Self-guided Cycling Tour from Bayeux to Honfleur

Arrival in Bayeux

Wander through the narrow streets of Bayeux and admire the stately merchant houses. Visit the cathedral of Notre Dame, a jewel of Romanesque architecture. The town houses one of the most impressive Norman/Romanesque historical treasures: the Bayeux Tapestry. This long-embroidered linen cloth was stitched in the 11th century to recount the events of the Norman conquest of England in 1066 by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy.

Option : Excursion to Omaha Beach | 53 km (+ option 14 km) + extra night in Bayeux

Bike to Vierville-sur-Mer and Omaha Beach, often called ‘bloody Omaha’ as the heaviest allied losses were suffered here. At the top of the cliff the American cemetery of Colleville-sur-Mer dominates the beach. Row upon row of headstones surrounded by emerald green grass and the ever present sea create a sense of peace and serenity. Return to Bayeux after an optional visit to the Overlord Museum. You can extend the circuit by visiting La Pointe du Hoc cliffs [30 meters high]. Today one can still easily see traces of the damage caused to the fields by shell fire from the allied ships in the channel.

Bayeux – Courseulles sur Mer | 36 km

Head towards Longues-sur-Mer and its impressive German defensive battery, then continue on towards Gold Beach and, of course, Arromanches, Here you’ll be able to see the remains of the enormous artificial port constructed on the orders of Winston Churchill. Don’t forget to visit Arromanches 360°, a circular cinema which graphically illustrates the complete history of the Battle for Normandy. Continue your ride through the Normandy countryside, biking down little lanes between the pretty hedged fields – the “bocage”- until you reach Courseulles-sur-Mer. Take time to stroll round the picturesque fishing harbour.

Courseulles sur Mer – Cabourg | 41 km

Bike the length of Juno Beach and then Sword Beach all the way to Ouistreham passing through seaside villages and along fine sandy beaches. Take the time to visit the museum of No. 4 Commando or follow the bike path which runs along the Caen canal to Pegasus Bridge where the British army achieved a significant victory in 1944. After stopping briefly, if you wish, at the Pegasus Memorial it’s time to explore the “Cote Fleurie,” one of the most beautiful coastlines in France. Follow the edge of the sea to Cabourg, with its seaside promenades. It’s been a very popular seaside resort since the start of the 20th century.

Cabourg – Honfleur | 51 km

Briefly side-track into the Auge countryside to the village of Beaumont-en-Auge with its colourful timber framed houses before returning to the coast and heading for Deauville, a beautiful seaside resort full of elegant half-timbered houses. Follow the coastline dotted with apple trees to Honfleur with its pretty marina. Take the time to explore the delights of this lovely medieval port: its small harbour, its typical tall, narrow-fronted colourful houses and its timeless narrow streets and alleys. You’ll see why Honfleur inspired the Impressionist painters.

Honfleur – Trouville | 45 km

Leave Honfleur for a new route exploring the Auge countryside. This classic landscape, so emblematic of Normandy, offers the most beautiful vistas. The “Pays de Auge” is synonymous with apples and, of course, cider and Calvados. However, let’s not forget the dairy cows and the cheese they produce, which is why Pont-l’Eveque is an unmissable stop in your tour. Take the time to explore its brightly coloured half-timbered and carved houses before heading back to Deauville. Continue on to Trouville where the fish market will make your mouth water, while the Belle Epoque ambiance of this seaside town will charm you.

Departure during the day