Travelling with Your Road Bike in France: A Comprehensive Guide

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

France, with its stunning landscapes, varied terrain, and iconic cycling routes, is a dream destination for road bike enthusiasts. From the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux to the challenging climbs of the Alps, there’s a road cycling experience for everyone. However, when planning your cycling adventure in France, one of the most significant concerns is how to travel with your road bike. This guide will help you navigate the logistics of packing, traveling by plane, train, car, and understanding the restrictions to ensure your trip goes smoothly.

Packing Your Road Bike for Travel

Before embarking on your cycling adventure in France, packing your road bike properly is essential to ensure it arrives in one piece. Road bikes, especially those with drop handlebars, are relatively fragile, so extra care is needed during the packing process.

1. Bike Bag or Box

To protect your bike during transit, the first decision is whether to use a bike box or a bike bag.

• Bike Box: A hard case bike box provides the most protection, particularly for long-distance air travel. They are sturdy, protect the frame and components well, and often come with padding. The downside is they can be bulky and heavy.
• Bike Bag: If you’re looking for a lighter and more manageable option, a bike bag (often soft-sided) may be a better fit. These can be easier to carry, but they may not offer the same level of protection as a box, especially if your bike is subject to rough handling.

2. Disassembling Your Bike

Regardless of whether you’re using a bag or box, some disassembly is necessary to make the bike more compact. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Remove the wheels: This is essential as the wheels are the most vulnerable part of the bike.
• Remove the pedals: Pedals can damage the frame if left attached, so it’s better to remove them.
• Lower or remove the handlebars: With drop handlebars, it’s advisable to either remove them or turn them parallel to the frame to save space and avoid them being damaged.
• Deflate the tires: To prevent any pressure from damaging the frame or wheels during the journey, deflating the tires is recommended.

Make sure to pack all the small parts (like pedals, quick releases, etc.) in a separate bag so they’re not lost during the trip.

3. Protecting Fragile Parts

Wrap your frame, wheels, and any fragile components (like the derailleur) in foam or bubble wrap for extra protection. You can also use pipe insulation for the frame and the fork to avoid scratches and knocks..

Travelling by Plane with Your Road Bike

Air travel is one of the most common ways to transport your road bike when traveling internationally, but it does come with a few extra challenges. Airlines have different rules and restrictions regarding bike transport, so it’s essential to check with your carrier in advance.

1. Airline Policies

Most major airlines allow you to bring a bike, but they often charge an additional fee for the privilege. Fees can range from $50 to $200 (USD) depending on the airline, the weight of your bike box, and whether your bike counts as a checked bag or an oversized item.

You’ll need to:

• Contact the airline: Always check with your airline before booking to ensure they accept bikes, as some low-cost carriers may have strict or no bike policies.
• Confirm bike packaging: Some airlines require that your bike be in a hard case or box, while others may allow bike bags. Be sure to confirm the packaging requirements to avoid extra charges or complications at the airport.

2. Tips for Air Travel

• Label Your Bike: Attach a label with your name, phone number, and destination to your bike box or bag.
• Arrive Early: Given the extra steps involved in checking in a bike, arrive at the airport earlier than usual.
• Insurance: It’s a good idea to get travel insurance or bike-specific insurance to cover potential damages during the flight.

Travelling by Train with Your Road Bike in France

France is famous for its efficient and high-speed train system, and traveling by train with a bike is often the easiest and most convenient option once you arrive in the country.

1. TGV (High-Speed Trains)

The TGV network does not always allow bicycles, or if they do, they require a reservation. The guidelines can vary depending on the type of train:

• TGV Lyria: Some high-speed trains require you to make a reservation for your bike. A fee of about €10–€20 is often applied, depending on the train. This may not apply to disassembled bikes in a big bag, but it is worth checking.
• Regional Trains (TER): On regional trains, bikes are usually allowed for free, but it’s still advisable to check in advance.  There are some restrictions is high summer in certain tourist regions.  You can find out more at SNCF connect

2. Bike Storage on Trains

Once you’ve reserved space for your bike, you’ll need to find the appropriate bike storage area on the train (if it is not in a travel case). These areas are designed specifically for bicycles and often have dedicated spots for folding bikes and larger road bikes with drop handlebars.

If you don’t have a reservation, it can be difficult to find space for your bike on crowded trains. Additionally, bikes that aren’t in travel cases are usually allowed only on certain trains.

Travelling by Car in France

Renting a car is another great option if you want flexibility and the ability to explore off-the-beaten-path cycling routes.

1. Car Hire Options

If you choose to rent a car in France, there are a few things to consider:

• Bike Rack: Many car rental companies offer bike racks or carriers that can be added to your rental for an additional fee. You can mount your bike on the back of the car, but make sure the carrier is secure and won’t damage your bike. A roof rack is another option, although loading and unloading the bike can be more challenging.
• Space in the Car: If you’re planning to transport your bike inside the car, ensure that the car has enough space. Most hatchback or estate cars will comfortably accommodate a disassembled road bike.

