Calais to Perpignan in early March

[Minimalist]

Hi all.

I am looking at taking my new to me GSA for a "getting to know you" week away whilst I am on a work sabbatical. I have spent many an hour in Europe on bikes but never around March. Anyone done anything similar at this time of year.

Looking at 2 days down 3 days down on the coast roads, villages and towns and 2 days back. Not camping.

Or should I keep my powder dry. Is the south open for business in March.

Any advice on a bomb proof route gladly received.

Thanks. Nige

 

[Simon W]

I went to Nice in March last year. It was, to put it bluntly, damn cold. You definitely don't want to be camping...

The riding itself was good - but not as good as it is later in the year, when the roads are dry and the weather is warm. Shops and things were open - especially when reaching the Riviera. Clearly, things could vary if you're going down the west coast, rather than down the eastern half and Route Napoleon, but the country doesn't empty in winter: the people who live there still need to buy food. You'll be fine.

 

[Minimalist]

Thanks Simon. Yep, the cold bit was a given. Being ex Military, I find there is nothing like a cold weather skirmish to find out ones personal, equipment and clothing short comings.

A great intro to the world of satnav in this months mag. Comes at the right time for me, the GSA came with BMW's version 4 fitted. My first time with satnav on a motorcycle so looking forward getting to grips with that. Luckily Garmin is familiar.

 

[drdaveboy]

good place to stay near tarn gorge and millau bridge is http://www.refuge-pour-motards.de i make a point of staying here due to the reasonable prices and friendly hosts and makes a great stop over place

 

[oddshapedballs]

good place to stay near tarn gorge and millau bridge is http://www.refuge-pour-motards.de i make a point of staying here due to the reasonable prices and friendly hosts and makes a great stop over place

"In the house exists a drying-room. We also have a free garage for motorcycles and bicycles and the possibility to screw if necessary" is that included in the price?

 

[SteveM]

Hi Nige, this really is a lottery weather wise. I've worked in France (Central and South) for many years and have been walking round with my shirt off in February and knee deep in snow at Easter, you can never tell. Unless the weather's utterly crap you'll have a good time anyway, especially on a new bike. If it was me, I'd wait till later in the year and the likelihood of warm sunny weather, but I'm a pussy when it comes to riding in shitty conditions.

 

[Minimalist]

Guys, thanks for the replies. I am going to go hatch a loose plan this week with a view to hitting the road mid March. I will keep one eye on the weather, but I am pretty determined to get South and gel with this machine. So down the west, South or East this time of year

 

[Wapping]

Early March ahs been and long gone.