Cycling Tours on the French Atlantic Coast
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Cycling Tours on the French Atlantic Coast

Feel the ocean breeze and taste the sea salt in the air as you pedal along France's spectacular Atlantic Coast. This is a journey of charming ports, vast sandy beaches, and fragrant pine forests, all connected by one of Europe's most beautiful cycle routes. With Grand Angle, you can experience this iconic coastline at your own pace, enjoying the freedom of a self-guided tour with the serenity that comes from knowing all the details are handled by our local experts. Discover our curated coastal itinerary and get ready to ride. 

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Our most beautiful cycling tour along the French Atlantic coast in 2025 & 2026!

Cycling Tours on the French Atlantic Coast with Grand Angle

Feel the ocean breeze and taste the sea salt in the air as you pedal along France's spectacular Atlantic Coast. This is a journey of charming ports, vast sandy beaches, and fragrant pine forests, all connected by one of Europe's most beautiful cycle routes. With Grand Angle, you can experience this iconic coastline at your own pace, enjoying the freedom of a self-guided tour with the serenity that comes from knowing all the details are handled by our local experts. Discover our curated coastal itinerary and get ready to ride. 

Why choose a bike trip on the Atlantic Coast?

The French Atlantic Coast offers a unique cycling experience, largely thanks to La Vélodyssée, the French section of the Atlantic Coast Route (EuroVelo 1). This well-marked and mostly flat route makes for an accessible adventure for most fitness levels. The journey is a feast for the senses, taking you from the historic port of La Rochelle through marshlands rich with birdlife, past Belle Époque villas, and alongside famous oyster beds. It's a perfect blend of invigorating nature and cultural discovery.

How do our self-guided cycling trips work?

A self-guided trip with Grand Angle is all about freedom and peace of mind. Based on our deep-rooted local expertise, we design the perfect itinerary for you. We take care of booking comfortable accommodations and arranging daily luggage transfers, so you can travel light. Each day, you simply hop on your bike and follow the detailed route notes and maps we provide, pedaling at a pace that suits you. It's your adventure, fully organized for your serenity.

Our flagship route: from La Rochelle to Royan

Our main itinerary guides you along a stunning section of the Vélodyssée. Starting in the vibrant city of La Rochelle, you'll journey south towards the Gironde estuary. The route will take you through Rochefort, a town with a rich maritime heritage, and past the oyster farms of Marennes. You'll pedal through pine forests and along magnificent coastal paths before finishing in the elegant seaside town of Royan.

When is the best time to cycle the Atlantic Coast?

The ideal seasons for cycling along the Atlantic Coast are spring and autumn. From April to June and again in September and October, you'll enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds than in the peak summer months. These periods offer the perfect conditions to fully appreciate the coastal landscapes in bloom or in their beautiful autumn colors.

Explore further adventures

If the idea of cycling along scenic waterways appeals to you, you might also enjoy the gentle towpaths of the Canal du Midi or the iconic châteaux of the Loire Valley on a self-guided cycling tour. For a different coastal experience, the rugged landscapes of Brittany offer another exceptional cycling adventure on the Vélomaritime. And for those who like to mix up their activities, France is also a premier destination for walking holidays, from coastal paths to alpine trails.

Testimonials from our guests on tours along the Atlantic Coast

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Cyclistes sur l'île de Ré

France's Atlantic Coast by Bike, from La Rochelle to Royan

A fine cycling route on a protected, almost continuous site, a great way to discover the Atlantic coast.

Monday 6 September 2021
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Questions/Answers about traveling in Atlantic Coast

The Vélodyssée stretches over more than 1200 kilometers and runs along the Atlantic Coast from Roscoff to Hendaye, passing through La Rochelle, Royan, and the Vendée. It is located in an oceanic climate, favorable for outdoor activities, from spring to autumn. As it crosses different regions: Brittany, Pays de la Loire, and Nouvelle Aquitaine, each region has its own weather: cooler in Brittany and Normandy, and with milder temperatures as you move south. If you prefer a quieter experience, spring or autumn are good options as these are less crowded and cooler than summer. For swimming, summer is of course the peak period, but it is also possible to swim in spring and autumn, depending on the region you're in, the weather at the time, and your personal preferences.

The Vélodyssée is a cycling route that runs along the Atlantic coast of France, offering stunning landscapes and interesting sites to discover. Here are some of the must-see places during your journey along the Vélodyssée and the Atlantic coast by bike! 

La Rochelle, a charming port city, is the starting point of the Vélodyssée. Explore its historic center, visit the Old Port, stroll through the picturesque streets, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. 

Pass through Île de Ré, accessible from La Rochelle via a bridge, known for its fine sandy beaches, authentic villages, and salt marshes. Ride around the island using the well-established bike paths and discover its preserved landscapes. 

Off the Atlantic coast, you can explore Île d'Oléron, with its beaches, pine forests, and typical villages. Don't forget to enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants! 

Known as the "Green Venice", the Marais Poitevin located in Vendée is a unique place to discover. Ride along the canals, pass through verdant landscapes, and observe the region's characteristic fauna and flora. 

A spectacular sand dune located near Arcachon, climb to the top of La Dune du Pilat for a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding forests. 

The famous wine town of Bordeaux is also an interesting stop on the Vélodyssée. Admire its elegant architecture, stroll along the Garonne riverbanks, visit renowned vineyards, and taste the local wines. 

Finally, don't miss Biarritz, a chic seaside resort and popular relaxation spot. Enjoy its beaches, explore its lively town center, admire the Basque architecture, and discover the omnipresent surf culture! 

These suggestions are just a glimpse of the many places to see along the Vélodyssée and the Atlantic coast by bike. The route offers a variety of coastal landscapes, seaside resorts, historic towns, and natural sites to explore throughout your cycling journey.

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