Cycling is a sport that can take you through some of the most beautiful destinations in the world. And France sits among the most visited countries for cycling enthusiasts. Following the paths of the Tour de France competitors in Northern France is a perfect choice for every cyclist, whether riding alone or together with family or friends. The perfect, quiet roads with rolling hills and ancient villages provide the exquisite setting for an excellent vacation.
Dieppe to Forges – the ideal route for beginners
This route takes you from the English Channel Coast in Dieppe to Forges-les-Eaux, a famous thermal spa complex. The route is ideal for cyclists arriving in France from England and the flat terrain makes it perfect for the beginners or simply to make you feel comfortable with a new setting. You will enjoy the Haute-Normandie landscape and stone clad villages while you head to the Louis XIV baths in Forges. Halfway to the destination there is a welcoming resting point, near a forest reserve with lakeside trails and horse rides.
Cherbourg to Carteret – quiet path along the shorelines of the Atlantic
Take a plunge into the Cherbourg peninsula and its fantastic shoreline with this trip across the eastern beaches in Normandy. The narrow quiet road starts from the historic city of Cherbourg and takes you through the rolling hills and hedgerows, or how the locals call it, the boccage. A great rest stop is at the Flamanville chateau, a perfect location to see the classical French architecture. The road continues along the pristine beaches and ends in Carteret, a chic and relaxing small town on the shorelines of the Atlantic Ocean.
Bernay to Broglie – the historic route through two ancient towns
This cycling path takes you through northern Normandy on a 13 kilometers journey besides the river Charentonne. You will enjoy the French countryside at its best, between two historic towns. The route is perfect for family groups because of its short distance and easy ride. Main attractions are the Center Parc Les Bois-Francs and the Broglie historic town center.
La Baie de Somme to Velo – the superb northern seashores
The Somme coast is one of the most sought after bike paths in Northern France. Historic trains, some of them powered by steam engine, will help you carry the bicycle to the next starting point. Follow these interconnected bike paths to fully enjoy the northern seashores, riding through mesmerizing dunes and hillside. The road goes besides sandy beaches that will take your breath away and will surely ask for a relaxing stop.
Revin to Stenay – winding roads through the Ardennes
This tour is for the more energetic riders, taking you through the Ardennes Mountains. The forested paths with winding roads will provide thrilling sensations for any rider. Enjoy the cool air of the old forests and the quiet roads through one of the most historic places in Europe. You will be passing through small stone clad villages and mysterious forests in this region close to the border with Belgium.
Getting to Northern France with your bike couldn’t be simpler. Just jump on a ferry from Dover to Calais and start your adventure from there.