Читать книгу The Loire Cycle Route. From the source in the Massif Central to the Atlantic coast онлайн

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Prices for accommodation in France are similar to, or slightly cheaper than, prices in the UK.

Many hotels and guest houses display Cyclists Welcome signs

Youth hostels and gîtes d’étape

There are five official youth hostels on or near the route and these are listed in Appendix D. In addition there are independent backpackers’ hostels in some of the larger towns and cities. To use an official youth hostel you need to be a member of an association affiliated to Hostelling International (YHA in England, SYHA in Scotland). Unlike British hostels, most European hostels do not have self-catering facilities but do provide good value hot meals. Hostels get very busy, particularly during school holidays, and booking is advised through www.hihostels.com. Details of independent hostels can be found at www.hostelbookers.com

Gîtes d’étape are hostels and rural refuges in France, mainly for walkers. They are mostly found in mountain areas, although there are some along the Loire Valley, particularly in Ardèche. Full details of all French gîtes d’étape can be found at www.gites-refuges.com. Do not confuse these with Gîtes de France, which are rural properties rented as weekly holiday homes.