• Trans Pyrénées Tour
  • Tour de France
  • Historic Great Alps road & Provence
  • Auvergne & Cévennes Tour
  • Normandy & Brittany Tour
  • D-Day Normandy tour
  • France Discovery Tour
  • Memorial WW I & II Tour
  • Southern Spirit Tour
  • South Morocco tour
  • The Grand Alps loop ride
  • Asturias & Picos Europa
  • Scotland & Highlands
  • The heart of Europe in 5 days
  • Italian Lakes & Dolomites
  • Tuscany & Cinque Terre tour
  • Best of Portugal
  • The Canary islands
  • White villages of Andalusia
  • Can-Am Spyder Pyrénées tour
  • 3 days ride in Loire valley
  • Weekend ride in Touraine
  • Alsace & Black Forest Tour
  • Auvergne Tour
  • Brittany Tour
  • Cevennes & Ardeche Tour
  • French Alps tour
  • Limousin Tour
  • Normandy Tour
  • Loire valley Tour
  • Perigord & Quercy Tour
  • Provence to Riviera Tour
  • Pyrénées Tour
  • Catalunya MotoGP race
  • Scooter day excursion in Loire valley
  • Weekend scooter ride
  • 3 days scooter ride in Loire valley
  • Tailor made tour request
  • Can-Am rental in France
  • Scooter rental
  • Bicycle rental in the Loire valley
  • Sell & Buyback
  • Guide service
  • Motorcycle storage

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A Unique Motorcycle Travel Experience

If you enjoy riding a motorcycle on twisty roads, if you like beautiful landscapes, heritage monuments, gastronomy and wines, picturesque and historic villages, RIDE IN TOURS offers all this and more. Spend from 5 to 14 days riding through the most beautiful French regions.

Whether you like to be part of an organized tour group or ride on your own, we provide options from guided tours to self-guided tours or just rentals. You name it, we can arrange it...

We have been riding all over France and Europe our entire lives, so let us guide you through its secret roads and show you its hidden treasures.

Experience the journey with Ride in Tours

Ride in tours offers :, motorcycle guided tours in france & europe, motorcycle self-guided tours, motorcycle rental, motorcycle sell & buyback option, organization or guide service for individuals or clubs.

Let your dream become reality

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Why ride with us.

  • 25 years of motorcycle touring experience
  • English & spanish spoken
  • Competitive rates
  • Atmosphere of a small independent business
  • Extensive travel experience
  • A central location with easy access from Paris airport
  • Our professionalism and our passion
  • A license agreement from french tourism authority

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Vineyard and terroir

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Caday Rouge Motorcycle Tours

Enjoy a fantastic experience

Caday rouge motorcycle tours - crmt explore france, spain, andorra and the pyrenees, caday rouge crmt european motorcycle tours, what we offer.

CRMT brings you the opportunity to experience a unique and fabulous, high-end small group hub motorcycle touring holiday. We specialise in touring beautiful France, spectacular Northern Spain and the irresistible Andorra and Pyrenees Mountain Range.

We offer superb accommodation during our fully escorted motorcycle tours to an array of locations and various durations from 8 to 14 nights. Indulge yourself in pure luxury with a hand-picked selection of the best routes and hotels designed to take the hard work out of finding your next adventure.

Our Fly & Ride option is the one to consider! Save time and money and just jump on a plane or train, drive or ride and join CRMT at Caday Rouge and we will do the rest. This could be the perfect solution for you to enjoy one of our latest fully equipped BMW Motorcycles for your tour.

Riding your own motorcycle to Caday Rouge is also a great option. Enjoy your journey here travelling through the beautiful regions of France, what better way to start your holiday.

There is no minimum number required for our 8-day South-West France Tour to proceed, so you can book your travel to CRMT with confidence. We guarantee the tour will commence with only one reservation.

Caday Rouge, our beautiful and superb Chambre d’hôtes, will be your hub accommodation where you will start and end your tour. All the newly renovated bedrooms are all en-suite with private bathrooms. You will be able to relax in 2 acres of tranquil and private surroundings with beautifully maintained gardens featuring a super-large saltwater swimming pool.

Evening dining is also available at Caday Rouge in our beautiful restaurant where we prepare and serve superb high-quality home-cooked meals.

Our bar is available to all guests for alcoholic beverages including wines, beers and soft drinks, all offered at a very reasonable price.

Our half-board option is great value and includes breakfast and dinner throughout your tour.

Our hub tours at Caday Rouge are relaxed and enjoyable with no real deadlines to meet. Our 12 and 15-day tours have been planned and chosen to ensure the daily distances are easily achievable to all riders. We have designed each tour with hub in mind which ensures we can ride throughout these regions without the need to carry obstructive luggage. Our chosen hotels whilst on tour and away from Caday Rouge are of the highest quality. High-season tours may vary due to hotel availability and location.

For those riders whose partners don’t ride pillion, CRMT can offer a luxury support vehicle for the tour duration whilst away from Caday Rouge. The support vehicles are also available for local airport and train station transfers.

motorcycle tours in france

Included with a CRMT Tour

  • Superb quality bed and breakfast accommodation
  • All bedrooms are with private en-suite bathrooms
  • Explore France, North Spain, Andorra and the Pyrenees
  • Ride scenic, traffic-free roads at an enjoyable pace
  • Be escorted and shown amazing sights and scenery
  • Full 24-hour support and expert advice
  • No tour deadlines to meet
  • Use of private swimming pool and all facilities whilst at Caday Rouge
  • Garage parking for your motorcycle whilst at Caday Rouge

Options available to you

  • CRMT’s half-board package including accommodation and bike hire
  • Fly-Ride Holidays (Flights not included)
  • BMW & Honda motorcycle hire
  • Luxury support vehicles to carry your luggage and evening local transportation
  • Hire of motorcycle safety-wear
  • Caday Rouge restaurant for evening meals
  • Local airport and train station transfers
  • Custom and bespoke tours for group bookings
  • Enjoy the elite Tour de France cycle race
  • A fabulous workshop and motorcycle washing facilities
  • Indulge in other activities at Caday Rouge Adventure Holidays

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Caday Rouge Motorcycle Tours

  • Caday Rouge, 220 Route de Lapoujade, 47500, Saint Vite, France
  • 0033 642 186 659
  • 0044 7881 906 284
  • [email protected]

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Motorcycle Tours & Trips in France

Start your engine and discover France's best touring roads! Find the best motorcycle adventures through France. There are 21 guided and self-guided motorbike trips to choose from, that range in length from 5 days up to 14 days.

21 Motorcycle Ride tour packages in France with reviews

Castle & French Vineyard Tour

  • Motorcycle Ride

Castle & French Vineyard

Southern Spirit (Guided) Tour

Southern Spirit (Guided)

Auvergne & Cévennes motorcycle tour (Guided) Tour

Auvergne & Cévennes motorcycle tour (Guided)

Perigord et Quercy (Self-Guided) Tour

Perigord et Quercy (Self-Guided)

Normandy & Brittany motorcycle tour (Self-Guided) Tour

Normandy & Brittany motorcycle tour (Self-Guided)

Brittany Motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided) Tour

Brittany Motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided)

French Alp motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided) Tour

French Alp motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided)

D-Day Normandy & Loire valley Tour

D-Day Normandy & Loire valley

Southern Spirit (Self-Guided) Tour

Southern Spirit (Self-Guided)

Loire Valley Motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided) Tour

Loire Valley Motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided)

Auvergne Motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided) Tour

Auvergne Motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided)

Normandy Motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided) Tour

Normandy Motorcycle Tour (Self-Guided)

Normandy & Brittany motorcycle tour (Guided) Tour

Normandy & Brittany motorcycle tour (Guided)

Sand and Bubble Tour

Sand and Bubble

Provence to Riviera Motorcyle Tour (Self-Guided) Tour

Provence to Riviera Motorcyle Tour (Self-Guided)

Regions in france.

  • Southern France (8)
  • Northern France (8)

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West Forever guided and self-guided motorycle tours

About 60 motorcycle tours (14 tours offered in English) all around the world are scheduled for this year among events you shouldn’t miss! If you are looking for a guided motorcycle tour , in group, with assistance, luggage transportation, support vehicle, then West Forever tours are made right for you!

  • An innovative way to discover Europe best places while riding the most scenic roads of the old continent. Great roads lead to great rides so put your trust in West Forever for an unforgeatable riding experience.
  • West Forever is an Harley Davidson® Authorized Tours operator in the US.
  • West Forever offers tours on the most beautiful routes in the world, ride along winding roads in stunning landscapes.
  • Motorcycle touring is our passion, we have been doing it for 20 years, that's why we will make sure you enjoy your motorcycle tour at its fullest.

Quickly find your motorcycle trip (EN)

About west forever, useful information, plan your trip, choosing your motorcycle, customer reviews, contact west forever, follow the west forever community , west forever - motorcycle touring.

Seven Rides - 7 rides

7Rides – Motorcycle touring – South east of France

Ride from Mediterranean Coast to Alpine Peaks

motorcycle tours in france

Discover the Southeast of France by motorcycle.  A region where  the Alps, the French Riviera, and Provence  meet and provide memorable riding.

7Rides is situated between the French Southern Alps and the French Riviera.  As a result, the region has one of the most varied terrain in the world for riding motorcycles.

Consequently, Each cardinal direction from our base offers its own beautiful scenery, fun, and riding experience for any rider.

Couple this unique setting, with our knowledge of the region and our tailored, hassle free motorcycle tours, you get and unforgettable riding experience. Above all, you will find that each day is different and that each day is full of discoveries.

West-provence

To our west is the beautiful Provence Countryside

North-Alpes

To the north we ride the mighty French Southern Alps

Mediterranean sea landscape with cloudy blue sky. French riviera

To the South is the  French Riviera

East-Italian

To the east lies the Italien Piedmont Alps

Our home base: the french alpes-maritimes.

The Alpes-Maritimes is a department located in the southeastern corner of France.  It is a stunning region nested between the Mediterranean Sea and the French Alps.  Moreover, the breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and world-class cuisine, makes it an ideal base for motorcyclists.  Without a doubt, the winding roads, challenging mountain passes, scenic vistas, and coastal roads offer a unique blend of riding experience.

In addition to the stunning mountain scenery, the Alpes-Maritimes is home to the French Riviera and its Mediterranean coastal cities.  Monaco, Nice, Cannes, Antibes are fun and beautiful cites to ride through and stop for lunch.  Further inland, you’ll find picturesque historic towns such as Saint-Paul-de-Vence, or Eze known for its winding cobblestone streets.

The Alpes-Maritimes is also a stone throw away from the Provence region.  Consequently, we guide riders to the eye-popping lavender fields, centuries old abbeys, and winding roads through vineyards and rolling landscape.  Additionally, with the Provence coast nearby, we day ride to St. Tropez, the Esterel coast, or the Route des Crete.

Although there are many well known destinations in Provence, there are also many more beautiful roads and destinations that are to be discovered and that we will happily guide you through.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner rider, the region’s stunning scenery, mountain passes, and charming towns and villages are sure to make for an unforgettable trip.

Reaching us is easy

Also, this is an easy region to reach.  We are 35 minutes from the Nice international airport that has flights from many countries, including the US & CA (NYC, Atlanta, Montreal).  If you are arriving by train, we are 20 minutes from the Cannes train station.

So come and discover the Southeast of France by motorcycle, we are here !

Motorcycle Tours in France

Often overlooked for destinations further afield, france hosts some of the best biking roads in the whole of europe. the variety in landscape and terrain is only rivalled by the quality of the food (and drink) at the end of each day. we explore mountain ranges, visit gorges and canyons, stay in quaint villages and sumptuous beachside resorts all the while riding some of the finest roads a biker could wish for..

Magellan have a wide selection of motorcycle tours that visit France or travel through France en route to destinations further afield. With trips from 3 to 16 days you can choose from a fully supported motorcycle Guided Tour or one of our Self Guided options on dates to suit you…

12 days STARTS Plymouth/Portsmouth, UK 22/05/2024 – 02/06/2024

Ride some of the best roads in the Pyrenees as voted by local bikers, and visit the classical cities of Pamplona and Andorra.

  • HIRE BIKE AVAILABLE

16 days STARTS Folkestone, UK 28/08/2024 – 12/09/2024

Explore stunning Mediterranean islands and all the finest roads that France has to offer on one unique tour.

12 days STARTS Plymouth/Portsmouth, UK 04/09/2024 – 15/09/2024

16 days STARTS Folkestone, UK 14/05/2025 – 29/05/2025

12 days STARTS Plymouth/Portsmouth, UK 01/06/2025 – 12/06/2025

16 days STARTS Folkestone, UK 27/08/2025 – 11/09/2025

12 days STARTS Plymouth/Portsmouth, UK 14/09/2025 – 25/09/2025

16 days STARTS Folkestone, UK 13/05/2026 – 28/05/2026

12 days STARTS Plymouth/Portsmouth, UK 14/06/2026 – 25/06/2026

16 days STARTS Folkestone, UK 26/08/2026 – 10/09/2026

12 days STARTS Plymouth/Portsmouth, UK 13/09/2026 – 24/09/2026

14 days STARTS Folkestone, UK BEST TIME TO GO: May to September

Fine French scenery, deserted mountain passes and white sandy Corsican beaches... what more could you ask for?

  • SELF GUIDED

12 days STARTS Plymouth/Portsmouth, UK BEST TIME TO GO: June to September

16 days STARTS Folkestone, UK BEST TIME TO GO: May to September

Explore stunning mediterranean islands and all the finest roads that France has to offer on one unique tour.

7 days STARTS Folkestone, UK BEST TIME TO GO: April to October

France has some beautiful riding country easily accessible from the UK and this 7 day tour proves that.

5 days STARTS Folkestone, UK BEST TIME TO GO: April to October

Based from a single location this tour allows you to relax in one place with ride outs to pick and choose from.

HIGHLIGHTS FROM OUR MOTORCYCLE TOURS IN FRANCE

  • Route Napoleon: Truly one of the best biking roads to be found anywhere in Europe, this is the route taken in 1815 by Napoleon on his retreat to Grenoble.
  • Gorges du Verdon: Known as Europe’s answer to the Grand Canyon and deservedly so, riding the rim of the gorge is utterly breathtaking.
  • Corsican beaches and mountains: With over 200 beaches to choose from around the coast and gorges, peaks and passes galore in the interior, Corsica is a bikers’ dream.
  • Auvergne: Famous amongst French bikers for the Volcanoes and jaw dropping scenery we love visiting the Auvergne on our way North.
  • The Millau Bridge: The tallest vehicular bridge in the world and at over 2400m long this feat of engineering needs to be seen to be believed.
  • Verdun: With its war memorial and the Douaumont Ossuary, no trip through Northern France is complete without a stop here to pay your respects to the fallen.
  • Normandy: Visit the beaches immortalised by the D-Day landings in 1944 before riding along the coast road to take in the full drama of the region.
  • Castles and Villages: It’s not just about riding on our tours to France, we have time to stop at William the conqueror’s castle at Falaise, the Chateau at Carrouges, Mont St Michel and St Ceneri le Gerei, voted the prettiest town in France!

