The joy of roadbiking to me is traveling light and fast. If you like cycling in the mountains, France is fantastic. The Michelin maps give a good indication. The Michelin maps are great, and they are available in any town. Friendly and helpful people with a great love of cycling and bicycle touring.
Hoteliers are quite welcoming of cyclists.
Motorists, though somewhat daring by US standards, are generally respectful and tolerant of cylists. You won't be assaulted for enjoying your ride helmetless. If you do wear helmets, you'll definitely stand out, no one wears helmets there.