France is the finest cycling destination in Western Europe for anyone who measures a great day by what they ate and drank as much as how far they rode. The Loire Valley — a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of royal châteaux, white wines and the gentlest of river gradients — sets the standard, and La Loire à Vélo has turned it into a benchmark for cycling tourism. For Alsace wine lovers, the Vineyards and Villages of Alsace tour winds through Riesling country between timber-framed villages in a journey as beautiful as any in Europe. Those who want to explore the southwest will find the Bordeaux to Toulouse route passes through vineyard estates and Cathar country along the Canal du Midi towpaths. In Cognac country, the Cognac to La Rochelle tour combines Atlantic oyster bars with France's finest brandy producers. France's cycling infrastructure has matured dramatically — this is a country that takes cycling tourism seriously.
Not sure which tour suits you? Read our guide to choosing a bike tour, or see our tips on the best time for cycling in Europe.