Vélodyssée

1. What is the Vélodyssée?

Visit Vélodyssée is the French part of the EuroVelo 1 routea major European cycle route linking Norway to Portugal, along the Atlantic coast. This long-distance route is part of the EuroVelo networkThis is a network of 17 major transnational cycle routes covering more than 90,000 km across Europe.

Inaugurated in 2012La Vélodyssée stretches from Roscoff, Brittany, to Hendayeon the Spanish border. She was elected cycle route of the year 2013This recognition highlighted the quality of its layout and signposting. Today, the course measures about 1,294 kmincluding over 76 % is done in clean siteIn other words, on cycle lanes that are entirely separate from motorized traffic, thus ensuring safety and comfort to users.

What distinguishes the Vélodyssée from other cycle routes is the diversity of landscapes wild coastlines, peaceful canals, typical villages, deep forests and ocean beaches. It crosses three major French regions: Brittanythe Pays de la Loire and the Nouvelle-Aquitaineand serves many emblematic cities such as Nantes, La Rochelle, Arcachon and Biarritz.

Visit dedicated signage makes the route easy to follow in both directions, and the EuroVeloofficially obtained at the end 2024The Vélodyssée label guarantees compliance with strict quality, accessibility and service criteria. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a leisure traveler, La Vélodyssée is a fantastic opportunity to discover the world of cycling. France differentlyat your own pace.

2. The route and its landscapes

2.1 General route

Visit Vélodyssée extends over 1,294 kmof Roscoff in Brittany to Hendaye to the Basque country, running almost entirely along the French Atlantic coast. This linear route crosses three major French regions (Brittany, Pays de la Loire, Nouvelle-Aquitaine) and more than 10 departmentsa mix of coastlines, forests, marshes, plains and port cities.

More 76 % of the route is laid out in clean siteon cycle paths, greenways or towpaths, guaranteeing a high level of safety. optimum safetyespecially for families and novice cyclists. Visit relief is generally flatwith the exception of the Basque region, where the first foothills of the Pyrenees introduce a few changes in level.

The route follows in succession :

• The canals of Brittany (in particular the Canal de Nantes à Brest),

• The Vendée coastline and the endless beaches of the Atlantic coast,

• The forests of the Landes de Gascogne,

• Then the coves and cliffs of the Basque Coastto Hendaye.

Each section has its own identity, making the route non-monotonous and conducive to a unique experience. immersive and evolutionary as the miles go by.

2.2 Key milestones and emblematic landscapes

The complete itinerary is divided into 38 official stageseach averaging 30 to 50 km in length. Here are a few particularly noteworthy stretches:

• Roscoff - Carhaix Breton start between sea and countryside, on greenways. Passage through the Monts d'Arrée.

• Redon - Nantes river navigation on the Canal de Nantes à Brestquiet, shady atmosphere.

• Saint-Brevin-les-Pins - Les Sables-d'Olonne alternating salt marshes, dunes and coastal villages.

• La Rochelle - Royan one of the most popular tourist destinations, with stops such as Fouras, Rochefortand a ferry crossing of the estuary.

• Royan - Arcachon Landes forests, lakes, ocean beaches; long, straight, wooded track.

• Biscarrosse - Capbreton Shady maritime pines, sandy paths, typical South-West atmosphere.

• Bayonne - Hendaye views of the sea and Basque mountainstypical villages (Guéthary, Saint-Jean-de-Luz), sportier roads.

Each stage can be completed in half-day or full dayat your own pace. Some sections are particularly suitable for a stroll. familywhile others will appeal to fans of more committed bicycle touring.

2.3 Key points of interest

Along the Vélodyssée, the remarkable sites abound. Here is a selection of the most striking by region:

• In Brittany :

  • Roscoffits port and shipowners' houses;

  • Huelgoatfamous for its granite chaos;

  • Nantescity of art and history, Les Machines de l'île.

• In Pays de la Loire :

  • Saint-Brevinstarting point of the Saint-Nazaire bridge;

  • Visit Vendée salt marshesrich in fauna;

  • Les Sables-d'Olonnethe famous Vendée Globe port.

