After a wonderful day riding through some of Europe’s most breath-taking landscapes, one of the biggest joys of a Cycling for Softies tour is staying in luxury accommodation. If you want to make your holiday extra special, choose a tour with one of these once-in-a-lifetime hotels.
Le Château des Alpilles, Provence
The Château Des Alpilles is renowned for its old world charm. Most of the bedrooms sit inside a 19th Century French castle, with period features such as high ceilings and fireplaces. The expansive grounds include an outdoor swimming pool, ideal for cooling off after a long day in the saddle. It has its very own cyprus farm, where you can admire the trees that were a common feature in Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings. The restaurant and poolside snack bar are managed by chef Mathias Bettinger, who whips up colourful and healthy dishes made with local produce.
This pocket of Provencal perfection inspired Vincent van Gogh through the most productive period of his career, with the beauty of the region, both natural and cultural, captured in more than two hundred of his works.
Hotel Jules César, Provence
Once a convent in the heart of Arles, this Roman-inspired building is now a 5-star hotel with a blend of rustic original features and colourful contemporary pieces. The artistic décor was chosen by French fashion designer Christian LeCroix. The vaults of the old monastery are where you’ll find the Cinq Mondes spa, while the cloistered garden now plays host to a sparkling heated swimming pool. The hotel offers fine dining in its Lou Marqués Restaurant, which has a private terrace for al-fresco evening meals.
This pocket of Provencal perfection inspired Vincent van Gogh through the most productive period of his career, with the beauty of the region, both natural and cultural, captured in more than two hundred of his works.
Le Grand Hotel, Normandy
This imposing hotel has been sitting on Cabourg’s promenade since 1907 and was a favourite holiday spot of French novelist Marcel Proust. It’s one of the few hotels in Normandy with direct beach access. Sea-facing rooms have terraces and huge French doors, so you don’t have to leave the crisp white sheets of your king-sized bed to enjoy the view. The gourmet restaurant, Le Balbec, also has commanding views across the water – as does its (weekend-only) breakfast and lunch terrace, La Plage.
Enjoy exploring famous historical sites including the Bayeux Tapestry and World War Two memorials on our luxury cycling tour which journeys across Normandy and the Calvados coast.
Palazzo del Capitano, Tuscany
This four-star hotel sits in the heart of the gorgeous walled town of San Quirico d’Orcia. Surrounded by groves of olive trees and Mediterranean gardens, this is a classically Tuscan hotel, with charm and hospitality around every corner. Boasting its own spa, this Italian retreat is a wonderful way to rejuvenate yourself, perhaps with a massage or a dip in the turquoise pool,
From cypress-lined paths to beautiful villas, this takes you on a journey through an impossibly beautiful region plucked straight from a film set.
Villa Monte Solare, Umbria
This luxury spa hotel sits amid the rolling hills and valleys of Umbria, surrounded by olive trees. Inside you’ll find original period features including terracotta flooring, marble fireplaces and antique furniture. There are only 25 rooms, so there are fewer guests to share the two swimming pools, tennis court and wellness centre. The restaurant offers cooking demonstrations, classes and guided wine tastings.
Indulge yourself on Umbrian wines, delicious food and gorgeous scenes as you embark on a cycling holiday. Call our cycle experts today to find out more.
Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa, Provence
This gorgeous five-star hotel and spa is one of the most indulgent stays in Provence. Lying just outside the town centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, in a quiet and tranquil area, this is the perfect place to revitalise yourself. Although the grounds make this one of the most luxurious Softies hotels, it’s the award-winning spa that steals our hearts. In particular, the aromatherapy is what they’re known for.
Take a tour of the olive groves and vineyards that cover this gorgeous corner of Provence and stay in our selection of the finest hotels. Call our cycle experts today to find out more.
Domaine les Crayères, Champagne
In the sparkling region of Champagne is a luxurious and grand hotel, the Domaine les Crayères. This fairy-tale castle has picture-perfect gardens and pristine décor we love to explore. Not to mention the service and hospitality is more than five stars. At this hotel, relax with a glass of indulgent Champagne whilst you gaze out over the beautiful views as the sun sets.
Indulge yourself with delicious wines and stunning scenery with a Champagne cycling holiday, through charming vineyards and grand cities. Call our cycle experts today to find out more.
The Painswick, The Cotswolds
A hotel designed with classic English elegance, The Painswick in the Cotswolds is both luxurious and delightful. The restaurant is renowned for its wonderful gastronomy, serving traditional favourites in a sophisticated setting. Guests at this hotel also receive a complimentary pass to the stunning Rococo Garden, where a stroll amongst the beautifully landscaped gardens is a true highlight of your holiday.
The Cotswolds is like no other. With the use of E-bikes you can explore its quaint villages, meandering rivers and rolling hills.
Bailiffscourt, Sussex
Built in the style of a Tudor estate, the eccentric past owners of Bailiffscourt created a beautiful hotel with exquisite styling in Sussex. Lavender-lined paths and honey-coloured stones make this one of the prettiest hotels on our tours. The spa, a modern addition, has all you need for a relaxing and indulgent stay.
Enjoy the best of Sussex wine with this carefully created tour. Expect luxury hotels and leisurely e-bike pedalling in between wine tastings.
Crillon le Brave, Provence
Breathtaking and luxurious, Crillon le Brave in Provence is one of the most luxurious Softies hotels. With sweeping views of vineyards and the valley below, you can soak in the exceptional sights from the comfort of the pool, or perhaps whilst you’re dining al fresco. The architecture and styling of this hotel is beautifully Provençal, with elegant bars and delicious restaurants on the grounds too.
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 the luxury hotels on our cycling tours, call our experts on 020 7471 7760.