Introduction
Cycle tourism continues to flourish in our region. Every year, new enthusiasts embark on a journey or a tour by bike. It also means new, more reliable itineraries that meet the needs of cyclists for comfort, safety, escape and discovery. "Making France the world's leading destination for bicycle tourism by 2030": this is one of the four axes of the Declaration signed in 2017 by 91 territories, 17 national networks and bicycle industry professionals. By January 1, 2024, France had completed 82.5% of the National Cycle Route Plan, i.e. 21,530 km, 46% of which are exclusive right-of-way, and 59 routes. The 2019 Loi d'orientation des mobilités (Mobility Orientation Law), meanwhile, has encouraged the implementation of a "bicycle system", combining facilities, services and support for changes in cycling habits. So, are you ready? Get moving!
Facilities and devices to encourage practices
Cycling facilities are a cornerstone of the cycling system, contributing to safe and peaceful cycling, provided they are designed as continuums, avoiding the pitfall of disjointed or "confetti" sections. Cycle paths are facilities dedicated solely to bicycles, and physically separated from other roads. Cycle lanes are also reserved for non-motorized two-wheelers, but separated from other lanes only by markings on the roadway. Other systems also encourage cycling. Low-traffic roads, or 30 km/h zones, provide pleasant, safe conditions for cycling. Right-turns" (or "give way to cyclists" at traffic lights), sometimes authorized at red lights (and indicated by signs), are also regulations that promote cyclists' safety. Limiting the number of cars on the road, through paid parking for example, is another way of making cycling safer. Added to this are the other pillars of the cycling system: a sufficient number of secure bicycle parking facilities, services providing access to bicycles (rental, sales, repairs), and support for cycling (training courses and getting back in the saddle). It's these elements, along with others, that will be found on routes dedicated to leisure activities.
Routes to develop mobility, particularly for leisure activities
Cycle routes can take the form of cycle paths, greenways or low-traffic roads, signposted and signposted (panels and road markings indicating direction and mileage).
A véloroute is a signposted and safe cycle route for tourists, linking towns and regions in a continuous fashion. It uses both dedicated roads (such as greenways) and small, low-traffic roads. Cycle routes are designed according to national specifications. The aim is to create a network of continuous, interconnected cycle routes.
A cycle route is more than just a signposted and signposted route: it often combines a whole range of services: bike-related services (rental, repair), accommodation, but also tourist sites or sites of natural and scenic interest.
Several cycle routes are part of long-distance itineraries, on a national or European scale, such as the European cycle routes, also known as EuroVelos.
EuroVelos are European cultural cycle routes. Ten EuroVelos cross French territory:
EuroVelo 1 - Véloroute de la côte Atlantique (follows the route of the vélodyssée on the French part)
EuroVelo 3 - Pilgrims' Cycle Route
EuroVelo 4 - Central European cycle route (including 1,500 km on the Vélomaritime in France)
EuroVelo 5 - Via Romea Francigena
EuroVelo 6 - Atlantic - Black Sea (follows the Loire à vélo itinerary)
EuroVelo 8 - Mediterranean cycle route
EuroVelo 12 - North Sea cycle route
EuroVelo 15 - Rhine cycle route
EuroVelo 17 - Rhone cycle route
EuroVelo 19 - La Meuse à Vélo
A greenway is a development entirely dedicated to non-motorized vehicles. They are often former towpaths or railroad lines. The continuity of the route is ensured, and the morphology of the path (flat or with gentle gradients) makes it widely accessible. What's more, these routes can form a cultural itinerary, and benefit from a pleasant landscape. They also include services (accommodation, bike hire, etc.).