Inspiration From France

Spain and France Pyrenees Explorer Trip Report September 2023

Spain and France Pyrenees Explorer Trip Report September 2023

Spain & France: Pyrenees Explorer - September 2023 Mark Holroyd guides and Clive Owen supplies the posts on our "Epic Roads and Classic Cities" tour.

Spain and France: Pyrenees Explorer Trip Report May 2023

Spain and France: Pyrenees Explorer Trip Report May 2023

Spain & France: Pyrenees Explorer - May 2023 Guides Mark & Joy Holroyd, supported by Brendan Hale, report on our "Epic Roads and Classic Cities" tour. Day 1 OK Magellanites muster! Today sees eleven of us departing from Plymouth on our way to the Pyrenees for the next 10 days. There are two trips this … Continued

What makes France and its charmed islands the perfect playground for bikers

What makes France and its charmed islands the perfect playground for bikers

France seduces with beauty and diversity - it’s regions abundant with natural wonders and iconic landmarks known the world over. From rolling vineyards and epic mountain ranges all the way to sprawling art, architecture and fashion hubs and glitzy, sun drenched playgrounds for the wealthy - France and its islands offer visitors much to discover … Continued

Why your next mini break should be in the Pyrenees

Why your next mini break should be in the Pyrenees

Dominating the skyline for 430km, the Pyrenees straddle the French-Spanish border with their dramatic, serrated peaks. This picture postcard, pristine landscape is a haven for outdoor thrills whether it be skiing, climbing, hiking or zooming around the vast array of beautiful mountain passes on your motorcycle. Hidden within this snow dusted, wild land you will … Continued

Sardinia Corsica and France Grand Tour Trip Report

Sardinia Corsica and France Grand Tour Trip Report

We were at the STOP24 services, which is just minutes away from the tunnel and all of our Magellanites were on time and raring to go. It was an overcast morning with the forecast set to rise to a whopping 19 degrees centigrade during the day in northern France with only the slightest chance of … Continued

Corsica and France Tour Report

Corsica and France Tour Report

Mountains, Sun, Sea, twisty roads and great company – what’s not to like? Yet again I found myself at STOP24, one motorway junction away from the departure junction for the tunnel at 7am wide awake with the excitement of the trip to come. I was looking forward to meeting my fellow bikers who would be … Continued

France and Corsica Tour Report

France and Corsica Tour Report

I always get excited when he starts to check the tyre pressures, brake pads, tread, oil level, gives me a clean and he sticks on all those Magellan stickers – yep, we are off on one of my favourite trips and it is the start of the touring season. An early start for me as … Continued

Harz Tour Report

Harz Tour Report

The Magellan Harz Mountains Tour began on a damp morning at the end of April with five clients from all over the UK met at Stop24 Services outside Folkestone… We went quickly across the tunnel and onto the fast roads of France and Belgium with a marked improvement in the weather: making for happy faces … Continued

Eight of the best motorcycle tours Europe has to offer

Eight of the best motorcycle tours Europe has to offer

Although you may feel you need to travel further afield for breathtaking beauty and outstanding roads, here at Magellan we truly believe you need look no further than continental Europe. Here is a little list of our favourite motorcycle tours around Europe to whet your appetite and give you ‘itchy tyres’! We know that you … Continued

Bikers enjoying a great meal

A big tasty motorbike tour: Top breaks for foodies.

Let’s be honest – if you go on a motorcycle tour, you don’t want to spend it all in roadside cafes eating greasy beige food. You want slices of jambon in a sunny plaza washed down with ice-cold white wine, straight-from-the-grill sardines at sunset by the beach and slow-roasted, almond-stuffed lamb in an atmospheric souk. … Continued

Motorcycle Touring Guide to France

I just love France. My first French motorcycle tour was over 15 years ago when I rode my Hornet 600 from the rigid roads of Milton Keynes to the ribbon-like roads of Menton in the South of France. I was instantly hooked.

Since then, I’ve been back to France countless times on the bike. From long weekends exploring WW2 sites in Normandy to 10-day ‘Laps de France’, clocking up big miles through gorgeous countryside.

Table of Contents

It is so easy to get to France from the UK, the roads are amazing, the locals like motorbikes and the scenery, food and hospitality are superb.

Despite traffic laws tightening up and the ever-ominous rise in anti-speeding technology, it’s still possible to blast 300 miles across France in a day and not see one police car or speed camera.

You just have to know what you’re doing and that’s what this guide to motorbiking in France is here to help you do.

Getting there

We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to getting over to France. You have two options; Channel Tunnel or Ferry or if you’re renting a bike then obviously you can fly there too.

Channel Tunnel

The quickest route to France is to use the Channel Tunnel. There are around 4 crossings an hour and the crossing takes 35 minutes.

As a motorcyclist, you’re usually on either first or last. You ride on, get your front wheel tucked into the kerb on the train, leave it in gear and you spend the crossing by your bike. You don’t strap it down and you do wonder if it’ll rock over but I’ve never seen it happen.

There’s a toilet onboard but nothing else.

Ferries from the UK to France

You can take a ferry on a similar route to the Channel Tunnel and that’ll take around 90 minutes for the crossing plus a little bit of time to load. Once you’ve docked, as a motorbike you can usually get off faster than the cars.

Or you can take an overnight ferry if you like your crossings classy.

Until last year I had always used the Chunnel but if you’re heading over to Brittany or Normandy or just down the west side of France you might prefer to get a ferry to Caen or Cherbourg as you’ll have fewer miles to do once you’ve reached France.

The overnight ferry is a great experience – if you book a cabin that is; I don’t much fancy trying to sleep in a cinema seat.

The restaurants have great quality food, there are a couple of bars too. You can get up to four to a room and split the cost, making it a no-brainer. Wake up refreshed, have a decent breakfast onboard and then get cracking. You can finish work on a Friday, jump on your bike and head south to grab a late night ferry departure.

UK to France motorcycle crossings guide

Legal requirements for riding in France

  • A full, valid driving licence
  • Proof of insurance (third party or above)
  • Proof of ID (Passport)
  • Proof of vehicle ownership (V5C Certificate)
  • GB Sticker, if you don’t have a GB EU number plate
  • CE Approved gloves
  • Carry a Hi-Vis vest
  • Reflective stickers on your helmet

French Driving Laws

While it’s worth paying attention to French road laws, in some cases it’s worth taking them with a pinch of salt as I hope to explain below.

When it comes to filtering it’s technically illegal. In the cities of Paris, Marseille, Bordeaux, and Lyon you can now ride between queues of stationary traffic. However, if you pay attention to what the locals do in whatever town or city you’re in, barely any French bikers sit in traffic. Just like in the UK, they want to get around it not be part of it.

Reflective helmet stickers

You’re supposed to have a reflective sticker on all four ‘sides’ of your helmet. If you like to follow the letter of the law, I am sure you can buy a kit off eBay. I’ve never stuck any on my lid and never had any trouble but technically the police can fine you for not having any.

Hi-viz vest

You might have heard of the Gilets Jaunes, the French protesters who are fighting for lower taxes. Well, if you’re heading to France, you need to carry a ‘gilet jaune’ (yellow vest) as well, but you don’t need to join their movement, block any roads or set fire to any cars. Not unless you want to.

You have to carry a hi-viz vest which you must wear if you breakdown. The fine for not carrying one is currently 11 Euros, increasing to 135 Euros if you’re caught roadside, with a bike that’s going nowhere fast – and no sign of your hi-viz.

My touring jacket has a zip-up hi-viz which, with a few shoulder-shrugs thrown in, should pass any gendarme test – but you can also buy a cheap vest from Amazon.

How to avoid the fines

My advice on all this? Be sensible, don’t attract unnecessary attention and you’ll be able to breeze around France without any hassle.

Get caught doing something you shouldn’t and the chances are the police will go over your bike and your kit with a fine-toothed comb.

Some people say the French police target foreigners. I have no idea whether or not this is true but one of the (many) advantages of a motorbike is the fact that the police won’t be able to tell if you’re foreign or not as you’re approaching a speed trap, so if you do get pulled, it’ll be because you were breaking the law (probably speeding) and not because you’re an easy-to-rinse Rosbif.

Grab a super cheap hi-viz vest , tuck it under your seat and hope you never have to use it.

Speed limits in France

French speed limits are very similar to those in the UK. There are different limits on motorways, dual carriageways and A roads in the rain.

Recently the French passed a controversial law that reduced the speed limit on single carriageway roads (the equivalent of our NSL) from 90kph (56mph) to 80kph (50mph).

Watch your speed in towns

When you approach a town you’ll see the town’s name on a sign and with a red border, this indicates it’s a 50kmh limit. Once you leave the town, you’ll see a similar sign but with a black border and a red line through it. This indicates you’re back to an 80kmh limit.

You’re very unlikely to see a speed camera on open roads outside of towns or built-up areas. Fortunately, France hasn’t (yet) followed the UK and gone GATSO mad.

French speed limits chart

French Speeding Fines

The French are pretty hot on speeding and issuing speeding fines.

Where you’re likely to get caught

In my experience, the majority of the mobile speed cameras are located on motorways or dual carriageways. The often traffic-light motorways forge through the vast countryside and it’s easy to take your eye off your speed.

The police will often park away from the road, use a mobile speed gun and they may also work with a motorcycle gendarme who’ll escort you to the nearest service station and help you empty your wallet.

I have only ever seen one police car with a radar on a country road and even then I was flashed by lots of oncoming drivers before I went past it. 

Other bikers have told me they tend to set up shop on the way into towns, where it’s easy to miss the change in speed limit and be caught at a relatively high speed. Keep an eye out on your way into towns and never speed through them.

Fixed speed cameras are easily visible. They have a sign alerting you to the fact there’s a camera, approximately 500m before the camera. Mis that and you deserve to be flashed! You probably won’t get a ticket as most are forward facing but if you’re taking the p*ss, the authorities may well track you down.

Speed camera detectors

These are illegal in France. However, gone are the days where you could buy a unit that detected speed cameras (some of them tried to jam radars too). These are a definite no-no. However, Sat Navs or apps that also warn you of speed cameras are technically illegal. Some manufacturers have an option for you to disable this but unless you’re caught at silly speeds, you’re not likely to be scrutinised. Waze is a great app to keep you alerted of any police presence.

Fines, Bans and Confiscations

The French police won’t be shy in issuing you a fine and the amount you’ll owe depends on how badly you were breaking the speed limit. If you’re going less than 12mph (20kph) over the limit you’ll get a 68 Euro fine. Up to 25mph over the limit (40kph) and it’ll be a 135 Euro fine. If you’re over 50kph (31mph) over the speed limit you’ll get a huge 1500 Euro fine.

These fines are slightly reduced if you pay immediately. Contrary to rumours the police don’t pocket the cash – they’ll issue you with a receipt. 

If you’re caught speeding over 50kph over the limit you could also see your vehicle being impounded or your licence confiscated. Both will ruin your trip.

Priorite a Droite!

One rule in France that's different to the UK is 'La priorité à droite'. It's a strange law and I've no idea who sanctioned it in the first place. Essentially it means that cars waiting at a junction to your right have the priority. So they can pull out of a side road into a main road, right in front of you. It's a confusing rule made even more so by the fact that in some areas there are signs saying that this rule doesn't apply and in others it does. The sign is a yellow diamond with a white outline If it doesn't apply there's a black line through the middle. You really don't want to be trying to remember which sign means what at 60mph on a country road, so the easiest way to interpret it is to ALWAYS keep an eye out when a car appears at a junction. Just like you would do in the UK, except in France there's a greater likelihood of them actually pulling out. That said, French drivers are ten-times better than UK drivers at looking out for motorcyclists, so we'll forgive them for this odd road law.

Motorcycle Tolls in France

The majority of French motorways operate a toll charge. It’s really not that expensive but you do need to factor it into your costs if you’re on a budget.

You’re roughly looking at needing to budget 50 Euros to take the motorway all the way from Calais to the south of France by motorcycle.

You can use this French motorways toll calculator to give you a more accurate estimate . 

Personally speaking, I try and avoid French motorways. The A-roads often run close by. They’re open, fast and flowing and unlike in the UK, they rarely go through towns.

In recent trips around France where I’ve clocked up 2,000+ miles, around 30 have been on motorways. It does make sense to blast down a few junctions to save having to take a country-road detour.

Using motorways in France, for me, defeats the point of riding a motorbike around France in the first place.

If you’re planning a rough route with Google Maps, just use the option to avoid motorways and tolls and compare the difference for yourself.

Some French Highlights

There are hundreds, probably thousands of fascinating places to experience in France. Every region I’ve visited could keep you occupied for weeks. You’ll struggle to find a bad road and one of the most enjoyable experiences is hopping between towns on random back roads and then going back to ride them again.

Great roads aside, listed below are a few personal favourite destinations of mine.

Pont du Gard, Occitanie

Deep in the South of France this area (known as le Midi) is nirvana for biking roads. The climate is very Mediterranean and Pont du Gard epitomises this. An ancient Roman aqueduct that spans the Gardon river as part of its 50km route. You can swim in the river and explore the remains of the aqueduct on its way through the nearby town, Vers Pont du Gard. Stay at ‘A gauche du Pont’ nearby and eat at Le Petit Gare and you get the full French experience.

Oradour-sur-Glane, Haute Vienne

This town was the scene of a massacre during WW2 where 642 villagers were rounded-up and killed by the German SS as retaliation for alleged partisan activity nearby. The village was then torched by the Germans and after WW2 it has been left as a memorial to those who died. It is a harrowing yet profoundly moving location and I’ve never been anywhere that so clearly demonstrates the viciousness of war.

Colmar, Haut-Rhin

Colmar is a charming French town located in Eastern France, close to the German border. It’s unlike almost any other French town I’ve visited and that’s because from 1871 to 1918 (and not to mention 1940 to 1945) it used to be German. The architecture is a clash of German angles versus French romance with canals and cafes, Gothic churches and pretty open squares. Away from the town, the roads in the Vosges forest are some of the best in France. You could get lost around there for days.

The Best Ride Routes in France

It’s quite hard to find a bad road in France but once you get away from the main roads, you’ll find miles and miles of stunning, challenging and interesting routes.

In France, N-roads are like our A-roads and if they look straight on the map, they’ll probably be less interesting to ride. Down south, N-roads can be really interesting as they wind their way through valleys, gorges and forests.

D-roads are the French equivalent of our B-roads and these are almost always great fun. Some can be narrow, others have a slightly loose surface but on the whole these roads are perfect for bikers.

There are hundreds of routes out there on the internet but you really don’t need to go too mad downloading every GPX file you can get your mitts on, as you’ll be able to find great roads of your own, just by glancing at a map, picking a destination and then heading there on the twistiest-looking routes.

Below are three great motorcycling routes in France: 

Mostuejouls to Florac

This is a great route that you can do in a loop, or just take the same road there and back if you want to attack it the second time around.

