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
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To detailed
holiday itinerary
