in the area for those who wish to discover Midi-Pyrenees’ secrets
.

Walking Paris Ile de France


There are many reasons for a stroll in Paris Ile de France, from the buildings to the shopping and people. Rambling around just to look at the architecture is worthwhile. A lot of Parisian structures were setting their feet firmly in the new century long before the curtains were drawn on the previous one.


By Bicycle or Mountain Bike in Brittany

Whether you are a touring cyclist or a mountain biker, all the roads of Brittany are accessible to cyclists. There are several cycling paths and mountain bike routes crossing forests, woods or along lakesides.

Parks and Gardens in Normandy

Normandy is a horticultural heaven and boasts an extraordinary number of parks and gardens open to the public. A wide range of garden styles are displayed, from simple cottage gardens to grand, formal schemes via walled kitchen gardens, botanical collections, subtropical plantations, landscaped “English” style gardens and authentic French Gardens.


The Cliffs in Brittany

The most evocative image of Brittany is a high cliff battered by waves, even though this type of landscape is not continuous along the entire coastline. However, the whole of the peninsula is bordered by rocky coastal outcrops which vary in colour and shape from north to south.


Cycling in Alsace

Mountain biking

A number of trails reserved for mountain biking and suitable for cyclists of all abilities have been created throughout the Vosges. The terrain here is particularly well-suited to mountain biking.


Cycling in Loire (Centre)

Experience an ever-expanding range of cyclist trails with over 400 km of sign-posted routes, made up of quiet roads and exclusive cycle tracks in the sumptuous settings of the Loire Valley. Enjoy biking through a UNESCO World Heritage site and along the banks of Europe's last wild river, the Loire.

The Perche

Only an hour from Paris, the charming Perche region is the perfect place for botanists and mushroom seekers with over 1,100 species of vascular plants. There are also extensive forests crossed by the GR 35, a marked hikers trail.

Tours in Midi-Pyrénées

The Most Interesting Sites in the Midi-Pyrénées ("Star Country")   
       

"Star country" is a comprehensive itinerary pinpointing some of the most beautiful sites of interest in the Midi-Pyrénées under the headings of four thematic trips, as follows:


Regional Natural Parks in Normandy

With four Regional Natural Parks to choose from in Normandy, you will be spoilt for choice, space and scenery. Natural environments are protected and preserved in these splendid parks, with fabulous views of forests, valleys or maritime wetlands with extensive wildlife.


The Caves of Lascaux Aquitaine

The caves of Lascaux were discovered by a group of teenagers out walking their dog in 1940. They are one the world's finest examples of prehistoric cave dwellings and their walls are adorned with colourful artworks painted by early man.

Loire-Anjou–Touraine, a world heritage site by UNESCO

As well as its architectural and historical treasures, the Park located in the heart of the Loire, boasts beautiful scenery. It encompasses landscapes and diverse natural habitats of great value.

Vineyard Tourist Trail in Loire (Western)


The Val de Loire Vineyards Tourist Trail

40,000 hectares of ‘dégustation’: The skills of the vine were introduced by the Romans, and are now one of the main assets of the Pays de la Loire.


Nature Reserves in Provence/Cote D'Azur

In this mosaic of landscapes, you can choose to ride a horse in the wild pools of the Camargue, admire the underwater depths on a dive off the island of Port Cros, follow the bicycle trails in the Luberon, or hike through the Verdon countryside.

The Valgenceuse Chateau Park

The park of Valgenceuse chateau, in Senlis, a few kilometres from Paris, is a haven of peace and tranquillity where it is a pleasure to stroll around in the footsteps of the greats.


The Routes to Santiago de Compostela in Midi-Pyrénées


UNESCO has inscribed the routes to Santiago de Compostela on the World Heritage List. The region boasts three of the main routes leading to Compostella, the routes of Puy-en-Velay, Arles and the foothills of the Pyrenees, all of which are dotted with comfortable self-catering cottages and friendly hostels.


Cave Paintings in Rhône-Alpes

With 13 painted caves, the Ardèche gorges are the most visited in France. Inside you can admire engraved or painted masterpieces together with various tools. For a better understanding of this exceptional legacy it is worth paying a visit to the Musée Régional de Préhistoire, close to the Aven d’Orgnac.


Nature and Leisure Pursuits in Burgundy

Burgundy's green spaces are ideal for a range of leisure pursuits and getting close to nature. The beautiful landscape is ideally suited for hiking, horse riding, golf cycling and even hot air balooning for those looking for a bit of adventure.

Not to be missed in Burgundy

There are sites to behold all over Burgundy including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites, five villages listed as the 'prettiest villages of France' and a unique medieval building site.

