Abbeys and Vineyards Cycling

General information:

This is a level 1 cycling holiday.

Gentle, undemanding cycling, options for more challenging routes too. Nine centuries of bon viveur tradition, one world famous wine area and three others to check out, are packed into this short non-strenuous holiday.

Location:

Starting from historic Auxerre ( lovely mediaval city full of interest), it's easy, undemanding cycling through a fascinating landscape of hidden villages, water meadows, woodlands and vineyards. Then, following the course of the Yonne, pleasant meanderings in and out of villages and woodlands, with swimming possibilities on the way to Ligny (and at the riverside beach when you get there).

Highlights include Chablis, where wine has been made for over a millenium; the celebrated stained glass at St. Etienne; the ancient crypt at the abbey of St. Germain; and the early Gothic Abbey of Pontigny.

Who would this holiday appeal to?

Francophiles, probably older couples (not generally aimed at children unless they have an interest in wine, food and history. Pools not featured.)

Would appeal to adults looking for a fairly quiet holiday.

Similar to which other holidays?

Shared characteristics with Loire and Dordogne in particular.

Possibility of non-standard departures?

This holiday can be shortened to 4 nights. This means the itinerary does not change, but the rest days are not taken. The start date is every 2 days from May 13 to September 20th.

The holiday can be extended by having extra nights in the tour hotels, either at the beginning or end of the cycling holiday, or even in the middle when 2 extra nights are booked in this case.

Other details:

Continental breakfast and 4 evening meals are included on this 6 night holiday.

The historic town of Auxerre has many interesting bars/restaurants where evening meals can be purchased, it's one of the finest mediaeval towns in France.