It’s around 80 miles as a loop and takes you from the Gorges du Tarn along the Tarn river on some amazingly scenic and undulating roads through the cavernous valleys of the Tarn. Take the D996 pretty much all the day to Florac, a very pretty town.

From Florac you can either take the D16 back or head for a longer route by taking the narrower D907BIS. You could do this route for days on end and not get tired of it.

D-Day scenic route

If you get the ferry to Cherbourg or Caen (Ouistreham), then this route is right on your doorstep. 

It’s about 120 miles all in but if you stop off at the many WW2 sites, it’ll be a day-long trip. The part of the route that runs along the coast is a good but not thrilling road but it’s made up for by the WW2 sites, sights over the sea, myriad museums and artefacts dotted along the route.

From the famous Sainte-Mere-Eglise, head away from the coast into classic French bocage countryside along gently arcing roads. Head out on the D974 to Carentan, another famous battleground in WW2.  Then pick up the D8 then D13 and stop off in Caen for lunch before heading to the Merville battery, Pegasus Bridge then finishing off at Ouistreham for a well-earned beer. 

The Vosges Forest

The word epic is overused but this is an epic motorcycling route, that’s packed full of challenges. If I could only ride one route for the rest of my days, I wouldn’t be annoyed if I was given this one. 

It’s around 130 miles all in with almost 1,000 metres of elevation throughout the route. The views are stunning, you’ll want to stop time and time again to take everything in. 

On the northern tip of the loop, you head on the D424 where you might be forgiven for thinking the fun’s ended but it connects you to the D253 which is a fast, flowing ribbon of Tarmac through the forest that you’ll want to ride again and again. Almost traffic-free, you’ll finish this route and spend the rest of the day wondering what you’d have to do to up stick and move here.

Guided Motorcycle Tours in France

Guided motorcycle tours are a great way to ride great roads, minimise the admin and meet new people. There are more motorcycle tours in France than you’ll be able to sample in a lifetime. 

Some of these outfits will put you up at their B&B and take you on tours to suit your time and budget while others will run scheduled tours where you ride planned routes each day and stay at different hotels and B&Bs along the way.

We have no affiliation with any of the companies listed below, but these companies cover all types of tours in many different regions around France. If a guided motorcycle tour is what floats your boat, these are good companies to contact.

Bike Normandy

bikenormandy.com

bikers-lot.com

Caday Rouge

Dordogne Motorcycle Tours

dordognemotorcycletours.com

The French Ride

thefrenchride.com

Motorcycle Rental in France

Motorcycle rental is a great option if you want to explore some of the further reaches of France without having to bash out hundreds of miles just to get there.

You can arrange a hire bike in the area you want to visit, fly to a nearby airport with your kit, set up your digs and jump on the rental bike and go exploring.

You can rent anything from a 50cc scooter, to a Harley-Davidson but Adventure bikes like the BMW R1250GS, Ducati Multistrada and Honda’s Africa Twin are popular choices.

Budget around £700 to rent a motorbike for a week, which is pretty good value for money, especially if you factor in tyre wear and servicing. Check for mileage restrictions and that insurance and breakdown cover are included. Often extras like luggage and sat-nav are an additional cost you’ll have to factor in.

Lots of rental companies will also help you with accommodation and some also offer guided tours.

One of the great advantages of motorcycle hire is that you can rent a bike that’s better suited to the type of riding you want to do. Unlike if you’re using your own bike, you don’t need to factor in a bike that’ll just be comfortable for big-mile-days; you can get one that’s great for twisty roads but less-suited to big miles, like a Ducati Scrambler or BMW R NineT.

For a low-hassle holiday or if you just fancy riding a different bike, then motorcycle rental will be right up your rue.

Moto-Plaisir

www.moto-plaisir.fr/en/

Ride in Tours

www.ride-in-tours.com

We Rent Motorcycles

www.we-rent-motorcycles.com

Universal Riders

en.universalriders.com

locamoto.fr

French Travel Tips

Avoid motorways – the A-roads are far faster than in the UK, free to use and far more scenic.

Make sure your breakdown cover includes repatriation –  so if the worst happens your bike will be transported back to the UK.

Ride on the right side – stick some tape on your top yoke, draw a road as you see it (i.e. two lanes) and draw an arrow facing away from you on the right and towards you on the left. Then write “Ride on the right side” on the tape and it’ll stop you making an easy mistake when you leave a petrol station or lunch stop.

Download our Guide to Motorcycle Touring in France below and get more great tips, a printable packing list and a guide on all you need to know.

Is lane splitting legal in France? In Paris, Lyon, Marseille and Bordeaux you can filter through stationary traffic. It is technically illegal elsewhere but the French seem to have a laissez-faire attitude towards it; it’s unlikely you’ll get pulled for it if you’re sensible.

Do you have to wear a helmet in France? Yes, any rider, pillion or sidecar passenger has to wear a motorcycle helmet that conforms to EU standards.

Do I need reflective stickers on my helmet to ride in France? The law states you have to have four reflective stickers on your helmet, one on each ‘side’. It is unlikely you’ll get pulled over for not obeying this but if you are pulled over for another reason you may get an additional fine for this.

Does my AA membership cover me in France? If you only have UK breakdown cover then no, you’ll need to extend it to Europe. You can buy a single-trip policy – check out our European motorcycle breakdown review .

Do I need an Air Quality Certificate? If you are going to ride in Paris, Grenoble, Lyon or Strasbourg city centres then you’ll need a certificate.  There are six different emissions brackets and you’ll pay more if your vehicle is in a higher bracket. You can apply for your certificate here .

Other questions you might want answers to:

Do I need to carry a breathalyser in France?

Can I ride a 125 in France

Can I ride on an A2 licence in France?

Do I need a GB sticker on my motorbike in France?

Do motorcycles pay tolls in France?

Questions or Comments?

If you’ve got a question about this article and you need a bit more guidance, drop a comment below and we’ll get back to you.

Likewise, if you’ve got something to add to this article or an experience you’d like to share, let’s hear it!

We love reading your comments and helping our readers.

Hello, the La priorité à droite also exisist in Sweden since many years. Same traffic sign

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Motorcycle Tourer

8 Motorcycle Routes In France That Take Less Than A Week

Motorcycle Tourer | 26 March 2024 24 July 2022 | Route Planning , Routing Tips

In biker circles, I’m known for two things. The first is that I’m decent in the twisties. And the second is that I have a fair bit of touring knowledge.

So if people want to get better at riding in the twisties, they come to me. And if they want advice on their first touring experience, they seek my suggestions.

But they always look at me like I’m stupid when I tell them to avoid places like the Alps, the Pyrenees, or the Dolomites.

See, that’s what  I  did the first time I headed for European shores all those years ago. I made a beeline for the big Alpine passes.

And whilst I don’t regret it, it was a long, hard slog – a long, hard slog that new tourers can’t comprehend until they’re actually doing it!

“I want to go to Grimsel, Susten, and Furka on the way to Stelvio” they excitedly tell me. And it’s usually followed by “I don’t want to go on motorways or toll roads, either.”

“Ah, nice! How long have you got off work?” I ask.

“A week.”

motorcycle routes france - winding road through mountains

Understand It’s Too Far!

Trying to ride the Alps, the Pyrenees, or the Dolomites in a week isn’t happening. And if you want to do it whilst avoiding motorways and tolls, that  definitely  isn’t happening.

Dream a little smaller. Plan motorcycle routes in France with fewer miles. And plan to actually  enjoy  it rather than munch through 400 miles each day.

The thing is, I (like so many others) spent a good few years blasting through France to get to Switzerland. But it was only when I started to slow down and explore France  properly  that I realised I probably preferred it to the bucket list passes in the big mountain ranges.

Of course, the mountains you see will be nowhere near as big as the ones in the Alps. But when you take everything together as a package, France can be a stunning place to spend a week on your bike.

bmw side of road by mountains

Motorcycle Routes In France That Take Less Than A Week

You can’t ride all of France in a week. The secret to enjoying this wonderful country is to pick a region – and then stay in it.

Don’t be tempted to cross the border into Switzerland, Italy, or Spain. Just stick to your chosen region and commit to slowing down, exploring it, and, most importantly, enjoying it.

To help you choose, we’ve come up with eight motorcycle routes in France – all of which you can enjoy in a week if travelling from the UK.

With a little time spent looking at ferries, you can choose where to dock in France and instantly get on with riding away from the troubles at home!

motorcycle routes france - two bikers

Look Beyond The Eurotunnel

I like the Eurotunnel. And if I’m heading south-east, it will always be my transportation of choice because it’s quicker, cheaper, and (generally) less faff than the ferry.

But Folkestone and Dover aren’t the only gateways into France. And once you realise where other ferry ports are located in the UK and France, you can start to mix and match your crossings.

Don’t forget, you don’t need to buy a return ticket. You can buy a single to one port in France and then travel back to the UK via another.

Strategically planning where you’re sailing to (and from) can save you days – days that you can now spend enjoying motorcycle routes in France.

map of ferry ports in france and uk

More travel inspirations? Try these:

  • Col de l’Iseran By Motorcycle: Riding The King Of The Alps
  • Motorcycling In The Vosges Mountains: Make It A Priority
  • Off-Bike Gems: Wow Moments Of The Roselend Dam, France
  • Motorcycle Touring In The Jura Mountains: You Need To Go
  • Off-Bike Gems: Motorcycle Touring In Bohinj, Slovenia
  • Motorcycle Touring In France: Why You Shouldn’t Dismiss It
  • Off-Bike Gems: Motorcycle Touring In The Alpe di Siusi

Motorcycle Routes In France: Picardie And Champagne (Ardenne)

If you fancy the idea of visiting regions historical in two world wars, Picardie and Champagne are fabulous areas to visit.

With memories of sad days past, you’ll see rocket bunkers, armament emplacements, and the sombre sights of graveyards and memorials. You’ll also see the spine-tingling Thiepval monument – the monument for the Missing of the Somme.

As you head further into the region, the mood lightens a touch as you reach the home of Champagne. And with roads gently winding their way over undulating hills, you’ll meander through quiet villages and communes whilst feeling the ambient sun on your back.

Another nice thing about the Champagne region is the “Accueil Motards” signs you’ll on properties – “Bikers Welcome.”

The biker friendly hotels offer parking (usually off-street), areas to dry off kit (and sometimes wash it), and tools and equipment to make any repairs.

motorcycle routes france - map of picardie and champagne

Where To Base Yourself

To get the most out of the region, aim to base yourself in the following:

  • Monthermé

How To Get There

If you plan to stay more in the north of the region, you have various options! The obvious choice is to jump on the Eurotunnel and ride into the region from Calais.

You could also catch a ferry into Dunkirk or even Dieppe depending on where you want to visit.

Here are some other options if you wanted to base yourself further south:

  • Dieppe to Amiens – 71 miles (1 hour 30 mins)
  • Dieppe to Moussy – 76 miles (2 hours)
  • Dunkirk to Monthermé – 173 miles (3 hours 15 mins)
  • Calais or Dunkirk to Verdun – both around 250 miles (4 hours)
  • Dieppe to Troyes – 228 miles (4 hours)

Route Suggestion:

  • Day 1 – Make your way to Amiens via Dunkirk or Calais
  • Day 2 – Loop northeast to visit the war monuments and sites (back to the hotel in Amiens)
  • Day 3 – Head south-east from Amiens to Compiégne and Chantilly for some excellent riding
  • Day 4 – Continuing south, ride through the vineyards of Montagne de Reims towards Troyes
  • Day 5 – After a night in the ancient city of Troyes, head northeast towards Monthermé and the Ardenne
  • Day 6 – Head north towards Dunkirk or Calais from Monthermé for your crossing back into the UK.

french town and canal

Motorcycle Routes In France: Brittany

The good thing about Brittany is that it’s so easy to get to from the UK. So it’s perfect for everything from a long weekend away to an entire week.

And if it’s your first time touring, it’s also a great way to dip your feet in. It isn’t too far, you can choose to make it short, the roads are enjoyable but not challenging, and there are plenty of towns and cities so you’ll have everything you need.

One thing to remember about Brittany is that it can get busy. Because if it’s easy for  you  to get to, it’s also easy for everybody  else  to get to!

But if you can make it there out of season (around May, June, or September), Brittany is a fantastic yet relaxing way to get some ‘you’ time.

Finally, you don’t really have to double down on route planning, either. With beaches, coastlines, and awesome riding roads in every direction, you can’t really go wrong!

motorcycle routes france - brittany map

For good access to roads and amenities, consider the following locations to base yourself:

  • Ploumanac’h
  • Fougères
  • Plougonvelin

Getting to Brittany is easy, so it depends on the most suitable location for you or how long you want the ride to be once you get into France.

The easiest ports are Roscoff or St Malo. But if you fancy a nice ride in once you get off the ferry, go for Caen.

Here are a few options:

  • Caen to Fougères – 93 miles (1 hour 40 mins)
  • St Malo to Fougères – 55 miles (1 hour 10 mins)
  • Roscof to Ploumanac’h – 48 miles (1 hour 15 mins)
  • Roscof to Quimper – 63 miles (1 hour 20 minutes)
  • Roscof to Plougonvelin – 52 miles (1 hour 10 mins)
  • Roscoff or St Malo to Carnac – both around 130 miles (2 hours 15 mins)

Route Suggestion

  • Day 1 – Make your way to Fougères via the ferry to St Malo or Caen.
  • Day 2 – Explore the châteaus of St Michel , Fougères , Châteaugiron , and Château Gontier .
  • Day 3 – Head west to your base around Morlaix, visiting the seaside village of Ploumanac’h.
  • Day 4 – Enjoy a loop of Amorique national park and the historic town of Guingamp.
  • Day 5 – Head towards your next base in Quimper, stopping off at the coastal Pointe du Raz , the Crozon peninsula, and the stunning Arree Hills.
  • Day 6 – Head south-east for your last night in Carnac, enjoying Quiberon, Rocheforten-Terre, and the Carnac megaliths.
  • Day 7 – Riding back north to Roscoff or St Malo for the ferry back to the UK.

coastal view from brittany

Motorcycle Routes In France: Normandy

As with Picardie and Champagne, Normandy is a great route to enjoy if you’re into history. But it’s not all about D-Day landings, William the Conquerer, and the Bayeux tapestry .

Normandy is rich with luscious greenery, relaxing coastal roads, and picturesque harbours. There’s a reason why Monet made this one of his regular places to visit.

As with Brittany, Normandy is an excellent option if you’re new to riding, new to touring, or want to see if you enjoy riding with a pillion.

Sights you can enjoy along the way include Le Mans, the Gatteville lighthouse at Barfleur, and the hidden coastal area of Cap de La Hague .

motorcycle routes france - normandy map

  • Fécamp
  • Barneville-Carteret
  • Alençon

As with the other routes in this post, Normandy is an easy place to get to, thanks to the plethora of options you have available.

To get to Normandy from the UK, you can sail into Cherbourg, Caen, Le Havre, or St Malo – depending on where you’re basing yourself, or how long you wish to ride for when leaving the ferry.

