You may be thinking, having read the title of this article, that doing France on your bike in winter would be sheer folly. But not a bit of it.
Anyone who has travelled around France during the winter months will be able to tell you that the roads are very often choc a block with cyclists – particularly on Sundays and even on the coldest of days.
There are several good reasons for this. One is that cycling is something of a religion to the French – and what better day to worship than on Sunday? Also, France is perfect for cyclists. There are huge flat areas, gently undulating hills and of course the Alps and Pyrenees for those who love hill climbing on their bikes.
Also – the motorists give ultimate respect to cyclists and the camp sites are superb – and compulsory in each Commune (Local Authority area).
During the winter, though, the campsites may be a touch on the chilly side(!), but the Chambres D’Hotes (literally; bedrooms of the host – like guest houses or bed and breakfast places in the UK) are usually superb, whilst there are lots of cheap hotels and hostels to choose from as well – which welcome cyclists.
Cycling in the hilly areas is great if you’re a winter sports enthusiast, too. You can mix and match between your cycling shoes and your crampons if you’re feeling like climbing higher than it’s wise to go on your bike at this time of year – or if your party is daring enough to try some ascents on your mountain bikes, just be sure you have your North Face coats stowed in the panniers!