World Visits

With a grand total of 28,000 kilometres of cycle routes, France is undoubtedly one of the best destinations for cycling. Dedicated paths meander through both town and countryside, and vary in terms of difficulty. You don’t have to be of Tour de France standard to enjoy cycling while you’re camping in France. Whether you are looking to push yourself in an endurance ride through the mountains, or to take the whole family for a jaunt through the countryside, there is a bike ride in France made for you.

The Loire Valley

A loop of the Loire Valley is one of the most popular cycling choices in France. Taking between four to six days, this well-travelled route covers approximately sixty miles of the Loire Valley, and explores the renowned Chateaux of the region. There are few routes that include so many worthwhile sights in such a concentrated area. Steeped in the history of conflicts, these feudal fortifications have seen many battles between Kings, powerful nobles, and even religions. Take a break from your bike ride to wander through a castle on foot, and explore the grounds; with many of the fortifications kept well preserved, you will feel as if you have stepped back in time. Back in the saddle, you can enjoy both peace and some gentle exercise as you cycle on the banks of the River Loire itself. Roads in this region are not only incredibly picturesque, but also relatively empty. Any cycling that you do whilst camping in France’s Loire Valley will be relatively safe and stress-free.

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No matter which region you visit when you go camping in France, there is always a chance that it might rain. But what should you do when those black clouds begin to form? Here are a few ways to keep the kids entertained if and when the heavens do decide to open.

The Haribo Museum

Located in Languedoc, the Haribo Museum not only provides you with shelter from the elements, but will be your children’s idea of paradise. On entering the museum you will be given a bag of sweets and treats in exchange for your entry fee. This bag also includes tokens that can be used in the various sweet making machines that you will encounter on your way through the museum. With interactive displays guiding the children through every step of the sweet-making process, there are hours of fun to be had. Displays such as ‘the marshmallow lady’ will fascinate the entire family. At the end of the trip, watch the children’s faces light up as you enter the gift shop, but be sure to keep them active for the rest of your time camping in France, in order to burn off all that sugar!

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