It was the personal playground of French kings, a haven of beauty
for artists seeking inspiration, a natural wonderland of forests and pure
streams, and the center of power during most of French history.
Cycle and sail
with us as we explore the Île de France, the geographic and cultural heart of the
nation. We begin and end in Paris, radiating out from the capital to meander
along the Seine, Loing, and other historic waterways. Traveling by bike and
barge affords a most intimate look at a land steeped in legend and tradition,
with fairytale chateaux, humble farmlands, classic French cuisine, and creative
artists’ villages to delight us along the way.
What's Included
Bicycle Tour Only - without Air
- 7 nights aboard a canal barge
- 16 meals - 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
No Hassle Air Package
Plus
- Roundtrip international airfare
- Transfers
- 7 nights aboard a canal barge, 1 night in a Paris hotel at both the
start and finish of the barge tour
- 18 meals - 9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners.
- AND the option to add our Low-Cost Trip Extensions: Pre-trip or Post-trip: Paris
• 2 nights for only: $395
Both Vacation Options
Include
- 1 glass of wine with all dinners aboard the barge
- FREE use of our custom VBT bicycle and helmet
- Service of two bilingual VBT Trip Leaders
- 6 days of cycling with FULL VAN SUPPORT during the cruise
portion of your trip
- Daily route directions and maps
- Welcome reception
- Sightseeing and cultural activities
- 5% Frequent Traveler Credit to use on your next VBT
vacation
- Special Good Buy discount
Cultural Highlights
- Enjoy a tour of
Chateau Landon with a local guide
- Unpack once, and
explore for seven nights aboard our private barge
- Explore medieval
cities such as Moret sur Loing and Ferrieres
- Learn about bee
keeping during a visit to an apiculture living museum
- Join a local artist
for a picnic lunch at his home and view his work
- See the exact
spots where famous Impressionist artists painted their masterpieces at Barbizon and Moret sur
Loing
- Visit the
Chateau Fontainebleau and its wonderful gardens
- Cycle through
the magnificent forest of Fontainebleau, the
“lungs for Paris”
What To Expect
This tour offers easy to moderate terrain throughout the
trip. There are undulating roads and some of the bike paths are unpaved. Our
VBT support shuttle is available every day at designated points for those who
need assistance.
- Activity Level: Easy/Moderate
- Daily Mileage: 10 - 38 miles
- Daily Cycling Time: 1.5 - 5 hours