How to improve holidays with children
Hey mum, let's get on our bikes
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Your support makes all the difference.WITH THE TOUR DE FRANCE in full swing, I'm amazed to report that my kids have been inspired to take to the streets on two wheels – they're having their very own Tour de Swiss Cottage. They've not yet noticed that the scenery around our way isn't quite as stunning, or the mountains quite as steep, so I'm thinking of treating them to something a little more breathtaking.
It's not compulsory to go all the way to the French Alps, though. The Lake District is just as glorious and offers the perfect calf workout to boot. Country Lanes (015394 44544; countrylanes.co.uk) organises some great family cycling mini-breaks there – its new Beatrix Potter trail will provide welcome respite. Routes take in quiet lanes and traffic-free bridleways (with off-road options) and everything is taken care of, from 24-gear bikes to b&b in Windermere.
Jersey, too, is pretty idyllic for cycling: its myriad Green Lanes have a 15mph speed limit and prioritise cyclists. For tailor-made tours, contact Jersey Tourism (01534 448800; jersey.com/cycling).
But if you're yearning for a truly French cycling experience, make for the Ile de Ré, near La Rochelle, which is relatively flat as well as traffic-free. Stay in L'Hotel de Toiras (00 33 5 46 35 40 32; hotel-de-toiras.com) where bikes and route maps are provided, as well as slap-up French grub: just what's required after a hard day in the saddle.
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