Hello, we are not cyclists but would enjoy and afternoon of biking to escape the crowds. Can anyone recommend a bike ride in either Paris or Normandy where we can stop for a picnic?
For in and around Paris you can google: French Mystique (Bike) Tours. He is an American living just outside Paris and offers all kinds of bike tours.
Day trip with picnic yes? You've specified a couple of huge areas. And you are looking at at least 90 minutes on the train each way to get out toward France's west coast. Now include transfer times from hotel to the station, renting bikes, etc, and it's a bear of a day trip. If you want a beautiful bike ride in the west of France, I'd stay out there for two night and dedicate your full day to a lovely bike ride day, from a lovely small city or town where you'll enjoy the morning and evening as well. It's a worthy use of time for sure.
If you are staying Normandie please tell us where and we can be more helpful.