Award-winning author Steven Herrick journeys across France on a bicycle, following the canals, rivers and back roads while sampling the delights of the regions. Accompanied by his wife, Cathie they venture into Germany and turn south to the daunting Swiss Alps. After crossing the famous Saint Gotthard Pass, it's downhill all the way to Italy. Adopting the mantra that 'cycling is an interlude between meals', this book is an exploration of culture and cuisine; history and wine; society and beer; all experienced at a casual fifteen kilometres per hour. 'boulangeries and bicycles' is a travel adventure, a restaurant safari and a guidebook for those who enjoy slow food, easy cycling and historic villages.