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France: Atlantic Coast

Cycling the French Atlantic Coast: La Rochelle to Bordeaux

Trip code: C06AC

Average customer rating 5.0 / 5(2 verified reviews)

Self-Guided Cycling
6 nights hotel-to-hotel
Steady
Flights available
CO₂ rating 1/5
Agent supplied app

Trip highlights

Cycling route with Ocean back drop.

Easy ride along fine sandy beaches.

A ride through the prestigious vineyards of Bordeaux and Medoc.

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Trip details

Follow ‘La Velodyssee’, the French part of the Atlantic Coast Route – Eurovelo 1. This cycle route along the Atlantic to the Basque Coast is an invigorating journey, showcasing the region’s remarkable coastal beauty.

What's included

Included

  • 6 nights in 3-star and 4-star accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Bike fitting and briefing at the start of your holiday
  • Navigation app
  • Bike hire included
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Ferry crossing on the Gironde river (day 5)

Not included

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance

Your bike

Hand-picked for the route, hire included

Bergamont, Horizon 6 or equivalent. Your bike hire is included in the price of your holiday and comes equipped with the relevant essentials, plus rear pannier and phone holder.

Travel options

Flights

Our air prices include standard flights and transfers.

Itinerary

Route map, with each night's stop marked
The full route, night by night. Select the map to view it full screen.

Day 1 · —Arrival in La Rochelle

Arrival in La Rochelle

A fortified old port, recognisable by its famous medieval towers, bell towers, cloisters and a majestic town hall. La Rochelle’s heritage is impressive, but that doesn’t mean the atmosphere is any less relaxed. Seafood restaurants and terraces with views give the town a permanent holiday feel.

You stay at Hotel Central Park

Central Park
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Hotel Central Park

La Rochelle

The Central Park Hotel & Spa opened its doors in July 2016, set amidst the tranquil and picturesque greenery of the Parcs de la Rochelle.

This 4-star hotel stands out for its commitment to being accessible to all.

It offers high-quality facilities, including a spa and wellness area (with a gym, Jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, and a range of treatments and massages), room service, a lounge bar, and concierge services.

Contemporary in design and serene in atmosphere, the Central Park is an inviting place where exceptional service is a top priority, and guests are greeted with a warm and personalised welcome.

Day 2 · 60km/37.3miLa Rochelle - Rochefort

La Rochelle - Rochefort

Your ride starts in La Rochelle, with its stunning old harbor and charming cobblestone streets. Then, just a short journey away, Rochefort invites you to step back in time with its grand naval heritage, the magnificent Corderie Royale, and the fascinating Hermione frigate, offering an unforgettable voyage through France’s seafaring past!

You stay at Hotel Mercure Corderie Royale

Hotel Mercure Corderie Royale Rochefort
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Hotel Mercure Corderie Royale

Rochefort

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Safe
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

Located in the heart of Rochefort, by the banks of the Charente, the 4-star Mercure Rochefort La Corderie Royale hotel is set in a historic 17th-century building, which was fully refurbished in 2018. Relax in the contemporary, spacious rooms, offering stunning views of the Charente, the Corderie Royale, and the Hermione site, or enjoy views over the wooded garden and pool. Indulge in fine local produce at the unique restaurant.

Day 3 · 70km/43.5miRochefort - Royan

Rochefort - Royan

Follow the cycling path longing for the ocean and numerous sandy beaches. Enjoy a break for oyster tasting in Marenne the birthplace of French oyster farming. Discover the seaside charm of La Tremblade, where pristine beaches, the enchanting Cite de l’Huitre, and thrilling boat trips through the vibrant Marennes-Oleron Bay promise an unforgettable coastal adventure! Between vineyards and oyster marshes, you can enjoy the wild, unspoilt countryside, just a stone’s throw from famous seaside resorts. Facing the Atlantic, between two estuaries, Royan is renowned as much for its beaches as Belle Epoque villas.

You stay at Hotel Thalazur Cordouan

Hotel Thalazur Cordouan
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Hotel Thalazur Cordouan

Royan

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Diners Club
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Safe
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

Overlooking the ocean and just a few steps from the Corniche du Chay coastal path, the Thalazur Royan**** Hotel and Spa is a truly exceptional destination, offering a complete escape. The hotel’s contemporary decor, inspired by the local region, creates a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Located just a stone’s throw from the Conche du Chay, the Thalazur Royan**** Hotel is a remarkable location! With an infinity pool and the Thalassotherapy Institute & Spa, it’s the perfect place to indulge in a moment of relaxation and well-being.

Day 4 · 35km/21.7miRoyan - Mortagne sur Gironde

Royan - Mortagne sur Gironde

Along this coastal path, there is an incredible kaleidoscope of changing landscapes and vibrant atmospheres with natural and cultural treasures to be discovered at your own pace. Today, on your way explore the breathtaking beauty of Talmont-sur-Gironde, where the ancient Roman church stands majestically facing the Atlantic Ocean, offering a captivating blend of history, stunning views, and serene coastal charm!

