France Battlefield Tours

oxoman

Hi folks has anyone done the WW1 or WW11 battlefield tours starting in France recently. I'm after advice and recommendations, I've never ridden properly abroad and looking to do either a short 3 day or longer 1wk tour in 2025. Potential milestone birthday present from the family. Advice, observations and recommendations would be appreciated.

pblakeney

Recommendations? If your budget will allow then a shorter one and a longer one.

https://marmot-tours.co.uk/holidays/dolomites-minibreak

https://marmot-tours.co.uk/holidays/classic-cols-of-the-dolomites

oxoman

I've looked at these before and tbh I actually fancy one of the battlefield rides as I'm into the historic side as well.

orraloon

Have a look on Podge's tour website for suggestions for an itinerary (inc lots of beer stops 😊). I've ridden a lot, usually on hire bikes but occasionally taken bikes over, in Westvlaanderen, usually based in Poperinge near Ieper. Lots of history round there. Then you could head south towards the Somme...

Cycling in Belgium is so well supported roads-wise. Good route planner on fietsroute.org. Can download gpx etc.

Add the podge link http://www.podgebeer.co.uk/tour-65-beer-battlefields.html

Dorset_Boy

There is a really good book on a race in 1919 across the WW1 battlefields which was re-ridden by the author a few years back, but I can't remember the name, but would give you some ideas.

carbonclem

I did the Gent Wevelgem sportive the other year. Its not really hanging around but you can stop and take bits in - Plugstreets, Memorials, Graveyards, Ypres, No Mans Land, battle bergs etc.