Burgundy Gastronomy

Burgundy is one of the leading gastronomic regions in the world so why not build your holiday in Burgundy around the local food.

Wines and Vineyards in Burgundy

You can't think about Burgundy without thinking about its famous wines. Today the vineyards of Burgundy cover an area of some 27,000 hectares divided into 5 main growing areas.

Dune du Pyla Aquitaine

The natural phenomenan that is the Dune du Pyla or 'Dune du Pilat' is the largest natural sand dune in the world and sits 60km from Bordeaux in the South of the Arcachon Bay.

Bordeux Aquitaine

Bordeux is famous for it's wine production but that's no the only business to have left it's mark on the city. Nicknamed the 'Port de la Lune' (Port of the Moon) due to the enormous curve of the river in the city centre the port of Bordeux has always been very active.

Nature Watch in Brittany

Brittany is famous for its coastal marshes. The marshes are formed in depressions, behind a coastal belt of sand or stones, or a manmade dyke. The degree of salinity of the water varies depending on infiltration of the sea and affects the vegetation and the fauna.

Climbing in Provence/Cote D'azur

Climbers can devote themselves to their favourite pastime in total safety at several sites with full amenities. They come from all over the world to conquer the steep walls. The ones in Verdon, for example, have no fewer than 933 routes.

Flying High in Provence/Cote D'Azur

Make your debut in the air, discover the sensations of flying, learn to master piloting techniques, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur pulls out all the stops for everyone to share in the experience of flying.

Caves in Franche-Comté

Journey to the Centre of the Earth

4,500 caves or chasms, which in this region often go by the name of 'baumes' or 'puits' are known to sports lovers, such as the Verneau caves in the Lison valley, for example are considered to form the world's longest post-siphon network (28,000 m).


See Alsace from the Air


Discover the Alsatian plain at first hand, get a bird's eye view of the Vosges Forest or glide across the vineyards... There are many excellent reasons to discover Alsace from the air.


News What's happening in France?
15/12/2007 Recharge your batteries in Brittany


After the stress and rich food during the weeks leading up to Christmas, a 50 minute flight across the channel to Brittany situated on the west coast of France can restore your body and mind.

Leave all the stresses and strains behind and discover the mystical, heritage rich region of Brittany with its year round mild climate, listen to the sound of the ocean and breathe in the fresh, salty air for as little as £100 per person on half board including treatments and excluding flights


Grand Pardon de Sainte-Anne-La-Palud

Aug 2008 (annual)
Chapelle de Sainte-Anne, Plonévez-Porzay
More than 10,000 pilgrims attend the Grand Pardon de Sainte-Anne-La-Paludone, one of the oldest and most dramatic pardons (religious days) in Finistere, the western corner of Brittany.


International Television Days (RITV)
26 March - 30 March

Reims

The International Television Days, held principally at La Comédie in Reims, showcase the best TV films, series, soaps and sitcoms from around the world. The event is intended for professionals and the public alike.

Sainte Savine Street Theatre Festival
September

Sainte Savine

The streets come alive as performers from around the world visit Sainte Savine. Professional theatre companies and groups of performers gather in this small town near Troyes every September. Expect the unexpected, with everything from bizarre one-man shows, puppetry and circus antics to mime, traditional theatre and live concerts. If you tire of their antics (and why should you, they're free!), there's always a concert to soothe your ears.

Transmassif - La Grande Traversée du Massif Central
14 April - 19 April

AUBIÈRE [Puy-de-Dôme]

For the first time in its history, Transmassif will leave Clermont-Ferrand to reach Montpellier and the sea. Orienteering endurance raid in teams alternating mountain-biking, canoeing and running together or in relays. Routes of 2 to 8 days, from 100 to 700 km

Formula One: French Grand Prix
July

Magny Cours

The Formula One World Championships continues with the French Grand Prix. More than 100,000 spectators pack the stands of the Circuit de Nevers at Magny-Cours as fanatics from across the world flock to Burgundy.

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1066 and all that!
Lille is a lovely little gem - so close with Eurostar. Now you can get there in about 80 minutes.

Queyras Alps Independent Walk
Challenging Alpine walking; rugged mountain scenery; superb wildlife.

Vendee holiday homes
Modern holiday village with swimming and paddling pool and kids club only 650m to beach, shops, bars

Arblaster & Clarke Vineyard Walks
Offering Vineyard Walks walking from cellar to cellar at leisurely paces with views of the chateaux.

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Self-catering holiday villas, cottages and apartments on the south west coast of France.

Quality summer accommodation in the heart of the Alps
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