Whether you’re a cycling pro or just enjoy ambling around on two wheels, we’ve got a range of parcs in stunning locations that offer the perfect base for cycling holidays! Best of all, the majority of these sites offer free or low cost bike hire so you can pack light and just take the bike for a spin during one or two days of your holiday.
Camping Les Fontaines, The Alps, France
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Just 1 km from Lake Annecy, there are plenty of activities to enjoy around this parc: from water sports to paragliding and, most importantly, fantastic cycling. If you’re interested in trying some introductory Alps climbs then the Col des Leschaux route is perfect for you! This 15 km route gently rises up to a 900 m altitude with the lake revealing itself every time you turn a new corner. Once you’re done cycling, take an afternoon to explore the mysterious Cascade de Seythenex cave system with all of its waterfalls – one that’ll surely keep any teenager interested!
Playa Montroig, Costa Dorada, Spain
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Surrounded by the gentle slopes of the Llaberia and Prades mountain ranges, this parc is a perfect base for beginners. Why not try cycling 17 km along the coast to Salou, which should take around an hour. Halfway through the route you’ll pass through the wonderful seaside resort of Cambrils and I’d recommend stopping at one of the many seafood restaurants on the marina for a spot of lunch.
La Ferme de la Serraz, The Alps, France
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This is another rustic parc positioned next to Lake Annecy that combines peaceful countryside, lakeside paths and mountain ascents that lead to breathtaking views. If you’re feeling like a challenge, head north out of Doussard and join the road that travels along the edge of Lake Annecy before starting the climb up to the legendary Col de la Forclaz.
This 15 km ride has some fairly steep sections but extends past the beautiful Cascade du Saut du Moine and the views of Lake Annecy from the 1150 m summit are some of the finest. It’s no wonder the Col de la Forclaz has been selected for the 4th time to feature in the Tour de France this year, so even if you don’t fancy tackling the route why not get involved and cheer on the riders.
Airotel Pyrénées, Pyrénées, France
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Airotel is situated on the edge of a National Park in the heart of the Pyrénées and is ideal if road cycling is your thing. If you stay here you’ll be able to try one of the most famous routes of all: the Col du Tourmalet. This is the highest paved mountain pass in all of the French Pyrénées at 2,115 m above sea level and has been included in the Tour de France over 80 times, which is more than any other pass.
The 22 km cycle from parc takes around 2 hours and once you reach the summit you’ll be rewarded with superb panoramic views of the Bastan & Gripp Valleys on either side. Best of all, after conquering this renowned Col, relax those leg muscles in the small spa back on parc.
Le Belledonne, The Alps, France
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Our final parc that’s great for cycling holidays is set in Les Ecrins National Park and has the iconic Alpe d’Huez pass right next to the parc. Take your cycling to the next level with the 14 km route from Le Bourg D’Oisans, navigating 21 hairpin bends as you climb 13% gradients on the steepest sections. This has also been a regular feature of the Tour de France for decades and is a magnet for spectators because of the striking vistas from Pic Blanc. Back on site enjoy a cold one at the terrace bar next to the pool and replenish your energy at the restaurant looking out over the mountains.
Have you been on a cycling holiday? Which routes would you recommend?