From the sun-kissed vineyards of France and rolling hills of Italy, to the charming countryside of the UK, the landscapes of Europe are incredibly diverse. It’s perhaps no wonder that directors and filmmakers have used Europe as the setting for some of the most visually impressive films and TV shows of recent times.
Come cycling with us through Europe this summer to discover some of our favourite filming locations.
The Chianti Hills: The English Patient
The Italian scenes in Anthony Minghella’s 1996 film The English Patient were filmed at the Monastery of Sant’Anna in Camprena. Distinctive for its remote location and imposing size, it provided the perfect location for Ralph Fiennes to tell his story.
The English Patient won an impressive 63 major film awards when it was released, and we can’t help but think that perhaps the majestic Tuscan scenery had something to do with it.
Burgundy: Chocolat
The film Chocolat follows Juliette Binoche as she moves to a quaint yet small-minded village to open a chocolate shop, and comes up against opposition from the village residents. Chocolat was filmed in Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, just north of Burgundy.
In this medieval hilltop village, you’ll find the remains of ancient fortifications as well as, of course, plenty of options for those with a sweet tooth. Visit the famous lolly shop, Anis de Flavigny, to sample some treats which are still made with the same recipe used by Benedictine monks in the 16th century.
Cotswolds: Bridgerton
The iconic TV series ‘Bridgerton’ was filmed in the old streets of Bath which you can visit on our tour, The Grand Tour of the Cotswolds. Classic architecture and a regency era atmosphere are some of the town’s most defining characteristics. The popular series follows the Bridgerton family as daughter Daphne searches for a suitable betrothal, dallying with princes and dukes alike.
This picture-perfect town is most famous for its namesake Roman Baths. The streets are lined with Georgian Sandstone buildings, transporting you into the drama-filled Regency world of the Bridgertons.
Traverse the Cotswolds from north to south, this route blends the historical charm of the region with some of its finest contemporary touches.
Provence: A Good Year
The rural elegance of Provence is perfectly showcased in A Good Year, starring Russell Crowe and Marion Cotillard. On our Côtes du Rhône Vineyards tour, immerse your senses in the vineyards which are explored by the characters in the film.
Make sure to stop off in the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the Vaucluse region, where you can sip a glass of its world-famous wine. The wines here are controlled by the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée, and blend 13 grapes together for an unforgettable taste.
Explore the Côtes du Rhône by pedal power and sample some of the region’s finest landscapes, most charming towns and most highly rated hotels.
To find out more about our cycling holidays, call our experts on 020 7471 7760.