For Australians with a love for food, wine, scenery and active holidays, France offers the ultimate cycling experience.
From the lavender-scented lanes of Provence to the vineyard-laced hills of Bordeaux, French bicycle tours combine culture, cuisine and countryside in a way that deeply resonates with the Aussie spirit of adventure.
Whether you’re a weekend cyclist or a seasoned rider, there’s a tour to suit your pace - and palate.
Why France?
France is tailor-made for cycling. With more 20,000 km of well-maintained bike paths and signposted cycle routes, the country caters to both serious road cyclists and leisurely e-bike cruisers.
It also mirrors many of the values Australians hold dear: a laidback lifestyle, respect for the outdoors, good food and a strong café culture. Add to this the historical villages, vibrant markets and iconic Tour de France routes and it’s easy to see why Aussies flock to France’s cycling trails year after year.
Here are five of the top French cycling tours:
Provence – Lavender Fields and Hilltop Villages
Imagine riding through sun-drenched fields of lavender, past stone farmhouses and charming medieval villages like Gordes and Roussillon. Provence is a postcard-perfect region ideal for relaxed cycling tours. The terrain is gentle enough for most abilities and many tours include time to explore local markets, wineries and bistros.
Highlights for Aussies include sampling rosé in the Luberon Valley, visiting Van Gogh’s Arles and stopping in Saint-Rémy for pastries and Provençal charm. Aussie travellers often favour guided or self-guided tours with e-bike options for tackling the occasional hill without breaking a sweat.
Loire Valley – Castles, Countryside and Crémant
Often called the ‘Garden of France’, the Loire Valley is a UNESCO-listed treasure trove of Renaissance châteaux, riverside trails and lush vineyards. Its mostly flat terrain makes it perfect for cyclists of all ages and skill levels and it’s one of the most accessible regions for self-guided tours.
A typical Aussie-friendly route might start in Blois and meander past Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau before ending in Saumur. You’ll enjoy tasting local wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Crémant de Loire, cycling through sunflower fields and picnicking along the Loire River. Many tours include luggage transfers and charming B&B stays for added ease.
Bordeaux – Vineyards and Gourmet Pleasures
A must for Aussie oenophiles, Bordeaux offers one of the most gourmet-centric cycling experiences in France. Routes wind through prestigious appellations like Saint-Émilion, Médoc and Pomerol, offering regular stops at world-class wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants.
Cycling tours here are well-paced, allowing ample time for tastings and leisurely lunches. Many Aussie travellers enjoy combining cycling with river cruising or guided vineyard walks. Don’t miss the Cité du Vin wine museum in Bordeaux city or the chance to sample cannelés - small custard cakes that perfectly pair with a glass of Sauternes.
Alsace – Half-timbered Towns and Riesling Roads
Nestled on the border with Germany, Alsace is a hidden gem for Aussie cyclists. The region’s Alsace Wine Route weaves through cobbled villages, timber-framed houses and undulating vineyards producing some of France’s finest Rieslings and Gewürztraminers.
Cycling tours typically start in Strasbourg or Colmar and follow quiet country lanes through towns like Riquewihr and Eguisheim. Aussies will appreciate the Germanic-French fusion cuisine - think tarte flambée and hearty sausages - as well as the welcoming atmosphere and scenic beauty.
French Alps – Epic Climbs and Tour de France Thrills
For Aussie cyclists who want to test their mettle, the French Alps deliver breathtaking views and heart-pounding ascents. This is the land of legendary climbs like Alpe d’Huez, Col du Galibier and Mont Ventoux.
Though physically demanding, these tours are incredibly rewarding. Many companies offer van support and customised itineraries, allowing you to climb at your own pace. Off the saddle, refuel with raclette, tartiflette and locally brewed beers in alpine villages. Aussies who follow the Tour de France will find added excitement in tracing the wheels of their heroes.
The Final Pedal
For Aussies seeking a unique blend of activity, gastronomy and scenery, France’s bicycle tours offer a rewarding and unforgettable escape.
Whether cruising through castle-studded valleys, pedalling past vineyards, or scaling mountain peaks, each turn of the pedal brings a new discovery. So, pack your cleats and appetite - France is best explored on two wheels.
