One of the best places to go on a biking vacation in France is to the Loire Valley. Famous for its exquisite wines and elegant chateaux the Loire Valley is a feast for the senses. With its mostly flat and to somewhat rolling countryside it is a pleasant ride suitable for bikers of various skill levels. The Loire Valley is filled with unique chateaux, extravagant gardens, lush vineyards and numerous villages some dating back to the middle ages or earlier.

Another stunning choice for your biking vacation in France is Provence. Deep in the Mediterranean Region of France and flowing with rich olive plantations and other vegetation, Provence is rich in food and culture. Immortalized by Van Gogh in paintings, Provence is a colorful palette in and of itself. One can certainly understand why an artist would fall in love with the area as it is like falling into the paint box. When it comes to food, this region can't be beat. There are several dishes that bear its name, you will recognize the term "Provencal". The weather is generally a warm Mediterranean climate and quite enjoyable for your biking vacation in France.

The Dordogne Region is absolutely overflowing with grand chateaux, flowing rivers and mysterious caves. The unusual offerings include pre-historic cave paintings and a bicycle museum. You will also enjoy cathedrals dating to the 12th century and marvel at the exquisite stained glass. Talk about living history, you will find the forts that housed the British and the French during the Hundred Years War on either side of the Dordogne river. You may even find yourself spending the night in a 13th century chateau.

Another fun option is to take a one-day biking tour of Paris. No visit to France would feel complete without a view of the Eiffel Tower or a jaunt through the Louvre Museum. Paris is rich with culture and couture. Other sites include the Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysees. There are both day and night tours available, each offering a unique view of one of the most popular cities in the world.

These are some of the best choices of biking vacations in France and any of them would prove a memorable vacation. You might even consider more than one, if time permits. It would be especially easy to work in the short tour of Paris along with one of the others, since most flights land in Paris. A biking vacation in France offers the best in culture, cuisine and history so whatever you choose you will enjoy. Bon voyage!

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A biking vacation involves a lot of strenuous activity and generally includes biking for a minimum of four hours per day (sometimes more). Anyone with a heart condition or other serious illness should consult with their physician before attempting a biking trip. Also, most biking tour companies do not provide accommodations for persons with disabilities. A person with disabilities should consult the biking tour company to find out if special arrangements can be made, but for the most part they should not consider taking one of the trips. Of course, a person with disabilities could co-ordinate their own biking trip provided they have the proper equipment and support to do so, there just aren't any tour companies catering to this market at this time. So, in general a person should be of good physical condition to consider taking a biking vacation in France.

It may be a bit much to take very small children on a biking vacation in France, especially with a tour group. Even the most well-behaved child may have trouble being on a bike for so many hours a day and may become over-stimulated by the constantly changing environment and never laying down to sleep in the same place two days in a row. A child should probably be old enough to ride independently for at least four hours a day and have a good disposition before going on a biking trip in France.

I would say there is no upper age limit, so long as a person is healthy enough and fit enough to make the journey. What a great way to spend time during your retirement. Seniors should be as active as possible to maintain good health and a biking vacation in France would be a great way to enjoy a beautiful country and stay in shape.

Honeymooners enjoy taking a biking vacation in France. What a great way to bond and spend quality time together biking through historic and romantic France by day; dancing and dining in the French moonlight by night. France is touted as the most romantic place in the world and the intimacy gained by biking together would surely add to the ambiance.

In summary, a biking vacation in France is a wonderful way to view this beautiful country. Anyone who is fairly healthy, in decent physical condition, is capable of riding a bike for a minimum of four hours per day and is mature enough to enjoy the trip safely and happily should consider taking a biking vacation in France. Bon voyage!

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The first thing you will need is a good mountain bike. You can either bring your own, rent one from a bike shop or the biking tour company you are riding with. You will want a 21 to 27 speed bicycle that is lightweight and comfortable. It is important to get a bike that "fits" you so measure your inseam and talk with someone at your local bike shop or the rental place if you are renting one when you get there. A gel seat and padded handle bars will make the journey more comfortable and when you will be spending a minimum of four hours a day on your bike, comfort is definitely an issue!

You will need a basic bicycle repair kit with you. You should include a patch kit and a spare inner tube for possible tire repairs and a portable tire pump (at least one member of your tour group should have one). You should also have the basic tools to accomplish other small repairs. Since you don't want to be loaded down, choose one of the multi-tools they have available these days that have allen keys and spanners all in one. There are many portable kits available at your local bike shop. Many of the biking vacation tours in France include both the bike and the tool kit for an extra charge if needed.

