Why heading out on your bike to explore is the beginning of a beautiful adventure. Letâs hit the road to freedom!
Touring by bike is something anyone can do, even if they havenât ridden or trained for a long time. All you need is the desire for an adventure. And since youâre reading this, chances are youâre nearly convinced. Here are ten good reasons that will give you the final push you need to pack your (pannier) bags and bike to head out into the fresh air.
1 - Youâll find freedom
When you travel by bike, you can savour freedom. Youâre free to move and free from time constraints. You can sleep where you want (as long as you brought your tent), follow your own rhythm and listen to your body. Just because youâve added a certain stop to your list doesnât mean you have to stay there or even go there at all. The freedom you feel on a bike trip is endless.
2 - Youâll enjoy a customised, flexible trip
The world is your oyster when you travel by bike. Youâre in complete control of your trip: when to leave, where to go and with whom. Whether you head out alone, with a companion, with your family, or with your dog, everyone will find something to enjoy when traveling by bike. You have so much leeway to create your own itinerary and then change it up as you go along â itâs a flexible adventure any way you look at it!
3 - Youâll be caring for the planet
When you pedal your way to your destination, youâre drastically reducing your carbon footprint. Choosing to travel by bike also means choosing to protect the planet and our environment. Thatâs a trip you can feel good about.
đĄ Tips for being a responsible and committed cycle tourist!
4 - Youâll be doing good for your body
This pedalling will add up fast and your body will thank you for doing all these kilometres. And donât worry, youâll get used to the physical activity. As the trip progresses, your breathing will get easier, your range of motion will improve and youâll gradually find youâre able to ride longer. Going on a bike trip means getting exercise without realising it.
Doctors recommend cycling because while youâre getting physical activity, youâre also breathing fresh air, which is great for your health.
5 - Youâll meet wonderful people
On your bike trip, youâll attract some attention and curiosity with all your stuff attached to your bike. People will stop to talk with you, ask questions and offer encouragement so get ready for some socialising. When youâre on a bike, itâs easier to connect with people. Itâs a great opportunity to meet locals and get their suggestions for the best regional and national cultural activities and restaurants to visit as you explore a new place.
When you encounter other cyclists, you can share advice, talk about what youâre experiencing and get new ideas of places to visit. And, perhaps have a drink together. Youâll see that the cycling community is very warm and welcoming and youâll soon find your place within it.
đ Meeting and sharing at the heart of your trip on La VĂ©lodyssĂ©e
6 - Youâll explore cultural heritage
Heading out on your bike gives you the time to explore cultural heritage sites along your chosen route. France is a champion of bike tourism and there are many itineraries designed to help you explore the countryâs cultural sites. La VĂ©lodyssĂ©e winds through three regions and nine departments, giving you so many new sights to take in along the route. Check out these canât-miss views on the itinerary. Plus, travel by bike supports local economies and gives you an opportunity to try out gourmet specialities.
7 - Youâll be able to relax and take your time
Because a bike trip is inherently slower, you can take the time to visit and observe your surroundings. This gives you time to choose your own rhythm, listen to your body and relax. And since itâs a vacation, you should get the most out of it. So, choose your speed and let yourself go. Fancy a dip as you pedal along a beach in Landes? Want to picnic along the Canal in Nantes? Why not stop twice? Savour the moment and relax before jumping back in the saddle. Travelling by bike means taking life at your own pace.
â±ïž Swimming on the VĂ©lodyssĂ©e
đ©âđ©âđŠâđŠ Family Activities
8 - Youâll get back to nature
On your bike, you can observe everything around you. Since youâre not in a closed vehicle, you can enjoy everything nature has to offer. Since cycling itineraries typically follow small roads, animals (and bike riders!) are safe and arenât afraid to show themselves. As you ride along, the plants and landscapes will change, offering you completely different viewpoints. Itâs the perfect opportunity to get your fill of nature.
9 - Youâll stay on budget
The advantage of taking a bike trip is that it can be designed to fit any budget. Youâll organise the trip in advance and plan how much to spend. You wonât need to spend anything on petrol, so you can decide to spend more on outside activities, lodging or restaurants. Whether youâre going big or travelling on a budget, be sure to plan for some good times along the route!
đ How to prepare for your cycling trip on La VĂ©lodyssĂ©e
10 - Youâll be able to truly disconnect
When you travel by bike, you can get away from daily routines. Thereâs no stressing about public transport, city congestion or loud environments. On the trail, you disconnect from work to relax and focus on whatâs happening in the moment. And why not disconnect fully? Say goodbye to mobile phones and social media and hello to your bike and nature. When you choose this mode of travel, youâll discover the benefits of truly getting away from your everyday grind. By the end, youâll only want one thing: to head out again!
So, ready for an adventure?
First time travelling by bike? Weâve created a guide to help you prepare for your first trip on La VĂ©lodyssĂ©e!
