Frequently Asked Questions

What are the cycling roads like?
Main roads are not in our vocabulary! We spend the day pedaling on vineyard paths, small well-paved village roads and designated cycling routes. In general, you can expect 2hills per day. Understand that what goes up must come down. You will love our roads.

Am I fit enough?
Most tours are rated as intermediate-easy level trips. The average daily distance is 25-29 miles or about 38-50km. This usually requires 3-5 hours of pedaling per day. We are outside all day, either on a bike visiting a wine cellar, or relaxing at a cafe sipping coffee or a cold beer. We are active. If you enjoy life, and like to see the world, then you are fit for us!  Why should I choose Bike Tours in France?

What does my trip price include?
Brand new 27sp aluminum bikes are included, as well as helmets. Trips include hotels, most meals, guides and local experts, access to exclusive sites. Get yourself there, we will take care of everything and much much more. What’s Included.

How many people, and who will be on my trip?
We like to keep our trip size small, we average 8-14 people.  Our trips appeal to travelers from the ages of 21-65 who tend to be singles and couples from around the world: internet gurus, entrepreneurs, film-makers, lawyers, doctors, students, honeymooners and most of all lifers.  The majority of our clients come from the USA and Canada and the UK, but we also attract travelers from Australia to Brazil.

If I am very fit, will this tour be challenging enough for me?
For very fit riders, there are always extra miles/kilometers and hills that you can add as an option. There are some longer routes as well. The guides are always game for an extra 15km ride. We have tons and tons of extra routes and hidden charms. 

What type of  weather can I expect?
The weather is great for cycling, with fresh mornings and evenings, and warm and dry during the day with an occasional brief shower later in the day or evening.  In short, the climate has been great for the grapes for over 900 years, so you can expect great weather for cycling and being outside.

Should I get trip insurance?
If you have any inclination that you might cancel, play it safe and purchase it.  You will be glad you did!  Please go to this link and sign up. 

What do people wear at dinner?
Always remember that this tour is for you! We do rest and dine at exclusive properties, but what is important is your comfort. Whether you wear your North Face sweater, or your Armani black dress you will always fit in with the DuVine family.

My friend likes to bike and I like to drink wine all day?
Great! Remember we strike a balance between luxury and exercise, water and wine, cycling and adventuring. You and your friend will be able to achieve all your goals. "Bike Drink Eat Sleep!"

How long has DuVine Adventures been leading bike tours in France?
DuVine Adventures was found on bike, with a bottle of wine, and a dream for adventure.  After making several key contacts/friends in regions all over France, the company was created by Andy Levine in 1995.   Today, DuVine Adventures is regarded as one of the most unique and respected bike tour operators in the world.  Read about us in the news.

What do I wear on the bike?
Do not think that you have to look like a Professional biker. Come as you are, but padded bike shorts and bike gloves do help. We spend most of the day outside, whether in a wine cellar at a cafe or on a bike, so dress comfortable and happy. It tends to be around 57 degrees in wine cellars, and warm on the bicycle.

What kind of bike gear do I need to bring?
Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers, Bicycling gloves Bicycling shorts (tight or not tight), Bicycling tights, sandals, Long-sleeved shirt, rain gear (jacket pants), sunglasses, sweater-sweatshirt. Check out our Travel Gear section for a detailed list if items to bring with you on the trip. 

DuVine Cycling Jersey:  We made a 100 limited edition DuVine Adventure cycling jerseys.  The team jersey is stylish providing the best technical performance on the market made by Louis Garneau.  Ride for "Team DuVine" and be the coolest kid on the block.  We have already pre-sold many, so place your order soon.

Do I need a helmet?
We believe you can make your own decisions with your safety. DuVine Adventures likes it when you wear your helmet, but does not make you wear a one.  Feel free to bring your own, and we have extras that we can provide at no cost.

Will I find it difficult to sit at dinner after a day of riding?
Our bike seats are gel, but if you have a tender behind, purchase a gel seat cover that slides over our seat.

What do I wear when I'm not cycling?
Clothing and shoes for restaurants , fleece jacket or warm sweater, sport coat, dress walking/hiking shorts, socks, sleep-wear. It is Europe, they tend to look very nice.

What do you recommend for accessing money while I'm in France?
Frankly, travelers checks are a pain. The easiest (and cheapest) way to get money is by using your bank ATM card or credit card!

How many bags can I bring?
***Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase an one carry-on. Mark your luggage with your name, address and phone number. Sometimes a small extra bag is good to carry wine back home.

Do I need a passport?
A passport is required for travel to France. A visa in not required for U.S. citizens provided you are staying in the country less than 90 days. We recommend that you make two photocopies of your airline ticket and the first page of your passport. Leave one copy at home with a friend or relative, and bring one copy with you, keep it separate from the original documents.

How do I keep in touch with friends, family, and the office during the tour?
We provide you with a personalized email address for the week. With you Cafe au lait or Vin Rouge you can receive and send email 1 or times a day. duvinefrance@aol.com

Who pays for the wine?
All wine tastings are paid for, wine is NOT included with dinner.

Should I tip my guides, and if so, how much?
If you appreciated your DuVine Adventure guides at the end of the tour, the average is $75-$100 per-guide.

Should I think about work?
Leave that at home, let us do the work, you are on vacation!

Do I need to get in shape for the tour?
Dust off the old bike in your basement, try a hill or two, do a spinning class, make the effort to cycle 20miles, and practice your French incase you get lost! (joke)

Want to buy a great bike, and get very fit?  Before you go on your trip, check out Cadence Cycling: They provide cyclists of all levels performance oriented training and testing services combined with the world's finest selection of road and mountain frames, wheelsets, components, and clothing.  Cadence certified staff are among the most knowledgeable in the industry, and they're eager and available to ensure that you get the training program, the bike, the fit, and the attention you need to become the best cyclist you can be.

Buying wine and shipping it back.
Each state/country has it's own laws on how much wine is allowed, but most airports let you carry 2bottles per/person.  We use a few cellars that ship wine direct to your house or local airport, but the shipping can take time and cost money.  Make sure you ask your guides what the best option will be. 

Can you provide me with references from a past trip?
We will be very happy to provide you with several names and numbers of people who have participated our most recent trips.

How far in advance do I need to reserve my vacation?
The farther in advance that you book, the greater availability of dates you'll find. We recommend reserving at least three to six months out.  $500 secures your space.

Trip Dates | Reserve Today | Brochure Request