Exploring the Best Wine Regions in France by Bike

When you think of France, it’s hard to look past two things the country does exceptionally well: cycling and wine!

Whether you’re gliding through the vineyards of Bordeaux, weaving through the medieval towns of Burgundy, or sipping champagne in the heart of the Champagne region, there’s no better way to enjoy France and its culinary delights than by bike.

We’ve created the ultimate blend of adventure and indulgence, offering cycling and e-bike tours that take you through the very vineyards in France, where some of the world’s finest wines are crafted. So saddle up and sip your way through some of the most iconic wine regions in France.

Why France is Perfect for a Wine and Bike Holiday

France’s famous wine regions are not only famous for producing some of the world’s best wines, but they also boast some of the most scenic and bike-friendly terrain. Ride through the heart of Chateauneuf du Pape in Provence before hopping on to a disused railway line for a tour through the Provençal sunflower and lavender fields. Or perhaps ride along the magnificent Loire river, in the Valley of Kings, cycling next to vineyards that have produced wine for almost a thousand years.

Cycling through these regions gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the landscape at your own pace, stopping at charming villages, historic landmarks, and of course, stunning vineyards in France.

With its unbeatable bike paths, gentle rolling hills, and varied terrain, France is an ideal destination for cyclists of all levels.

Top Wine Regions to Explore by Bike

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is synonymous with fine wine, and its sprawling vineyards are among the most iconic in the world. It’s world renowned as one of the best wine regions in France.

Cycling through Bordeaux offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience its legendary wine-producing areas, including the Médoc and Saint-Émilion.

Scenic Routes: There are plenty of route options once you’re ready to ride. A classic is the route which shadows the Garonne river, taking in Pessac-Léognan, Graves, and Sauternes. Ride through charming towns, past historic châteaux, and endless rows of vineyards. The area’s gently rolling hills make for relaxed and rewarding riding. You can even follow the Canal du Garonne downstream for a completely relaxed and traffic free ride.

Vineyards and Tastings: Stop at renowned estates like Château Margaux and Château Lafite Rothschild, where you can sample some of the finest wines in the world. Don’t miss Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its incredible wines and breathtaking views.

Burgundy

Burgundy is ideal for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay lovers. Cycling through Burgundy’s Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits regions is a must for wine aficionados.

Scenic Routes: Start in Meursault, explore villages like Beaune and Aloxe-Corton, and ride past vineyards, historic castles, and charming towns. Enjoy loop rides, sun-soaked landscapes, and world-class wine tastings, with gentle climbs and peaceful countryside, before departing from Gilly-lès-Cîteaux.

Vineyards and Tastings: Stop at famous domaines like Domaine de la Romanée-Conti and Domaine Faiveley, and sample Burgundy’s world-famous Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Burgundy’s wine culture is deeply rooted in history, making it a must-visit for wine lovers.

Champagne

For those who love sparkling wines, Champagne is a bucket-list destination. Cycling through this picturesque region offers a chance to explore the birthplace of the world’s most famous bubbly.

Scenic Routes: Reims and Épernay, the key wine-producing towns, make great start and end points for taking on the rolling hills and picturesque villages of the Champagne region

Vineyards and Tastings: No visit to Champagne is complete without a stop at the legendary champagne houses like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Dom Pérignon. Take part in exclusive tastings and learn about the intricate methods of champagne production.

UNESCO Heritage Sites: Cycling through Champagne offers an opportunity to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Cathedral of Reims and the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park.

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley, known as the "Garden of France," offers a more leisurely cycling experience with its flat terrain, making it perfect for cyclists of all levels. You can explore magnificent chateaux such as the fairytale castle at Amboise, as well as spectacular gardens like the one at Chateau Chambord that recently underwent restoration at a cost of over €3m.

Scenic Routes: Look no further than the Loire a Velo, a cycle path that takes you from the heart of the Loire, all the way to the coast. The path runs alongside the Loire River and we recommend starting in Orleans and making your way through to Angers, via Blois and Tours. The Loire a Velo one of the most popular cycling routes in France.

