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Stevenson's MTB trail - Auvergne to the Cevennes

A classic off road mountain biking tour through rural southern France


Suitable for all mountain bikers.
Vast variety of scenery.
Bags transported on.
Manageable distances with optional extras.
Comfortable **hotel accommodation.
Villages Cafes.
Lakes, gorges, forest and moorlands.
Biking tuition.

To detailed holiday itinerary
To other mountain biking / road cycling holidays

OVERVIEW

One of Europe's best mountain biking journeys. Fantastic off road trails, a stunning variety of scenery, fine food and good accommodation. France at its best!  

If back in 1878 the mountain bike had been invented, it would surely have been Robert Louis Stevenson's first choice of companion, as he set out on his epic journey across the Cévennes. As it was Stevenson (Scottish novelist), set out on his 220km, 12 day adventure with a badly behaved donkey called Mondestine. The result was a much loved children's book entitled "My Travels with a Donkey". Many years have past since then, but the countryside has remained a beautiful un-spoilt corner of France, now enhanced by comfortable hotels and fine restaurants.

This trip is hugely varied; the biking, scenery and locally produced food change daily as we head south. We start high on the Auvergne Plateau, which is broken by volcanic cones and crater lakes, we pass through chestnut forests, along river valleys, over high moorlands and drop into some awesome limestone gorges of the Cévennes. Its not all about biking, there is plenty of time to bath in the many lakes and river, explore the villages and to sample the local brews!  For some more detail, have a look at the itinerary.

IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?

This is an ideal trip for all levels. The cycling is 80% off road, usually on wide trails however there are a lot of optional single track descents. The daily distances between hotels is manageable for all, at an average of 35km per day with an average of 500m of ascent. For those wanting more of a workout, on most days there is an optional (harder) guided ride to explore the proximity of the nights accommodation. There are some long (6km) climbs, however these are mostly on road or good trails.  It is important to me that people book the correct trip. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have have any doubts.

DATES

There are currently no scheduled departures for this trip in 2009, however, if you are interested, please contact us to make enquiries.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

The holiday costs £590, starting at St Etienne Airport, ending at Montpellier Airport. Flights can be picked up very cheaply if booked in advance. Expect to pay £80 return. The only thing not included is drinks and snacks, allow £30 depending on your thirst. There are no other local payments or hidden costs. Please note that we offer a 5% discount if you book more than 3 months before the departure date. We also offer group and loyalty discounts.

This price includes:

6 days guided rides. Airport Transfers (at specified times). Vehicle Support. 7 nights in comfortable hotels. 7 evening meals, 7 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches.

WHERE DO WE STAY

We stay in a variety of small town Hotels and Auberges. Accommodation is normally allocated on a twin share basis and most of the hotels have private facilities.

FOOD

Food is a very important part of all biking trips and French way of life. We pass through many different regions where our hosts spoil us with local specialties. All breakfasts are included and are continental style. Picnic lunches will be provided on biking days which you will be expected to carry with you. Evening meals will be taken in the Hotel or Local restaurants.

GUIDING AND INSTRUCTION

You are accompanied by James Thompson, who has over 7 years of experience of leading mountain biking trips around the world. James is a competent mechanic and experienced First-aider. During the week informal instruction will be given for those wanting to improve their technique. James will be assisted by another leader.

GROUP

There is a maximum of 15 people (minimum 4) plus James and assistant on this holiday. Bookings from single people are welcome as activity holidays are a great way to make new friends.

TRANSPORT / SUPPORT

Throughout the trip you are supported by a minibus fitted with a bike rack. It will intercept the group where possible offering medical / mechanical assistance as well as a lift up the hills (if you would like it). Bags are naturally transported from hotel to hotel.

BIKE HIRE

If you do not want to have the hassle of bringing your own bike; you can hire one from Marmot-Tours (and return it dirty at the end of the holiday). Marmot-Tours has a fleet of Specialised Rockhoppers Bikes with either 'Normal' of 'Disc' Brakes. There are no full suspension bikes available. For more information please see the Bike Hire section.

HOW DO I GET THERE?

The trip starts at St-Etienne Airport and ends at Montpellier Airport. Ryan Air provide a reasonably priced flight service between London Stansted and both of these airports. If booked in advance flights should not cost more than £80. A minibus transfer will be arranged to tie in with these flights (approx 1hr transfers). For further flight information please look at www.ryanair.com. Ryan Air also serves the UK with regional connections.

Please see the Transport section for more information on airlines, airport transfers and travelling with a bike



Contact Marmot Tours: info@marmot-tours.co.uk
Tel/fax: 0033 561 02 80 43. French Mob: 0033 (0)6 30 01 12 98
Marmot Tours Ltd