Your Options Include:

  • Le Havre to Fécamp – 27 miles (45 mins)
  • Cherbourg to Barneville-Carteret – 22 miles (35 mins)
  • Caen to Alençon – 67 miles (1 hour 15 mins)
  • St Malo to Barneville-Carteret – 120 miles (2 hours 20 mins)
  • Day 1 – Make your way to your accommodation in Bayeux via any of the ports above.
  • Day 2 – Spend the day visiting the sights of the D-Day landings, Pegasus Bridge, and the Airbourne museum.
  • Day 3 – Take the coastal route northwest to see the Cherbourg peninsula, the Gateville lighthouse, and some of the stunning Normandy countryside.
  • Day 4 – Enjoy more of the countryside as you head south-east towards your base in Alençon.
  • Day 5 – Head north-east towards your base in Fécamp, enjoying the coastal roads and crossing the river Seine.
  • Day 6 – Ride the few miles to Le Havre, Caen, or Dieppe to your crossing back to the UK.

coastal view normandy

Motorcycle Routes In France: The Auvergne

If you want excellent riding, the Auvergne is a fantastic choice. Situated in the Massif Central, this historical region is surrounded by imposing mountains, green forests, and dormant volcanoes.

Shall I tell you another reason why it’s so good? It’s quiet! And this is because everyone has headed for the Alps!

The regional capital, Clermont-Ferrand, is the busiest you’ll see. But even that is pretty quiet. As you would expect, the areas outside the capital are even quieter and are sparsely populated.

The Chaîne des Puys runs through the regional centre and features a chain of extinct volcanoes. And with cable cars running throughout the area, it makes for fabulous riding and fabulous views.

Other sights include Le Puy-en-Velay , Chapel Saint Michel d’Aiguilhe , the fortified village of Montpeyroux , and the Cascade du Queureuilh .

motorcycle routes france - the auvergne map

You’ll have a way to travel when you depart from the ferry. So if you plan to visit the Auvergne, we recommend basing yourself in Issoire – south of Clermont-Ferrand.

Due to the central location of Issoire, getting to it from the north is quite a trek. And it’s made worse by the fact it’s surrounded by mountains and volcanoes that you need to circumnavigate.

Options To Get There (split over 2 days):

  • Caen – 387 miles (6 hours)
  • Le Havre – 386 miles (6 hours 15 mins)
  • Eurotunnel – 464 miles (7 hours 30 mins)

Route Suggestion (all to and from the same hotel):

  • Days 1 & 2 – Ride from Caen to Issoire with a stop somewhere in the middle.
  • Day 3 – Enjoy a loop of the glorious riding roads of the Livradois hills , separating Issoire and St Étienne.
  • Day 4 – Another loop, this time heading south. Head down to St Fleur and enjoy the ranges and the Benedictine abbey at La Chaise-Dieu .
  • Day 5 – Your final loop through from Le Mont-Dore to Puy Mary, taking you on a trail of the historic volcanoes via some of the finest roads the Auvergne has to offer.
  • Days 6 & 7 – Make your way back north to catch the ferry (split over 2 days).

drone shot mountains auvergne

Motorcycle Routes In France: Limousin

So far, we’ve had history and culture, old towns and cities, and the riding brilliance of the Auvergne. But if you fancy combining them all, Limousin might just be your ticket.

Next door to the Auvergne (to the east), we have Limousin – the quietest and least populated area of mainland France. 

Similar to the Auvergne, the volume dial is turned down a tad. The hills are lower. The forests are rich and dense, and the roads are emptier than those in the Auvergne.

With ancient architecture to admire, hidden châteaus to explore, and wonderful cuisine to sample, Limousin is a great shout for lovers of riding, food, and semi-timbered historic towns.

motorcycle routes france - limousin map

You can stop in a few places here, depending on what you want to do. For Limousin, St Étienne-de-Fursac is good place to stop.

Brantôme would work well if you fancy exploring further south towards Bordeaux , or Treignac if wanted to combine this trip with the Auvergne.

As with the Auvergne, getting to Limousin is a bit of a mooch as it’s in the centre of France. You can get there via a range of ferry options, however.

  • St Malo to St Étienne-de-Fursac – 324 miles (5 hours 40 mins)
  • Caen to St Étienne-de-Fursac – 284 miles (5 hours)
  • Le Havre to St Étienne-de-Fursac – 327 miles (5 hours 40 mins)

Route Suggestions (all to and from the same hotel):

If you were short on time, the ride from Caen to St Étienne-de-Fursac is certainly manageable in one day – if not ideal.

For those who have a few extra days, I would split the ride from Caen to St Étienne-de-Fursac (and back again) into two days.

Suggested Route 1:

  • Day 1 – Make your way from Caen to St Étienne-de-Fursac after getting off the ferry.
  • Day 2 – Enjoy a mouth-wateringly twisty ride taking in the castles of Richard the Lionheart, and the awe-inspiring château at Arnac-Pompadour .
  • Day 3 – Pick a direction, and loop out to enjoy some wonderfully relaxed twisty roads. Visit the historic town of Brantôme, and stop off to see the château at Rochechouart on your way back.
  • Day 4 – Another long slog back north to your ferry port.

Suggested Route 2:

  • Days 1 & 2 – Make your way from Caen to St Étienne-de-Fursac, stopping off halfway.
  • Day 3 – As day 2 in route 1.
  • Day 4 – As day 3 in route 1.
  • Days 5 & 6 – Split the long slog back north into two days and enjoy the quiet roads.

scenic view in limousin

Motorcycle Routes In France: Dordogne

For the third trip to Central France, we bring you the Dordogne – a region synonymous with (arguably) the most popular wines in the world, fantastic food, tonnes of historical charm, and quintessential French culture.

The Dordogne is perfect for a relaxed tour. The roads are quiet, twisty, and easy. And with the Loire Valley to the north and the Pyrenees to the south, it’s a wonderful mix of vineyards, culturally rich towns, and jaw-dropping scenery.

If you like history and architecture, head towards the Dordogne Valley, where you’ll see mightly châteaus standing guard over the river.

And if you get time, head into the caves and gorges on foot to catch a glimpse of pre-historic art .

motorcycle routes france - dordogne map

If you want to stay in one place, Périgueux offers a central location. And as the capital city of Périgord, it has all the amenities you could need.

If you want to travel around, Le Roque Gageac is a lovely place to stay, as is Bergerac .

As we’re still close to Limousin and Auvergne, the problem of getting there still stands. These are your best options, depending on your schedule.

  • St Malo to Périgueux – 346 miles (6 hours 30 mins)
  • Caen to Périgueux – 343 miles (6 hours)
  • Le Havre Périgueux – 375 miles (6 hours 50 mins)

Technically, you could ride from Caen to Périgueux in one day. And then ride back again after a few days in the Dordogne.

That said, I’d split the trip into two days to fully enjoy it and immerse myself in the wonderful French culture.

  • Days 1 & 2 – Split the ride from Caen to Périgueux into two days.
  • Day 3 – Head south to the chocolate-box village of Le Roque Gageac, and then follow the Dordyne river to your stop off in Bergerac.
  • Day 4 – Either enjoy a day off the bike exploring the old-world charm of Bergerac, or head west and take a ride through the vineyards of Bordeaux.
  • Days 5 & 6 – Head back north for your crossing to the UK.

french castle

Motorcycle Routes In France: Loire

If castles are your bag, you’ll love Loire and its impressive array of châteaus. Take a stroll toward the river, and soak in the sights of the architecture crammed with castles, churches, and Basilicas.

Don’t be afraid to take a day off the bike to explore the landscape and castles. After a long ride there, it might be just what you need!

Chenonceau and Chambord are both worthy mentions. For churches, try the Basilica of St Martin in Tours and the cathedral of Orléans .

For some artistic homage, the smallest castle in Amboise (Clos Lucé) was home to Leonardi Di Vinci – it also houses replicas of some of his machines.

motorcycle routes france - loire map

For somewhere central, with riding options in all directions, and a host of amenities, Amboise is a good choice.

If you want somewhere near all the attractions without being in the middle of them, Bléré is quieter and sits a few miles south of Amboise.

As the Loire sits on the northern side of central France, it’s a bit easier to get to than Limousin or Auvergne.

It’s a little bit far to reach from the Eurotunnel in a single day, but these options are available.

  • Caen to Amboise – 176 miles (3 hours)
  • Le Havre to Amboise – 208 miles (3 hours 45 mins)
  • Eurotunnel to Amboise – 322 miles (5 hours 45 mins)
  • Day 1 – Make your way from Caen to Amboise.
  • Day 2 – A shorter route east will allow you to mix riding with seeing the castles on foot. Try Chaumontsur-Loire, Chenonceau, Chambord, Bloise, Amboise or Montrichard.
  • Day 3 – Loop yourself west towards Tours, where you’ll find the châteaus of Usse, Loches and Château de Chinon.
  • Day 4 – Head back north to Caen for your ferry to the UK.

castle in loire valley

Motorcycle Routes In France: The Vosges Mountains

If you’ve been around Motorcycle Tourer for a while, you would’ve heard me bang on about the Vosges a few times! But the reason for that is simple – it’s awesome.

With more twisting roads that you can shake a stick at, you don’t need the Alps. It’s quieter, cheaper, and more authentic.

In terms of scenery, the Vosges is a unique mix of wide-open panoramas and dense woodland – both of which can form tours of their own. And if you wanted to stretch this tour out even further, you’re only a few hours away from the Jura mountains – another adventure in itself.

The people are lovely and incredibly hospitable. Much of the food is foraged from the woodlands, so the cuisine is delightfully fresh and tasty.

Be prepared for cyclists around every corner. But if you choose the right time to go, the roads are devoid of traffic and can be as testing (or as relaxing) as you make them!

motorcycle routes france - vosges map

For me, the only place to base yourself in the Vosges is Gérardmer – a lovely little town that has everything you need without the hustle and bustle of a city.

Other options could include La Bresse , Belfort , Mulhouse , or even Besançon if you want something further out.

You could ride from the Eurotunnel to Gérardmer in one day if you wanted to. However, I would recommend stopping in Arras or Reim.

  • Eurotunnel to Gérardmer – 363 miles (6 hours 40 minutes)
  • Days 1 & 2 – Ride from the Eurotunnel to Gérardmer.
  • Day 3 – Head in a loop northeast to ride the Route des Crêtes and witness the summit of Le Hohneck.
  • Day 4 – Loop south-east to the quiet town of Cernay and enjoy switchbacks all the way.
  • Day 5 – Head southwest for a day that takes you away from the mountains and into the deep woodlands for a different experience.
  • Days 6 & 7 – Head back north to the Eurotunnel.

For a precise route map, see our dedicated post on the Vosges here .

view from vosges

Motorcycle Routes In France: You Missed Out The Pyrenees!

Well, yes and no. I did miss out the Pyrenees – but I did that on purpose.

The fact is, you  could  ride from any of the ferry ports in the north and ride through France to get to the Pyrenees. But when you got there, you’d only be able to sample the outskirts before immediately heading home.

You could choose to take the ferry from Portsmouth to Santander (or Bilbao) – but it would eat into your riding days.

If you want to visit the Pyrenees, you need to dedicate time to it to fully experience the delights it has to offer.

You can always go there next year!

Shad E-04P PIN System Tank Bag: Review

Ride this route through the forest of bowland, 7 thoughts on “8 motorcycle routes in france that take less than a week”.

Do you have any recommendations in and around Valence (for 1 week)? We’d fly into Lyon from the US and rent the motorcyles in Lyon. We need to be in Valence for two days, but other than that we are free to ride.

Hi Janine, depending on how long you like your days, you could head south towards Montelimar for that South of France vibe, or even further towards Avignon if you enjoy the city and culture. Riding southeast will take you through the lovely town of Bedoin and onto epic rides such as Mt Ventoux. If you head northeast, you’ll reach the peaks surrounding Grenoble (or even Chambery if you have the time.) Failing that, heading northwest towards the Auvergne will give you a nice mix of riding and culture while riding west will take you towards the Massif Central with its imposing mountains and dormant volcanoes. They’re all quite far from Valence, but I’m sure you’ll have a great time whichever direction you choose!

Hi, just a quick line to say a big thanks for putting this together , my wife and I are reasonably experienced tourers and we are heading to France in May /June this year , via Belgium and Germany. I have read the full article and I’m sure that I can gleen something from it . Stay safe , Shiney side up !!

Hi David, you’re very welcome! Let us know how you get on. I’m hoping to be in France around the same time… fingers crossed it pans out! Stay safe mate!

Hi from Canada! Thank you for so many amazing ideas. I wondered if you had a suggestion on a bike tour company that I may join for a week of riding. I would be solo. I would be based out of Paris at the start and end of my holiday. Thanks so much and take good care. Ride safe.

Hi David, These all look amazing. I’ll be solo in Paris in mid-April (first trip to France) and my idea was to rent a bike in Paris, make my way to Provence, then to Barcelona for a couple days, up to San Sebastián, (perhaps via Andorra), and then up through Bordeaux and back to Paris, taking two-to-three weeks on the road. Reading your guide, it seems you’d advise against biting off that much territory in one trip alone, but I’d love to get your suggestions. Seems like I could take two weeks just in the Southeast of France. Thanks,

Hi Mike, you absolutely COULD do that trip in 2 weeks – especially if you’re starting and ending your trip in Paris. My only concern would be when you got to the south of France/Spain where you would be skirting the Pyrenees. If you’re planning on going through the range, snow might still be around in April – so some of the Cols could be closed.

As well as the Pyrenees, you’d also likely be skirting the Vosges and the French Alps. I’ve spent two weeks in each of these three locations alone!

But given the time of year, you probably won’t be spending much time in the mountains – so your trip would definitely be possible. Just plan for it being on the colder side! Let us know how you get on 🙂

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Motorcycling in France- the Ultimate Guide

Planning a motorbike trip to France? Here's everything you need to know to plan your tour and enjoy motorcycling in France.

Planning to go touring in France with a motorbike? There are some essential things you need to know before your trip, including important paperwork and what kit to bring with you. Here’s everything you need to know about motorcycling in France.

Don’t forget to grab your FREE motorcycle maintenance checklist below to help you get ready for your trip.

*We work hard to make this the best motorcycle touring & tips website possible. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own . Ride safe!

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Motorcycling in France

If you enjoy motorcycling in the UK or elsewhere,  you’re going to LOVE motorcycle touring in France.  There’s everything you could want from a road trip, including fantastic campsites by the beach, vineyards and local markets full of wine, cheese and other goodies, incredible history and plenty of places to explore.

France is often the gateway to Europe for anyone in the UK with a motorbike. All too often we rush through as quickly as possible, keen to ride in other locations, like motorcycling in Spain , Switzerland or Italy.

But I urge you to take some time to explore. France has some incredible destinations for biking holidays- see below for great itinerary ideas.

If you’re contemplating taking a motorbike to France, this post will help you plan your trip- and tell you what you need to bring and organise before you leave. 

