FAQs
How much does it cost?
There is a registration fee of £150 and a minimum fundraising pledge of £1400. The registration fee is non refundable.
What support will I get from Oxfam?
Our expert team will support you all the way with your fundraising, give you ideas and tips and answer any questions you may have.
What's included?
Once you register you will receive a registration pack which gives you full details. All transport, accommodation, equipment, most meals and full trip support arte included.
What's not included?
Three meals during the trip are not included. Details of this are specified in the trip itinerary which you can download from the Ride Details section (click the tab above).
What will the terrain be like?
The cycling is mainly undulating. Distances are fairly long, averaging 80 miles per day; you should make sure you are fit enough to manage these distances. The first day is particularly strenuous with some tough climbs. We ride mainly on small country roads. Traffic is light on most of the roads but when we pass through busy areas we may go through as a group. French drivers are generally far more considerate to cyclists than here in the UK.
What do I need to bring?
We will provide a full kit list once you have registered for the challenge.
How do I transport my bike back from Paris?
The support crew will transport your bike back to London ready for you to collect once you arrive back on the Eurostar.
Can I join as part of a team?
Absolutely - but for administrative purposes you need to register as individuals.
How old do I have to be to take part in this challenge?
You must be 18 years old at the time of booking.
I'm worried that I'm not fit enough; do you think I could do it?
Most of our participants start out thinking this way, but if you prepare in plenty of time by training and have the right mental attitude you will be amazed at what you can achieve. The challenge has been designed to be achievable for most people of average fitness. We offer help and guidance along the way; you may even decide to take part in a training weekend organised by the tour operator. This is a perfect place to meet others who are signed up on challenges, discuss what clothing and equipment to take, swap fundraising ideas or simply to get motivated.
Will I be in safe hands?
Your safety, and that of the rest of the group, is our highest priority. Your trip will be led by experienced leaders. Leaders are selected for their experience in harsh wilderness environments, knowledge of travel in remote areas, friendliness and approachability, sense of humour and ability to safely and effectively deal with any situation that arises. All leaders are trained in expedition first-aid. Your crew will be equipped with radios and emergency satellite phones, extensive medical kit and other safety apparatus where necessary. They always have access to 24-hour emergency
back-up in the UK. Pre-trip administration - such as compulsory medical questionnaires and travel insurance - is all done with your safety in mind.
What are the accommodation and general facilities like?
For most people, the main attraction of travelling to a different country is to see new sights and enjoy new experiences. Sometimes those new experiences can make life harder or more inconvenient than you may like, such as toilet hygiene or different food, or simply a different attitude to solving problems. This is all part of the challenge you are signing up for! You will stay at comfortable (but not luxurious) hotels. These are usually of a traditional style, they can vary widely as they are chosen primarily for their location. Meals are designed to give you plenty of energy.
I am a vegetarian, will there be food for me?
Being vegetarian or having other dietary requirements is not usually a problem provided you let us know well in advance. Bear in mind that being vegetarian is not generally well understood in France, so meals may not be as varied as you are used to. If you know there are plenty of foods you cannot eat you may wish to bring extra snacks from home so you can top up your energy supply. Please feel free to ask us for advice.
Do I carry my own luggage?
Your luggage is transported by the support crew. You cannot access your main packs during the day so need to carry a day-pack with your fleece, waterproof, sun-cream, hat, camera, water etc. Suitcases are unsuitable; you need to bring a soft rucksack or expedition kitbag.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, you must have adequate travel insurance cover in order to participate in any overseas challenge. You can arrange this independently, just make sure your insurance company is aware of the nature of what you are doing and that it is a charity event. Alternatively it can be arranged through the tour operator - visit the Discovery Adventure website for more details.
How am I protected?
All bookings are authorised under Discover Adventure Ltd's ATOL license number 5636, through the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority). But ATOL protection does not apply to all challenges and travel services featured on Discover Adventure's website. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will
not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for details or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate