La Vélodyssée – Cycle from La Rochelle to Bordeaux

A fresh sea breeze gently blowing through your hair, infinite sunset views and bike lanes along vast empty beaches. This astonishing itinerary invites you to discover the French Atlantic coast on two wheels.

Cross the gentle landscapes of the west coast dotted with villages renowned for their architecture. Leave your bike aside to experience the world-famous French gastronomy and indulge yourself in the best the country has to offer, savouring the seafood of Marennes and the rewarded white wines of the Médoc region.

This 8-day self-guided cycling trip offers you an excellent way to spend your holidays, riding all the way from La Rochelle to the city of Bordeaux. With daily stages from 33 to 62 km, it’s an easy and enjoyable route for the casual cyclist.

 

ITINERARIO
After a good night sleep, you´ll start your trip in the port of La Rochelle, taking the bike lane along the ocean until you reach the city of Rochefort. From here you’ll cross the salt pan of Marennes, the first oyster farming pool in Europe. A great moment to taste this delicious local food.

The road continues towards La Tremblade where you can take a little detour to visit the lighthouse located at the northern tip of the Gironde Estuary. Climb its 300 steps to have a spectacular view of the Côte Sauvage(Wild Coast) and its beautiful beaches.

Once arrived to Royan, park your bike to visit its market, which was elected as being the 2nd most beautiful one in the whole of France. An excellent place to refuel and enjoy with all your senses.

Continue riding along the Gironde river banks and stop by at one of its many small marinas for a picnic. Did you actually know that a picnic is a word and custom of French origin?

After the French Revolution, ordinary people used to gather in royal parks and gardens to eat and drink together. The preparation of these elegant meals in the open air could even take several days!

Crossing the vineyards of the Médoc region, you will arrive to the city of Bordeaux. Take your time to visit its many monuments and enjoy the radiant social life of this vibrant city. We can even book you some extra nights here, so you can enjoy your time without any rush.

DURATION 8 days / 7 nights
ACTIVITY LEVEL Easy going - Intermediate
DISTANCE (APPROX) 280KM
RECOMMENDED BIKE All types of bicycles
RECOMMENDED SEASON  From March - October
DEPARTURE DAYS Any day of the week
MEETINGPOINT Your hotel in La Rochelle
HOTELS 2* 3* and 4* options available

 

PRICES

STANDARD (2* and 3* hotels) FROM 1.044€* / person
SUPERIOR (3* and 4* hotels) FROM 1.368€* / person

*Prices are subject to availability and season. Please contact us to receive a quote for the dates of your choice.

BOOKING CODE: EU-08

INCLUDED

  • 7 nights accommodation & breakfast (double room occupancy)
  • Luggage transfer between hotels
  • Detailed information including colour maps and route directions in English
  • City taxes
  • Hotline 7 days a week
  • Boat transfer of the Gironde river (Day 7)

OPTIONAL EXTRAS (not included)

  • Bike rental (from 143€ hybrid bicycle / 247€ e-bike)
  • Half board (dinners) supplement
  • Extra hotel nights in La Rochelle or Bordeaux

RECOMMENDATIONS – What to bring?

  • Casual comfortable cycling clothes
  • Sunglasses and gloves
  • Rain jacket / rain pants
  • Water
  • Sunblock
  • Helmet
  • Small daypack
  • A small first aid kit (with mosquito repellent!)
  • Swimwear

INFO & BOOKINGS

Contact us if you’d like to make a reservation or if you require further information.

Please fill out the form and we will get back to you ASAP.