Motorcycle route planner for France- where to go

The best thing about  planning a motorcycle tour  is that you can literally go ANYWHERE. But that freedom can also be a bit overwhelming- where do you even start?

Before we tell you about the essential things you need to do whilst motorbike touring in France, let’s chat about some of the places you can visit on your France road trip.

Northern France by motorbike route ideas

Again, many people drive through northern France as a way of getting somewhere else, but there a lot to discover here if you make time to explore.

Some of our favourite places for motorcycle trips in Northern France include:

  • The Normandy beaches. Everyone should do this at least one
  • Mont St Michael- one of the most historical places in France.
  • Brittany- one of our favourite areas in France
  • The Loire Valley. If you like chateaux and history, this is for you!
  • Ile de Re and La Rochelle
  • Strasbourg- one of the best and biggest Christmas markets in Europe!

On a side note, I know Paris is in the north of France and we LOVE Paris… but not with a motorbike. It’s chaos. Park up nearby and travel in by public transport or taxi. Driving in Paris is a law unto itself!

RELATED: See our 5 best motorcycling roads in Europe

Motorcycle Route Planner Southern France

We’ve spent a lot of time motorcycling in southern France. Some of our favourite places include:

  • The Gorges du Verdon. One of the most spectacular places we have EVER been with our bikes.
  • The Pyrenees, especially the Cirque du Gavarnie. It’s jaw-droppingly beautiful.
  • French Alps. Exploring the Alps with a motorbike is one of our favourite trips. We also love Lake Annecy and you MUST add the cable car up Mont Blanc to your France motorbiking itinerary.
  • Bordeaux and the Dune du Pilat- make sure you allow time to visit some of the incredible vineyards in the area!

Make sure you bring a motorcycle camera or helmet cam – the scenery is spectacular.

motorcycle touring bikes- Planning a motorbike trip to France? Here's everything you need to know to plan your tour and enjoy motorcycling in France.

Motorcycle in France Advice- when to go

The best time to visit France with a motorcycle or any other vehicle is whenever you have time to explore! Some people pop over on the Eurotunnel for a weekend break. Others take a month to explore one corner.

The beauty of France being so large is that usually there will be at least one area with decent weather. And the beauty of exploring on wheels is that you can go wherever the weather is best for you!

Generally, the best weather in France is between April- October. You may still get decent temperatures into November on the French Riviera (that’s the coast on the Med, not the Atlantic coast.)

It can get VERY hot in summer, especially down south. It can also be amazingly windy- you’ll find many cafes and restaurants near the Mediterranean or Atlantic bolt down their outdoor furniture.

Our favourite times are Spring and Autumn. It’s usually warm, especially in the south, but there aren’t huge crowds and it’s easy to get access to popular tourist places. Be careful on more exposed roads at the foot of mountains- some of the gusts come out of nowhere.

Driving from the UK to France routes

If you’re taking your motorcycle from the UK to France, or if you’re taking a motorcycle camper van , there are a couple of options on how to get over there- ferry or Eurotunnel.

Getting to France by Ferry from the UK

Ferry routes go from all along the south coast and occasionally up the East Coast too. The two main providers are Brittany Ferries and DFDS Seaways.

We enjoy taking the ferry because it cuts down on driving time- we’re travelling whilst we’re sleeping. Also, we’re often driving from South-West England to the west coast of France- so ferry cuts off a lot of that journey.

The downside of taking the ferry is that it’s usually MUCH more expensive and there are less frequent crossings. Also, in bad weather, it can be miserable.

Taking a Motorcycle on the Channel Tunnel

The “Chunnel” is fast, effective and probably the cheapest way to get a motorbike to France, even in school holidays. There are very few downsides, but the biggest is the delays in summer. Sometimes the queues can be HOURS long- and that was before BREXIT. Having said that, they do try and squeeze bikes on wherever they can.

The other big downside is how far you have to ride to get there if it’s out of your way- that’s the main reason we don’t use it as often as the ferry, although if we’re going straight through France to go motorcycling in Germany, the Netherlands or anywhere further east, it makes sense.

Don’t forget, you can use your Tesco vouchers to reduce the cost even further and some clubs also offer discounts.

Best Motorcycle Route to Italy Through France

If you’re planning a route through France to go motorcycling in Italy , we’ve put together some of the best routes for motorcycles and cars.

motorcycle tours in france

France Route Planner (with maps)

Motorcycle Hire in France

If you don’t have your own bike, or don’t want to take it, you can easily fly into France and hire one. Just make sure to ask how to get from the airport to the rental agency- not all of them are at the airport itself and you might need to book a taxi.

To rent a motorcycle in France most places will expect you to be:

  • from 21 years of age, depending on the company’s rental policy; (18 years old for scooters and some very small bikes).
  • have a valid driving licence with at least 2 years experience.
  • hold a full and valid motorcycle licence for riding in France.
  • The vehicle renter must produce his/her current driving licence.
  • Minimum age for riding under 125cc is 18 years old & 1 year car driving experience.
  • show identification (identity card for EU citizens or a valid passport for other nationalities).

Make sure you have proof that you can take the vehicle across a border if that’s what you’re planning to do.

Don’t forget, it is YOUR responsibility to make sure the vehicle has the required safety equipment. The on-the-spot fines apply to you as the rider, not the company. Check in advance with the company what kit they will provide with the vehicle and what you will need to bring. If you are solo motorcycle touring , remember you’ll need to carry everything yourself, including any motorcycle camping kit.

Take a list of what is legally required with you and check it off one by one as you are given the handover. Do not drive until you are happy you comply with the local laws.

You can expect to pay anywhere from 80€-180€/ day- based on model. Make sure you ask the right questions to know what’s included in your rental, such as:

  • Mileage limits/ surcharge
  • Kit included
  • Luggage included
  • Helmet rental available
  • Pillion allowed
  • Breakdown/ insurance cover
  • Times & location of pick up/ drop off
  • Documents needed

Motorcycling in France- what gear do you need to carry?

Just like most of Europe , there are certain things you MUST carry with you whilst motorbike touring in France.

Don’t forget, if you are driving through France to get to somewhere else, you’ll need all the kit France requires, plus anything extra required by the destination country.

Things you need to ride in France- safety gear

These are the things you MUST have with you when you’re motorcycle touring in France.

  • Wearing a helmet is mandatory for riders and pillions and you will be fined for breaking this. See below for more about reflective stickers on bike helmets in France.
  • CE certified gloves are also mandatory for rider and pillion
  • Hi-vis reflective jackets – you must wear them on the side of the road or hard shoulder or risk being fined. You do NOT have to ride with one on if you don’t wish to.
  • You do not need headlight beam converters on a motorcycle in Europe unless your headlight points dramatically to the left.
  • Country (UK) sticker attached to the back of bike on reg plates. (NOT the EU or GB sticker anymore!)
  • If you wear glasses you MUST carry a spare pair

NOTE – If buying a helmet, check for an ECE 22 E-Mark label to be road-legal on European roads. Read more.

AA High Visibility Vest for safety and emergencies - Yellow

TOP TIP: Buy these essentials for riding in France in advance. If you wait until you’re at the ferry/ tunnel, you could spend THREE times as much!

Reflective Stickers on motorcycle helmets in France- what’s the law?

There is a law stating that all motorcycle helmets in France must have reflective stickers on the sides and rear. On our first tour of France, we ruined our helmets putting great huge stickers all over them.

And then we discovered something- NO ONE else in France had them.

Sure, some motorcycle helmets are already designed with reflective parts, but most aren’t. Apparently, the EU Commission has said it cannot retroactively apply to helmets, only NEW helmets sold in France. So foreign riders should be fine, although who knows what the Gendarmes will be like after BREXIT. If you want to avoid all risk of a 135€ fine, put the stickers on.

The fine for not carrying a hi vis jacket is a mere €11, rising to €135 if you do not have one when broken down.

And don’t forget, as of summer 2017, both riders and pillions MUST wear CE certified gloves at all times. Breaking this law could result in a fine of around 68€

Carrying a hi-vis jacket on a motorcycle

Yep, the law applies to motorcyclists and pillions too. It’s essential that you carry a high-visibility jacket with you at all times when out on your bike; you don’t have to wear it- just carry it.

Should you be stopped by the police and found to not have it, there is a small fine of 11€ (payable on the spot.) However, should you break down on the side of the road and be found to not be wearing it, you’ll be fined 135€. If you have a pillion, they need their own vest or jacket.

Recommended bike accessories you MIGHT need when motorcycling in France

The following kit are things you might want to carry in your kit.

  • Warning triangle
  • First aid kit
  • Spare bulbs – not compulsory, but useful
  • Snacks and water- just in case!

Don’t forget to do your motorcycle maintenance checks before you leave- grab your FREE motorcycle maintenance checklist here

Goodyear Emergency Safety Warning Triangle Reflective Fold Up & Hard Case

Do I need a breathalyser to ride in France?

No.  Repeat after me- you do NOT need a breathalyser to drive in France.

It was a law France passed a few years ago… and then quietly removed for whatever reason. Many posts ranking highly in Google still list a breathalyser in their essential Europe driving accessories list, but I promise you you don’t need one.

What documents do you need to road trip in France?

If you’re riding in France, you need to carry the following documents:

  • Passport (or identity card)
  • Driving licence (check it is in date!)
  • Motorcycle Insurance documents- check you are covered for riding in Europe
  • Vehicle V5 logbook (which must show your correct address)

We advise to also have the following documents to hand:

  • Vehicle tax
  • Breakdown cover
  • International Driving Permit if required
  • Trailer certification (if towing)
  • Personal travel insurance

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in France?

Most UK citizens do not need an IDP to drive in France, as long as you have a card driving licence issued in the UK (in date, of course!)

If you hold a paper driving licence or a driving licence from Gibraltar, Jersey, Guernsey or the Isle of Man, you may need a 1968 IDP. Check with the French Embassy.

Motorcycling in France- where to stay overnight

In France, there are several types of stopovers you can use.

France Camping sites for motorcycles

It’s easy to find motorcycle campsites in France and they’re much like campsites anywhere else in Europe. Some are rustic and have very basic facilities, while others are designed for long-term visitors and have entertainment, clubs, pools and bars! If you’re motorhoming in France and taking your bikes on a trailer, you’ll have no problem.

Many campsites have large pitches, excellent (and clean) facilities and stunning views. And most have staff who speak excellent English.

TOP TIP: If you’re touring France in summer, especially southern France, make sure to get a pitch with shade. You’re going to need it when the sun gets hot!

TOP TIP : If you’re planning to stay in one area for a long time (30+ days), negotiate a special rate with the campsite directly. Most of them have some sort of discount- some are as little as £10/ day, including electric.

Motorcycle Travel in France- where to stay

Once you’ve got a vehicle to tour around France in, the next thing to consider is what sort of motorbiking holiday you want to have and where are you going to camp/ park up overnight?

Deciding the type of holiday you want to have will make planning your motorcycle trip a lot easier.

How to plan a road trip- mistakes to avoid

Motorcycle campsites in France

Like in the UK, campsites in France vary in quality and price. Some campsites have great facilities, like swimming pools or a beach on a lake, watersports, play area, restaurants, fresh bread delivery, shop etc.

Others are more rustic and aren’t much more than an aire with an attendant. Expect the facilities at cheaper campsites to be much lower in hygiene standards than you might be used to!

There are some gorgeous campsites in France, right by beaches and lakes, with swimming pools, evening entertainment and kids clubs. If you want a relaxing holiday whilst staying in your own van and enjoying the sunshine, this might be the best option for you.

They work much like in the UK- you arrive, check in (and will usually need to show a passport), are given or can select a pitch with or without electric (depending on what you booked) and that’s it.

Expect some campsites to keep your passport for the duration of your stay with them. This is often at the places where you haven’t paid in advance- I always try to pay in advance and keep my passport where I know it’s safe!

Dogs are normally always welcome on campsites, but there isn’t always a dog walk/ run where they are allowed off lead.

Because we rarely plan a route through France, and therefore we never know where we’re going to be, we book campsites at the last minute- or just turn up. This doesn’t always work, (especially in  August or between October-March when many campsites shut) but there always seems to be something around which works out.

France motorcycle travel in the school holidays- or not?

If you’re travelling in the school holidays, you’ll want to book up the campsite (if you’re using one) asap- the best ones get booked up months in advance.

If you’re NOT travelling during the school holidays, you might want to consider getting an ACSI camping card– you’ll save a lot of money on campsite charges.

Getting Fuel in France

Many people worry whether they should fill up in UK or France.

In our experience, France is often a little cheaper, BUT there are often has fuel strikes. We ALWAYS fill up in the UK before we go… just in case.

Driving tips for France motorcycle travels

France is generally not too bad for drivers (at least, not compared to  motorcycling in Portugal or Italy!) The scariest thing about driver in France are the… ummm… older generation who don’t realise that priorite a droite is no longer a thing (more on that below!)

Some quick tips for driving in France:

  • France drives on the right, like much of Europe
  • Dipped headlights are compulsory during the day
  • Helmets and gloves are compulsory
  • Wearing earphones or buds is illegal, but intercoms/ bluetooth systems are not. Playing music is also banned, even through bluetooth headsets.
  • Avoid driving in Paris. At all times. In any vehicle.
  • The maximum speed for private vehicles under 3.5t is 130kph (81mph) on motorways but speed limits are lower for cars towing trailers
  • If driving through towns and villages, only use the horn in an emergency.
  • Buses and trams have right of way.
  • In-car speed camera detectors and  motorcycle sat-nav systems  warning of the presence of radars are illegal (whether they’re in use or not!)
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal, but you can use a hands-free unit without earbuds.
  • Minor traffic offences can result in on-the-spot fines.
  • UK driving licences are perfectly acceptable to use and you probably won’t need an IDP

Priorite a droite in France

France no longer has the stupid ‘prioritie a droite’ rule, (which meant you had to stop ON the roundabout for anyone coming onto it…!) HOWEVER, expect the occasional older French resident to merrily sail onto the roundabout and expect you to stop for them. It’s fun. Also, I believe it still exists in some places in France- like the Arc de Triomphe. Again- avoid Paris.

Speed limits in France

Speed Limits are determined by location, vehicle and weather and are as follows for motorcycles (unless otherwise signed!)

  • 130 km/h (80 mph) on motorways
  • 110km/hr (68mph) on major roads
  • 90 km/h (50 mph) on minor roads (out of town)
  • 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas
  • In rain or snow conditions (or if you’ve had a licence for less than 3 years), the limit is lowered to 110 km/h on motorways and 90 km/h on trunk roads- this WILL NOT be signposted- you’re expected to know it

Beware of parked cars on the sides of fast roads

Entrapment is allowed in France and police will regularly park an old car at the side of the road with a hidden camera in it, and then they’ll pull you over further down and give you a speeding ticket.

Speed camera warnings in France

If you see a sign for a speed camera, there’s nearly always a camera within a mile for sure. Also, be careful near a toll station (peage); they regularly put speed cameras within 10kms of these.

