LA VÉLODYSSÉE | Cicerone cycling guide

CYCLING GUIDE

Cycle one of Europe’s best long-distance bike routes on La Vélodyssée, the French section of EuroVelo 1, following the Atlantic coast from Roscoff in Brittany to Hendaye on the Spanish border. Covering 1302km, this fully signposted route passes through canal towpaths, coastal paths, forest tracks and quiet lanes, linking dramatic seascapes, historic ports, sandy beaches and some of western France’s most distinctive regional landscapes. From Brittany’s inland waterways and medieval towns to the marshes of the Atlantic seaboard, the great pine forests and surf coast of the southwest, La Vélodyssée offers an unforgettable cycle-touring journey through France.

With 80% of the route on traffic-free paths and a generally gentle profile, La Vélodyssée is ideal for both experienced cycle tourers and riders looking for an accessible multi-day cycling holiday in France. This guidebook describes the route in 19 stages, based on average daily rides of around 75km, with options for faster or slower schedules and advice for splitting the ride into shorter one-week sections using natural break points at the Loire and Gironde estuaries. Excellent rail and ferry links, plentiful accommodation and strong cycling infrastructure make planning straightforward, whether you’re riding the full route or choosing a section such as Brittany to Nantes, the Atlantic coast to Royan, or the final run through Aquitaine to the Basque coast.

• 19 stage-by-stage route descriptions for La Vélodyssée, from Roscoff to Hendaye, with clear daily distances, terrain notes and practical navigation guidance for the full 1302km Atlantic coast route
• Detailed mapping and navigation support for La Vélodyssée, including guidance on following EuroVelo 1 signage and using downloadable GPX files for reliable route-finding day by day
• Practical planning advice for cycling La Vélodyssée, with suggested itineraries for two-, three- and four-week tours, plus help for breaking the route into shorter and more manageable sections
• Useful information on accommodation, food and facilities along La Vélodyssée, from campsites and budget stays to hotels, cafés, restaurants and cyclist-friendly services
• Transport and access advice for La Vélodyssée, including ferry arrivals at Roscoff, train connections, and convenient intermediate access points such as Nantes and Royan
• Background on the history, landscapes and regional culture of La Vélodyssée, from Brittany and the Loire estuary to the Gironde, the Landes forests and the Basque coast
• Guidance on bike choice, equipment and route conditions on La Vélodyssée, covering mixed surfaces, traffic-free cycle paths and the suitability of touring bikes, gravel bikes and e-bikes