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Let’s be sincere. The biking acquired me . However what sealed the deal? The promise of consuming my method via Southern France whereas using simply sufficient miles to justify it. That’s how I landed on Expertise Plus’s Provence to Pyrenees Plus! France bike tour (and culinary voyage)—a wonderful 10-day mashup of medieval castles, countryside climbs, and a full-on love affair with French meals.
Markets, bakeries, and the artwork of the mid-ride picnic
Every morning began with flaky, buttery croissants that virtually melted the second they hit my tongue. As we cycled from city to city, each charming village—irrespective of how tiny—served up a symphony of flavors. Market stalls overflowed with ruby-red strawberries, plump cherries, and bundles of recent asparagus. The scent of freshly baked bread wafted from boulangeries, luring me in for baguettes I may barely match into my panniers – however after all, I discovered a method. Cured meats dangled like edible trophies, begging to be a part of our every day picnics.
We might swoop into markets and emerge like culinary magicians, arms filled with recent produce, creamy cheeses, and crusty loaves. At scenic roadside spots, we’d pause for open-air feasts that may put most eating places to disgrace. I swear, meals tastes 200% higher while you’re barely sweaty, surrounded by breathtaking magnificence.
The surprising gourmand gems of Southern France
You’d count on the large cities to carry their A-game, and so they did. In Carcassonne, I devoured a cassoulet that was pure decadence: tender duck confit swimming in a sea of white beans, slow-cooked to velvety perfection. My fork barely needed to work. Sitting inside a medieval fortress whereas consuming it? Chef’s kiss.
However the actual magic typically got here from surprising locations. Just like the tiny village restaurant we stumbled upon one Sunday afternoon, due to the EP chalk arrows. Inside, the house owners had been operating a one-couple culinary empire: she cooked, he served, and the locals stuffed each desk. I ordered the truffle fettuccine with a uncooked egg yolk resting on high like a golden jewel. Was it the chilled rosé or the truth that we solely had 12 miles left to experience? Both method, it felt like probably the greatest meals of my life.
Sete: Oysters, boats, and breaking private data
After we reached Sete, I assumed I used to be ready for the seafood. I used to be not. First, we toured the oyster farms by boat, gliding previous rows of suspended oyster strains as our information defined the fragile aquaculture course of that makes Sete oysters a few of the most coveted in France.
Then got here the consuming. Platters of briny, silky oysters appeared. I set a private report for oyster consumption, and albeit, I remorse nothing. (My ldl cholesterol could disagree.) Add a calming glass of crisp native Picpoul de Pinet wine, and all the scene bordered on obscene ranges of French perfection.
Les 3 Barbus: A culinary excessive level (actually and figuratively)
Tucked away within the Cévennes mountains, Les 3 Barbus wasn’t simply one other resort cease—it was a full-blown culinary expertise. After a day of using via winding mountain roads and postcard-perfect valleys, we arrived at this family-run inn perched excessive above a deep gorge, with panoramic views that made you immediately attain on your digicam.
Nevertheless it was the meals that stole the present. Over two nights, Chef Michel Marvie delivered multi-course meals that had been nothing in need of edible paintings. Every plate was a wonderfully choreographed stability of wealthy flavors and delicate textures—suppose foie gras with just-picked native figs, tender lamb that virtually melted on the fork, and desserts that would make grown cyclists cry. (I might need shed a tear or two.)
Add within the cozy eating room, the impeccable service, and the truth that I didn’t have to vary out of my biking garments instantly (don’t fear—I cleaned up for dinner), and it felt like the final word reward after a day of exhausting work within the saddle.
If Sete was all about oysters and sea air, Les 3 Barbus was a mountain retreat for the style buds—a gastronomic oasis the place energy didn’t depend (at the least that’s what I advised myself).
Chalk arrows: Structured freedom
After all, we weren’t simply consuming (okay, we had been largely consuming). We had been additionally biking, and Expertise Plus’s low-tech navigation system was genius. Every day, we adopted hand-drawn chalk arrows across the south of France as a substitute of watching bike computer systems or fumbling with apps.
Need to depart early? Superb. Desire a leisurely breakfast? Bon appétit. Journey solo? Group up? Cease for 100 poppy images? All good. These arrows gave me the construction I wanted with the liberty I craved. They even included cheeky messages earlier than robust climbs, with my favourite being a jubilant “TOP!” on the summit.
However the arrows weren’t simply useful—they had been like little private tour guides sprinkled alongside the highway. Some identified close by historic websites or upcoming photo-worthy viewpoints, giving me loads of causes to hop off the bike and soak all of it in. Others alerted me to sharp turns or sneaky detours forward. And better of all? The occasional arrow that merely learn “BAKERY” with a daring, promising arrowhead main me on to flaky croissant heaven. Truthfully, these bakery arrows could have been my true guiding drive via France.
Selecting your experience: Conventional bike or candy, candy e-Bike
I began the tour on a standard highway bike, pushing myself via the miles and climbs with sheer will (and the promise of extra cheese on the finish). It was difficult—little doubt—however the sense of accomplishment after every climb was equally satisfying.