You should also carry a small first aid kit for minor emergencies. Include several sizes of adhesive bandages, gauze bandages, medical tape, anti-biotic ointment, pain relievers and sinus tablets. You should also include a good broad-spectrum protection sunscreen. Remember that you can even get sunburn in winter and especially in the mountains. Don't forget a water bottle holder and a full water bottle, you will need to stay hydrated during your biking vacation in France.

A must for all cyclers is a good helmet. A head injury is very preventable and not worth risking for the sake of "looking good". The danger of not wearing a helmet has been so widely publicized for so long now that you actually look silly riding without one. A good pair of biking gloves will add comfort and prevent calluses on your hands. A nice pair of padded biking shorts will…well I guess you can figure out what those are good for! After all, you will be sitting for many hours a day. A good pair of sunglasses with a strap are also a good idea.

You will also want to bring a lightweight weatherproof jacket and a pair of waterproof shorts in case of rain. Other than that, you should wear lightweight, unrestrictive clothing and a good pair of biking shoes or hard soled athletic shoes. A sweatshirt might be good to bring in case the weather becomes chilly.

A little preparation goes a long way when preparing for your biking vacation to France. While many items you may need are available when you get there, you will feel more comfortable knowing that you are prepared. You should also have your own equipment and supplies in the event that you become separated from your group. Better safe than sorry. Bon voyage.

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A guided tour costs a bit more and is very structured. Your guide will be on hand to lead the way and answer any questions you might have. He or she will speak the language and know many of the natives, so special favors may be granted if needed. You will have the comfort and peace of mind of knowing that your guide knows exactly where you are going and when you will get there (barring any unusual circumstances). Your guide will also be able to give insight and information on the various sites you will see along the way.

On the other hand, a self guided tour gives you much more freedom. You can travel at your own pace and really make your biking vacation in France your own. Your tour group will have provided you all the necessary maps and a detailed itinerary so you will easily be able to find your own way. You will have the flexibility to stop somewhere off the beaten path if it interests you and skip stops that do not excite you. You can stop to eat when you are hungry, rather than when the schedule dictates and stop to rest when you are tired. You are in control.

Either the guided or the self-guided tour will provide you with an intimate view of France and its people. From medieval villages to amazing works of art, France is rich in culture and charm and a biking vacation there will enrich your life and provide vivid memories for years to come. Both types of tour are planned similarly and are structured to allow you to see as much of the region in France you are visiting as possible without exhausting yourself. Both include all accommodations and most meals.

The two factors involved in deciding whether you need a guide on your biking vacation in France would be the added price and the amount of freedom you desire. If you are afraid of getting lost or not knowing the language well enough to interact with the locals, then perhaps the guided tour is best for you. If you prefer living on your own terms and doing things your way and traveling at your own pace then you would certainly prefer the self-guided biking vacation in France. Either way, you are sure to enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of France on a whole new level.

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While France has a moderate seasonal climate, with mild to cold winters and warm to mildly hot summers, occasionally July and August are hotter than expected. This could prove to be uncomfortable for biking long distances. In addition to weather concerns, there are several holidays during July and August and the average traveler might find the crowds that are drawn in by these holidays less than favorable. July 14th is Bastille Day and August 15th is Assumption Day (Mary's Day). Also, since school is out during these months, local attraction will be more crowded.

The next times to avoid would be November through March when the weather generally fluctuates in the 30 to 40 degree Fahrenheit range. While a biking vacation in France could still be enjoyable during these months, it would likely be more enjoyable when you could ride without a jacket. Considering you will be carrying all your supplies and "luggage" with you, the less clothing you have to bring with you the better off you will be.

So after taking into consideration the climate and various holidays in France that may not be the best choices for your biking vacation in France, you are left with choosing Spring, May to June or Fall, September to October. The weather is usually quite comfortable during these months, usually in the upper 50's to about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You would be able to dress fairly lightly and still feel quite comfortable with just a lightweight windbreaker for a jacket. The crowds of tourists are slightly lighter during these months and depending on which part of France you visit, you are more likely to see the "real" France, and live like the natives.

Most biking vacations in France have tours that last about one week so you should plan to take at least 12 days off of work for your biking vacation in France. The tours move rather quickly, so you might also be wise to take a few extra days and spend them in Paris or another spot of your choice before your bike tour in order to fully appreciate all the tourist attractions.

Proper planning will help ensure you have an enjoyable biking vacation in France and help you create happy memories to last a lifetime. Choosing the best time of year for your biking vacation to France is the first step in making those plans. You will need to give yourself time to get your passport ready and make payment arrangements for your trip, so take these factors into consideration as well. Then plan a trip for May, June, September or October and you should be able to enjoy a delightful biking vacation in France.

