The Best Time Of Year For A Biking Vacation In France

Taking a biking vacation to France is the vacation of a lifetime for those who prefer an active lifestyle. Breathtaking scenery and historical sites await you and will become much more real as you travel there by bicycle. When deciding what time of year to take your biking vacation to France, you might first begin with deciding when NOT to go.

While France has a moderate seasonal climate, with mild to cold winters and warm to mildly hot summers, occasionally July and August are hotter than expected. This could prove to be uncomfortable for biking long distances. In addition to weather concerns, there are several holidays during July and August and the average traveler might find the crowds that are drawn in by these holidays less than favorable. July 14th is Bastille Day and August 15th is Assumption Day (Mary's Day). Also, since school is out during these months, local attraction will be more crowded.

The next times to avoid would be November through March when the weather generally fluctuates in the 30 to 40 degree Fahrenheit range. While a biking vacation in France could still be enjoyable during these months, it would likely be more enjoyable when you could ride without a jacket. Considering you will be carrying all your supplies and "luggage" with you, the less clothing you have to bring with you the better off you will be.

So after taking into consideration the climate and various holidays in France that may not be the best choices for your biking vacation in France, you are left with choosing Spring, May to June or Fall, September to October. The weather is usually quite comfortable during these months, usually in the upper 50's to about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. You would be able to dress fairly lightly and still feel quite comfortable with just a lightweight windbreaker for a jacket. The crowds of tourists are slightly lighter during these months and depending on which part of France you visit, you are more likely to see the "real" France, and live like the natives.

Most biking vacations in France have tours that last about one week so you should plan to take at least 12 days off of work for your biking vacation in France. The tours move rather quickly, so you might also be wise to take a few extra days and spend them in Paris or another spot of your choice before your bike tour in order to fully appreciate all the tourist attractions.

Proper planning will help ensure you have an enjoyable biking vacation in France and help you create happy memories to last a lifetime. Choosing the best time of year for your biking vacation to France is the first step in making those plans. You will need to give yourself time to get your passport ready and make payment arrangements for your trip, so take these factors into consideration as well. Then plan a trip for May, June, September or October and you should be able to enjoy a delightful biking vacation in France.