OTHER ROUTES IN NORTH EAST FRANCE

1 CALAIS WWII SITES Start/finish: Calais Distance: 105 miles Riding time: 3.5 hours Short enough to do as a day trip from the tunnel, this loop takes in five historic sites from the German occupation in WWII.

2 BEAUVAIS AND VEXIN Start/finish: Beauvais Distance: 180 miles Riding time: 6 hours From the pretty city of Beauvais to the north of Paris, this route flows though the Vexin region to the beautiful village of Lyons-laforêt. Hotel tip: City Hotel (www.cityhotel.fr)

3 SEZANNE AND PROVINS Start/finish: Sézanne Distance: 215 miles Riding time: 6 hours Relaxed riding on the plains of Champagne, with a welcome stop at the fabulous historic village of Provins. Hotel tip: Le Relais Champenois (relaischampenois.com)

4 CHAUMONT LOOP Start/finish: Chaumont Distance: 210 miles Riding time: 6 hours A full day exploring the gently rolling hills of Burgundy. Hotel tip: Ibis Styles Chaumont Centre (www.ibis.com)

5 LORRAINE LOOP Start/finish: Neufchâteau Distance: 245 miles Riding time: 7 hours From Burgundy and into Lorraine, this longer ride stays resolutely off the beaten track. Hotel tip: Le Romain (www.restaurantleromain.fr)