France’s sixth largest city, Bordeaux breezily combines historic charms with an enticing calendar of modern cultural events. Exploring the city and nearby region by bicycle, cycling holiday specialist Cycling for Softies, has opened a new base in Bordeaux for summer, catering for the increasing number of British holidaymakers visiting the city.
Cycling for Softies’ Head of Cycling, Harvey Downard, says: “Famed for its delicious wines and gorgeous vineyards, Bordeaux is also an incredibly bike-friendly city. Outside the city, the region is also suitable for cyclists with gentle terrain making it an ideal place to take in the sights from the saddle.”
“Events such as the Bordeaux Metropolitan Summer (from 20 June to 31 August 2019) provide a wonderful way to experience the city,” continues Downard. “By adding an extra day or two before or after your cycling holiday, you can really get involved in the festival with activities including lake-side events, dawn walks and more.”
Famed as one of the world’s top wine regions, the port city caters for wine tourists with a myriad of vineyards – household names and small, independent gems – as well as those wanting to explore at a relaxed pace, with easy cycling routes, comfortable hotels and welcoming local restaurants awaiting travellers on a Cycling for Softies itinerary.
Cycling for Softies’ Bordeaux holidays include:
Bordeaux City and Beach Break – 8 days/7 nights self-guided cycling holiday – from £1,435pp
Combine the sun, sand and seafood of Arcachon Bay with the cultural delights of Bordeaux city on this self-guided holiday. With time to explore the winelands of the Medoc, the Dune du Pilat – Europe’s highest sand dune with views of the Atlantic coast – and the calm blue bay waters en route to the Cap Ferret peninsula and its iconic lighthouse, this holidays is the ideal way to experience the ‘real’ France.Includes seven nights’ accommodation in three- and four-star hotels; restaurant meals on three nights; fully serviced touring bikes with panniers, daily route maps and cycling instructions; luggage transfers between hotels; expert on-the-spot support where required. Local train journeys noted on itinerary require local payment.
Bordeaux City and Vineyards – 8 days/7 nights self-guided cycling holiday – from £1,375pp
Spend time exploring Bordeaux including the impressive water features at Place de la Bourse, before heading out to the easily-cyclable Entre Deux Mers region along the Voie Verte cycle path. Pedal past the famous Petrus estate and sample the wines of St Emilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a maze of cobbled streets. Includes seven nights’ accommodation in three- and four-star hotels; nightly restaurant meals; fully serviced touring bikes with panniers, daily route maps and cycling instructions; luggage transfers between hotels; expert on-the-spot support where required.
St Macaire, Sauternes and St Emilion – 8 days/7 nights self-guided cycling holiday – from £1,395pp
Explore the verdant landscape of the Entre Deux Mers – the triangle of land between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers to the east of Bordeaux and home to some of the world’s most loved vintages. Savour the reds of Pomerol and the sweet and dry white wines of Sauternes and Cadillac, whilst being captivated by the stunning architecture of chateaux such as Roquetaillade and Villandraut. Includes seven nights’ accommodation in three- and four-star hotels; nightly restaurant meals; fully serviced touring bikes with panniers, daily route maps and cycling instructions; luggage transfers between hotels; expert on-the-spot support where required.
A Taste of Bordeaux – 8 days/7 nights Bike & Boat holiday – from £1,125pp inc flights
Cruise the Garonne and Dordogne rivers with daily cycling excursions to explore six wine regions including Medoc, Margaux and Sauternes. From famous appellations to regional culinary delights and majestic chateaux, this holiday starts and ends in Bordeaux making it perfect for extending time in the city for further exploration. Includes return flights from London with transfers; en suite accommodation on the three-star MS Bordeaux; full board dining arrangements; daily semi-guided cycling tours and excursions; welcome cocktail; touring bikes with paniers, route maps and instructions; local support crew.
To book, visit www.cyclingforsofties.com or call 020 7471 7787.
