Cycling In France >> Bordeaux to Arcachon (5, 6 or 7 nights)

A special area of Provence beloved by film makers and British émigrés

	Varied itinerary through vineyards and forest to the sea
	Discover the two great wine areas of Entre-deux-Mers and Sauternes
	Relax on the beach at stylish Arcachon and visit Europe’s tallest sand dune
	Quality half-board hotel and chambres d’hôtes (guest house) accommodation
	Flexible stays in Arcachon - extend your holiday in Bordeaux

This holiday is about variety. At the beginning you are close to Bordeaux in two of France’s great wine-producing areas, Entre-deux-Mers and Sauternes. Visiting and tasting opportunities abound. The imposing Château d’Yquem, on a hilltop overlooking the miles of Sauternes vineyards producing its famous wine, reeks of the history and splendour of this region.

Gradually you move into the vast forested area of the Parc Naturel Régional des Landes, using minor roads and cycle trails, passing sleepy villages and perhaps stopping in a roadside café for a refreshing drink. The beautiful sand-fringed lake at Hostens is not to be missed.

The immense Bay of Arcachon is your ultimate destination. Six or seven night holidays allow you to explore Arcachon itself with its remarkable Ville d’Hiver, an elevated area of the town containing many beautiful and extravagant villas from the 19th century. You can cross the bay by ferry with your bike to Le Cap Ferret, or visit the bird watching centre at Le Teich. You can even arrange to go out into the bay with fishermen and oyster farmers. Not to be missed is the startling Dune du Pilat, 10km to the south, Europe’s tallest sand dune. Or you may just wish to relax on one of the many local beaches...

You return to Bordeaux via a short train journey. One or two extra nights in this attractive, pedestrian-friendly city are worth considering. Ask us for hotel recommendations.

Terrain & Distances
Mainly flat. There are some hills between Rions/Cadillac and St.-Macaire on day 2, and in the Sauternes area on Day 3.  Minor roads and cycle trails (pistes cyclables).

Cycling distances:
19-33 miles / 30-53km

Climate
Average maximum daytime temperatures in the period May to September range from 24-29°C (74-83°F). Rainfall averages just 3” per month.