Emerald Coast Cycling, France

It’s almost impossible to resist the appeal of the spectacular Emerald Coast, with its pink granite cliffs and turquoise seas, wonderful white beaches and deserted little coves. Writers and artists, attracted by the stunning landscapes, dramatic views and vibrant Mediterranean-style colours, have been coming here for centuries, yet the region remains largely unspoilt with much of its original charm still intact. So you’ll see locals with shrimping buckets wading the beaches, and fishermen cleaning out shells by hand - be sure to sample the region’s signature dish: the seafood platter, piled high with shiny pink lobster, king prawn, silver oysters, scallops and clams.

The cycling routes we’ve chosen are mostly along uncrowded coastal paths and quiet country lanes. And, best of all, you get the most wonderful panoramic views without having to climb many hills! For much of the time, you’re by the sea, with plenty of opportunities to swim from some of the most beautiful beaches in France, and on your last day, you’ll pedal through the ancient Forest of Hunaudaye and have time to visit its imposing 13th century château. Other highlights include the gorgeously preserved walled towns of Dinan and Dinard that feel barely changed since the Middle Ages.

Throughout your trip, you’ll be staying in friendly, family-run hotels ranging from a lovely 16th century manor house to a modern 3-star riverside hotel, with a pool, on the banks of the Rance.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1 - Arrive at Lamballe
Your holiday starts at M. Jamin's C16 manor house in the countryside just 3kms outside the market town of Lamballe. With only 15 rooms, it's a lovely intimate place to stay. The inner courtyard opens up on to beautifully kept gardens and elegant terrace for al fresco dining on fine summer evenings.

Day 2 - Lamballe to Sables d'Or-Les-Pins 37km/23mi
Really gentle cycling today as you head first along quiet country lanes then out to the coast and the lively sailing resort of Pleneuf-Val-Andre. The deserted white sandy beaches here are simply gorgeous so make sure that you take your swimming things with you! There are also some excellent ocean-facing restaurants for a long seafood lunch. Lovely flat beachside trails to the sleepy seaside village of Sables d'Or-Les-Pins where your hotel is just 200m from the sea.

Day 3 - At Sables d'Or-Les-Pins
Relax on the beach or follow our easy 20km circular cycling route taking in the Cap Frehel lighthouse and the famous C14 feudal stronghold of Fort de la Latte. Perched on a rocky promontory above the sea, it occupies one of the finest settings in northern France, and it's easy to see why it's been used on numerous film sets. A climb up to the gallery at the top of the tower will reward you with magnificent views - out right across the ocean to Jersey on a clear day.

Day 4 - Sables d'Or-Les-Pins to Dinard 53km/33mi
Today's route starts by gentle peddaling through pretty farming hamlets - wonderful views acorss the Baie de la Fresnaye. Stop for a coffee perhaps in the bustling market town of Matignon then on via the popular yachting village of Lancieux - impressive square bell tower capped by a dome and lantern turret - and on to gorgeous St Briac where Debussy composed his major work 'The Sea'. The final stretch takes you to our hotel in the seaside town of Dinard.

Day 5 - At Dinard
Once a sleepy fishing village on the estuary of the Rance, the English transformed the town into one of the most famous and upmarket resorts in Europe. Although a little quieter now, it has not lost any of its charm and many of the 'Belle Epoque' villas have become historic monuments. Walk out to the Pointe des Etretes for views of the off-shore islands, or take a 10-minute ferry across the bay to St Malo and lose yourself in the narrow cobbled streets within the Intra Muros (fortified walls) of the ancient city.

Day 6 - Dinard to Dinan 32km/20mi or 40km/25mi
A complete change of scene today as you cycle inland and follow the banks of the river Rance. You'll feel like you're taking a trip back in time as you pass sleepy hamlets, forgotten fishing ports and postcard pretty St Sauliac, officially rated as un des plus beaux villages en France. Lunch at the lovely sailing port in St Hubert then along the towpath - wonderfully flat! - to Dinan. Our hotel here overlooks the river and picturesque port, and has a lovely outdoor swimming pool if you fancy a dip.

Day 7 - At Dinan
This beautifully preserved ancient walled town, with riverfront port and picturesque half-timbered buildings, is an absolute gem. Wander round the marvellously restored ancient squares, visit the imposing C13 castle (with dungeon!), admire the flamboyant Gothic basilica and stroll the lovely cobbled streets packed with authentic artisan workshops. Lunch perhaps in the bustling Place des Merciers where pretty triangular-gabled houses are further examples of Dinan's exceptional architectural heritage, then in the afternoon, perhaps follow our 10km leisurely cycle route inland to the pretty village of Evran.

Day 8 - Dinan to Lamballe 45km/28mi or 49km/30mi
First stop today is the picturesque little village of Lehon then on through quiet farming villages to the impressive 13C Chateau de la Hunaudaye. The ruins of this huge chateau date back over 800 years, yet the 5 majestic towers are still in good condition and are surrounded by water-filled moat. It's gentle, flat cycling through the forest back to Lamballe where you can relax in the gardens and enjoy a celebratory drink before dinner - a Kir Breton (cassis and cider) maybe?

Day 9 - Leave Lamballe

Is this trip for you?
This is a 2 bike holiday which is of a lower range level (see Headwater’s Boot Rating System). The cycling is fairly flat with no huge hills to climb, although there are ascents and descents each day. There is something for everyone on this holiday, beaches, seaside towns, rolling countryside and forest trails, and for sightseeing and historical interest: chateaux and forts, medieval towns. Nature lovers will enjoy the rugged unspoilt coastline, bird watching opportunities from the coastal paths and along the banks of the River Rance.