For journalistic functions (that’s my story and I’m sticking to it), I switched to an electrical highway bike for the ultimate three days. And let me let you know: it was like gliding throughout a creamy Brie — effortlessly clean. The steep climbs grew to become scenic strolls, and I had way more time to go searching and totally soak within the beautiful landscapes. Expertise Plus gives a spread of electrical bikes relying in your consolation and health stage, so you possibly can customise the journey to match your skills—whether or not you’re a biking beast or simply wish to coast and benefit from the surroundings.
Castles, cloisters, and my Queribus obsession
The Southern France surroundings and medieval villages had been straight out of a fairytale, and each cease on the route supplied its personal taste of historical past, appeal, and surprises.
Nîmes: Roman relics nonetheless rocking
Beginning our Southern France biking tour in Nîmes felt like pedaling straight right into a residing historical past e book. On the coronary heart of town stands the Roman amphitheater—totally intact and nonetheless internet hosting live shows and bullfights prefer it’s simply one other Saturday evening. I wandered via its historic stone corridors, imagining gladiators pacing the sector (although fortunately, my solely battle that day was with a very giant gelato cone). The town oozes Roman affect, from its aqueducts to its public squares, mixing historic historical past with fashionable French life seamlessly. And sure, the wine bars surrounding the sector? Extremely really useful.
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert: A medieval time capsule
Nestled on the fringe of dramatic limestone cliffs, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert was like entering into a wonderfully preserved medieval postcard. The cobbled streets wound via honey-colored stone buildings adorned with flower containers bursting in spring bloom. The spotlight for me was seeing its historic abbey and cloister—a part of which, I spotted I’d seen years earlier at The Cloisters museum in New York Metropolis. Speak about a full-circle second! Sitting beneath the village’s 165-year-old Liberty Tree whereas having fun with a café au lait, I couldn’t assist however really feel like I’d unlocked certainly one of Southern France’s best-kept secrets and techniques.
Carcassonne: Medieval fantasy meets fashionable consolation
Biking into Carcassonne felt like I’d been solid as an additional in a medieval film. The fortified metropolis rises dramatically from the encircling countryside, its towering ramparts and pointed turrets seen from miles away. As we crossed the drawbridge on our bikes, bumping over cobblestones, I half-expected a fanfare of trumpets. As an alternative, I used to be greeted by the promise of two nights contained in the walled metropolis at an expensive 5-star resort that made me overlook my sore legs (due to the bubble tub!). Carcassonne’s slim lanes, church buildings, and atmospheric wine bars delivered an ideal mix of touristy enjoyable and genuine appeal.
A spin alongside the Canal du Midi
After a number of days of climbing, the route delivered a welcome reprieve: clean miles alongside the Canal du Midi. Barges floated lazily beside us, some filled with vacationers sipping rosé, whereas others glided beneath previous stone bridges. The canal’s Seventeenth-century locks function at present like clockwork—a little bit of engineering magic that when revolutionized commerce routes in Southern France.
Queribus Fortress – the Crown Jewel
Queribus was the grand finale, and he or she made us earn it. After days of rolling hills, vineyards, and canal paths, we confronted our greatest problem: a steep, unrelenting climb as much as the fortress. However as soon as I reached the highest, each burning muscle was price it. Perched at 2,400 toes on a slim rocky peak, this Thirteenth-century Cathar stronghold felt just like the set of a fantasy epic. The wind howled round us as I stood atop the jagged stone partitions, with panoramic views stretching from the Mediterranean Sea to the Pyrenees. It wasn’t only a photograph op—it was a victory lap for all the journey.
The guides: Our bike whisperers and snack suppliers
Sophie and Frederico had been the final word guides. They stored our bikes operating easily, fed us chocolate at strategic moments, stuffed wine glasses like professionals, and answered each random historic query about Southern France we threw at them. They even executed a wonderfully timed rescue once I acquired caught in a day lightning storm! Not like many different biking operators, Expertise Plus guides solely work for EP, which is an indication of an amazing firm.
Why I’d do it once more
This was my first Expertise Plus tour, however now I’m ruined for some other form of biking journey. By some means, they’ve found out the way to mix the perfect of solo journey (freedom, flexibility, no herding) with the perfect of group help (logistics dealt with, baggage moved, culinary wizardry, native guides who really care).
If you wish to eat ridiculous quantities of croissants, drink native wine in citadel courtyards, uncover medieval cities you by no means knew existed, and nonetheless really feel such as you’re steering your personal journey, that is your journey – it’s an unforgettable expertise. Simply observe the chalk arrows. And produce stretchy pants.