Planning a motorbike trip to France? Here's everything you need to know to plan your tour and enjoy motorcycling in France.

Filtering in France- is lane splitting legal?

Since February 2016, it’s been legal for motorbike riders near Paris, Marseille, Bordeaux and Lyon to ride between stationary lines of traffic.

However, it is only allowed on dual-carriageways and motorways AND when traffic in all lanes is at a standstill.

Elsewhere in France the practice is still considered illegal- and it’s not clear where the law starts and ends. Our advice is to proceed with caution and follow a local at your own risk.

Tolls in France

Yes, motorcycles have to pay tolls in France.

France, like nearly all countries in Europe which don’t have a vignette system, has tolls on its major roads. You collect a ticket at the machine as you enter the road system and pay (either a person or machine) at the end in cash or on a card. Tolls in France are one of the most expensive in Europe (just be grateful you’re not motorcycling in Norway!)

Depending on your route, a trip from Calais to Biarritz will cost around 58€ by motorcycle. You can calculate the toll cost of your intended route  here .

You can use a tollpass/ telepass (like e-Movis) which is a complete pain on a bike, PLUS you could be wrongly chargesd as a car. Even the toll companies don’t recommend them for motorcycles.

Carrying and paying cash or card is a lot easier- always best to go to a lane with an actual person in it. Signs indicate the means of payment accepted on each lane.

Riding in France- what to do in the event of a road traffic accident

You should have a European Claim Form provided by your insurer before you leave. In the event of an accident, all parties complete and sign the form at the scene and then send a copy to your insurer for assessment. Don’t sign anything unless you are happy with what it says.

What to do at the scene:

  • Stop your vehicle immediately but safely- out of the flow of traffic if possible.
  • If a vehicle is blocking the road, use hazard lights and put the red warning triangle 30 metres from the scene to warn approaching traffic
  • Name and address of all the people involved in the accident
  • Vehicle registration numbers of all parties
  • Insurance company details of all parties
  • Take photos of damage using a camera, GoPro or phone

Motorcycling in France- security

We highly recommend paying extra attention to your motorbike security when travelling in France, as motorcycle thefts do happen, as does petty theft and pickpocketing. I know it’s not always possible, but try not to leave your bike unattended in an unsecured area.

More useful things to know when motorcycling in France

Emergency Numbers:  112 will get you everything you need.

Language – French. English usually spoken in campsites and in tourist areas, but not often elsewhere.

Currency – Euro

Cards – most major credit and debit cards are accepted. American Express is only taken in large stores (not at tolls and often not at fuel stations)

Timezone – GMT+1 (or one hour ahead in BST) France is always one hour ahead of the UK, no matter what. Their clocks go forward and back whenever ours does.

Tipping – If you decide to treat yourself to a meal out, most restaurants will include a tip in the bill. Otherwise, 10-15% is standard. Coffee shops and lunchtime eateries often don’t include a tip, so check your bill before paying.

Shops – Many shops close on Sundays. Bigger supermarkets may be open, but will close at lunchtime. If bakeries open on Sundays, they are often closed on Mondays instead. Many shops and businesses also shut for a long lunch (between 12-2pm) and some will not open on Wednesday afternoons.

Touring France with a dog

France is pretty dog-friendly and they are widely accepted on public transport. Take a muzzle and their pet paperwork, such as the AHC- although we’ve never been asked to show this.

We also found dogs were allowed on the beaches except in high season, which makes sense and they’re often allowed in restaurants if they’re well-behaved and on a short lead.

Other posts you might find useful:

  • Motorcycle touring- complete guide to getting started
  • How I quit my job to tour Europe by motorcycle
  • 5 epic roads in Europe
  • How to choose the best motorcycle sat nav for you

Motorcycle touring in France- complete guide. Everything you need to plan your motorbiking trip to France or go motorcycling in France

Kat has spent years touring the UK and Europe by motorcycle, car and motorhome. It was the idea of motorcycle touring which pushed her to go from nervous new biker to excited explorer and she still can’t believe some of the crazy mountain roads she’s ridden!

She has owned several bikes, with her favourites being a Triumph Scrambler for long rides and her current speed demon- a ZX6R (both purple!) Whilst she loves to travel, her favourite thing is to help other bikers (both male and female) gain the confidence to have their own epic adventures. Ride safe!

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14 thoughts on “Motorcycling in France- the Ultimate Guide”

Thank you lots of great information.

You’re very welcome. Glad it was helpful

Great piece to read… Lots of info. Looking forward to my trip now.😁 One typo… On your road speed limits section, your mileage is wrong beside the 110kph for major roads ! With all that info, you’re not doing too bad with just that 😂 Thanks again

Ha- thank you for letting me know. Glad you found it useful. Have a great trip.

Best summary I read so far. Many thanks and have a great trip!

Thank you- glad it was useful. 🙂

Forgot something. How is the roadquality in France? Im touring a sport touring tire (Michelin Road 5). Will that be sufficient or should I go for a touring tire which is more resistant to defects?

Great question. Like all countries, some roads are rubbish, and some are lovely. We actually find most of France has much fewer potholes than the UK, with the exception of very rural France (but that could be down to where we ride in the UK!) We’ve toured on both Triumph Scramblers and our Kawasaki ninjas, which are mainly track bikes (with sports tyres) and both were fine. We actually took the ninjas into the Pyrennees on track tyres… not sure I’d recommend that! Your sports tourers should be absolutely fine but if you know you’re planning to do anything involving mountains, rural France or off-roading, you might prefer a more robust tyre.

Wow this was really helpful thank you so much. We are off to France in June riding from calais to Menton and back with stops. We are looking into popping over to Italy while in menton but its hard to find costs crossing the border. Do you have any info on this please? X

Hi Lauren. So glad you found it helpful. 🙂 Do you mean the cost to cross the border from France to Italy? If so, there isn’t any, unless you use the tunnel at Chamonix. But the road near Menton is totally free. Have an awesome trip.

Thank you so much 😁 x

You’re very welcome. x

we will be in lyon in late october and hope to find someone that can take us on a 3-4 hour guided ride into the surrounding countryside. do you have anyone we can contact or might know of someone? thanks

The peage (toll roads) are a pain if you are using cash or card (stop, gloves off, fumble, drop coins) but a delight with a Ulys sensor. I keep the sensor in a sleeve pocket on my jacket. Just drive through at 20 mph, barrier flips up and away you go without stopping. And you will be correctly charged as a motorbike.

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Motorcycle Tours Europe - Adventure Motorbike Holidays

Unforgettable luxury european motorbike tours.

Discover your unparalleled motorcycle experience with McTours. As a motorcyclist, with or without pillion, you will embark on a captivating journey to uncover the hidden treasures of each destination. Our meticulously crafted guided motorcycle tours offer a unique perspective, allowing you and your fellow riders to forge a profound connection with the landscapes, cultures, and the authentic vibes of the places we explore. As we navigate the winding roads from the saddle you get a more intimate and detailed look at the scenery and people. McTours isn't just a motorcycle tour; it's an opportunity to intimately engage with the intricate tapestry of European beauty. If you're a discerning motorcyclist seeking a meticulously organised package holiday that traverses some of the finest roads on the continent, then McTours is your gateway to the ultimate motorcycle adventure. Come ride with us and experience Europe in a way that only the seasoned rider can truly appreciate.

Adventurous Guided Motorcycle Routes

Embark on an exhilarating two-wheeled odyssey across the stunning landscapes of Europe, as we invite you to join us for an unforgettable guided motorbike expedition. Our commitment is to transform your journey into an epic adventure, seamlessly blending convenience and excitement. Picture yourself conquering the open roads, winding through captivating routes that are tailor-made for motorcycling enthusiasts like you. Revel in the thrill of cruising at a leisurely pace, savouring every twist and turn as you forge unforgettable memories. When the day's ride is done, unwind in comfort and style at our carefully selected, top-notch hotels. Here's a sneak peek at the treasures awaiting you on our trips:

Quality Hotels

We select from top quality hotels that also offer good value for money available along each route. Most are 4 star rated and our standard proposition places each rider in their own en-suite room, so, you can rest in comfort and luxury after a long day of riding without being kept awake with someone else's snoring!

Many of the hotels we use have comprehensive leisure facilities and all selected hotels have been carefully vetted to ensure they serve a good range of food to suit different palates because we usually book for dinner, bed and breakfast.

You can resat assured that we also ensure there is suitable parking for your bike.

Carefully Selected Routes

We guide you along carefully researched, well-planned and well-designed routes to ensure you have a safe and fun ride. We offer a broad range of tours, some visiting different hotels each night and covering large geographical areas while others operate from a fixed base.

Fixed base options prove especially popular for those with non-biking partners because daily journeys explore an area in greater detail and return to the same hotel each night enabling your partner to enjoy the hotels leisure facilities and local sights while you are riding and of course there is no baggage to haul as we return to the same base each night.

Flexible and Bespoke Offers

Touring Europe by motorcycle can be flexible and bespoke. Our day trips are also popular as gifts for birthdays etc., and with cruise ship passengers who have limited time to explore ashore. Most riders come for our set tours lasting 4-16 nights and spend most of those days riding.

We have organised many bespoke packages including one that that lasted 5 weeks and visited 10 countries. Our 9 day, 8 night touring holiday with 7 day riding is the most popular. We have several different options available to you and can also customise the trip according to your requirements.

Motorcycle Rental

At our base in Scotland we own a fleet of motorbikes used exclusively on our Scottish tours, elsewhere we rent late model well-maintained motorcycles from select business partners, so, if you are planning touring Scotland, other parts of the UK of further afield though Europe by bike through McTours you don’t have to bring your own or try to find a rental agent in your destination country or region. In most locations we operate in Europe we can supply BMW, CFMOTO, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Triumph, Yamaha and other brands on request. We can offer adventure, touring, sport and cruiser styles thus, there is a bike to suit every rider. Naturally, if you want to bring your own bike that’s just fine with us!

Motorcycle Tours of Europe

There are many different and beautiful European destinations to explore such as the Spanish Portuguese Douro, or the Alps bordering Farnce, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and Austria that we regularly tour. For those looking within the British Isles we have great Scottish, English, Welsh and Irish vacations each offering a unique adventure. We like to provide our clients with the benefit of choice in some of the most popular destinations with the best European biker roads within specific regions and cities or through entire countries. We also offer more specific packages and bespoke offerings such as for those wanting Harley-Davidson Tours UK or elsewhere in Europe or BMW Motorrad Adventures. Here are some of the most popular locations we visit:

Motorcycle Tours Scotland

We have always offered a broad range of Scottish Tours some focusing on parts of the nation’s history, one concentrating on locations in Scotland used in the filming of the Outlander TV series, and all traversing great twisty roads. During recent years two, in particular, generate regular interest.

Ardelve looking east towards Loch Duich - Scottish motorbike tour

Scotish Islands and Highlands

the Quiraing on the Isle of Skye showing the road winding up the hill with a view to the south and the sea beyond - scottish motorcycle tour

Visitors will discover great roads that will delight most riders. The scenery is beautiful from its rolling hills to dramatic mountains and over thirty thousand lochs and numerous islands, so, it is little surprise to find that Scotland is so often voted a top destination including being voted by Rough Guide readers as the most beautiful country in the World. Click the link to get the full tour itinerary Scottish Highlands Motorcycle Tour

Motorcycle Rental Scotland

Motorcycle Tours Italy

We first added Italy to our itinerary in 2011 and have toured there every year since. Many of our past clients have favoured the north of the country around the Italian Lakes and Alps, Dolomites and Tyrol regions together with Tuscany though we have also toured the south, Sicily and Sardinia.

The Trullis at Alberobello – round white houses with conical shaped roofs

Starting in Naples we have offered a grand 16 day tour (including day of arrival and day of departure) that went to outstanding locations as we cross Campania to Puglia then sail over to Albania and onwards through Macedonia and Greece before returning to Italy.

Italy Albania Macedonia & Greece

Motorcycle Tours Spain

Spain was added in 2015 after a few years researching to verify the regions areas we wanted to offer. We quickly discovered how great the Spanish roads are focusing on Andalucia, the Pyrenees and the Spanish Portuguese border region.

group photo with McTours riders taken at Coll de Boixols in the Spanish Pyrenees - Spanish motorcycle tour

Pyrenean Mountains Spain and France

Motorbiking Europe

Motorcycle Tours England

Northumberland, Yorkshire and the Lake District have always been popular areas for us because these offer a change from Glasgow and are easily reached. With a growing number of our UK based clients looking for a staycation we added The Cotswolds, Devon and Cornwall and have updated two of our former tours that embrace our favoured routes in the North of England.

Bamburgh Castle Northumberland England - motorcbike tour Northumberland and Scottish Borders

Northumberland Motorcycle Tour

Limestone cottages with red pan tile roof along the side of a Brookside at Hovingham - motorcbike tour Yorkshire and Lake District

There is quite a contrast in houses as we move from east to west coast. In Yorkshire limestone prevails giving the traditional houses a yellowish hue complimented by red pantiles roofs whilst over in Cumbria Slate is the favoured building material which give blue, grey and greenish colours to the traditional properties. The landscape of both also differs greatly as those who join this tour will soon appreciate. Guided Motorcycle Tour Yorkshire

Motorcycle Tours UK

McTours has won several awards, most recently:

Best Motorcycle Tours Provider 2024 - Scotland - Travel and Tourism Awards 2024

Once again the LUXlife team have accessed companies in the travel and tourism sector and chosen McTours as Best Motorcycle Tours Provider 2024 in Scotland.

Motorcycle Tour Operator of the Year 2023/24 - Corporate Live Wire Global Awards 2023/24

Scottish enterprise awards 2023 - best motorcycle tour operator 2023.

We were delighted when Mctours Ltd was successful in the Scottish Enterprise Awards 2023 being awarded Best Motorcycle Tour Operator 2023.

Motorcycle Tour Company of the Year 2023 - UK - Best in Business Awards 2023

At McTours we strive to deliver the best motorcycle tour experience for our customers, and we are delighted to see our efforts have been recognised in The Business Concept 2023 Best in Business Awards.

Best International Motorcycle Tour Operator 2022 - UK - Hospitality Awards 2022

McTours are delighted to be awarded Best International Motorcycle Tour Operator 2022 - UK in the 6th annual Hospitality Awards hosted by LUX Life magazine

Motorcycle Tour Company of the Year - Scotland - 2021-22

The Scotland Business Magazine is available to over 500,000 Corporate Livewire subscribers on a national basis and 30,000 printed copies are sent directly to businesses and homes across the region. Business customers and subscribers nominate companies for the award and we are delighted to be acknowledged as Motorcycle Tour Company 2021 during these trying times. We hope to receive our award later this year when Covid restrictions ease.

Best Motorcycle Tours Agency - Scotland - 2020-21

Delighted to be awarded Best Motorcycle Tours Agency Scotland in the 5th annual Travel & Tourism Awards 2021 hosted by LUX Life magazine.