2. Driving in France

France is known for its beautiful rural roads, which are perfect for cycling. When driving, always ensure that your bike is safely secured, and be aware of local driving rules. Keep in mind that some rural roads can be narrow or winding, so take extra care when transporting your bike.

Practical Considerations: Restrictions and Local Laws

When traveling with a road bike, there are some general restrictions and practical considerations to be aware of:

• Local Regulations: In some French cities, bicycles are restricted on certain public transport routes, so check for specific rules related to buses and metro systems before you travel.
• Bike Shops: France has an abundance of bike shops, particularly in cycling hubs like the Pyrenees and Alps. If you need assistance with bike repairs or maintenance during your trip, you’ll easily find support in most major towns and cities.

Final Thoughts

Travelling with your road bike in France opens up a world of cycling opportunities, from exploring the scenic vineyards of Provence to tackling the legendary climbs of the Tour de France. By carefully packing your bike, understanding airline and transport restrictions, and considering your options for car rentals and train travel, you can enjoy your cycling adventure without unnecessary stress.

No matter how you decide to travel, be sure to plan ahead, stay informed about local regulations, and enjoy the ride—France’s roads are waiting for you!

Preparing for a road cycling holiday in France

Wednesday, August 16, 2023

Flognarde – A Recipe from Sam’s Kitchen

Friday, May 8, 2020

Flognarde – A Correze Classic

Sitting here in lockdown in France I miss cooking for our lovely guests, so I thought I would share a recipe with you of one of my most popular desserts – Flognarde. When we first opened in 2011, I would make a Tarte Tatin a week, but that was until I discovered this local variation of a classic French dish. Flognarde comes from Corrèze.  It is the local version of Clafoutis, which also originated in the Limousin, but which traditionally features cherries. Clafoutis is a delight, although you must leave the stones in the fruit, as I found out to my cost. The stoned cherries leak their juice out to give you an oddly pink dessert! So, I avoid Clafoutis as the idea of forcing guests to spit out mouthfuls of stones across the dinner table is not appealing, not least the risk of accidental choking…

Flognarde then is a delight. It is traditionally made with Apples, although it works well with many other fruits such as apricots, pears and plums. You can also combine fruit with the apples such as myrtille-blueberries (pictured) or blackberries. Flognarde is not a heavy dessert and is universally popular with all ages. It is easy to prepare in advance, although best served warm, drizzled in apricot glaze with some Calvados cream

The ingredients are listed in American ‘cups’ as ironically the best recipe that I have found for this French classic comes not from a French cookbook, but from the legendary Julia Child. If you don’t have ‘cups’ – and we are not talking about teacups here people – then you can easily find measurement converters on google.

You will need a pan that can be used both on the hob and in the oven.  I use a classic 28cm tarte tatin tin, but any heavy bottom pan will do. The Tefal frying pans with removable handles are ideal. If you don’t have anything like this, don’t panic, you can still make the Flognarde. Use a baking dish and omit the section where you heat it on the hob. The Flognarde will not have a caramelised bottom and the apples will sink more to the base, but it will still be delicious. You may have to add an extra 5 minutes or so onto the cooking time.

Ingredients

1 ¼ Cups whole milk
3 Eggs
1 Cup plain Flour
2/3 cups caster sugar, divided
1 tsp Vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
Butter for greasing
3 -4 medium sized apples

Method

Heat oven to 180 oC

Peel, Core and Slice the apples into 1-2cm slices. Set aside

In a stand mixer or blender, combine flour, milk, eggs, 1/3 cup of sugar (half the total amount) and salt until frothy. If you don’t have a blender you can use an electric whisk (my preferred option – less washing up!). You can also use a hand whisk – just make sure there are no lumps and that everything is well combined. At this point you can put the mix, covered, in the fridge until you want to bake it. This can be done up to 24 hours in advance – just give it a quick mix with a hand whisk just before using.

Generously butter your pan and put on the hob to heat. When the butter is starting to bubble pour in about 1 third of the batter, or enough to cover the base in a thin layer and allow to cook until set.

Remove from the heat and arrange apple slices creatively on the surface of the smooth batter layer. I prefer concentric circles. You can also sprinkle with blueberries at this point.

Sprinkle the remaining 1/3 cup of sugar evenly across the apples. Then carefully pour over the remaining batter

Put in the preheated oven and bake until puffed up and golden – around 40 minutes. The Flognarde will deflate a lot as it cools. Do not worry this is normal!  After about 10 minutes run a spatula or similar around the edge and under the Flognarde to loosen it and turn it out onto a serving dish. If you wait until it is completely cold the pectin in the apple will stick to the bottom of the pan and it will be more difficult to get out.

Serve cut into wedges with some cream (I use crème fraiche sweetened with a pinch of icing sugar and about a teaspoon of calvados) and you can also add an apricot glaze. To make this you sieve apricot jam so that you have a smooth consistency and then add some alcohol (1tbsp approx.) of your choice to loosen it up – white rum or triple sec is good.

