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Bonnes vacances...

Dear Traveler,

Tanya Nygaard One of the best reasons to travel with Backroads in France is that we know it like a local. Come with us and uncover the distinct character of a 7th-century Alsatian village. Soak up the rugged beauty of the Provençal landscape. Experience authentic, intimate encounters that will move and inspire you, whether you're chatting with a farmer in a Loire Valley vineyard or enjoying the subtleties of fine Bordeaux vintages with a local oenologist. Feel the exhilaration of exploring under your own power, by bike or on foot. And the satisfaction of slowing down and taking the time to soak it all in. That's what great travel is all about!

Our active adventures in France take you way beyond typical tourist itineraries. You'll feel like we've slipped you an exclusive all-access pass into the heart of each region as you meet artists, chefs, authors, historians and other local personalities who enrich your understanding and appreciation of the destination you're exploring. And every step of the way, you'll enjoy the support, camaraderie and deep regional expertise of our talented trip leaders.

If you're still wondering where to travel this year, I hope you'll consider joining Backroads in France. Whether you choose to explore on foot or two wheels, it's certain to be a magical and unforgettable experience. Our Trip Consultants are ready to help find the perfect trip for you—there's never been a better time to explore France with Backroads.

À bientôt,
Tanya Nygaard
Tanya Nygaard
France Regional Manager, with Backroads since 2002

P.S. Give us a call at 800-462-2848 to make your travel dreams reality. Our Trip Consultants are available 7 days a week from 7 am to 5 pm, PT.
With Backroads this summer, you can:
Alsace and Black Forest Biking Trips
pedal back in time

...in Alsace & the Black Forest Discover a compelling combination of cultures as you pedal from Germany's primeval woodland to France's history-rich Alsace region. Explore storybook half-timbered villages, an ancient Roman spa settlement and an 8th-century Benedictine abbey. Eat Black Forest cake—in the Black Forest. Sniff, swirl and sip your way along the famed Route du Vin through the misty foothills of the Vosges Mountains. It's a proven fact: Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Pinot Gris taste even better after a good day's ride!

Trip ArrowsView the Alsace Biking itinerary

Brittany and Normandy Biking Trips
be awestruck

...in Brittany & Normandy Here you'll find a rare blend of history and natural splendor. Broad beaches where William the Conqueror set sail, and where the Allies landed nearly 900 years later. The mystical abbey of Mont-St-Michel. Bunkers and bomb craters at Pointe du Hoc. Iconic settings certain to stir your emotions, while the beauty—and bounty—of the land sparks your joie de vivre. Crashing surf, windy plateaus and picture-perfect villages. Pungent Camembert, locally brewed apple cider, just-churned Isigny butter and heavenly seafood. All bound to make an impression on you.

Trip ArrowsView the Brittany & Normandy Biking itineraries

Burgundy Biking Trips
live the good life

...in Burgundy The Romans introduced viticulture to Burgundy, and winemaking—and tasting—still remain at the center of Burgundian living. We invite you to partake in the local specialty in between superb rides from the forests and farmland of the Morvan to the renowned vineyards and vibrant architecture of the Côte d'Or. Pedal on the Route des Grands Crus, visit famed towns including Chassagne-Montrachet and Aloxe-Corton and enjoy six days of foodie bliss, savoring phenomenal wine and cuisine.

Trip ArrowsView the Burgundy Biking itinerary

Dordogne and Bordeaux Biking Trips
embrace your inner Cro-Magnon

...in the Dordogne & Bordeaux Spin through the Dordogne's magical landscape past wheat fields, walnut groves and precariously perched villages. Admire prehistoric cave art at the Grotte de Font-de-Gaume. Traipse through ancient castles and fortresses, and relax in luxurious hotels. In neighboring Bordeaux, find the down-to-earth appeal of medieval villages and fertile vineyards ideally juxtaposed with our lavish hotels and tastings of world-famous wines. On a bike with Backroads, it's easy to be swept away by the many charms of the Dordogne and Bordeaux.

Trip ArrowsView the Dordogne & Bordeaux Biking itinerary

World's Greatest Bicycling Race
be part of the world's greatest bike race

...in the Alps or Pyrénées Pros and fans alike dream of coming here, whether to race or cheer. Now it's your turn to be part of the world's greatest cycling event! Get up close to the action and test your own mettle up the legendary Alpe d'Huez or Col du Tourmalet just ahead of the pros. Backroads puts you right where you need to be—on the best routes, amid the most stunning scenery, in perfectly located hotels. All you have to do is dive in and decide which suits you better: green, yellow or red polka dots.

Trip ArrowsView World's Greatest Bike Race itineraries

Provence Walking and Hiking Trips
stop to smell the lavender

...in Provence By bike or on foot, you'll experience a land of vibrant colors, intoxicating fragrances, delicious flavors and living history. You'll journey past fields of fiery red poppies and groves of silvery green olive trees. Lose yourself in ancient villages, amid a mélange of cobblestone lanes, artisanal shops and outdoor markets. Savor full-bodied wines and haute cuisine. Sip a pastis, learn a few secrets of classic Provençal cooking or engage in a leisurely round of pétanque. And find yourself effortlessly embracing the local art de vivre.

Trip ArrowsView the Provence Biking and Walking itineraries

Loire Valley Biking Trips
go castle hopping

...in the Loire Valley Come bike with us in the heart of France amid a château-dotted landscape adored for its overt opulence and serene natural beauty. Some castles are yours to tour, others extend an invitation for the evening, immersing you in history and nourishing you with superb cuisine. Pedal on quiet riverside roads past world-renowned vineyards. Taste acclaimed Vouvray wines. And discover why the Loire Valley is consistently ranked as one of Backroads' best loved destinations.

Trip ArrowsView the Loire Valley Biking itineraries

French Alps Walking and Hiking Trips
have a peak experience

...in the French Alps What's not to love about one of the most epic landscapes on earth? You'll spend time in Annecy, a tiny French version of Venice, hobnob with the Parisian glitterati in Megève, and mingle with the adventurous set in stunning Chamonix. Télécabines (cable cars) carry you up above the trees for hikes through alpine meadows. You'll trek to the Lac Blanc with a guide from the prestigious Compagnie des Guides Chamonix. And walk on the famous Vallée Blanche glacier with crampons, ice axes and high mountain experts—an unforgettable thrill!

Trip ArrowsView the French Alps Walking & Hiking itinerary


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