As a life-long cyclist, starting at the age of 12 with a 3-speed bike and a Bartholomew’s map, I have spent my life planning routes for various groups and producing cycling magazines. Much of my time over the past 20 years has been spent as a cycle tour leader, mainly abroad, often in France.

I usually lead from the front at about 12 mph, sightseeing from the saddle. However, the overall speed for a day is usually a lot less than this as we stop to explore anything of interest and at cafes wherever possible. Those who want can ride on ahead or take their time as I supply links to routes on RidewithGPS as well as .gpx files for GPS devices. Also .pdf maps with elevation profiles and cue sheets to view on a phone or print.

I plan and use routes using country lanes wherever possible. Plus cycle paths and official cycle routes where these are useful and well-maintained.

For preference, small family-run hotels, occasionally hostels or hotel chains when they are under good management.

In recent years, almost always France and occasionally the UK.