Our Lunch Break Ideas for your Cycling Trip

To pedal well and avoid fatigue in the middle of your journey, you’ll need energy. And if you haven’t refuelled before setting off, there are other ways to enjoy a well-deserved break! Here are our ideas for lunch breaks, whether on the go or a real stopover, which have been tested, approved and recommended by members of the Abicyclette Voyages team.

A picnic after the market

Cycling is one of the best ways to discover a new region. And to immerse yourself in the local culture and gastronomy, there’s nothing like a little detour to the local market to tantalize your taste buds! Then it’s time for a picnic…

A visit to a farmers’ market is a great way to fill your bags with local specialities. During the summer months, many of these markets fill the main squares of towns and villages across France. Our last trip to the Dordogne gave us the opportunity to stroll through the Sarlat-la-Canéda market, in search of the perfect picnic: Rocamadour, truffle cheese, duck foie gras, tapenades (olive spread) and fresh bread, strawberries, apple crumble…

Once we’ve done our shopping and packed our bags full of various delicacies, we set off in search of the perfect spot for lunch: a little piece of countryside, under the shade of a tree, overlooking an exceptional historical setting. We set up our checkered tablecloth and pull out our indispensable Opinel knife, before enjoying a well-deserved picnic of Perigordian flavors!

Snacks for eating on the go

When you’re on a cycling trip, it’s essential to have practical, nourishing snacks to recharge your batteries between stages. Whether you need an energy boost or just a little gourmet break, here are some ideas for delicious snacks to take with you on your cycling trip.

Fresh fruit: Fresh fruit is perfect for a quick, healthy snack on your bike trip. They’re rich in vitamins, fiber and antioxidants. Choose fruits that are easy to carry and eat, such as apples, bananas, oranges or grapes. They require no special preparation and can be eaten straight from the backpack.

Energy bars: they’re the ideal ally for a quick, convenient snack on your cycling trip. They are rich in nutrients and calories, helping you to maintain your energy levels. Choose bars made from dried fruit, nuts or wholegrain cereals for a balanced intake of carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats.

Nuts and seeds: Nuts and seeds are compact, nourishing snacks, perfect for on-the-go breaks. Almonds, cashews, hazelnuts and sunflower seeds are rich in essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, protein and fiber. Prepare individual packets or a small box to take a variety of nuts and seeds with you.

All you need for an aperitif dinner

Enjoy an aperitif on your bike, taking along the essentials for a moment of relaxation and enjoyment. When preparing your aperitif by bike, opt for practical, easy-to-carry snacks that don’t require refrigeration, so you can store them easily in your backpack or panniers.

To add a gourmet touch to your aperitif, pack a few pieces of cheese and charcuterie. Choose hard cheeses that preserve well, such as comté, tommes or gouda. For charcuterie, choose dry sausages or slices of cured ham. Dips and sauces are the perfect accompaniment to your snacks when you’re out cycling. Prepare sauces such as guacamole, hummus or fromage frais sauce in advance. Put them in small airtight containers or resealable tubes to avoid leaks. You can also take stick-cut vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers or celery, to dip in sauces. And if you’re in the mood to celebrate, you can choose small bottles of wine or light beer to enjoy in moderation.

And for optimum comfort, we recommend a few accessories you shouldn’t forget in your panniers: a cutting board, an knife and a foldable foam cushion to sit on.

Looking for a nice shady terrace

Finding a nice shady terrace to relax on after a morning’s cycling can be a real reward for your efforts. Here are a few suggestions for finding the perfect spot where you can rest, cool off and enjoy the shade while sipping a refreshing drink:

Explore the squares and alleyways: Venture into the city’s alleyways and small squares and you’ll discover hidden, peaceful terraces. These places often offer a charming, tranquil and authentic atmosphere, ideal for rest and refreshment. They’re also usually the best places to enjoy local, home-cooked cuisine! Don’t hesitate to ask local residents or shopkeepers for recommendations.

Look for public parks or gardens: Many cities have public parks or gardens with shady areas where you can relax. These green spaces often offer benches, picnic tables or even playgrounds. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a picnic in the shade after a morning’s cycling, and take a little nap before hitting the road again.

Find out more about what you need to take with you on a cycling trip in our story.