About Expertise Plus: Household-owned freedom on two wheels
Expertise Plus isn’t your common tour firm. Based over 50 years in the past by a pair of adventurous mother and father, it’s now proudly woman-owned and run by their daughters, two sisters who grew up steeped in biking tradition. They provide bike excursions throughout Europe and past, mixing cultural immersion with unbelievable biking routes. Whether or not you’re craving Tuscan hills, Dalmatian coastlines, or (like me) the medieval magic of Southern France, Expertise Plus delivers thoughtfully curated experiences with simply the appropriate stability of help and independence. And sure, they’re as obsessed with good meals and wine as they’re about completely tuned derailleurs.
See all the Expertise Plus! Excursions right here.
FAQs: Biking Tour Southern France with Expertise Plus
Is that this biking tour troublesome? It may be! Some days contain lengthy distances or sustained climbs, particularly as you strategy the Pyrenees. However Expertise Plus means that you can select your bike (commonplace highway, hybrid, or e-bike) to match your consolation and health stage. With an e-bike, even the steepest climbs turn into gratifying sightseeing rides.
Do I have to be an skilled bicycle owner? No! So long as you’re fairly match and cozy using for a number of hours, you possibly can completely do that tour. E-bikes are a wonderful possibility if you wish to focus extra on surroundings and fewer on sweating. Plus, there’s a help automobile pushed by one of many guides each day. So when you’ve got reached the tip of your power, be at liberty to take the van!
What makes Expertise Plus completely different from different bike tour firms? Their distinctive chalk arrow navigation system permits riders true flexibility and freedom whereas nonetheless having fun with full tour help, cultural immersion, and wonderful native guides.
What sort of meals can I count on? Put together to eat very properly: native produce, every day markets, bakery stops, gourmand multi-course meals, oysters recent from the water in Sete, cassoulet in Carcassonne, and decadent countryside picnics. It is a biking tour for meals lovers.
When is the perfect time to take this tour? Spring and early summer season are particularly pretty with fields of blooming poppies, seasonal cherries and strawberries, and excellent biking climate. I did the tour in Could.
pack for Expertise Plus bike excursions
Expertise Plus gives you with one high-quality jersey that’s yours to maintain! Additionally they present a water bottle, snacks, electrolytes, GPS route information, and baggage tags. Additionally they present a easy tire restore equipment and a multi-purpose instrument in case you run into issues on the route.
Along with your EP present jersey, you’ll additionally wish to carry a few different pairs of motorbike kits. I introduced three pairs of padded shorts and washed them out every evening for use once more two days later. Don’t overlook rain gear too – there have been a number of days once we actually wanted this!
I really like the Velorosa Biking equipment for girls, so I packed all of my favourite colourful and handsome Velorosa kits, after all. I just like the Velorosa equipment not solely as a result of it’s cute, however you even have layers. I introduced a long-sleeved jersey and a short-sleeved jersey. I additionally introduced sleeves because the temps at all times began cool after which acquired a lot hotter all through the day.
Don’t overlook your helmet, biking gloves, biking footwear, sun shades, and sunscreen!
See my total listing of favourite bike gear on my Amazon Retailer
Different objects you might wish to think about packing:
- Bike Mirror (I introduced mine as a result of I’m so depending on it). Security first!!
- Garmin radar and Garmin Edge bike pc with holders. That is my regular setup I take advantage of when biking on roads at house, and they’re what I’m comfy with. It was essential for me to have them – plus they had been small and didn’t take up a lot packing house! The guides helped me set up them.
- You can even carry your personal saddle when you’ve got one that you just love and the guides will set up.
- Your personal pedals. In case you carry your clipless biking footwear with cleats, then additionally carry your pedals which can be particular to your kind of cleat. Guides will put your pedals on and take them off for you on the finish of the tour.
Don’t overlook the biking gear!
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Nice lightwieght totally waterproof jacket for biking and can be utilized for mountain climbing or journey. The Pac-lite materials could be very mild and breathable – good for outside journey.
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07/08/2025 06:05 am GMT
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These are an amazing simple layer for chilly mornings that roll up actually small and might match at the back of your jersey while you get scorching.
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07/08/2025 06:05 am GMT
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I can solely put on prescription lenses and these tifosi lenses can have your prescription added. That is important for biking when imaginative and prescient is important. You possibly can customise all the things from coloration to reflect, to prescription with Tifosi.
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07/08/2025 06:06 am GMT
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My go-to hydration for biking and mountain climbing. Field comprises one tube of every taste: Lemon Lime, Tri-Berry, Citrus Fruit, and Orange. 4 tubes and 40 servings whole.
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07/08/2025 06:06 am GMT
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Nice for lengthy rides, padded and gives solar safety.
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Everybody wants a bit padding…
These are comfy shorts, light-weight, and breathable
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07/07/2025 07:03 am GMT
Questioning what gear it’s best to take with you in your first bike tour? I did purchase a pair of these padded bike shorts, however wasn’t actually a fan. Listed here are another biking gear strategies from my buddies at Journey Previous 50!
Different biking adventures
Disclosure: I used to be a visitor of Expertise Plus Bike excursions for this journey, nevertheless all pedaling was completed by me! As well as, all opinions expressed listed here are mine.