The 8 best cycling routes in France

From the Tour de France cycle race to the pensioner cycling home from a village market with a pannier full of vegetables, the bicycle is as much a part of French life and culture as the baguette and the Eiffel Tower.

There are cycle associations in almost every town, statues of cyclists on roads over Alpine mountain passes, and city bike hire schemes throughout the country. France is a nation that loves le vélo and in every department (district), there are superbly-maintained cycle paths and routes that make cycle touring one of the most enjoyable ways to explore France.

Whether you crave Alpine scenery or a gentle roll through the vineyards of Burgundy, here are some of the best cycle routes in France.

Col de Tourmalet and the Pyrenees

Best for: Yellow jersey wearers and masochists

In 1910, when the first Tour de France competitors crested the Col de Tourmalet, the winner of that stage famously yelled at the event organizers “You’re assassins. Yes, assassins.” That should tell you all that you need to know about this legendary cycle route through the central Pyrenees.

During the grueling 19km (12-mile) climb from Luz Saint-Sauveur to the Col du Tourmalet at 2115m (6939ft), you’ll ascend over 1400m (4593ft) at an average angle of 7.39%. At its steepest point, the route climbs at over 10% – no wonder the climb up to the Col du Tourmalet (and the high-speed descent down) is considered one of the most fearful, yet exciting, stages of the Tour de France race.

The route is closed by snow from late October to late spring, but in summer, hundreds of cyclists set out daily to see if they’ve got what it takes to race up and over the highest road pass in the Pyrenees. And whether you pant up over the course of hours or speed like a cheetah to the top, expect to be blown away by the majesty of the high mountain scenery. Yep, this is one of France’s great cycle routes for a very good reason.

When you’ve conquered Tourmalet, consider completing the so-called ‘Circle of Death’ by riding from the Col de Peyresourde to the Col d’Aubisque, an extra 141km (88 miles).

Burgundy Vineyard Route

Best for: Gourmands, oenophiles and lovers of the good life

Wine, gently rolling…