France has more than 60,000km of long-distance cycle tracks

Cycling is an excellent way to discover France, allowing you to explore the countryside at your own pace.

France has an extensive network of quiet back roads and more than 60,000km of 'Grandes Randonees', or long-distance tracks.

From the pretty villages that punctuate the countryside to the rugged Atlantic coast, peddling through France takes in lush forests, meandering rivers, grand chateaux and award-winning vineyards.

The Alps and Pyrenees also provide plenty of opportunities for mountain bikers.

And then there's the fabulous French wine and gourmet food to refuel on at the end of a hard day's biking.

Cycling is immenesely popular in France and there are theories that the bicycle (or velo) originated here. France is also home to the world's most famous bicycle race, the annual Tour de France, which holds the entire nation transfixed for three weeks in July. Today it is possible for amateurs to cycle stages of the race after the professionals have peddled through.

There are hundreds of options for your biking holiday in France, with itineraries ranging for a couple of days to months. Bear in mind however, that many long-distance train services do not permit bikes on board.