France is a total treat for cyclists; calm country roads, clear trails, and a culture that loves life outdoors, whether you’re cruising solo, touring biking routes in France with friends, or taking the family. With comfy crossings to Calais, your two-wheeled trip starts just across the channel.

The best way to kickstart your bicycle trip in France is with P&O Ferries. The Dover to Calais route is fast, flexible, and offers back-to-back crossings (11 crossings). With no packing stress, you can just bring your bike, board the ferry, and get ready for big two-wheeled adventures.

• Bring your car: Load up your bikes and go at your own pace.
• No bike box needed: No boxing, no baggage fees, just bring your bike as it is
• Relax on the ride: Chill out with tasty treats, comfy chairs, and brilliant duty-free buys.

By the time you arrive in Calais, you’ll be refreshed and ready to hit the road.

Ready to ride? Here’s where your cycling holiday in France could take you. From coastal routes to countryside climbs, and even cycling in Paris, here are some of the best trails to try on your trip:

• Loire Valley

  The Loire Valley cycling routes are flat, fun, and filled with fairytale châteaux. They’re the top choice for families, first-timers, and anyone after a chilled two-wheeled trip.
  
  

• Normandy

  Cycle through Normandy’s charming coastlines and historic towns, and get there in no time at all after you’ve arrived in Calais.
  
  

• Brittany

  Cycling in Brittany is all about beautiful backroads, bright green countryside, and charming coastal corners to explore.
  
  

• Alsace

  Pedal past vineyards and vibrant villages, all framed by bold, breathtaking mountain views.
  
  

• Dordogne & Canal du Midi

  Cycling in Dordogne means drifting along dreamy rivers and meandering through beautiful mountain-backed landscapes, an ideal mix for longer, adventure-filled rides.
  
  

•  Explore the routes of the Tour de France

  For more experienced road cyclists why not embrace your cycling holiday in France further by exploring and riding some of the most popular routes from the Tour de France. Whether you want to explore an easier route or a more challenging one, cycling some of these routes not only helps you be able to visit some of the most picturesque places in France but it also lets you cycle the same routes as some of your cycling heroes.

Want more trip tips? Take a look at our travel guides for top holiday inspiration.

To help you get the most out of your cycling holiday in France, here are a few quick planning tips:

• Best time to travel: Spring to early autumn brings bright skies and breezy rides.
  
  
• Where to stay: Choose from cosy B&Bs, charming campsites, or comfy hotels made for cyclists.
  
  
• What to pack: Comfortable clothes, cycling spares, sunscreen, and a clear map or GPS to stay on track.
  
  
• Cycling in France: Cycling routes are clear and easy to follow, with French drivers typically careful and courteous to cyclists.

Travel insurance: Make sure it covers you and your bike.

With P&O Ferries, your trip begins the second you step aboard. Forget cramped flights, think fresh air, tasty food, and time to unwind.

 Why P&O Ferries?

• Frequent ferries from Dover to Calais
  
  
• Flexible fares with fair prices
  
  
• Comfy lounges, cosy cafés, and cool entertainment
  
  
• Duty-free deals on every departure
  
  
• Plenty of space for you, your car, and your cycle

Book your ferry to France from Dover to Calais and start planning your cycling tour of France today!