Best Cycling Routes in France for the 50+ Adventurer

France and cycling - it’s a love story written on winding country roads, along glittering rivers, and through timeless villages. For the 50+ traveller, these routes offer more than just the joy of pedalling; they’re a chance to slow down, savour the scenery, and truly connect with the landscapes and cultures that make France so enchanting. Whether you’re an experienced rider or simply looking to explore at a leisurely pace, the beauty of cycling in France is that there’s a route for every style.

Top French Cycle Routes

Loire Valley Cycling: Castles, Vineyards, and Gentle Paths

Imagine yourself gliding along quiet riverside paths, where every bend reveals another Renaissance château rising above the trees. The Loire Valley offers gentle, flat terrain that is perfect for travellers who want a relaxed ride without missing out on cultural riches. You’ll pass through vineyards where you can pause for a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc, charming towns like Amboise and Saumur, and gardens that look as though they’ve leapt from a storybook.

Provence Cycling Holidays: Lavender Fields and Hilltop Villages

There’s something magical about cycling through Provence when the lavender is in bloom. The roads take you past fields that glow purple in the sun, through olive groves, and into medieval villages perched on hilltops. While the terrain here is a little more rolling, the reward is unmatched: stunning vistas, bustling markets, and the joy of immersing yourself in one of France’s most evocative landscapes.

Alsace Wine Route Cycling: Fairytale Villages and Riesling

For those who appreciate history and fine wine, Alsace delivers both in abundance. The cycling routes here are well-marked and wind through half-timbered villages straight out of a fairytale. You’ll pedal past Romanesque churches, family-run vineyards, and the Vosges mountains forming a dramatic backdrop. It’s a gentle introduction to French cycling, with plenty of places to stop for a glass of Riesling or a slice of tarte flambée.

Brittany Coast Cycling: Clifftop Views and Seaside Charm

If the sea calls to you, Brittany’s coastal cycling paths are a delight. Expect rugged cliffs, sweeping beaches, and colourful fishing ports where the day’s catch is brought ashore. The salty sea breeze accompanies you as you ride, and the pace can be as relaxed as you wish. For food lovers, this is the land of galettes and fresh oysters - a reward worth cycling towards.

Dordogne Cycling Tour: Rolling Hills and Prehistoric Wonders

The Dordogne is a quieter corner of France, where cycling feels like stepping back in time. The routes here take you along riverside trails, past caves adorned with prehistoric art, and through landscapes dotted with castles and stone villages. The terrain is a little more undulating, perfect for those who enjoy a gentle challenge paired with rich cultural discoveries.

Why Cycling in France is Ideal for 50+ Adventurers

Cycling in France isn’t about racing; it’s about experiencing. The routes are designed with travellers in mind - safe paths, well-marked trails, and plenty of opportunities to pause and soak it all in. For the 50+ adventurer, it’s the perfect balance: active days on the bike followed by evenings spent enjoying French cuisine, fine wine, and the warm hospitality of local inns.

Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of the Loire, the sun-soaked charm of Provence, or the coastal drama of Brittany, France invites you to cycle at your own pace and embrace the journey as much as the destination.

Ready to Plan Your Cycling Adventure in France?

Every great cycling trip begins with a single step: deciding where you want to ride. At 10Adventures, our travel advisors help you find the perfect route that matches your pace, interests, and sense of adventure. Whether you want a self-guided journey through vineyard valleys or a guided cycling holiday along the coast, we’ll take care of the details so you can simply enjoy the ride.

Start planning your unforgettable cycling holiday in France today, your next adventure is waiting.