What is a self-guided trip?

A self-guided cycling holiday is ideal for independent travellers who love the freedom of exploring at their own pace, but with all the logistics, such as luggage transfers and accommodation, organised. You will save time in preparing your holidays. French Bike Tours has different kinds of self-guided cycling itineraries, which are suitable for families, couples or solo. The daily cycle distances are manageable and give you all day to arrive at your next hotel.

Self-guided cycling requires individuals to use problem-solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. You should be comfortable with map-reading and the use of a travel app and/or referring to route notes and have a good sense of direction (or be willing to work on improving this!). At times route finding, losing your way and finding it again, or asking locals for help is all part of the adventure. Same goes for small repairs to your bike if you are on a biking trip. If this is your first time on a self-guided trip, you will certainly get the hang of it after the first couple of days, as do the vast majority of our first-time travelers.

Whether it's a relaxing bike tour along the Loire, the Vélodyssée (along the Atlantic coast) or through the magnificent scenery of vineyards...we'll provide you with detailed maps, directions and 24/7 local support in addition to handling all the necessary support and planning, from booking your accommodation and transferring your luggage each day to supplying rental bikes and providing local insights. Each of our cycling trips have been designed by our local cycling experts, to include the very best of each region.

When cycling at your own pace, you’ll enjoy the freedom to speed up or slow down according to your preferences, enjoy the many lovely places along the way or stop to take in the scenery during a picnic, without the feeling you’re on someone else’s schedule. You will explore France's most spectacular landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, as well as rich culture and history.

Self-guided cycling tours are ideal for couples, families and friends, but also solo, for who those prefer a private trip during which you can travel at your own pace.

APP
The route descriptions we have created for our trips will be supplied via a travel app, for “GPS” navigation with visual/audio guidance (reading the route on your smartphone). When you book a self-guided cycling holiday, we will send you explanations on how to use this app and send you an access code. The app contains routes and practical and tourist information. Once the trip has been downloaded, no internet connection is necessary. You can then easily follow the routes we have prepared for you via your phone.

If you need any help selecting the right cycling trip for you, then please call or email us, we will be delighted to help.

Team French Bike Tours

Check out our videos to find out more about self-guided trips: