Long distance Cycling Alternatives

[Tobyturnips]

Hi all
Just back from my 7th Camino. This was the first time I cycled from St Jean; previously I started in Roncesvalles, Pamplona and once Seville. Every year I said this is my last time - until I was back home in Ireland and rested!
As always I was intrigued by Dutch and German pilgrims who started from their own front doors.
Over the years I have transferred from the road to the path as I find it much more inspirational and friendly.
I love off road on the bike.
Last year I completed the Via Francigena to Rome from Canterbury. It was wonderful but in truth nothing compares to the Camino Frances. It keeps drawing me back.
I am thinking of starting in France next time, maybe in Cluny to Le Puy. Does anybody know if this route is suitable for off road cycling? If not is it possible along country roads?
I have toyed with the idea of starting in Holland but the route along western France doesn't appeal to me as it looks pretty flat and less interesting.
Love to get some feedback.

 

[sillydoll]

From "Your Camino, on foot, bicycle and horseback, in France and Spain"

The route from Le Puy-en-Velay is passable by bike but between Le Puy and Cahors there are sections that are not suitable for bikes. From Parks Aubrac and between the city and Nasbinals Aubrac paths have been developed for hikers but not cyclists.

The Vézelay Route is more accessible for cyclists but has a lot of road cycling.

The Arles Route is a very difficult trail for bikes, especially the section between Montpellier and Castres.

The Tours route (from Paris) is very easy, flat route until one reaches the southern hills and approaches the Pyrenees. Some cyclists feel that this route doesn’t present any challenge!

Happy planning!