Average rating Cycling in Normandy

This trip has been dubbed "Apples and Pears" as you will be cycling through bountiful apple and pear orchards in Normandy. Don't race through this gorgeous slice of Europe, complete with green rolling hills and charming rustic buildings, rather enjoy the scenery and a carefree holiday...

Saint-Hilaire-du-Harcouet is a typical town of Normandy where the residents spend their free time by the river, or going to the market in the centre of town to buy their weekly food. Saint-Hilaire-du-Harcouet's skyline is dominated by its 19th century church with its double spires. Unbelievably, the church was unharmed during World War II even though the town centre was completely destroyed.

Imagine a flexible and relaxed way to see the parts of France that are truly beautiful. This tour is a great way to experience "hidden France" away from Paris and other popular tourist destinations. You will see the charms of rural France; verdant hillsides, abundant woodland, river valleys, lush meadows, orchards and a sense of fresh country air. You will be biking a circular route each day of between 30 and 50 miles. The routes have been carefully chosen to be relaxing so you can really savour all the sites, smells and sounds of Normandy. To complete the feeling of being far away from the real world, you will be staying in a 17th century converted farmhouse full of rural French charm.

The perfect candidates for this tour are those who want to enjoy a few days of activity on their holiday; anyone who wants the guidance of a tour but being able to travel at your own pace, either with friends, family or like minded people; those who want a rural experience who don't like crowds; families looking for a holiday that is interesting, relaxing, and one that will get the kids moving too; people who truly want to experience a different way of life in a foreign country. The cycle routes are mostly on country lanes with virtually no traffic, so that you can really appreciate the countryside and all that it has to offer.

Getting there

Your best bet from the UK and Ireland is to take a ferry and then drive to
Saint-Hilaire-du-Harcouet. The ports of Cherbourg, St. Malo, Caen and Le Havre are the
most convenient. Flights are also available to airports at Dinard and Rennes'

Price includes

Four bike rides, maps and back-up support, and gite accommodation for up to 12 people.

Available

Jan—Dec

Typical Duration

1 week

Comfort level

Reasonably comfortable (Inns, B&Bs, luxury camping etc.)

Experience required

A reasonable level of fitness and interest is all that is needed