Adventure Experience 2020

Travel & Hospitality Awards selected hotel & tour winners from across Europe in over 50 categories and we were delighted to be awarded Adventure Experience for the Scottish region 2020

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Caday Rouge Holidays & CRMT Motorcycle Tours

motorcycle tours in france

0044 (0)7881 906284

0033 (0)642 18 66 59

Caday Rouge

Adventure Holidays and Accommodation in South West France

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Welcome to Caday Rouge Adventure Holidays and Accommodation in France

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Accommodation

Individual rooms, all with private en-suite bathrooms

Read More....

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Motorcycle Tours

Amazing tours through France, Northern Spain, the Pyrenees and Andorra

Caday Rouge Pool and Terrace

Contact & Bookings

Simply use the online form or alternatively email, call or text us

WHAT WE OFFER

Caday Garden 14.JPG

Caday Rouge  is A  beautiful  chambre  d'hôte with a 19th century Quercy stone cottage and barn dating back to the early 1800th century. 

All the newly renovated bedrooms are all en-suite with private bathrooms.

These beautiful buildings are set within two acres of well maintained and tranquil flower and herb gardens with a very large swimming pool nestling peacefully in the  serene  countryside on the banks of the River Lot.

The swimming pool is 14 metres long by 7 metres wide. The pools  and   terraces   are equipped with parasols, sun loungers and seating for your comfort, enjoyment and socialising. These are surrounded by beautiful flowers, herbs, palm trees and attractive Photinia Red-Robin hedges.

There are various terraces around the house, cottage and large swimming pool for outside dining and socialising during the summer season.

Relax and enjoy our private large saltwater swimming pool. The terraces are equipped with parasols, sun loungers and seating for your comfort, enjoyment and socialising, so all you need to do is order your cool beverage from our licensed bar and revel in the tranquility Caday Rouge offers.

Sorry, no pets are allowed

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Self-Guided tours France

Choose your favourite destination from all our tours.

Discover Europe on your motorcycle with our best routes for your chosen tour. We offer more than 50 motorcycle tours in more than 30 countries in Europe. Ride challenging hairpin bends in the Dolomites, enjoy all-inclusive in Seefeld or go on a historic trip to the Baltic States. Book the trip that suits your preferences.

What can you expect?

  • Book a tour for yourself, with your partner or friends
  • Choose your desired travel dates
  • Motorcycle-friendly accommodations
  • Detailed roadbook
  • Routes in GPX and track format for GPS

France Auvergne

From € 959

7 day motorcycle tour

The Heart of the Central Massif region. Auvergne is a dream destination if you love nature and motorcycling.

France massif central.

From € 549

6 day motorcycle tour

Discover a vast mountainous region in the southern part of France, known for its volcanic origins!

France corsica.

From € 1299

9 day motorcycle tour

Sun, sea and pearly white beaches. This island is of course perfect for a round trip. If you choose Corsica, you choose ..

France alsace.

From € 469

4 or 5 day motorcycle tour

As God in France. This trip takes you to the French Alsace and the German Rhenish-Palatinate. It is therefore a perfect ..

France hautes alpes.

From € 949

Col de la Bonette, Alpes D' Huez, Gorges du Verdon and... a lot more!

France jura.

From € 799

Riding over mountains and through forests on the border of France and Switzerland. It is beautiful and very suitable for..

France normandy.

From € 999

8 day motorcycle tour

Operation Overlord, D-Day, a very impressive, themed trip to the invasion beaches and other historical French monuments.

France provence.

From € 899

Drive through the Grand Canyon of Europe! Not as gigantic as its big brother in Arizona, but absolutely spectacular, as ..

France vercors.

From € 779

Numerous caves, gorges and waterfalls. Ride over magnificent Cols in this beautiful area of the Vercors

France vosges.

From € 699

5 day motorcycle tour

Steering in France, through the heart of the Vosges mountains, discovering this beautiful area with our routes

France combi: vercors-provence.

From € 1879

11 day motorcycle tour

Nature that will capture your heart. The Vercors and Provence are two fantastic areas to explore by motorbike.

  • Self-Guided tours

The French Ride

Off-road motorcycle tour French Alps

7 days / 6 nights 40% off road, guided : july 07-13, 2024 sept 01-07, 2024 sept 16-22, 2024 & on request, france italy, from €1,575, off-road motorcycle tour french alps.

Enjoy our guided off-road motorcycle tour across the French Alps . Ride one of our adventure bike rental on the best dirt roads of the French Alps all the way to the Mediterranean Sea …

parpaillon tunnel motorcycle tour

Across the French Alps - Off road

Stunning off-road motorcycle tour in the French Alps . This adventure bike tour takes you on the most beautiful dirt tracks of the Alps , from the Lake Bourget , largest natural lake in France, to the Mediterranean Sea . Enjoy the ride through the Ecrins National Park , the mountain ranges of the Queyras and Parpaillon , the Ubaye Valley and the breathtaking Mercantour National Park . Drive on the best off-road military tracks of the Alps , such as the legendary Col du Parpaillon and its scary tunnel, highest track in France at 2,637m ; or the stunning Via del Sale which winds along the ridges of the French-Italian border at altitudes between 1,800 and 2,260m ! The route also offers stretches of paved roads with beautiful curves ; including the mythical Col du Galibier and the Bonette Road , the highest road in Europe at 2,802m ! This off-road motorcycle tour is an excellent choice if you want to experience a wild adventure across the French Alps …

Most beautiful tracks of the Alps – Écrins & Mercantour National Parks – Best military tracks of the French Alps – Parpaillon tunnel (highest track in France at 2,637m) – Via del Sale military road – Bonette Road (highest paved road in Europe at 2,802m) – Alpine and Mediterranean Gastronomy

Off road safety, local knowledge.

For both safety and organizational reasons , it is strongly recommended to practice off road riding with a tour guide . Our local knowledge and experience are the key to ensure the feasibility of this tour from both technical and regulatory points of view .

The experienced French and English speaking tour guide manages the group, adapts to the speed and interests of the riders, and can resort to plan B when the weather conditions or unpredictable problems in the high mountains come up.

Small group tours

In order to fully enjoy the ride in a safe, relaxed and friendly atmosphere, we operate small group tours from 4 to 8 riders maximum .

Useful information

With daily distances between 170 and 200 km and about 40% off road , you have to know how to handle tight corners and hairpins on a dirt road with a dual sport or adventure bike.

Dual sport and adventure bikes

Our off road tours are open to adventure bike riders on any type of dual sport and adventure bikes such as GS, Africa Twin, Vstrom, Ténéré, Tiger, KTM Adventure … We strongly recommend that you install protection parts on your motorcycle (crash bars, skid plate, handguards…). All our adventure bike rentals are kitted out with protection parts from our partner Outback Motortek .

We advise you to use adventure motorcycle tires combining grip and comfort on and off the road (Michelin Anakee Adventure, Continental TKC 70, Heidenau K60, Mitas E-07…) .

Riding gear

We recommend to wear protective riding gear offering comfort and protection on and off the road: helmet, jacket, pants, gloves and boots.

Day 1 : Arrival in Aix-les-Bains

Transfers, meet & greet, relax, visit and briefing.

Wash away some jetlag, have a walk to the nearby lake, wander in the old streets and shaded parks, delight yourself in the hot pool… By the end of the day, enjoy your first evening filled with familiarizing yourself with the excitement of what lays ahead whilst enjoying a taste of the Alpine Cuisine.

Day 2 : Aix-les-bains → Col du Lautaret

Great start of this off-road motorcycle tour in the French Alps on the Emparis Plateau in front of the most spectacular view on the Meije and its glaciers . Rivers, torrents, waterfalls, lakes with transparent waters… the scenery is splendid ! You spend the night at over 2,000 meters of altitude, at the top of the Col du Lautaret !

Day 3 : Col du Lautaret → Lake Serre-Ponçon

The adventure bike ride starts on the most beautiful tracks of the Écrins National Park . Viewpoints, magnificent valleys, hidden villages, larch forests and many off-road passes are on today’s program! The last dirt track offers superb views on the Lake Serre-Ponçon and the clifftop town of Embrun . You spend the night on the heights of the lake Serre-Ponçon, surrounded by mountains… A great riding day on our off-road motorcycle tour in the French Alps !

Day 4 : Lake Serre-Ponçon → Mercantour

Memorable itinerary on this off-road trip in the Alps with the ascent of the Parpaillon track , the highest track in France at 2,637m , which leads to the legendary Parpaillon tunnel . The daylight at the end of the tunnel will guide you through the 520m of this very impressive military structure completed in 1901 ! Enjoy the adventure bike ride on the trails that lead to the Cime de la Bonette , the highest road in Europe at 2,802m . Then discover the superb off-road tracks of the Mercantour National Park where you spend the night…

Day 5 : Mercantour → Upper Roya Valley

Another stunning ride on this off-road motorcycle tour in the Alps on the small roads and tracks of the Mercantour mountain range . Today’s itinerary leads you to the superb Upper Roya Valley in the Southern French Alps . Overnight stay in the heart of the preserved landscapes of the Vallée des Merveilles …

Day 6 : Upper Roya Valley → Nice

Beautiful final day of our adventure bike tour in the Alps on the old military track of the Via del Sale which winds along the ridges of the French-Italian border at altitudes between 1,800 and 2,260m ! As you ride along, discover old military fortifications in a grandiose high mountain scenery. Our off-road motorcycle tour across the French Alps ends with a dip in the Mediterranean Sea , a good beer and an excellent dinner in the historical Old-Town of Nice …

Day 7 : Departure from Nice

After a last breakfast facing the Mediterranean Sea , you are free to go back home or to extend your stay . For those who have rented a motorcycle from our agency in Aix-les-Bains, a magnificent stretch of road (paved this time!) will bring you back to your destination in a few hours…

Route and overnight places may change due to unforeseen events.

Tour prices

July 07-13, 2024 sept 01-07, 2024 sept 16-22, 2024 & on request get your private guided tour on the dates of your choice.

 Low seat can be ordered as a free option Depending on the bike model and upon reservation

Included services

Included services :

*if motorcycle rental option chosen

Services not included :

Why Ride with us ?

Motorcycle tours agency.

27 rue Jacotot 73100 Aix-les-Bains, FRANCE

Tel : +33 6 21 39 73 00 Email : [email protected]

Alps & Jura Motorcycle Tour

BMW R 1300 GS Basse

Correcteur d’assiette adaptatif

Hauteur selle basse : 820 mm

Avec correcteur d’assiette : 800 mm

237 kg          145 cv

350 km / jour

Bagagerie moto : 140 L

Assurance tous risques

 GPS TomTom Rider ou support de téléphone (au choix)

  Dépôt de garantie : 2 500 €

Permis moto A

25 ans min.

BMW R 1300 GS LOW

Adaptive Vehicle Height Control (AVHC)

Low seat height : 820 mm

With AVHC : 800 mm

237 kg          145 HP

350 km / day

Luggage capacity : 140 L

Fully comprehensive insurance

 GPS TomTom Rider or phone mount (as per your choice)

  Security deposit : € 2,500

Full motorcycle driving licence

25 years old min.

Honda 1100 Africa Twin

Hauteur de selle : 850 / 870 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 825 mm

231 kg          102 cv

Bagagerie moto : 154 L

Dépôt de garantie : 2 200 €

24 ans min.

Seat height : 850 / 870 mm

Low seat height : 825 mm

231 kg          102 HP

Luggage capacity : 154 L

Security deposit : € 2,200

24 years old min.

KTM 890 Adventure R

Seat height : 880 mm

Low seat height : 855 mm

215 kg          105 HP

Luggage capacity : 120 L

Hauteur de selle : 880 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 855 mm

215 kg          105 cv

Bagagerie moto : 120 L

BMW R 1300 GS

Seat height : 850 mm

Low seat height : 800 mm

Hauteur de selle : 850 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 800 mm

Honda CB 750 Hornet (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 795 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 770 mm

190 kg          35 kW / 47,6 cv

Bagagerie moto : 114 L

Dépôt de garantie : 1 200 €

Permis moto A2 ou A

18 ans min.

Seat height : 795 mm

Low seat height : 770 mm

190 kg          35 kW / 47,6 HP

Luggage capacity : 114 L

Security deposit : € 1,200

A2 & full motorcycle driving licence

18 years old min.

KTM 390 Adventure (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 855 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 830 mm

172 kg          32 kW / 44 cv

Bagagerie moto : 88 L

YAMAHA MT-07 (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 805 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 780 mm

184 kg          35 kW / 47,6 cv

Bagagerie moto : 80 L

HONDA CB 500 X / NX 500 (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 830 mm

196 kg          35kW / 47,5 cv

Bagagerie moto : 144 L

  Dépôt de garantie : 1 200 €

20 ans min.

YAMAHA TÉNÉRÉ 700

Hauteur de selle : 875 mm

204 kg          74 cv

Bagagerie moto : 98 L

Dépôt de garantie : 1 800 €

21 ans min.

YAMAHA TRACER 7 GT (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 835 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 815 mm

197 kg          35 kW / 47,6 cv

Bagagerie moto : 116 L

Dépôt de garantie : 1 500 €

YAMAHA TRACER 9 GT

Hauteur de selle : 825 mm

Hauteur selle basse : 810 mm

220 kg          119 cv

Bagagerie moto : 133 L

23 ans min.

BMW F 900 XR

Hauteur selle basse : 795 mm

219 kg          105 cv

Bagagerie moto : 136 L

BMW F 750 GS

Hauteur de selle : 815 mm

227 kg          77 cv

Bagagerie moto : 146 L

Dépôt de garantie : 2 000 €

22 ans min.

DUCATI MULTISTRADA V4 S

Hauteur de selle : 840 / 860 mm

240 kg          170 cv

26 ans min.

TRIUMPH TIGER SPORT 660

206 kg          81 cv

Bagagerie moto : 106 L

SUZUKI SV 650 (A2)

Hauteur de selle : 785 mm

197 kg          35 kW / 47,5 cv

Bagagerie moto : 117 L

GPS TomTom Rider ou support de téléphone (au choix)

Seat height : 805 mm

Low seat height : 780 mm

184 kg          35 kW / 47,6 HP

Luggage capacity : 80 L

Seat height : 855 mm

Low seat height : 830 mm

172 kg          32 kW / 44 HP

Luggage capacity : 88 L

Seat height : 785 mm

197 kg          35 kW / 47,5 HP

Luggage capacity : 117 L

GPS TomTom Rider or phone mount (as per your choice)

  Security deposit : € 1,200

20 years old min.

Seat height : 830 mm

196 kg          35kW / 47,5 HP

Luggage capacity : 144 L

Seat height : 875 mm

204 kg          74 HP

Luggage capacity : 98 L

Security deposit : € 1,800

21 years old min.

Seat height : 835 mm

Low seat height : 815 mm

197 kg          35 kW / 47,6 HP

Luggage capacity : 116 L

Security deposit : € 1,500

Seat height : 825 mm

Low seat height : 810 mm

220 kg          119 HP

Luggage capacity : 133 L

23 years old min.

