What sort of cyclists do you cater for?
Our holidays are designed to work for those who like to cycle - be that on a hybrid or road bike for leisure, for sport or both!
We have lots of routes to suit a wide range of abilities but please read our
Ability and Grading page for info on what to expect as a cycling holiday guest.
We would alsways note that our holidays are not for novices.
I like cycling but your region doesn’t look flat enough – will it be too difficult for me?
No, don’t worry. Yes, there are some hills (and rewards waiting at the top of those you choose to climb) but we have plenty of flat cycling in the mix too. In addition, we design your week's routes with the topography in mind and build you up gently to the longer more rewarding days to allow your legs to settle in a little! In any case remember, what goes up must come down and Marcus will always tell you that the long, sweeping descents make any climb worthwhile!
What is a centre-based cycling holiday?
It simply means a cycling holiday where you get to stay in one place and explore the region from one base rather than touring and having to move your belongings from place to place. During your holiday you stay in our barn conversion, we provide your breakfasts and evening meals and during the day you enjoy the region on two wheels. Our cycling holidays are so much easier because everything is looked after for you, and we keep our routes varied, some with drop offs and pick ups, so that you can see the best of the area without having to cycle back to the accommodation every day.
Will I get fed?
Yes, and you’ll be watered too! Breakfasts and evening meals are all included in the price and we aim to make these generous and satisfying. Breakfast sets you up for the day, so coffee and tea, pastries and cereals, fruit and yoghurts and toast etc will all be provided. In the evenings we will serve you a three-course meal accompanied by fantastic local wines or alcohol free drinks if you’d prefer.
The only meal we don’t provide is lunch – this is to allow you to take lunch at local restaurants en-route (which is why you need to pack Euros), or to grab a snack and picnic by the river or a 'vue panoramique'.
I’m a vegetarian or I have other special dietary requirements. Can you cater for me?
This isn't a problem, but please do advise us at the point of booking or 4 weeks before your trip if you have any dietary requirements so that we can ensure you are as well fed as our other guests during your stay. Our previous vegan and vegetarian guests have loved our food too.
Do you provide packed lunches?
No. The only meal we don’t provide is lunch – this is to allow you to take lunch at local restaurants en-route, or to picnic by the river or maybe a 'vue panoramique'. This means you can take lunch whenever or wherever you like.
What exactly is included in the price of my holiday?
Leisure Cycling Guests:
-Transfers from the airport (Toulouse only, others on request) or train station (Montauban or Caussade);
-7 nights ensuite accommodation at our beautiful, private retreat;
-7 continental breakfasts, tea, coffee, drinks;
-Evening meal on arrival day and 5 x three-course evening meals, including drinks;
-5 days of structured cycling (one day guided), with routes and maps;
-Hybrid bikes (as well as helmets water bottles/panniers etc);
-All bed linen and towels.
Please note we don’t provide lunches. We think you'll prefer to make the most of the French hospitality at your leisure and pace in the local towns and villages incorporated into your route. We’ll be able to recommend some of the best places to stop on your travels or you might even discover something new!
What do I need to bring?
You're on holiday so bring what you like but we recommend as a minimum you bring a few changes of your prefered cycling wear and suitable shoes / trainers for cycling in. A spare layer for staying warm and a basic waterproof are also advisable as it can be cooler in the shaded parts of some routes. Also, spare clothes for relaxing in during the evening and don't forget your Euros!
Some of our guests prefer to bring their own bike, pedals or saddles. Otherwise, everything else is provided – bed linen, towels, food, drink, bikes, helmets, water bottles, puncture repair kits etc etc. We aim to make our holidays as easy for you as possible – really all you need to do is turn up however if you have any special requirements then let us know in advance.
I’m flying in to France – will you pick me up from the airport?
Toulouse Blagnac airport is the closest to the property and is well served by various UK Airports. We will collect you and return you at the start and end of the holiday. See our
Getting Here page for more travel options. If you are flying to another airport (i.e. Limoges or Brive la Gaillarde) we will consider a pick up depending on how many other cycling tour guests are also flying to the same airport. Contact us first to discuss.
I’m driving to you - do you have parking?
Yes, there’s plenty of room for cars at the accommodation so whether you’ve driven all the way here, or have hired a car at the airport – we will have the space you need and will give you full directions when we confirm your booking.
Is the centre/accommodation private and quiet?
Yes it is. We are located about a km away from the closest hamlet with a long, private road leading to the accommodation. We have extensive grounds of 7 acres, our own pocket of woodland and three meadows – you won’t be disturbed. Although we can’t guarantee there won’t be any noise from the farmer ploughing, the kestrels or owls.
I like cycling but my partner is not as keen – is this the right holiday for us?
Our cycling routes are for leisure cyclists or road cyclists but they are not for novices. Having said this, our holidays can still accept non-cycling partners so we still think this is a great holiday option for you both.
For non-cycling partners there is still the option to join one of the early rides where the miles are shorter and easier on the legs - each route includes sightseeing, gastronomy and jaw dropping scenery so there is something for everyone. Back at base there is a terrace and large pool for swimming and sunbathing, pleasant walks right from the doorstep, DVDs, books, peace and quiet.
Can I follow you on Strava?
Yes, you can follow Marcus on Strava
here.