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Most of these packages include bike rental and the bike will be waiting for you in your hotel room. They usually include an emergency repair kit which will have the necessary items for repairing a flat tire and the tools needed for fixing your chain should it break or slip off the gears. You should check with your tour company ahead to find out whether this is included and if not be prepared to bring your own. You certainly don't want to be stranded down a lonely country road in a foreign country with no way to repair your bike.

The next thing you will want to have handy is a basic first aid kit. Obviously, there is some risk of injury while biking in France, so you will want to be prepared for the most likely scenarios. You will need several sizes of adherent bandages, some gauze wrap, an ace bandage, medical tape, an ice pack and some anti-biotic ointment. You should also carry some sunscreen and insect repellent depending on what time of year you take your trip. You should also consider carrying some pain reliever and perhaps some sinus medication since biking through various elevations during your vacation in France can wreck havoc on your sinuses. Some baby powder or corn starch for preventing chaffing on your inner thighs is also a great idea. You will want to bring small travel sizes of items whenever possible, because while you do want to be prepared and keep comfortable during the long periods you will be on the bike, you don't want to be weighed down a great deal.

Other items to include would be a water bottle. Often a water bottle holder and water bottle are included on your bike; just make sure to fill it with clean fresh water each day. You will be working hard and it is important to stay hydrated. Even though you will be stopping for meals during the day, you may want to keep some protein or energy bars in your pack in case of unexpected delays or to keep you fueled up during the long journeys. Also, you should bring a lightweight, waterproof jacket in addition to your usual equipment of a helmet, knee and elbow pads. Be sure to keep your passport and money on your person at all times. There are great carriers for these that run around your neck and tuck inside your clothing to avoid dropping or being pick-pocketed during a stop off.

The small steps you take now to prepare will help to avoid or lessen the impact of any small incidents that might otherwise ruin the trip for you. A biking trip may seem to be a carefree holiday, but it will only be carefree if you have planned for all the possibilities ahead of time. A little planning and proper preparation can go a long way in making your biking vacation in France a positive, memorable experience.

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You will want to start your preparations by making sure you have a passport and that it is up to date. These days, you can apply for your passport at your local United States Post Office. They have the applications there and can even take your passport photo in most places. It takes at least 6 to 8 weeks to get your passport approved and that is if there are no problems. If you are traveling with a child under the age of eighteen, it may take considerably loner especially if there is a divorce involved (you have to have a signed affidavit from the other parent giving you permission to take the child out of the country).

While waiting for your passport you might begin to make a list of necessary items to take with you on your journey. You certainly don't want to over pack; on the other hand you don't want to be out on a bike on a deserted road, let along in a foreign country unprepared. You should pack a backpack or saddle bag in your luggage. Your luggage will be transported from location to location by the tour group and you will have just your backpack or saddle bag along with you daily while biking from city to city. If you are bringing your own bike you will also need to bring a small bike repair kit along. This should include the basics for repairing a tire or your chain. You should also bring a small first aid kit. Make sure to pack enough changes of clothing to last the duration of your trip including a lightweight weather-proof jacket.

You should also prepare your body for your biking vacation in France. You should be biking an hour or two each day with a variety of terrains to prepare for the trip. Also, make sure you are eating well with lots of vegetables, whole grains and lean protein. Even a novice going on a trip designed for beginners will benefit from some training beforehand. Six to eight weeks of eating well and training will make a big difference and keep you from dropping out during the trip.

Another way to prepare yourself for your biking vacation in France is to learn to speak French! While most people in France, especially those in the service industry, speak English it is very impolite to walk up to a French person and speak English. If you are polite, do your best to speak their language and then ask, "parlez-vous anglais?" ("Do you speak English?") you will find most French people more than willing to help you.

There you have it; some basic things you need to do in order to prepare yourself for your biking vacation in France. With a little planning and preparation you will find yourself enjoying the beautiful scenery, historical sites and delicious foods of France all while staying in top condition. Bon voyage!

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A biking vacation in France will allow visitors to experience the country on a whole new level. Visitors may find themselves feeling more a part of France as they pedal their bikes along the narrow stone streets and alleys in Frances most quaint villages and towns. A biking trip, unlike a bus tour, will allow the visitor to stop and take a closer look at scenes that catch his or her eye. A quiet little street cafe that may have gone unnoticed, suddenly becomes the highlight of the vacation. All the sights and smells take on a new light as the biker wends his or her way through the French countryside.

A biking vacation in France is also more cost efficient. You will save money on things like bus rides, cab fare and subways as you use "pedal power" to move from place to place. Not only will you be saving money, but you will also be using less fossil fuel; contributing to a cleaner environment. Helping to preserve this beautiful country will give you greater satisfaction while you experience all the sights that France has to offer.