You stay at Domaine Clos de Bellevue

Domaine Clos de Bellevue
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Domaine Clos de Bellevue

Mortagne sur Gironde

  • Hairdryers
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Wifi access

Le Clos de Bellevue, a splendid 19th-century property, invites you to enjoy a memorable stay. Set on the edge of the Gironde estuary, between Royan and its beaches, the Cognac vineyards, and the Bordeaux wine region, it’s the perfect location for exploration. Unwind in the 5-hectare park and take advantage of the on-site amenities, including a swimming pool and children’s play area.

Day 5 · 60km/37.3miMortagne sur Gironde - Blaye

Mortagne sur Gironde - Blaye

Ride along the coast between fishing villages and vineyards. Then, explore the 17th century citadel, in Blaye, overlooking the Gironde River. Enjoy a wine tasting. The Blaye – Cote de Bordeaux appellation offers both white and reds wines. Young red wine aromas are strong and fruity, with musk and spice notes developing with age, whereas the dry whites are intense and powerful, with notes of boxwood and citrus (lemon, grapefruit).

You stay at Hotel de la Citadelle

La Citadelle
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Hotel de la Citadelle

Blaye

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Swimming pool
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

Housed within the citadel, in the heart of this surprising and remarkable natural and architectural heritage site, the charming Hotel La Citadelle stands at the gates of Bordeaux, Blaye on the banks of the Gironde. In this mansion nestlng above the river overlooking the ramparts, you will find 21 comfortable rooms, private parking, a swimming pool, a lovely terrace, a bar and a panoramic restaurant overlooking the Gironde estuary.

Day 6 · 55km/34.2miBlaye - Bordeaux

Blaye - Bordeaux

Take a deep breath of crisp sea air. Start this ride by crossing the Gironde river by boat to reach Lamarque and its famous Medoc vineyards and chateaux wine cellars. Over on the other side, you will discover the jewel in the crown of the Verrou Vauban (the Vauban defensive system): Fort Medoc. Next, it’s time to explore the Bordeaux Wine Route in Medoc as you pass through the world-renowned Margaux area. The route continues along small roads which pass through the Medoc’s vineyards, small hedged fields and moorland as far as Bordeaux.

You stay at Hotel de Normandie

Hotel de Normandie Bordeaux
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Hotel de Normandie

Bordeaux

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Shops
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

In the heart of the historic centre of Bordeaux, the Hotel de Normandie**** offers you quintessential French hospitality. Set in an XVIII century stone building, the hotel combines authentic elegance with modern amenities. Run by the same family for four generations, this emblematic hotel in Bordeaux city centre is a much loved pied-à-terre for many regular clients. Guests appreciate the dedication and friendliness of the long-serving staff in addition to the high level of services of a 4 star hotel. The Hotel Normandie **** Bordeaux overlooks the Place des Quinconces and is right next to the Tourist Office, the Place Tourny, the Place des Grands Hommes, the Grand Theatre Opera House, the water front and the famous St. Catherine shopping street

Day 7 · —Departure

Departure

Extending your holiday

Central Park
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Hotel Central Park

La Rochelle

The Central Park Hotel & Spa opened its doors in July 2016, set amidst the tranquil and picturesque greenery of the Parcs de la Rochelle.

This 4-star hotel stands out for its commitment to being accessible to all.

It offers high-quality facilities, including a spa and wellness area (with a gym, Jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, and a range of treatments and massages), room service, a lounge bar, and concierge services.

Contemporary in design and serene in atmosphere, the Central Park is an inviting place where exceptional service is a top priority, and guests are greeted with a warm and personalised welcome.

Hotel de Normandie Bordeaux
Image 1 of 3

Hotel de Normandie

Bordeaux

  • Air conditioning
  • American Express
  • Hairdryers
  • Mastercard
  • Shops
  • Television
  • Visa cards
  • Wifi access

In the heart of the historic centre of Bordeaux, the Hotel de Normandie**** offers you quintessential French hospitality. Set in an XVIII century stone building, the hotel combines authentic elegance with modern amenities. Run by the same family for four generations, this emblematic hotel in Bordeaux city centre is a much loved pied-à-terre for many regular clients. Guests appreciate the dedication and friendliness of the long-serving staff in addition to the high level of services of a 4 star hotel. The Hotel Normandie **** Bordeaux overlooks the Place des Quinconces and is right next to the Tourist Office, the Place Tourny, the Place des Grands Hommes, the Grand Theatre Opera House, the water front and the famous St. Catherine shopping street

What our travellers say

Friendly Efficient Well organised

A Valued Customer

An interesting, beautiful and varied route. A mix of different types of hotel , all with friendly, welcoming staff.

Mrs Powell
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From£1,519per person