• In New Aquitaine :

  • La Rochellea charming port city;

  • RoyanBelle Époque seaside resort;

  • La Dune du PilatEurope's highest dune;

  • Arcachon and its oyster basin;

  • Bayonneits ramparts and Basque traditions;

  • Saint-Jean-de-Luz and its half-timbered houses.

These stops punctuate the journey, enriching the cultural experience, and offering numerous rest points, accommodation and tourist services.

The Velodyssée cycle paths

Main sections of Velodyssée

The Vélodyssée is divided into several sections, each offering different landscapes and challenges.

Brittany

The Breton section of La Vélodyssée starts in Roscoff and passes through historic towns such as Morlaix and Nantes, offering views of coastal landscapes and picturesque villages.

Pays de la Loire

Cyclists travelling through this region can discover towns such as Nantes and La Rochellealong the Loire and its famous vineyards.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

This section offers a variety of landscapes, from the pine forests of the Landes to the sandy beaches of the Basque Coast.

Detailed Itineraries

From Roscoff to Nantes

This 384 km route is perfect for those who love coastal scenery and charming little towns. Highlights include the fortified town of Saint-Malo and the salt marshes of Guérande.

From Nantes to La Rochelle

On this 224 km section, cyclists can explore vineyards and historic sites such as Maillezais Abbey.

From La Rochelle to Hendaye

With its 475 km, this section is ideal for those who want to discover the beaches of the Basque Coast and the forests of the Landes.

Communes crossed by the Vélodyssée

Brittany

• Roscoff
• Morlaix
• Saint-Malo
• Nantes

Pays de la Loire

• Nantes
• Saint-Brevin-les-Pins
• Pornic
• La Rochelle

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

• Royan
• Lacanau
• Arcachon
• Bayonne
• Hendaye

3. Development and services

A route designed for cyclists' comfort

Visit Vélodyssée has been designed to offer seamless, secure experienceeven for occasional cyclists. Thanks to its more than 76 % on exclusive right-of-wayit allows you to ride far away from cars, on dedicated bicycle pathsand greenways or towpaths. These infrastructures are regularly maintained, guaranteeing a high level of good-quality coating on most of the route.

Each section of the route is signposted in both directionswith special panels EuroVelo 1 / Vélodysséefor easy orientation without the need for GPS. From rest areas and picnic sites are available all along the route, often in shady areas or near waterholes.

Services for cyclists

The quality of the design is complemented by a a wide range of servicesadapted to the needs of touring cyclists:

• Bike home This label guarantees that establishments (accommodation, restaurants, tourist offices, repair shops) are located within 5 km of a cycle route and offer specific services for cyclists. There are hundreds of such establishments on the Vélodyssée, making it easy for cyclists to get around. stress-free planning.

• Adapted accommodation Our campsites, hotels, B&Bs, inns and B&Bs welcome travelers by bike, often with secure bike storage, repair kits and energy-efficient breakfasts.

• Repair and maintenance Many craftsmen, specialist stores and participatory workshops line the route. The cities of La Rochelle, Nantes and Bayonne offer efficient bicycle services.

• Transport and intermodality :

  • Trains the lines TER and some TGV accept bicycles (often free of charge), making it easier to return or cut up the route.

  • River crossings including the bac Royan - Le Verdon-sur-Mera central logistical element on the Gironde estuary.

  • Luggage transport specialized companies such as La Malle Postale or Bicybags carry your bags from stage to stage.

Digital organization tools

The official La Vélodyssée website (lavelodyssee.com) proposes :

• A interactive map stages with distances, types of roads, accommodation and points of interest;

• Visit download GPX tracks of each section;

• From useful tips (equipment, safety, level of difficulty, etc.) ;

• Suggestions for organized stays or itineraries by duration (weekend, 1 week, 15 days...).

From mobile applications such as Komoot, Geovelo or Openrunner also enable you to plan, record and share your routes.

Visit Vélodyssée is therefore distinguished not only by the beauty of its route, but also by the a wealth of infrastructures and services. Everything has been designed to facilitate bicycle touringindependently or via organized services.