Another great thing about taking a biking vacation to France is that you will be able to enjoy all the delicious cuisine France has to offer without any guilt! You won't need to count a single calorie or bat an eyelash when you are offered a second piece of freshly baked French bread before dinner. You can enjoy your cr?me brul?e and have no fear of it nesting on your hips, because you will be biking 6-8 hours per day. France is covered with tiny little pastry shops that delight with mini-quiches and numerous other tempting confections. Croissants are loaded with calories, but you will be able to enjoy as many as you would like with a tasty cup of cafe au lait or chocolat chaud (hot chocolate).

While you might be able to cover more area by sitting on a bus; you will enjoy a much more intimate vacation in France by biking. I also believe the biking tour will help your energy levels to combat jet lag; I can tell you from personal experience that sitting on a warm bus all day with jet lag is very, very exhausting. The fresh air and exercise from your biking vacation to France will keep you energized during the day and sleeping like a baby all night. All in all, I would say a biking vacation is the best way to enjoy the sights, smells and tastes of France. Bon voyage!

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The first thing to take into consideration is the skill level of the person or persons that will be taking the biking trip. While an extended biking vacation in France may sound like a lot of fun, the novice may find him or herself extremely sore in just a few days after spending 6-8 hours a day cycling over varying terrain. Biking vacations in France generally usually run four days, one week or two weeks, so the novice would do well to stick with a four day tour their first time out. Hopefully even the novice will spend a few weeks training before taking on the four day tour!

A cycler with an intermediate skill level may enjoy a biking vacation in France of a slightly longer duration. A one week trip might be a good choice for tours that have a lot of rugged terrain and higher elevations. Even the seasoned cycler might tire after a week of mountainous roads and bike trails through the beautiful French countryside. An advanced level cycler would get the most from a two week biking vacation, if that fits with their time constraints and budget.

An important consideration is of course your budget. Do not try to do more than you can afford. A four day biking vacation is certainly better than none at all and comes in at just over half of the one-week trip. If money is no object, you are fairly fit and have all the time in the world, then by all means book a two week biking vacation in France. In fact, book a two week tour in every region! For those of us in the real world a four day or one week excursion may be able to satisfy the urge to bond with France on a personal level without breaking the bank or leaving us with a pile of debt that will drag us down for months to come.

Time is always of the essence and, of course, must be taken into consideration. Depending on where you are traveling from and which region in France you will be taking your biking vacation in, time must be allotted to travel to and from the tour destination. If you only have a one-week vacation from work, the four day biking vacation will be packing everything in tightly when you consider a day and a half to travel from your home to the airport to Paris and then to the region you bike tour is in. A two-week vacation would be needed for a one-week bike tour and slightly longer for the two-week trip.

A biking vacation in France should certainly be "as long as possible". Whatever the possibility is for you should determine the length of your biking trip. No matter if is the four day or two week trip, your biking vacation to France is sure to create life-long memories.

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You have several options when planning a biking vacation to France. You can plan the trip yourself, bringing all necessary equipment and packing lightly enough to transport all your belongings from place to place. While at first, this might seem like the most economical way to do it, the extra work involved on your part, along with gathering the maps and making all your own arrangements for accommodations would be more work than would worth it and since a tour group generally gets lower rates for booking large groups and patronizing the same venues on a regular basis, you would likely end up spending more by doing it yourself.

So, we have established that booking your biking vacation in France will be more economical if you book with a tour group, now what? As with anything in life, you will get the best price if you shop around. Spend some time comparing what each tour group is offering, make sure the trip you choose matches your skill level and travel tastes (some stay at quaint little inns and others choose moderate hotels in the 3 star range). Obviously the quaint little inns will make your tour less expensive and the hospitality is usually excellent in these types of places. One of two meals is usually included in the price of your package, so don't forget to consider the cost of meals when calculating the best deal.

Once you have decided on the tour you would like to take and which tour group to go with, there are still a couple of ways to save money. One is by bringing your own bike. This will require some extra work, but most airlines will allow you to bring it at no, or little, extra cost. You should get a soft-sided carrying case or ask for a free bike-sized cardboard box at your local bike shop. The other advantage of bringing your own bike is knowing that you will have a comfortable ride. You will save at least $150 by bringing your own bike on your biking vacation in France.

The final way to save money on your bike tour is to travel with a companion. The best price on tours is on double occupancy and there is a sizeable fee for having your own room. If you are traveling alone, ask to be paired up with another solo traveler to save this cost. Using these tips will help you save money on your biking vacation to France which you can always use for more souvenirs. Bon voyage!

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