Useful information

Information in the region around the Bikers Retreat at Le Haut Genet

Events

  • Moto GP (motorbikes) at Le Mans 18 - 20 May 2012

  • test day for 24 hour car race at Le Mans - 3 June 2012

  • 24 hour car race at Le Mans 16 - 17 June 2012

  • 24 hour motorbike race - details awaited

  • 24 hour Le Mans classic racing car race 6 - 8 July 2012

  • D Day celebrations 6 June 2012

  • Quatorze Juillet 14 July celebration of the French Revolution

Local Area

  • supermarket, bar 7 mins travel

  • ATM, 7 mins

  • NB: - WiFi now up and running at the cottage

  • MacDonald's Fougeres free Wi Fi hot spot 35 mins travel

  • 2 cafes in St Hillaire du Harcouet have free Wi Fi

  • fuel station 7 mins

Mobile phones - both Orange and O2 work at Le Haut Genet. No doubt others will too!

Electricity is 230 Volt. Each room has a multiadaptor for English sockets so you can recharge phones, MP3 players, SatNav, Bluetooth head sets etc

we have 2 electric shaver 2 pin sockets in the bathrooms.

Bike shops and tyre repair shops - we have a list of these

Laundry - we do have a washing machine and tumble drier

Honesty fridge - we stock it, you make a note of any drinks you use and pay later. NB you will be offered some drinks with each evening meal as part of your deal

Activities - there are numerous other activities in the region if you wish to get away from the bike for a while. Canoeing, fishing, swimming (in pool with slides or outdoor swimming lake), horse riding, go karting, etc.

some travel tips to consider

Reflective Jacket and triangles - A new law has been introduced concerning the compulsory carrying of a reflective jacket (EN471) and a warning triangle This will be enforced by the Gendarmerie with large on-the-spot fines. This does not apply to Riders of two-wheeled and three-wheeled vehicles. Worth considering taking a reflective vest though...

ensure that your bike is well maintained - You could be riding long distances and your tyres need to be up to it and you need to ensure your luggage is secure. If in doubt put everything in a plastic bag before putting into your bags/panniers. Don't forget your headlamp dip direction adjuster and a GB sticker. Travel light!

Documentation - you will need the bike documents, driving licence, insurance etc with you at all times.Make sure that your insurance company and your bank know you will be away in France.

Travel insurance - and bike repatriation should be considered. EHC1 cards are a must as this entitles you to reduced cost medical care within the EU.

What about spares etc? - worth taking a tool kit, spare fuses, mini torch, repair plugs and gas cannisters for tyre repairs. Spare bulbs are compulsory in most of Europe. Do you know how to do a tubless tyre repair?

other items - maps, Sat Nav, sunglasses and cream, emergency contact details for you and your mates, tinted visor (not illegal in Europe), and mobile phone with roaming activated.....and a French dictionary will be useful.

Emergency help - dial 15 for Ambulance, 17 for Police, 18 for Fire.

Speed limits - National speed limits are: 50 kph (31 mph) in built-up areas, 70 kph (44 mph) in villages, 90 kph (56 mph) on the open road, 110 kph (69 mph) on dual carriageways, and 130 kph (80 mph) on motorways. The police have some mobile cameras as in the UK, and also there are BIG signs approx 500m before a fixed static camera.

Priorite a droite - priority from the right. This is the remnant of the old system in France, but nevertheless some junctions allow motorists to come onto the main road from the right and motorists on the main road are expected to let them do so! You will see a roadsign like a cross.....keep your eyes peeled!

Further information can be found at http://english.controleradar.org/driving-in-france.php which also has highways information and speed camera locations...

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