Whether you stay at an Auberge, Chambre d’hotes, or Chateau, it is only important that it be comfortable, welcoming and responds to your needs. The tour company should be happy to offer website addresses so you can have a peek. On a cycling tour you need quality rest.  

Are the bikes going to be a good fit and reliable? If not owned by the tour organiser who decides what you get? They need not be brand new or famous brand but how long is spent on servicing after use? Do they guarantee their response if a problem arises?  

Do you get ‘insider’ tips on where to lunch, or picnic, using the phones, etc? (If they don’t offer local knowledge are you testing out the cycle tour’s routes for them?).  

Is the cycle route one that you will enjoy, not endure? If you dread remounting the bike next day, the softest beds and tastiest meals won’t make up for it. The route doesn’t have to be level, just reasonable, and if you are riding with an enthusiast, is there the option of extra miles to give them the buzz they seek from a bicycle tour? 

You should expect clear and complete route notes that keep you on track and tell you about the countryside you are passing through. Can you see a sample page? Ideally, does a local host meet you and walk you through the tour? 

Are there extras that boost a low headline price? bike hire? long transfers to arrival/departure points? Is the price quoted B&B, or half-board - on some, or all, nights? Must you buy their insurance? 

Unless you enjoy the process of holiday travel, ask what is the total travel time from front door to dropping the suitcase? Perhaps train travel is more relaxing than flying but the comparison still makes sense  

Be sure to check each offer and note the answers on the PDF version that you can print off below .