4. When to leave and for whom?

Best time to do the Vélodyssée

Visit Vélodyssée can be explored from spring to autumnwith a marked preference for the months of May to October. This period offers the best weather conditions mild temperatures, long days and generally little precipitation, especially on the Atlantic coast.

• Visit May and JuneYou benefit from a mild climate, spring flowering and an itinerary with little traffic.

• July and August are the hottest and liveliest months. Beware, however, of thetourist affluence on some very popular stretches of coastline (La Rochelle, Arcachon, Biarritz...).

• Visit Septemberconditions are often ideal: still-warm seas, mild weather, fewer visitors.

• October is still a possibility for the more experienced, especially in the South, with its splendid autumn colors.

Some areas, such as the Brittany or the Basque Countryare famous for their weather changing. It is therefore recommended to bring waterproof clothing and consult forecasts regularly before each departure.

Who is the Vélodyssée for?

The itinerary is designed to suit all cyclist profilesfrom complete beginner at experienced cyclotourist :

• The families The route is almost completely free of motorized traffic, so children can pedal in complete safety. Numerous campsites, rest areas and short stages ensure a smooth, pleasant pace.

• Beginners No athletic training required for some sections. The lack of elevation gain (outside the Basque country), clear signposting and easy access to accommodation make for a gentle introduction.

• Regular cyclists For those who like to cover 60 to 100 km a day, you can link stages at your own pace, either on your own or via logistics services.

• Itinerant travelers For those who want to do it all by bike, there are 2- to 3-week trips from Roscoff to Hendaye in optimal conditions.

A flexible itinerary

One of the major assets of the Vélodyssée is its modularity :

• You can browse just one section of a few daysor plan a a complete adventure lasting several weeks.

• Thanks to rail links (TER/TGV), it's easy toadjust your routeto return to its starting point or to reach a specific stage by train.

Whether you have two days, a week or a monthLa Vélodyssée adapts to your desires, your level and your constraints. That's what makes it one of Europe's most accessible and popular cycling routes.

5. Travel inspirations

Thanks to its length and its modularitythe Vélodyssée lends itself equally well to short getaways than great cycling adventures. Here are a few concrete ideas for organizing your journey according to your desires, your level and your schedule.

Ideas for short tours (2 to 5 days)

Perfect for a long weekend or a first cycling trip:

• Nantes → Les Sables-d'Olonne (~130 km)
  A very accessible route, between canals, marshes and Vendée beaches, with short stages and numerous "Accueil Vélo" accommodations.

• La Rochelle → Royan (~95 km)
  A very pleasant coastal walk through the Charente estuary, Rochefort, Ile d'Aix and the Royan ferry. Very touristy, ideal for families.

• Arcachon → Mimizan (~90 km)
  In the heart of Landes de GascogneThis is one of the flattest, most forested stretches between dunes, lakes and ocean. Wide, shady trails.

Intermediate courses (1 to 2 weeks)

To discover a region in depth or take a tour half-Vélodyssée :

• Roscoff → Nantes (~400 km)
  Visit Inland and river Brittany The route is a mix of greenways, peaceful canals and charming little towns. The route is very natural and uncrowded.

• La Rochelle → Arcachon (~270 km)
  Atlantic coast par excellence: beaches, oyster ports, marshes, pine forests. Perfect for combining cycling, swimming and gastronomy.

• Royan → Hendaye (~470 km)
  From Gironde to Pays Basque: Landes forests, long ocean beaches, then typical Basque landscapes and villages. Travel north-south for favorable winds.

The complete course (2 to 3 weeks or more)

Roscoff → Hendaye (~1,294 km)
For the most motivated or the most passionate major crossingsthe whole of the Vélodyssée can be done in 15 to 25 daysdepending on your pace. You'll cross 3 regions, 10 départements, and an impressive diversity of landscapes.

This type of route requires good preparationIt requires a certain amount of stamina and logistical organization (accommodation, repairs, refuelling), but it also represents a real challenge. an unforgettable experience.

