French Pedals Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get to the start of my French Pedals holiday in Normandy?

If you want to leave your car at home, you can take the ferry from Poole or Portsmouth catching the train at Cherbourg or Caen to arrive at the start of your holiday in Bayeaux. See our Getting There page for more details.

2. What ages are French Pedals tours suitable for?

We recommend our cycle tours to adults and children over the age of 12.

3. What can you tell us about the area?

The cycle trip through Normandy takes you through attractive, gently undulating countryside between very interesting towns. Quiet roads where possible are selected for the tours, with many interesting places to stop and visit on your journey, such as the Bayeux Tapestry and Bayeux Cathedral. Bayeux has a very attractive town centre; Port-en-Bessin is a lovely small fishing port. Between Carentan and St Lo, there are very quiet roads and a very quiet canal path with potential bird spotting. Caen has a pleasure port/marina and lovely cafes on pedestrianised streets. See our Normandy page for more details about the region.

4. Which day of the week can I start a holiday?

You can start your cycle tour on any day of the week.

5. Can I leave my car at home?

Yes. A bus service runs from Ouistreham to Caen. There is a frequent train service from Caen to Bayeux.

From Cherbourg, there is a direct train service to Bayeux.

If you let us know in advance, we can arrange for a daytime collection from the Ferry Terminal or from the Bayeux train station and transfer you to your hotel, for no additional charge.

6. How do I book French trains in the UK?

Click here to view details on how to book your train travel.

7. What kind of food is provided?

A large buffet breakfast is supplied each morning. In the evening your package includes a three or four course dinner.

8. I don't speak much French - will it be hard to get by?

There is no need to worry as English is widely understood in the area. The hotels all have staff who speak excellent English.

9. What level of fitness do I need?

We do not consider that the cycling on a French Pedals holiday is too demanding. For ensure you have no problems during your holiday, we do suggest that you have a little practice at home before your holiday begins. However, if you have concerns, you should visit your doctor prior to the holiday.

10. Is a cycle helmet provided?

No, but you are strongly advised to bring your own, as it may be necessary to meet the terms of your travel insurance.

11. If I break down what happens?

You are given the mobile phone number of our local representative who will assist you.

12. How much luggage can I take?

We ask you to try to limit your luggage to one suitcase per person, which will be transferred each day to the next overnight stay of the tour. Each bike has a pannier to carry your day to day items.

13. How is my luggage taken to the next hotel?

Simply leave your luggage at the hotel reception, with a French Pedals label attached, by 10.00 each morning and it will be transported to your next hotel for arrival in the early afternoon. This is all included in your French Pedals cycling holiday.

14. How safe is our money when we make payments?

French Pedals Limited is a member of the Travel Trust Association (no:U5567). All monies are paid into a trust fund administered by the Travel Trust Association. No monies are released to French Pedal Limited until customers have completed their holiday.