Vineyards and Tastings: Famous wines from this region include Sancerre and Vouvray. Stop at local vineyards and taste crisp whites while enjoying the river views.

Alsace

Known for its aromatic white wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer, Alsace is a unique place to ride, with wooded vineyards and rich cultural heritage.

Scenic Routes: The Alsace Wine Road winds its way through the villages of Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Kaysersberg. The route is filled with forested hills, medieval castles, and half-timbered houses.

Vineyards and Tastings: Alsace’s vineyards produce wines that are light, aromatic, and perfect for warm-weather sipping. Don’t miss stops at small family-run wineries, where you can enjoy personal tastings.

Provence

Provence is the land of sun-kissed vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields. The region offers beautiful cycling with Mediterranean flair.

Scenic Routes: A great base is from Avignon, the City of Popes. From here, you can ride deep into the Luberon, explore the Alpilles and the asylum from which Van Gogh painted ‘Starry Nights’ and ‘Sunflowers’. With quiet roads and picturesque villages such as Gordes and Roussillon close by, it really is a cyclist’s paradise. Make sure to also take a tour to Orange, home to a Roman amphitheatre and the famous Pont du Garde, a perfectly preserved Roman aqueduct.

There is also the ever present Mt Ventoux which looms large over the Provençal plains. If you have the legs for it (and you need to be seriously fit to ascend Ventoux from Bedoin, Malaucene or Sault), you will be rewarded with epic views and having climbed one of the most iconic cycling mountains in Europe.

Vineyards and Tastings: Provence is renowned for its delicate and refreshing rosé wines. We recommend sampling a Cote du Ventoux, and even enjoying a tasting at a local ‘garagiste’ wine producer.

Explore local vineyards and enjoy tastings in idyllic settings.

Rhône Valley

The Rhône Valley is known for its bold red wines, including the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape. It’s one of the best wine regions in France and world renowned.

Scenic Routes: Ride along the Rhône River, passing charming towns like Tournon and Vienne. The routes are dotted with historical sites and vineyards. The Tour of the Côtes-Du-Rhône pedals through up to 30 vineyards classified as AOC Côtes-du-Rhône.

Vineyards and Tastings: Provence is renowned for its delicate and refreshing rosé. The vineyards included on the Côtes-Du-Rhône includes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Beaumes-de-Venise, Vacqueyras, Gigondas, Cairanne, Rasteau, Vinsobres, and more.

Languedoc-Roussillon

Languedoc-Roussillon, one of the largest wine-producing regions in France, offers a diversity of wines and landscapes.

Scenic Routes: From Carcassonne, there are lots of options of cycle routes along the Canal du MIDI. Alternatively head for rural routes with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Vineyards and Tastings: Languedoc produces a wide variety of wines, including the crisp Crémant de Limoux. Explore the vineyards and enjoy tasting unique blends.

Practical Tips for a Cycling Wine Holiday in France

Best Time to Visit

The best times to cycle through wine regions in France are Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild, and the vineyards are at their most picturesque.

Cycling and Wine Tasting Balance

It’s essential to stay hydrated and pace yourself when cycling and wine tasting. Consider booking a bike tour with overnight stops in famous wine producing towns. It will allow you to spend a day off the bike tasting the local wines. We are able to customise a wine tasting holidays in France to allow you to do this.

Gear and Preparation

Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for cycling in France, as is a comfortable saddle and a good quality bike - that’s why we have the best bikes and e-bikes for you to ride. Don’t forget sunscreen and a water bottle!

Why Book with Love Velo?

At Love Velo, we specialise in cycling holidays that combine the best of adventure and wine tasting so we will curate your ideal wine tasting holiday in France. Our bespoke cycling tours are designed to offer a personalised experience, with routes curated to suit your interests and fitness level.

Whether you’re looking to cycle through the vineyards of Bordeaux, or explore Burgundy, Love Velo offers the perfect cycling and wine tasting package for you.

Ready to start your wine and cycling adventure? Make an enquiry with Love Velo today and begin planning your dream trip to France!