La Rochelle to Biarritz Cycling Tour 12 days

Arrive in La Rochelle + Excursion on ile de Ré | 52 km

Let yourself be seduced by the charms of La Rochelle the old port and its lively streets with arcades. In less than 20 minutes from the centre of La Rochelle are excellent cycle paths, cross the bridge and enjoy a breathtaking view of the bay. Discover the magic of the Ile de Ré a true paradise by bike. An incredible diversity of landscapes is offered to you with a loop which allows the discovery of Saint Martin de Ré, a maritime village with incomparable charm. The Citadelle Vauban the unique panorama from the Bell Tower Observatory and the beach de 'la cible' are the must-sees. On your way back do not miss the Châteliers Abbey and La Prée Fort at La Flotte. Rivedoux-Plage invites relaxation with its beach of pure white sand.

La Rochelle – Rochefort | 60km

From the famous towers of La Rochelle harbour ride along the cycling path by the ocean leading to Châtelaillon Plage, a seaside city. Then you will reach the city of Rochefort following the river banks of the Charente.

Rochefort – La Tremblade| 30km

Ride along the cycling path to the salt pan crossed by several small canals. Marennes was the first oyster farming pool in Europe: a perfect stopover to discover regional food!

La Tremblade – Royan | 40km

Continue your adventure between salt pans and the Seudre estuary. After Palmyre, 'the Coast of Beauty' is a spectacular leg thanks to an amazing cycling path with sea views until Royan and its Belle Epoque villas.

Royan – Montalivet | 30km

After Royan, you have the Pointe de Grave! Embark on the ferry to cross the mouth of the Gironde (30 minutes crossing included in the price). Enjoy the bike paths in the shade of pine trees to reach Soulac sur Mer, a pleasant seaside resort and an ideal stopover. Its Romanesque basilica and its beautiful neo-colonial style villas are worth a stroll. The route continues between ocean and pine forest to Montalivet les Bains.

Montalivet – Lacanau Océan | 52km

Continue the Vélodyssée south along the Atlantic. The easy route takes you through the dunes by beautiful forest trails. It's hard to resist the call of the ocean. You enjoy the pleasures of the ocean or lakes before joining Lacanau-Ocean known worldwide for its surf spots. Before enjoying the sunset on the terrace or on the beach, you can discover beautiful villas that contribute to the charm of this lively resort.

Lacanau Océan – Arcachon | 44km

Follow the Ocean until Arcachon. This stage is a subtle mix of pines and fine sand dunes. Leave your bikes wherever you wish to enjoy the beaches. Later arriving at the Cap Ferret, take the ferry with your bike to reach Arcachon. The hotel will welcome you, the hotel is not far from the beaches, have fun in the Bay waves!

Arcachon – Biscarrosse | 32km / 49km

Take advantage of this small stage to appreciate the discovery of: the Pilat Dune. You will be rewarded with the challenging climb at the top enjoy a panoramic views of the Ocean and the Bay of Arcachon.

Biscarrosse – Mimizan Plage | 55km

The course now travels inland from the ocean and the Vélodyssée, discover the interior of the Landes and its ponds. The more challenging and hilly route winds between the dunes and the big lakes (Biscarrosse, Parentis, Aureilhan) to arrive at the seaside resort of Mimizan-Plage, animated and charming with its Belle Epoque villas.

Mimizan plage – Vieux-Boucau | 60km

The Vélodyssée finds a peaceful route along the coast in the heart of the pine forest. Contis les Bains is an ideal first stop. A small unusual detour for a superb view and also the visit of the lighthouse of Contis with the ascent of its 183 steps. After Saint Girons Plage the route slowly moves inland once more with a cycle path that alternates between forest and small roads. Leon lake invites you to swim before returning to the coast and reach Vieux Boucau with its marine lake.

Vieux-Boucau – Biarritz | 61km

A great last stage in apotheosis with a beautiful bike path that leaves the Landes to get to where the surf is king. Ride along the longest sandy beach in Europe to the famous resorts of Hossegor and Capbreton. Do not miss the history soaked walk on the Estacade, a wooden pier built by Napoleon III in the 19th century.

Departure during the day

Option : Extra bike stage to Hendaye (30km) & extra night in Hendaye: Vélodyssée, the views of the ocean are wonderful and you discover the soul of Basque country. You cross pretty villages Bidart and then the old fishing port of Guétary. Saint Jean de Luz also deserves a stop. The route ends with the cliffside road (bike path and shared lanes) between Ciboure do not miss the Socoa Fort and Hendaye. The castle of Abbadia deserves the detour and the visitas well.