3 Scenic Cycling Routes in France to Extend Your Summer

Late summer and early autumn are among the best times to explore France by bike. With pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists and beautiful landscapes, it’s the perfect season to discover some of the country’s most scenic cycling routes.

Whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or dreaming of a week-long cycling adventure, France offers an incredible variety of bike-friendly destinations.

From the Loire Valley’s historic castles to the peaceful Canal du Midi and the breathtaking Atlantic Coast, Paulette helps you discover France at your own pace, with flexible bike rentals and one-way cycling trips.

Here are three fantastic cycling itineraries to make the most of the Indian summer in France.

1. A Weekend Cycling Getaway: Tours to Angers on the Loire à Vélo

<text color=”secondary”>Suggested duration: 2–3 days | Difficulty: Easy to moderate</text>

Looking for a short cycling adventure in France? The Loire à Vélo cycling route between Tours and Angers is an excellent choice.

Following the Loire River, this itinerary takes you through picturesque villages, historic towns, vineyards and beautiful countryside.

Along the way, discover the charm of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape famous for its castles and rich cultural heritage.

With relatively gentle terrain and numerous opportunities to stop for sightseeing, this route is ideal for travellers looking to combine cycling, nature and cultural discoveries.

Why choose this route? It’s a wonderful introduction to cycling holidays in France, especially for those who want to enjoy a relaxed weekend surrounded by nature and history.

2. A 5-Day Cycling Adventure: Toulouse to Sète Along the Canal du Midi

<text color=”secondary”>Distance: Approximately 240 km | Suggested duration: 5 days | Difficulty: Moderate, depending on trail conditions</text>

For those with a little more time, cycling from Toulouse to Sète along the Canal du Midi is an unforgettable way to experience the South of France.

This historic waterway, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, connects Toulouse to the Mediterranean region through charming villages, vineyards and peaceful landscapes.

Over five days, you’ll cycle past centuries-old locks, tree-lined waterways and traditional southern French towns.

Highlights along the route include Castelnaudary, famous for its cassoulet, the medieval city of Carcassonne and the beautiful landscapes of the Languedoc region.

Some sections of the towpath can be uneven, so choosing a suitable bike is important for a comfortable journey.

Why choose this route? The Canal du Midi offers a unique combination of cultural heritage, gastronomy and beautiful scenery, making it one of the most memorable cycling experiences in southern France.

With Paulette, you can rent a touring bike or an electric bike in Toulouse and return it in Sète, making your one-way cycling holiday even easier.

3. A Week-Long Cycling Holiday: Nantes to La Rochelle on La Vélodyssée

<text color=”secondary”>Suggested duration: 7 days | Difficulty: Easy to moderate</text>

If you’re dreaming of a longer cycling adventure, the Nantes to La Rochelle route along La Vélodyssée is an excellent option.

Part of the EuroVelo 1 European cycling route, La Vélodyssée follows France’s Atlantic Coast, offering a wonderful mix of seaside landscapes, forests, charming villages and coastal towns.

Starting in Nantes, you’ll head towards the Atlantic Ocean before continuing south through the Vendée region towards La Rochelle.

Along the way, enjoy sandy beaches, refreshing sea breezes, picturesque harbours and opportunities to discover local seafood and regional specialities.

With a week to explore, you’ll have plenty of time to stop for sightseeing, relax by the ocean and enjoy the freedom of travelling by bike.

Why choose this route? It’s an ideal cycling holiday for travellers who love coastal scenery, nature and the relaxed atmosphere of France’s Atlantic Coast.

Paulette’s one-way bike rental service allows you to pick up your bicycle in Nantes and return it in La Rochelle, so you can focus entirely on your journey.

Practical Tips for Cycling in France in Late Summer

Planning a cycling holiday in France doesn’t have to be complicated. A little preparation will help you make the most of your adventure.

Choose the Right Equipment

Bring comfortable cycling clothes, a waterproof jacket, a reusable water bottle and a reliable navigation app or GPS device.

Bike panniers are particularly useful for carrying your belongings without wearing a heavy backpack.

Book Your Accommodation

France offers plenty of cyclist-friendly accommodation, including guesthouses, campsites and hotels.

Look for the Accueil Vélo label, which identifies establishments offering services specifically adapted to cyclists.

During popular travel periods, booking your accommodation in advance is recommended.

Plan Flexible Daily Distances

For a relaxed cycling holiday, aim for approximately 30 to 50 kilometres per day, depending on your fitness level, terrain and sightseeing plans.

Remember, the goal isn’t to cycle as far as possible, but to enjoy the places you discover along the way.

Consider a One-Way Bike Rental

One of the easiest ways to organise a cycling trip in France is to rent a bike in one city and return it somewhere else.

With Paulette, you can enjoy a flexible cycling holiday without having to return to your original departure point, on selected routes.

This makes point-to-point cycling itineraries particularly convenient for international visitors exploring France.

Discover France by Bike with Paulette

Late summer and early autumn are wonderful seasons for a cycling holiday in France. With fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the country from a different perspective.

Whether you choose a weekend in the Loire Valley, five days along the Canal du Midi or a week exploring the Atlantic Coast, every cycling adventure offers a new way to experience France.

With Paulette, planning your cycling trip is simple. Rent a touring bike or electric bike, choose your route and enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace.

Ready for your next adventure?

Explore our cycling destinations and book your bike rental at www.paulette.bike.

Don’t forget to tag us : @paulettebike !