Cycle to Sancerre and Savour the Grape.  

A bike and barge tour around the Loire Valley, France, that includes Sancerre, should be on everyone’s list, especially those of you who are travellers over 50.

You’ve all ridden a bike right?  Whether as a youngster or now in “older” category – this is the tour for you. Don’t even think that you’re too old, because the average age with our group is about 65!!  And YES there are E-Bikes available, so all you really need you is stay upright.

Sancerre for a Sip of the Blanc

This part of central France would have to be the most picturesque on the seven day bike and barge trip with UTracks. It makes sense of course to add this holiday into another small group tour while in Europe.  A favourite company that has an in-depth tour around Bordeaux is Back Roads Touring

After a bit of a slog uphill (2.5 KM) from where the barge was moored, our bikes were parked and a couple of leisurely hours spent wandering around Sancerre that has such a welcoming atmosphere.

NB – remember to book e-bikes if you aren’t sure whether your leg muscles will make it to the top of Sancerre.

On the Way Up to Sancerre

Wine Tastings are in Abundance

Sadly we didn’t have enough time for wine tastings at Sancerre.  I think the main reason was the need to get back to the barge in one piece and not be splattered all over the road from lack of co-ordination!  But…there are many excellent wine tasting sites that offer information on where to visit when you are there.

The views on the countryside while cycling up are spectacular with so much to feast your eyes on. Vineyards, farms, 13^thcentury (and older) houses, many ivy covered and unbelievable flower gardens. (This ride was in the European summer – late July when flowers were in full bloom).

Hanging Flower Pots Everywhere

Every house, shop and bridge has pots of petunias, begonias, daisies and more.  There was so much pride in all the villages we visited throughout rural France.

Sculptures with a difference.

The stone masonry around the township of Sancerre is really something, even the public toilets have fancy stucco work for an entrance depicting the agriculture of the region.  (Make sure you take your own loo paper though because, as in most public toilets, there isn’t any!)

Sancerre Alleyways to Explore

Of course there’s intriguing alleyways everywhere you walk – all so different. Many have an old bicycle or two parked outside shop doors along with other interesting memorabilia.  You could spend at least a day exploring all the nooks and crannies in the alleys.

The old gas street lights were fascinating, although time has moved on and these are now lit by electricity.

Cafes and Bars

All cafes have their own specialties – not forgetting the VERY popular chocolate croissants.  Baguettes loaded with ham, cheese and salads remained a favourite for me!

Sancerre Shop Hours

It’s important to remember that shop opening hours are usually between 10am – 12 noon, and 2pm – 6pm.  For those of us used to shopping 24/7 it’s easy to get caught short!

Back to the Barge

The ride back to the barge will see you surrounded by butterflies, poppies, vegetable patches with huge pumpkins, vineyards and huge  hay bales ready for winter plus that wonderful farm smell that some of us hardly ever get to enjoy.  And….a delicious French Style Chicken (Poulet) Casserole was waiting for us to enjoy with the bottle of Sancerre Blanc that we’d popped into our bike paniers!

Cycling safety to and from Sancerre?

Cycling on tour sometimes involves short stints on main roads.  Never fear though because the drivers in the countryside of France are patient and courteous.  (Just as well because my wobbly riding style would frighten any unsuspecting driver!)  Having said that, at least 95% of the ride is on country lanes and bicyle paths – many along the canals.

Cycling is so popular in France and Europe and you find yourself saying “Bonjour” about 100 times a day to passing cyclists.  A favourite day ride of mine was Cycling the Ancient Appian Way and the popular Paris by night cycle tour. 

Handy Information

What to Wear for a Six day ride in the French summer:

• Helmets (although not compulsory on bike tours are recommended).
• Cap or visor to wear under helmet on sunny days.
• Optional – padded cycle gloves and gel seat cover
• Comfortable rubber soled shoes/sandals for on the barge and walking around villages.
• Underwear and socks that breathe. (Usually the barges have limited washing facilities on board).
• Several t.shirts and one long sleeved shirt for sun protection.
• Padded bike pants (if preferred)
• Comfortable shorts (or long trousers that fit tightly around your ankles)
• Light jacket (plus a fleece if cycling in spring and autumn)
• Waterproof jacket (it can rain at any time).
• Water bottles (carried in provided panier)
• Scarf or bandana for extra sun protection around your neck. (Take a marker pen and get your travelling companions to sign at the end of your trip).
• Sunglasses with high UV protection.
• First Aid Kit – small. (NB – Include hydrolite tablets)

Handy Hints:

• Remember you are in Europe – ride on the RIGHT HAND side of the roads/paths, and be particularly careful when turning corners and going around roundabouts.
• This trip was booked through UTracks who have companies in Australia, New Zealand and England.
• Currency is Euro (obviously) with a conversion rate of AUD$1.61 buying 1 Euro (at July 2018)
• For small purchase items shopkeepers prefer cash

Travellers over 50 (or any age of course) dust off your helmets and Google bike tours in Europe – there’s hundreds of them available and such an amazing experience.