Organized stays

For those who want to travel without logistical constraintsseveral specialized agencies offer :

• From turnkey cycling holidays (accommodation, luggage transport, bike hire),

• Itineraries adapted to your level (family, sports, senior...),

• Formulas with guided or self-guided.

These services range from 2 to 15 dayswith prices varying according to the service. This is an excellent option for beginners or for those who simply want to enjoy stress-free travel.

Visit Vélodyssée adapts to all types of travel. Whether you're travelling alone, as a couple, with friends or family, for two days or three weeks, you're sure to find something to suit your needs. the adventure version that's right for you.

Family Activity Tips

Route planning

Planning an itinerary suited to each individual's abilities is crucial. Choose shorter, flatter segments for younger children.

Equipment and Safety

Make sure every member of the family has a bike in good condition, a helmet and appropriate clothing. Also take along a first-aid kit and spare parts for the bikes.

Hosting

Choose family-friendly accommodation, such as campsites or B&Bs with facilities for children.

Activities along the Route

Incorporate fun activities, such as visits to parks, swimming at the beach or stops at amusement parks.

Possible routes on Velodyssée

Easy routes

Nantes to La Rochelle

This relatively flat section is ideal for families and beginners.

Moderate Courses

La Rochelle to Royan

This section offers a mix of coastal and forest landscapes, with medium-sized stages.

Challenge Course

Royan to Hendaye

For more experienced cyclists, this segment offers climbs and descents through the Landes and Pyrénées Atlantiques regions.

Velodyssée - FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is the Vélodyssée and where does it start?

Visit Vélodyssée is a French cycle route of nearly 1,300 kmpart of the EuroVelo 1 network. It starts at Roscoffin Brittany, and runs along the Atlantic coast to Hendayeto the Spanish border. It's the longest signposted cycle route in France.

How many kilometers does it cover?

The entire length of the Vélodyssée is approximately 1,294 kilometerscut into 38 official stages. It crosses 3 regions Brittany, Pays de la Loire and Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Is the course accessible to families and beginners?

Yes, La Vélodyssée is very accessiblewith more than 76 % of exclusive right-of-wayoften flat, well-marked and safe. It is therefore ideal for families with children or to novice cyclists.

When is the best time to do the Vélodyssée?

The best period is from May to October. Spring and autumn are appreciated for their mild climate and a moderate affluenceSummer offers longer days and a livelier atmosphere.

What types of accommodation are available on the route?

There is a wide range of accommodation campsites, hotels, gîtes, bed and breakfasts. Many have the Bike homeThis guarantees services tailored to the needs of cyclists: bike shelters, repair tools, energy meals, etc.

How do you transport your bike or luggage?

Several options are available:

• Trains (TER/TGV) compatible with bicycles ;

• Luggage transport services (e.g.: La Malle Postale, Bicybags) to keep your car light;

• Possibility of bike rental at certain stages, with a return trip to another city.

Are there any maps or digital tools to help you prepare your itinerary?

Yes. The lavelodyssee.com proposes :

• From interactive maps,

• From GPX traces downloadable,

• From practical guides depending on your level and length of stay.
  Other apps like Komoot, Geovelo or Openrunner are also very useful.

Velodyssée - Conclusion

Visit Vélodyssée embodies everything that bicycle touring in France has the best to offer: a safe route, diversified landscapes, well thought-out logistics and a accessibility for all levels. Whether you are looking for a short seaside getaway, a multi-day adventure in the forest or a complete crossing of the Atlantic coast by bike, this itinerary offers you a wide range of activities. unique freedomto the rhythm of the pedals.

With its dedicated servicesits adapted accommodationand its full markupthe Vélodyssée is much more than just a cycle route: it's a immersive journey through France's regionsan invitation to rediscover the country from a different angle.

To extend your experience or plan your next adventure, explore our country guideThe site is packed with tips, itineraries and discoveries for cycling in all regions of France. And if you'd like to find out more about the project's European framework, take a look at this encyclopaedic page to explore the network to which this exceptional cycle route belongs.