Enjoy!

Monedieres fietstocht – Monedieres Bike Tour

Saturday, May 11, 2019

An American Cyclist at Correze Cycling Holidays

Wednesday, January 2, 2019

Guest Blog by Forest Howard for Correze Cycling Holidays

I came to France with a seriously elevated expectation for some of the best road cycling in the world. Not many cyclists will dispute the fact that France is their Mecca. France is where serious cyclists of the world seek to pilgrimage. The diverse terrain and beautiful scenery are steeped in bike racing lore. The hype can go on and on, but I know you know. After all this is a French bike blog. Though my expectations were high, riding in a foreign land always brings about stressful unknowns. What conditions are the roads in? Are there dangerous areas? Is the traffic bad? Are drivers respectful? So many questions raced around my head as I plunged head first into my stay in France with Correze Cycling Holidays..

I planned on staying at Correze Cycling Holidays for little over a month, during which time I helped around the house with dining and food prep. The Parrys (the family behind the scenes at Correze Cycling Holidays) and I connected through the website Workaway. Workaway connects hosts with helpers from foreign countries as a cultural exchange opportunity. I almost jumped out of my jeans when I learned of an opportunity to work at a bed and breakfast specializing in bike tours through the French country side. For me, this was a literal dream come true.

After accepting Samantha’s offer to work in exchange for room and board, I realized how very little I knew about the Correze Region of France. Hopping on the computer I furiously googled the topic. In addition to the Alps and Pyrenees France has a third, lesser known mountain range, called the Massif Central, situated in the south-central portion of the country. Any cyclist not living under a rock is familiar with epic scenes of The Tour de France traversing the Alps and Pyrenees but the Massif? Although the Massif region often has exposure during the Tour it rarely gets the hyped publicity of the other two mountain ranges. Even though some of the most unique climbs in the country can be found in this region, the terrain here is often billed as transitional.

Arriving at the Brive-la-Gillarde train station I was blown away the entire drive up to Correze Cycling Holidays. Narrow, manicured roads wound up green flat-topped hills with cavernous valleys in between. Tiny villages spatter the prominences. Those familiar with the east coast of the United States might see a resemblance to Appalachia. Rolling linear hills and valleys as far as the eye can see piqued my interest. The most meaningful riding I have done at home has been exploring the deep green rolling mountains of Western North Carolina. The French terrain looked equivalent. James assured me that these were not even the “big” mountains but foothills. The rugged peaks of the High Massif were further south east.

The technical definition of “massif” means a tightly-grouped region of mountains bound by faults. The Massif Central in France is predominantly volcanic in origin and distinct from both the alps and Pyrenees. Looking at France via Google Earth it is easy identify the Massif area, nestled tightly in the south-central portion of the country. If one looks at the profile of the region from north to south the Massif is completely asymmetrical. The northern departments of the Limousin region are filled with rolling hills and plateaus divided by steep valleys and gorges. Moving south into the region of Auvergne, the profile gains elevation and culminates in a series of rugged volcanic peaks. The highest, Puy du Sancy, is 1886 meters. This terrain was captivating. The rolling green hills punctuated by ancient towns create an immersive rural environment unlike anything I have ever witnessed.

Expansive plateaus, lush hills and big mountains all sound like promising ingredients for unforgettable road riding, but did this all live up to the fantasy land my mind had constructed? My first rides out with James were surreal. We passed hilltop chateaus and medieval villages from bygone centuries. The roads surrounding Correze Cycling Holidays are complete gems, meandering around hillsides and valleys in only a way France can provide. Adding gold to those gems was the utter lack of traffic through the Correzien region. Some days we would not see a car for the first 10 km of a ride.

Cycling in Correze affords an alien experience to someone who knows only the roads of North America. The French roads are minuscule (a single lane by American standers) and are immaculately paved and maintained. Villages are interconnected by a spiderweb-like road network that presents infinite riding possibilities. One would imagine that because the Limousin is so rural, road density would suffer, this is not the case. The road layout has its roots in antiquity. Roads follow the crest of hills and the undulations of the terrain in ways that the Romans found easily defensible. The road density here is an order of magnitude greater than anything I have experienced in rural America. But again, coming from America, the most unfathomable part of riding in Correze was nearly non-existent traffic. I would finish rides thinking does anyone in France drive?

Even when encountering the occasional car the respect they provide cyclists is other-worldly coming from the US. On one occasion, I had a driver slow down in front of me on a flat section of road. My initial confusion was put to rest when he waved me into the vehicle’s slip stream. I accelerated in the draft. We sped up and he paced me down an otherwise boring length of flat road. His son in the back seat turned around and pumped his fist out of the window. Moments like this highlight the bike culture of the of Correze and all of France.

When walking into many cafes and bars around the country it is commonplace to see a green, yellow and polka-dot hats hanging on the walls. The memorabilia a telling sign the Tour was once close and the local people proud of the cycling heritage. The bike culture of the region was icing on the cake to a complete five-star riding experience.