The liveliness of Bordeaux and the extensive vineyards of its surroundings, the breeze of the AtlanticOcean and the characteristic smell of maritime pine forests. Add a bicycle to that and you have all the ingredients for a fantastic holiday. And… don’t forget to bring your flipflops!

This 9-day self-guided trip offers you a fantastic way to discover the French Atlantic coast from Bordeaux to Biarritz on two wheels. With daily stages from 33 to 62 km, it’s an easy and enjoyable route for the casual cyclist.

ITINERARIO
Crossing the vineyards around Bordeaux by bicycle, you can’t really leave the area behind without having tasted a glass of wine one or two in one of its numerous cellars. Perhaps the most famous of all is the Chateaux Margaux, a winery with more than five centuries of history.

Change the vines for pines: you are entering the Landes Forest. This is the largest man-made woodland in Western Europe, covering more than a million hectares. It stands apart for its unique species of maritime pine which plantation goes back as far as the times of Napoleon in the 18^th Century.

The road continues along the coast and over gentle dunes, until the Bay of Arcachon. Here many local oyster farmers open their doors for you so you can get to taste their delicious oysters, whelks and shrimps. Once you arrive to Cap Ferret, hop on the ferry with your bike. You’ll be dropped off at the town of Arcachon, where a quiet hotel night near the seaside awaits you.

On your way to Biscarrosse, leave your bike aside to climb the highest dune of the area: the Pilat Dune. An absolute must do that offers you great views of the ocean.

For the next stages the route alternates between coastal roads and inland landscapes. You will be riding peaceful quiet roads and passing by well-known surfer towns such as Mimizan and Capbreton, until reaching your final destination: Biarritz*.

Slow down and enjoy your days. Take a dip in the sea wherever you can or take a break in one of the many beach bars. Surely that beer tastes better after a day in the saddle!

*If you wish you can add an extra bike stage (and overnight) to Hendaye, the soul of the French Basque Country. Please note this stage is slightly more demanding than the other stages of the trip. Please contact us for detailed information.