Family bike holidays: all our tips for an unforgettable getaway

Fed up with traffic jams on the A7, suitcases exploding in the trunk, and "Are we there yet?" before even leaving the street? It's time to change gears. Literally.

Family bike vacations are the ultimate gentle adventure: you pedal, you laugh, you admire. You swap highway rest areas for playgrounds, blasting air conditioning for wind in your hair, and the sound of honking for the song of birds.

You don't need to be a tribe of pro cyclists to get started: with a little organization and preparation, you can turn your next vacation into a bike trip to enjoy the great outdoors.

Ready to live your little queen story with your family?

Dream big you will start

Before you hop on your trusty steed, you need to start imagining your family bike vacation. Bucolic destination along the Loire? Adventure along the water on the Canal du Midi?

DolceVia Tip: organize a little brainstorming session with the tribe. Give them a map, let them choose a stop. It's the best way to see your kids motivated even before the adventure begins (and to avoid negotiations like "why can't we go to Disneyland?").

The perfect itinerary you will find

If your children are between 5 and 12 years old, forget about the Alpine passes (unless you have the spirit of a slightly sadistic sports coach).

The golden rule of distances

For family bike vacations, forget your Sunday cyclist performances! Count on 20 to 40 km per day maximum with children. The goal is not to beat Tadej Pogačar, but to enjoy the journey without hearing "I can't take it anymore" every 10 minutes.

Choosing the terrain: safety first

Prioritize bike paths and quiet little roads for a peaceful bike trip. Greenways are your best friends: safe, often shaded, and generally dotted with points of interest perfect for snack breaks.

Strategic stops

Incorporate fun stops into your route: playgrounds, educational farms, castles, beaches... Think like a child: "What would make me forget that my butt hurts?"

Train (a little) you must

Warm-up rides

Before your family bike vacation, organize a few weekend rides to test the equipment and get everyone used to it. Start small: park, local bakery, and gradually increase the distance.

The full-scale test

A full day ride before departure helps identify problems: poorly adjusted saddle, child who can't stand their helmet, or parent who overestimated their abilities!

The right equipment you will choose

No need to sell a kidney to go on a bike trip. Instead of investing in a two-wheeler that will be used as often as your pair of skis, you can rent your bikes.

Depending on your children's age and fitness level, you have several options.

Cargo bikes: the easiest solution to carry your little ones.

The best of the best? The Galian: both a cargo and longtail bike, with electric assistance, it's a bit like the cyclist version of a camper van! It can carry up to 4 children or 2 children + all the necessary gear for their survival. No more playing Tetris with the panniers!

Mechanical bikes: if your kids love to pedal, everyone in the saddle

Make sure each family member has a bike suited to their size and your route. A road bike on dirt paths will be fun for 5 minutes. And even then...

Electric bikes: for your teens who are reluctant

If your teens are as excited about a bike trip as they are about a visit to the dentist, an e-bike might convince them. It's a fun way to combine physical effort (because yes, you still pedal on an e-bike!) and enjoyment. Note: prohibited on the road for those under 14.

Trailers and child seats: for the youngest

Simple and effective. Trailers can also be used to transport extra luggage.

Safety you will ensure

The arsenal for bike safety

• Helmets for everyone. Even if required only up to 12 years old, we recommend the whole family wear one. First, because no one is immune to an accident. Second, to avoid getting a "do as I say, not as I do" in your face.
• Reflective vests (to shine bright and look cool on Instagram)
• Front/rear lights, especially if you're cycling at the end of the day.

The "herd" technique

Keep the kids in the middle of the group, with an adult in front and one behind. That way, it's impossible to lose a little explorer along the way!

Remember to signal your intentions: arm extended, and even a few loud "watch out, I'm turning!" And above all, adjust your speed: we're not in Fast & Furious, we're on a family outing!

Light you will travel

Otherwise, watch out for protesting calves.

The minimalist wardrobe

Opt for technical clothing that dries quickly and washes easily. Forget fashion week, think comfort above all (no denim shorts for cycling, they chafe). A pro tip: dark colors hide chocolate and mud stains better.

Don't forget the anti-lobster kit (sunscreen, cap, sunglasses) and the anti-wet-dog kit (waterproof panniers, rain jacket).

The nomadic supply

• Energy snacks: cereal bars, dried fruits, and a few candies for energy dips
• Hydration: at least one water bottle per person
• Emergency picnic: because you never know when you'll stumble upon THE perfect spot

The SOS first aid kit

Colorful band-aids (kids heal faster with superhero band-aids, it's scientifically proven), disinfectant, tick remover, and basic medications for headaches or stomachaches.

The repair kit

• Spare inner tube
• Tire lever
• Pump or mini-compressor (because inflating with your mouth is really not ideal)
• Multi-tool with Allen key and screwdriver
• Patches

Want more details? Check out our complete list of essentials for a bike trip

Games and distractions

Bring along a small pocket-sized card game or mini-books to keep the kids occupied during breaks.

The unexpected you will welcome

A bike trip is also about the unexpected: a flat tire in the middle of a cornfield. A downpour when swimming was planned. A compromised picnic because the bakery is closed. But it’s also: lovely people offering you shelter, kids laughing in the rain, memories that will be told for years.

And in the end, the mishaps become the best anecdotes.

Memories you will keep

The return home may smell a bit like damp laundry and have slightly stiff calves, but above all... you will come back with something else. Not just blurry photos and a postcard never sent: real moments. Those where you sang (off-key) on a greenway, improvised a nap under a tree, or shared strawberry candies with an incredible view.

Family bike vacations may not change the world. But they do change a bit how you look at it, together. And that’s already quite something.

Want to take action? With DolceVia, you can rent your bikes or let yourself be guided with a custom itinerary tailored to your tribe.