Bike Tour: Atlantic Coast - Vélodyssée from La Rochelle to Bordeaux - 8 days

You individually travel to La Rochelle. Check in at your hotel. Have you arrived early, take a stroll through the capital of Charente-Maritime, vibrant and full of character, well known for its mild climate. Discover the lively Vieux Port full of outdoor cafés, busy shopping streets and many town monuments.

As the famous towers which defend the port of La Rochelle hove into view, a cycle path section takes you to the Port of Minimes, then onto the Cove of Godechaud, right next to the sea. The delightful Bay of Châtelaillon now comes into sight and offers weary cyclists a very pleasant stopping point. After the Bay of Châtelaillon comes a pretty seaside section before heading back inland towards the ‘royal city’ of Rochefort. While the middle section of this route might appear somewhat commonplace, the remarkable town of Rochefort is well worth exploring.

Challenge : 48.4 km, 1278m ascent, 1265m descent

It’s with great regret that you leave behind Rochefort, its gardens on the banks of the Charente and its transporter bridge of Martrou. You take the former steam-train tracks – now greenway – and La Vélodyssée meets the marshes, criss-crossed with little channels, before heading onto the oyster centre of Marennes. The Marennes Country, home to the leading oyster farms in Europe, spreads over salt marshes and the Seudre estuary. End of your cycling day in La Tremblade, an authentic village. In summer, the sea festival is a must: traditional boats, oyster opening competition, giant eclades and fireworks!

Challenge : 46,3 km, 201m ascent, 209m descent

You start today along the famous “Côte Sauvage”, here cycle paths are numerous and a truly memorable part of the route takes you through the forest of Coubre (and its lighthouse "Phare de la Coubre"). Farther, enjoy the splendid sea views. Following cycle lanes, the itinerary weaves through the coastal forest and array of pretty beaches, one of which is the charming village of Saint-Palais, before reaching the sandy beaches of Royan. All you have to do is to enjoy this seaside resort and catch a boat tomorrow morning!

Challenge : 38.8 km, 256m ascent, 250m descent

Take the ferry to cross the estuary of the Gironde to reach the region Medoc famous for its great wines. Upon entering the Gironde, a new world reveals itself to travellers. Pleasant cycle lanes wind their way from Verdon to the charming Soulac-sur-Mer with its lively streets and pretty seaside villas, you take the path towards Montalivet. The sea entices you in for a cooling dip; south direction to Hourtin, there is a more forested area which is most pleasant in hot weather.

Challenge : 71.9 km, 279m ascent, 273m descent

Through a long forest, leaving Hourtin to reach bank of the estuary of the Gironde and the vineyards of Pauillac. A day to discover the real natural diversity of the Médoc. The end of your cycling day takes you through the most renowned international vineyards, you stop in the prestigious village of Margaux, land of “Grands Crus”!

Challenge : 68.8km, 323m ascent, 326m descent

For your last day on bike, leaving the prestigious “Château Margaux” and cross the vineyards until you reach the gates of Bordeaux. Enter in the beautiful old center, cross the city along the banks of the Garonne and end this adventure on the famous “Place de la Bourse”. Bordeaux, the old town, closed to cars, is ideal for the walking tour. Discover the medieval streets and the magnificent white stone buildings.

Challenge : 33.8 km, 389m ascent, 398m descent

After breakfast, end of your cycling trip. Some time left? We advise you to extend your stay in order to take the time to visit the beautiful Bordeaux!