Low seat height : 795 mm

219 kg          105 HP

Luggage capacity : 136 L

Seat height : 815 mm

227 kg          77 HP

Luggage capacity : 146 L

Security deposit : € 2,000

22 years old min.

Seat height : 840 / 860 mm

240 kg          170 HP

26 years old min.

206 kg          81 HP

Luggage capacity : 106 L

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Nom * E-mail * Sujet * Choisir Location moto Autre information Moto Choisir Honda CB 500 X (A2) Suzuki SV 650 (A2) Yamaha Tracer 7 GT (A2) Triumph Tiger Sport 660 Yamaha Ténéré 700 BMW F 750 GS Yamaha Tracer 9 GT BMW F 900 XR BMW R 1250 GS Ducati Multistrada V4 S Autre Message Email Envoyer

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Voyage * Choisir Week-end Annecy - 2j/1n Week-end Vercors - 2j/1n Routes du Tour de France - 3j/2n Tour du Mont-Blanc - 3j/2n Tour des lacs des Alpes - 3j/2n Alpes et Jura - 4j/3n Route Napoléon - 4j/3n Grands cols des Alpes - 4j/3n France - Tour des Alpes - 5j/4n Alsace et Jura - 7j/6n Sud de la France - 7j/6n Thonon à Menton - 6j/5n Route des Grandes Alpes – Small - 5j/4n Route des Grandes Alpes - Best of - 6j/5n Route des Grandes Alpes - XL - 8j/7n Stelvio Express - 6j/5n France, Suisse et Italie - 9j/8n Alpes, Tyrol et Dolomites - 10j/9n Best of Europe - 12j/11n Auvergne & Transpyrénéenne – Best of - 7j/6n Pyrénées et Auvergne - 12j/11n La Grande Boucle - 13j/12n Off-road - Alpes & Piémont - 4j/3n Raid off-road - Transalpes - 6j/5n Vietnam - 14j/13n E-mail * Entrez votre e-mail et recevez le descriptif du séjour en PDF ! Website Envoyer

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Nom * E-mail * Sujet * Choisir Séjour Liberté Séjour Guidé Sur-mesure Autre information Voyage Choisir Week-end Annecy - 2j/1n Week-end Vercors - 2j/1n Routes du Tour de France - 3j/2n Tour du Mont-Blanc - 3j/2n Tour des lacs des Alpes - 3j/2n Alpes et Jura - 4j/3n Route Napoléon - 4j/3n Grands cols des Alpes - 4j/3n France - Tour des Alpes - 5j/4n Gorges du Tarn et Cévennes - 5j/4n Sud de la France - 7j/6n Alsace et Jura - 7j/6n Thonon à Menton - 6j/5n Route des Grandes Alpes – Small - 5j/4n Route des Grandes Alpes - Best of - 6j/5n Route des Grandes Alpes - XL - 8j/7n Stelvio Express - 6j/5n France, Suisse et Italie - 9j/8n Alpes, Tyrol et Dolomites - 10j/9n Best of Europe - 12j/11n Auvergne & Transpyrénéenne – Best of - 7j/6n Pyrénées et Auvergne - 12j/11n La Grande Boucle - 13j/12n Raid off-road - Alpes & Piémont - 4j/3n Raid off-road - Transalpes - 6j/5n Raid off-road - Gorges du Tarn - 5j/4n Vietnam - 14j/13n Autre Message Comment Envoyer

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Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * Email * Your country Subject * Select Motorcycle rental Other information Motorcycle Select Honda CB 500 X Suzuki SV 650 (35kW - 47,5hp) Yamaha Tracer 7 GT (35kW - 47,6hp) Triumph Tiger Sport 660 Yamaha Ténéré 700 BMW F 750 GS Yamaha Tracer 9 GT BMW F 900 XR BMW R 1250 GS Ducati Multistrada V4 S Other Message Email Send

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Tour * Select your tour Annecy - Venice of the Alps - 2d/1n Balcony roads of Vercors - 2d/1n Roads of the Tour de France - 3d/2n Mont-Blanc tour - 3d/2n Alpine lakes tour - 3d/2n Alps & Jura - The lakes tour - 6d/5n Route Napoléon - 6d/5n Legendary passes of the Alps - 6d/5n Best of French Alps - 7d/6n Alsace & Jura - 9d/8n Best of South of France - 9d/8n Route des Grandes Alpes - One way - 6d/5n Route des Grandes Alpes - Small - 7d/6n Best of Route des Grandes Alpes - 8d/7n Route des Grandes Alpes - XL - 10d/9n Stelvio Express - 8d/7n Majestic Alps - 11d/10n European Alps tour - 12d/11n Best of Pyrenees & Auvergne - 9d/8n Passes & Volcanoes - 14d/13n The Grand Tour - 15d/14n Off-road - French Alps & Piedmont - 6d/5n Off-road - Across the French Alps - 7d/6n Email * Enter your email address and we'll send you the tour description! Message Send

Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name * Email * Your country Subject * Select Self-guided tour Guided tour Custom tour Other information Tour Select Annecy - Venice of the Alps - 2d/1n Balcony roads of Vercors - 2d/1n Roads of the Tour de France - 3d/2n Mont-Blanc tour - 3d/2n Alpine lakes tour - 3d/2n Alps & Jura - The lakes tour - 6d/5n Route Napoléon - 6d/5n Legendary passes of the Alps - 6d/5n Best of French Alps - 7d/6n Gorges du Tarn & Cévennes - 7d/6n Best of South of France - 9d/8n Alsace & Jura - 9d/8n Route des Grandes Alpes - One way - 6d/5n Route des Grandes Alpes - Small - 7d/6n Best of Route des Grandes Alpes - 8d/7n Route des Grandes Alpes - XL - 10d/9n Stelvio Express - 8d/7n Majestic Alps - 11d/10n European Alps tour - 12d/11n Best of Pyrenees & Auvergne - 9d/8n Passes & Volcanoes - 14d/13n The Grand Tour - 15d/14n Off-road - French Alps & Piedmont - 6d/5n Off-road - Across the French Alps - 7d/6n Off-road - Gorges du Tarn - 7d/6n Other Message Comment Send

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  1. French Alps motorcycle tour

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  2. Motorcycle touring in France: the French battlefield tour

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  3. Paris: Premium & Private, Highlights city tour on Sidecar

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  4. Motorcycle tours in France & Europe

    motorcycle tours in france

  5. Motorcycle tour in French Alps, Provence & Vercors

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  6. Bruckmann Verlag 40 MOTORCYCLE TOURS IN FRANCE, 288 PAGES

    motorcycle tours in france

VIDEO

  1. Motorcycle Touring Hotel NIGHTMARE!

  2. Touring Europe by motorcycle. Part 1

  3. World's FASTEST Motorcycle Crushes Record! 😮

  4. Touring France by Motorcycle

  5. France by Motorcycle

  6. Col de la Lombarde

COMMENTS

  1. Motorcycle tours in France & Europe

    Motorcycle tours in France & Europe. Get ready for a ride of a lifetime in one of our motorcycle tours in France and Europe. We organize your motorbike holidays on the best roads of Europe for an unforgettable motorcycle road trip!. Guided and self-guided motorcycle tours in France & Europe. The French Ride is specialized in guided and self-guided tours in France and Europe.

  2. Motorcycle tours & rental in France

    A Unique Motorcycle Travel Experience. If you enjoy riding a motorcycle on twisty roads, if you like beautiful landscapes, heritage monuments, gastronomy and wines, picturesque and historic villages, RIDE IN TOURS offers all this and more. Spend from 5 to 14 days riding through the most beautiful French regions.

  3. Caday Rouge Motorcycle Tours

    CRMT brings you the opportunity to experience a unique and fabulous, high-end small group hub motorcycle touring holiday. We specialise in touring beautiful France, spectacular Northern Spain and the irresistible Andorra and Pyrenees Mountain Range. We offer superb accommodation during our fully escorted motorcycle tours to an array of ...

  4. 10 Best Motorcycle & Motorbike Tours in France

    Motorcycle Tours & Trips in France. Start your engine and discover France's best touring roads! Find the best motorcycle adventures through France. There are 21 guided and self-guided motorbike trips to choose from, that range in length from 5 days up to 14 days. Dates & length Places Filters.

  5. Motorcycle Tours

    Motorcycle Tours - West Forever. Europe : +33 388 688 900North America : +1 818 515 3557South Pacific : +61 7 5641 0242. Your questions.

  6. Motorcycle tour in French Alps, Provence & Vercors

    Stunning motorcycle tour in the French Alps, Provence, French Riviera & Vercors. A must-do in a biker's life, the " Route des Grandes Alpes " ranks among the World's most legendary roads ! Climbing and diving, twisting and turning through mythical mountain passes, valleys, lakes, rivers, gorges and snow-capped summits all the way down ...

  7. 7Rides

    Discover the Southeast of France by motorcycle. A region where the Alps, the French Riviera, and Provence meet and provide memorable riding. 7Rides is situated between the French Southern Alps and the French Riviera. As a result, the region has one of the most varied terrain in the world for riding motorcycles.

  8. Motorcycle Tours France

    Spain, France. Pyrenees Explorer, Epic Roads and Classic Cities. Ride some of the best roads in the Pyrenees as voted by local bikers, and visit the classical cities of Pamplona and Andorra. GUIDED. HIRE BIKE AVAILABLE. MORE INFO. 16 days STARTS Folkestone, UK. 28/08/2024 - 12/09/2024.

  9. RiDE-RiDE Guide to France

    The RiDE motorcycle touring Guide to FRANCE. When we produced our first motorcycle touring guide to France, way back in 2013, we were pretty pleased with the result. It contained 25 routes for day trips, four regional tours plus some suggested ways to get across the largest country in western Europe - as well as one huge two-week tour that ...

  10. 5 motorcycle routes in France that take less than a week

    Thursday - Overnight ferry from Portsmouth to Le Havre. Friday - Ride the 230 miles to Troyes and relax with a well-earned beer. Saturday - After putting in the miles yesterday, take a leisurely ride east through the Foret d'Orient, stopping to relax by the lakes dotted throughout. Sunday - Ride south east from Troyes to the Cote des ...

  11. Motorcycle Touring Guide to France

    I just love France. My first French motorcycle tour was over 15 years ago when I rode my Hornet 600 from the rigid roads of Milton Keynes to the ribbon-like roads of Menton in the South of France. I was instantly hooked.Since then, I've been back to France countless times on the bike. From long weekends exploring WW2 sites in Normandy to 10-day 'Laps de France', clocking up big miles through ...

  12. motorcycle tours france

    Summary: This 16 Day, 15 Night French Motorcycle Tour with 12-14 Days Motorbike Riding embraces the best of France passing through the regions of Ile-de-France, Picardie, Champagne, Burgundy, Rhone Alps, Provence, Rivera, Languedoc Roussillon, Auvergne, Mid Pyrenees, Aquitaine, Poitou Charente and Loire Valley.

  13. 8 Motorcycle Routes In France That Take Less Than A Week

    Day 3 - Head west to your base around Morlaix, visiting the seaside village of Ploumanac'h. Day 4 - Enjoy a loop of Amorique national park and the historic town of Guingamp. Day 5 - Head towards your next base in Quimper, stopping off at the coastal Pointe du Raz, the Crozon peninsula, and the stunning Arree Hills.

  14. Motorcycling in France- the Ultimate Guide

    To rent a motorcycle in France most places will expect you to be: from 21 years of age, depending on the company's rental policy; (18 years old for scooters and some very small bikes). have a valid driving licence with at least 2 years experience. hold a full and valid motorcycle licence for riding in France.

  15. Motorcycle Tours in Europe

    Motorcycle tours in France From weekend tours through Normandy, to long distance adventures exploring the Pyrenees and even solo rides across the Dordogne region, whatever you choose to plan your motorcycle tour around, France has something for all riders! Those looking for mountain views, epic riding routes and the chance to pop over the ...

  16. Motorcycle Tours Worldwide

    High Alpine Tour 8 Days from $4,390. Morocco Tour 15 Days from $6,670. South Africa Tour 16 Days from $8,300. New Zealand Tour 14 Days from $9,540. See all Tours.

  17. McTours European Motorcycle Tours

    Travel & Hospitality Awards selected hotel & tour winners from across Europe in over 50 categories and we were delighted to be awarded Adventure Experience for the Scottish region 2020. McTours offer motorcycle adventures, guided motorcycle tours in Scotland, England, Wales, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, France and Italy and other parts of Europe.

  18. Motorcycle Tours France & Pyrenees

    Alongside CRMT Motorcycle Tours in the beautiful Lot-et-Garonne in South West France hosting a choice of guided motorcycle tours. See this amazing region by motorcycle and find your freedom! top of page. [email protected]. Caday Rouge Holidays & CRMT Motorcycle Tours. 0044 (0)7881 906284.

  19. Self-Guided tours Frankrijk

    Choose your favourite destination from all our tours. Discover Europe on your motorcycle with our best routes for your chosen tour. We offer more than 50 motorcycle tours in more than 30 countries in Europe. Ride challenging hairpin bends in the Dolomites, enjoy all-inclusive in Seefeld or go on a historic trip to the Baltic States.

  20. Motorcycle tour in Pyrenees

    260 km / 5h. Our motorcycle tour in the Pyrenees & Auvergne starts with a stunning ride across the Auvergne volcanoes sleeping for more than a million years. Cross the Pas de Peyrol with its breathtaking panoramas. Take a break in the little streets of Salers, ranked as one of the most beautiful villages in France.End up this superb motorbike day with a South-West speciality dish and a ...

  21. May is Motorcycle Awareness Month

    May 6, 2024. Motorcycle Awareness Month is a time to bring awareness to motorcyclists on our roads and to encourage both car drivers and motorcycle riders to work together to make roads safer. The ...

  22. 2024 SOFTAIL Low Rider ST FXLRST Motorcycle Turn Signal Trim & Visors

    H-D ™ Visa Signature ® cardmembers who use their card May 1, 2024, through August 31, 2024, (promotion period) to rent a Harley-Davidson motorcycle through EagleRider Rentals & Tours will earn 4 points per $1 of spend in Net Purchases. Net Purchases are purchases minus returns and credits.

  23. RI law enforcement officers participate in Police Unity Tour

    EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Police officers from several departments in Rhode Island took part in the Police Unity Tour. The Police Unity Tour is a 300-mile, multi-day bike ride that honors ...

  24. Off-road motorcycle tour in French Alps

    Stunning off-road motorcycle tour in the French Alps. This adventure bike tour takes you on the most beautiful dirt tracks of the Alps, from the Lake Bourget, largest natural lake in France, to the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy the ride through the Ecrins National Park, the mountain ranges of the Queyras and Parpaillon, the Ubaye Valley and the ...

  25. Taylor Swift adds 'Tortured Poets' songs to Eras Tour lineup

    Taylor Swift performs during "The Tortured Poets Department" section of the "Eras Tour" in Paris on Thursday. It's the first time Swift performed these tracks in front of a live audience since the album's release last month. Swift told her Paris crowd that they were the first to see songs from "Tortured Poets" performed.